JP2022137289A - game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of diversifying connection modes of an LED even when an LED driver of a constant current type is used.

SOLUTION: A game machine has second wiring provided with "a current limit resistor" which makes current flowing in the second wiring smaller than a specified value, out of first wiring (a first LED) connected to a first terminal of an LED driver of constant current type and the second wiring (a second LED) connected to a second terminal. Thus, only current smaller than "large current (the specified value)" flows in the second terminal (the second wiring) even when the "large current" is flown to the first terminal in order to emit light of the first LED (in order to drive it), thereby breakage of the second LED can be prevented. As a result, it is possible to emit light of LEDs mutually different in drive current even when the LED driver of the constant current type is used.

SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10

COPYRIGHT: (C)2022,JPO&INPIT

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to a game machine for playing games using game media such as game balls and game medals.

As gaming machines, there are pachinko machines in which a game is played by shooting game balls toward a game area formed on a game board, and a spinning drum with multiple types of patterns drawn on the outer peripheral surface after game medals are inserted. A slot machine or the like is known in which a game is played by rotating the machine.

In the gaming machine as described above, various effects are performed during the progress of the game. For example, an effect suggesting the possibility of awarding a privilege to the player, an effect suggesting the progress of the game, and the like are performed (Patent Document 1). As such effects, in addition to effects in which various images are displayed on a display unit such as a liquid crystal display, effects in which LEDs (light emitting diodes) emit light in various modes are performed. In order to perform such an effect of causing the LED to emit light, a typical game machine includes an IC package (also referred to as an "LED driver" in this specification) containing an electronic circuit for causing the LED to emit light (drive). is installed.

As such an LED driver, there are a constant voltage LED driver that applies a predetermined voltage across the LED and a constant current LED driver that applies a constant current to the LED. Of these, the constant-current type LED driver is capable of supplying a constant current to the LED even if the power supply voltage fluctuates. .

JP 2017-051771 A

However, when using a constant-current type LED driver, there is a problem that it is not possible to diversify the connection modes of the LEDs. That is, some LED drivers have a plurality of terminals to which LEDs are connected, but a constant current type LED driver supplies a constant current (same current) to all of these terminals. Therefore, there is a problem that if LEDs having different driving currents are connected to these terminals, a problem occurs. For example, if an LED with a large drive current is connected to one terminal and an LED with a small drive current is connected to the other terminal, the LED with a small drive current may be damaged if a large current is applied to these terminals. There is

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and provides a gaming machine capable of diversifying the connection modes of LEDs even when using a constant-current type LED driver. for the purpose.

In order to solve at least part of the above problems, the gaming machine of the present invention employs the following configuration. i.e.
A game machine for playing games using game media,
a constant-current type LED driver having a first terminal and a second terminal and capable of passing a predetermined value of current through the first terminal and the second terminal;
a first wiring having one end connected to the first terminal;
a second wiring having one end connected to the second terminal;
with
A first number of LEDs are connected in parallel to the other end of the first wiring,
A second number of LEDs smaller than the first number is connected to the other end of the second wiring,
Among the first wiring and the second wiring, the second wiring is provided with a current limiting resistor that is a resistor that reduces the magnitude of the current flowing through the second wiring below the predetermined value. It is characterized by

In addition, the gaming machine of the present invention is
In addition to the first terminal and the second terminal, the LED driver is connected to a resistor for limiting the maximum value of the current that can flow through the first terminal and the second terminal. and a third terminal connected to
A resistor may be connected to the third terminal for limiting the maximum value to the driving current of the first number of LEDs.

According to the present invention, even when a constant-current type LED driver is used, it is possible to diversify the connection modes of the LEDs.

1 is a front view of the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment. FIG. It is an explanatory view showing the board surface configuration of the game board 20 of the present embodiment. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a control circuit in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment. FIG. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of a segment display section 50 of the embodiment; It is explanatory drawing which shows the kind of jackpot game of a present Example. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram illustrating display contents of the effect display device 41 of the embodiment; FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing execution probabilities of a “lamp lighting effect” of the present embodiment; FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram conceptually showing the configuration of a conventional LED control board 400 (constant-voltage type LED driver 401). FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram conceptually showing the configuration of an LED control board 300 (constant-voltage type LED driver 301) of the embodiment. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing circuits around output terminals O1 to O3 of the LED driver 301 of this embodiment. FIG. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing the voltage-current characteristics of the CRD of this embodiment; FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing circuits around output terminals O1 to O3 of an LED driver 501 of Modification 1; FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing the voltage-current characteristics of the bipolar transistor of this embodiment; FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing Modification 2; FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing Modification 3;

In order to clarify the content of the present invention described above, an embodiment in which the present invention is applied to a pachinko machine (game machine) of the type called "seven machine" or "digi-pachi" will be described. In the examples, unless otherwise specified, the right side of the pachinko machine is referred to as "right" and the left side as "left".

Also, the following examples will be described in the following order.
A. Equipment configuration of pachinko machine:
A-1. Configuration of the front side of the device:
A-2. Game board configuration:
A-3. Control circuit configuration:
B. Game content:
C. LED control board:
C-1. Conventional LED control board 400:
C-2. LED control board 300 of this embodiment:
D. Variant:
D-1. Variant 1:
D-2. Modification 2:
D-3. Variant 3:

A. Equipment configuration of pachinko machine:
A-1. Configuration of the front side of the device:
FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, a front frame 4 is provided on the front face of the pachinko machine 1. As shown in FIG. A window portion 4a is formed in a substantially central portion of the front frame 4, and a synthetic resin transparent plate 4b is fitted in the window portion 4a. The player can visually recognize the game area of the game board 20 (see FIG. 2) arranged on the far side through the window portion 4a (transparent plate 4b). A small window portion 4c is formed in the lower right portion of the window portion 4a in the front frame 4, and a transparent plate 4d such as a synthetic resin plate is fitted in the small window portion 4c. The player can visually recognize the segment display portion of the game board 20 arranged on the far side through the small window portion 4c (transparent plate 4d). Although the details will be described later, the segment display section is a display section that displays game-related information by combining a plurality of LEDs.

A lamp 5 is provided above the window portion 4a in the front frame 4, upper speakers 6a are provided above the left and right sides of the window portion 4a, and below the front frame 4 (lower front surface of the body frame to be described later). A lower speaker 6b is provided. These lamps 5, upper speaker 6a, and lower speaker 6b are driven in order to enhance the effect of the game.

An upper plate portion 7 is provided below the window portion 4a in the front frame 4. As shown in FIG. In the upper plate portion 7, game balls are paid out (rented) via a card unit 252 provided corresponding to the pachinko machine 1, and pachinko machines are provided based on game balls entering a predetermined ball entrance. Game balls paid out from the machine 1 are stored. A lower plate portion 8 is provided below the upper plate portion 7, and game balls put out exceeding the capacity of the upper plate portion 7 are stored.

A firing handle 9 is provided on the right side of the lower plate portion 8 in the front frame 4 . A rotation shaft of the shooting handle 9 is connected to a shooting device unit mounted on the back side of the shooting handle 9, and the game balls stored in the upper plate portion 7 are supplied to the shooting device unit. When the player rotates the shooting handle 9, the rotation is transmitted to the shooting device unit, the shooting motor built in the shooting device unit rotates, and the game ball is shot with the strength corresponding to the rotation angle.

A performance button 10a that can be pressed by the player is provided on the edge of the upper tray 7, and a jog shuttle is provided on the left side of the lower tray 8 that can be pressed or rotated by the player. 10b is provided. Although not shown, a directional button 10c is provided on the edge of the upper plate 7 and to the left of the effect button 10a. The direction button 10c is composed of four buttons (up button, down button, left button, right button) corresponding to the up, down, left, and right directions, respectively. These effect buttons 10a, jog shuttle 10b, and direction buttons 10c are all effect operation units operated by the player, and when they are operated by the player when a predetermined condition is established, a predetermined effect is performed.

A middle frame and a body frame are provided on the back side of the front frame 4. One end (the left side in FIG. 1) of the front frame 4 is rotatably supported with respect to the middle frame. (left side in FIG. 1) is rotatably supported with respect to the body frame. The body frame is a substantially rectangular frame formed by assembling wooden plate members, and the pachinko machine 1 is installed in the game hall by attaching the body frame to island equipment. A game board 20 is detachably attached to the front side of the middle frame, and when the front frame 4 is rotated (opened) to the front side of the pachinko machine 1 with respect to the middle frame, the game board 20 is exposed. state.

A-2. Game board configuration:
FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing the board configuration of the game board 20. As shown in FIG. As described above, the game board 20 is detachably attached to the front side of the middle frame 3 . As shown in FIG. 2, a substantially circular game area 21 is formed in the center of the game board 20 . A game ball shot from the shooting device unit 261 (see FIG. 3) passes between the outer rail 22 and the inner rail 23, is released to the game area 21, and flows down the game area 21 from above. Since the game area 21 is visually recognized by the player through the window portion 4a of the front frame 4, the state of the game ball flowing down the game area 21 is also visually recognized by the player through the window portion 4a.

Approximately in the center of the game area 21, there is provided an effect opening 40, which is an opening with decorations on the peripheral edge, and behind the effect opening 40, a effect display composed of a liquid crystal display is provided. A device 41 is provided. Various images for effects can be displayed on the display screen of the effect display device 41 , and the player can view the display screen of the effect display device 41 through the effect opening 40 .

Below the performance opening 40 (performance display device 41) in the game area 21, there is a first start port 24 which is a start port in which the size of the opening is unchanged (constant) and a game ball can always enter. is provided. A game ball entering the first starting port 24 is led to the back side of the game board 20 through a passage provided inside. A passage inside the first starting hole 24 is provided with a first starting hole sensor 24s (see FIG. 3), which can detect a game ball entering the first starting hole 24. FIG.

In addition, at the lower right of the effect opening 40 (effect display device 41) in the game area 21, a normal symbol operation gate 27 through which the game ball can pass is provided, and inside the normal symbol operation gate 27, A gate sensor 27s (see FIG. 3) is provided to detect passage of game balls. Further, below the normal symbol operation gate 27, there is provided a second start port 25 which is a ball entry port (start port) in which the game ball entry possibility changes. That is, the second starting port 25 is provided with an opening/closing door 26 (hatched portion in the figure) that can rotate in the front-rear direction of the pachinko machine 1, and the opening/closing door 26 stands substantially upright so that game balls cannot enter or difficult to enter) and an open state in which the opening/closing door 26 rotates to the front side of the pachinko machine 1 to allow game balls to enter (or easy to enter). FIG. 2 shows a state in which the second starting port 25 is in an open state. A game ball entering the second starting port 25 is led to the back side of the game board 20 through a passage provided inside. A passage inside the second starting hole 25 is provided with a second starting hole sensor 25s (see FIG. 3), and a game ball entering the second starting hole 25 can be detected.

In addition, below the first starting hole 24 in the game area 21, a first big winning hole 28 (variable ball entry hole) having a substantially rectangular shape is provided. The first big winning slot 28 has an opening/closing door 29 (hatched part in the figure) that can be rotated in the front-rear direction of the pachinko machine 1. and an open state (enterable state) in which the opening/closing door 29 rotates to the front side of the pachinko machine 1 and a game ball can enter. FIG. 2 shows a state in which the first big winning hole 28 is in an open state. A game ball that enters the first big winning hole 28 is led to the back side of the game board 20 through a passage provided inside. A passage inside the first big winning hole 28 is provided with a first big winning hole sensor 28s (see FIG. 3), and a game ball entering the first big winning hole 28 can be detected.

In addition, below the second start opening 25 in the game area 21 (lower right corner of the game area 21), a second big winning opening unit 33 projecting forward (toward the player) from the front surface of the game board 20 is provided. ing. The upper surface of the second big winning hole unit 33 is inclined downward from the right side to the left side, and serves as a rolling surface 34 on which a game ball can roll from the right side to the left side (the center side of the pachinko machine 1). A second big winning opening 35 (variable ball entry opening) is provided in the middle portion of the rolling surface 34 (the middle portion in the rolling direction of the game ball). The second big prize-winning port 35 is provided with an opening/closing door 36 (hatched portion in the figure) that can slide (movable) in the front-rear direction of the pachinko machine 1, and the opening/closing door 36 slides (moves) forward. ) to switch between a closed state in which a game ball cannot enter, and an open state in which the opening/closing door 36 slides (moves) rearward and a game ball can enter (enterable state). A game ball that enters the second big winning hole 35 is led to a specific hole 38 through a passage provided inside the second big winning hole unit 33 .

Since at least a part of the front wall of the second large winning slot unit 33 is made of a transparent plate (because it has light transmittance), the player passes through the front wall of the second large winning slot unit 33, It is possible to visually recognize how the game ball entering the second big winning hole 35 is led to the specific hole 38. - 特許庁

A second big winning hole sensor 35s (see FIG. 3) is provided inside the second big winning hole 35 and can detect a game ball entering the second big winning hole 35 . Further, a specific hole sensor 38s (see FIG. 3) is provided inside the specific hole 38, and can detect a game ball entering the specific hole 38. FIG.

Around each gaming machine described above, there are a general ball entrance (not shown) into which game balls can enter, a windmill-shaped wheel 31 that affects the downflow path of game balls, and a large number of obstacle nails (not shown). is provided. In addition, an out port 32 is provided at the bottom of the game area 21, and the above-described first start port 24, second start port 25, first big winning port 28, second big winning port 35, general ball entry A game ball that does not enter any of the openings is discharged from the out opening 32 to the back side of the game board 20.例文帳に追加

In the above-described first starting port 24, even if the game ball flows down the left area (first area) of the effect opening 40 (effect display device 41), the right area (second area) However, a game ball flowing down the left area is easier to enter than a game ball flowing down the right area. On the other hand, the normal symbol operation gate 27, the second starting port 25, the first big prize winning port 28, and the second big winning prize port 35 have the area on the right side of the effect opening 40 (effect display device 41). A falling game ball can enter (or pass through). Below, the shooting of the game ball so as to flow down the area on the left side of the effect opening 40 (effect display device 41) is also expressed as "left hitting", and the effect opening 40 (effect display device 41) It is also expressed as "right hitting" to shoot a game ball so as to flow down the area on the right side of. In the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, when a game ball enters the first starting hole 24, three game balls are paid out to the player, and the game ball enters the second starting hole 25. In this case, two game balls are put out to the player, and ten game balls are put out to the player when the game balls enter the general ball entrance. Also, when a game ball enters the first big winning hole 28 or the second big winning hole 35, 15 game balls are paid out to the player.

A segment display section 50 for displaying game-related information by a combination of LEDs is provided on the lower right side of the game area 21 on the game board 20 . The segment display portion 50 is visually recognized by the player through a small window portion 4c (see FIG. 1) provided in the front frame 4. FIG. The detailed display contents of the segment display section 50 will be described later.

A-3. Control circuit configuration:
Next, the configuration of the control circuit in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment will be described. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the control circuit in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment. As illustrated, the control circuit of the pachinko machine 1 is composed of many control boards, various boards, relay terminal boards, and the like. Specifically, the main control board 200 controls the progress of the game, the sub-control board 220 controls the performance of the game, and the sub-control board 220 controls image display and audio output. It consists of an image/audio control board 230, a payout control board 240 for controlling the payout of game balls, and a launch control board 260 for controlling the launch of game balls. These control boards include CPUs (CPUs 201, 221, 231, etc. in FIG. 3) that execute various logic operations and calculation operations, and ROMs (ROMs 202, 222 in FIG. 3) that store various programs and data executed by the CPUs. , 232, etc.), a RAM (203, 223, 233, etc. in FIG. 3) in which the CPU stores temporary data when executing a program, an input/output circuit, etc. Various peripheral LSIs are interconnected by buses. It is

The main control board 200 includes a first starting hole sensor 24s that detects a game ball entering the first starting hole 24, a second starting hole sensor 25s that detects a game ball entering the second starting hole 25, A gate sensor 27s for detecting the game ball passing through the normal symbol operation gate 27, a first big prize winning hole sensor 28s for detecting the game ball entering the first big winning hole 28, and a ball entering the second big winning hole 35. A second big winning hole sensor 35s for detecting a game ball, a specific hole sensor 38s for detecting a game ball entering the specific hole 38, and the like are connected. When the game ball detection signal is input from these sensors, the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 sends a command corresponding to the sensor having the detection signal input to the sub control board 220, the payout control board 240, It is transmitted to the launch control board 260 or the like.

The main control board 200 also includes a second starting port for opening and closing the opening/closing door 26 provided in the second starting port 25 (for opening and closing the second starting port 25). A solenoid 26m and a first big winning opening solenoid 28m for opening and closing the opening/closing door 29 provided in the first big winning opening 28 (for opening and closing the first big winning opening 28) , a second big prize winning port solenoid 35m for opening and closing the opening/closing door 36 provided in the second big prize winning port 35 (for opening and closing the second big prize winning port 35), segment display 50 and the like are connected. The CPU 201 of the main control board 200 transmits drive signals to the second starting solenoid 26m, the first big winning solenoid 28m, the second big winning solenoid 35m, and the segment display section 50, thereby performing these operations. control.

An image/audio control board 230 , an LED control board 300 , and an effect operation board 228 are connected to the sub control board 220 . When the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 receives various commands from the main control board 200, it analyzes the contents of the command and performs an effect according to the contents. That is, a command designating an output image and an output sound is transmitted to the image/audio control board 230, and a command designating the lighting pattern of the lamp 5 is transmitted to the LED control board 300. (also called "pattern specification command").

The image/audio control board 230 includes a VDP 234 , an image ROM 235 and an audio ROM 236 in addition to a CPU 231 , a ROM 232 and a RAM 233 . Upon receiving a command from the sub-control board 220, the CPU 231 of the image/audio control board 230 instructs the VDP 234 to display an image corresponding to the command. The VDP 234 reads out image data (for example, sprite data, moving image data, etc.) used for displaying the instructed image from the image ROM 235 to generate an image and outputs it to the display screen of the effect display device 41 . Also, when the CPU 231 of the image/audio control board 230 receives a command from the sub-control board 220 , it reads the voice data corresponding to the command from the voice ROM 236 . Then, audio based on the audio data is output from the upper speaker 6a and the lower speaker 6b (hereinafter also referred to as "various speakers 6a and 6b") via the amplifier board 237. FIG.

Upon receiving a command from the sub-control board 220, the LED control board 300 lights the lamps 5 (red LED 71, green LED 72, and blue LED 73, which will be described later in detail) in the lighting pattern specified by the received lighting pattern specification command.

In addition, the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 controls the player's operation of the effect button 10a, the jog shuttle 10b, and the direction button 10c (hereinafter also referred to as "effect operation units 10a, 10b, and 10c") via the effect operation board 228. is detected, an effect corresponding to the operation is performed.

The payout control board 240 is connected to a ball lending button 251 (not shown in FIG. 1) provided on the upper tray 7, a card unit 252 arranged in parallel with the pachinko machine 1, and the like. When the ball lending button 251 is operated, this signal is transmitted to the card unit 252 via the payout control board 240 . Then, the card unit 252 transmits a payout command instructing payout (rental) of game balls to the payout control board 240 . When the payout control board 240 receives the payout command from the card unit 252, it pays out (rents) the game balls. The payout control board 240 also pays out the game balls when receiving a payout command instructing the payout of the game balls from the main control board 200 .

Also connected to the shooting control board 260 is a shooting device unit 261 having a shooting motor 262 for shooting game balls, a touch switch 263 for detecting that the player is touching the shooting handle 9, and the like. When the shooting control board 260 detects that the player is touching the shooting handle 9 via the touch switch 263, the shooting control board 260 drives the shooting motor 262 to shoot the game ball with strength according to the rotation angle of the shooting handle 9. to fire.

B. Game content:
In the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, the game progresses as follows. When the shooting handle 9 is rotated while the game balls are stored in the upper plate portion 7, the stored game balls are supplied one by one to the shooting device unit 261, and the game area 21 described above with reference to FIG. fired to. Since the strength of hitting the game ball corresponds to the rotation angle of the shooting handle 9, the player can make the game ball flow down to a desired area by changing the rotation angle of the shooting handle 9. - 特許庁For example, the game ball is shot so as to flow down the left area of the performance opening 40 (performance display device 41) (left hitting), or the right of the performance opening 40 (performance display device 41) It is possible to shoot a game ball so that it flows down the other area (right hit).

<Variable display of special symbols>
As described above with reference to FIG. 2 , left-handed game balls and right-handed game balls can enter the first starting hole 24 . When a left-handed or right-handed game ball enters the first starting hole 24 and the entering game ball is detected by the first starting hole sensor 24s, the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 makes a predetermined determination. A random number (per special figure determination random number to be described later) is acquired, and a special figure per determination is performed to determine whether it is a "big hit" or "off" based on the determination random number. Then, based on the result of this special figure hit determination, the first special symbol (hereinafter also referred to as "first special figure") is variably displayed and then stopped. Also, as described above with reference to FIG. When a right-handed game ball enters the second starting hole 25 and the entering game ball is detected by the second starting hole sensor 25s, the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 outputs a predetermined judgment random number (described later). Acquire a special figure per judgment random number etc.), and perform a special figure per judgment to determine whether it is a "big hit" or "out" based on the judgment random number. Then, based on the result of this special figure hit determination, the second special symbol (hereinafter also referred to as "second special figure") is variably displayed and then stopped.

FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing the segment display section 50 in an enlarged manner. As described above, the segment display section 50 is provided on the lower right side of the game area 21 on the game board 20 (see FIG. 2), and the player can view the segment display through the small window 4c (see FIG. 1) of the front frame 4. Part 50 is visible. As shown in FIG. 4, the segment display unit 50 is provided with a first special figure display unit 51 for displaying the first special figure and a second special figure display unit 52 for displaying the second special figure. Nine LEDs are arranged in each of these display units. The first special figure and the second special figure (hereinafter collectively referred to as "special symbols" unless they are particularly distinguished) are displayed by switching the LEDs that are lit out of the nine LEDs in each display unit. It is variably displayed, and is stopped by lighting a predetermined LED out of the nine LEDs. In the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, 200 types of jackpot patterns (jackpot patterns 101 to 300) and one type of winning pattern (loose pattern 101) can be stopped and displayed as the first special patterns, and as the second special patterns. , 200 types of jackpot patterns (jackpot patterns 401 to 600) and one type of lost pattern (loose pattern 401) can be stopped and displayed. The types of these symbols can be identified by different combinations of lit LEDs.

The CPU 201 of the main control board 200 determines that the result of the special figure hit determination based on the game ball entering the first starting port 24 (hereinafter also referred to as "special figure hit determination for the first special figure") is "big hit". If it is, the first special figure is stopped and displayed in any of the jackpot patterns 101 to 300, and if the result of the special figure hit determination for the first special figure is "off", the first special figure is removed. The symbol 101 is stopped and displayed. Also, if the result of the special figure hit determination based on the game ball entering the second start hole 25 (hereinafter also referred to as "special figure hit determination for the second special figure") is a "jackpot", the second 2 special symbols are stop-displayed with any one of the jackpot symbols 401 to 600, and when the result of special-symbol hit determination for the second special symbol is "missing", the second special symbol is stopped and displayed with a symbol 401. - 特許庁

Then, when the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 stops displaying the special symbol (first special symbol or second special symbol) as either a jackpot symbol or a losing symbol, the symbol is stopped so as to confirm the stopped symbol. A display that maintains the displayed state until a predetermined time elapses (hereinafter also referred to as “fixed display”) is performed. Hereinafter, the game from when the special symbol starts to be displayed in a variable manner to when it is confirmed and displayed, that is, the game until the result of one variable display is obtained is also expressed as a "symbol variation game".

Here, the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 selects the variation pattern of the special symbol variation display (symbol variation game) when performing the variation display of the special symbols (the first special symbol or the second special symbol). The variation pattern is the time (variation time) from the start of the variation display of the special symbol to the stop display, and each variation pattern has information (variation pattern ID) to distinguish it from other variation patterns. It is In the process of selecting a variation pattern, reference is made to a "variation pattern selection table" in which a variation pattern selection random number is assigned to a plurality of variation patterns (variation pattern ID, variation time). Then, the variation pattern corresponding to the variation pattern selection random number acquired as the first special figure reservation or the second special figure reservation is selected as the current variation pattern. The special symbols are variably displayed based on the variability pattern selected in this way.

The CPU 201 of the main control board 200 transmits a variation pattern specification command indicating the variation pattern of the variation display to the sub control board 220 when starting the variation display of the special symbols. As a result, the variation pattern of the special symbol variation display to be started this time is transmitted to the sub-control board 220 . When the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 receives the variation pattern specification command, it recognizes the variation pattern of the special symbol variation display to be started this time based on the variation pattern specification command, and based on (corresponds to) the recognized variation pattern. An effect (hereinafter also referred to as "symbol change effect") corresponding to the variable display of special symbols (symbol change game) is executed in the effect pattern.

In the process of selecting the variation pattern described above, instead of always referring to the same variation pattern selection table, variation pattern selection tables corresponding to various game progress conditions are referred to. For example, the type of special symbol (first special symbol or second special symbol), the currently set game state, the result of the special symbol hit determination, the stored first special symbol reservation and second special symbol reservation Refer to the variation pattern selection table corresponding to the number and the like. By doing so, it becomes possible to select variation patterns corresponding to various game progress conditions, and thus the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 can execute effects with effect patterns corresponding to various game progress conditions.

Further, the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 transmits a change stop command to the sub control board 220 when stopping the variable display of the special symbols. When the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 receives this variation stop command, the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 is notified of the timing at which the special symbol variation display (symbol variation game) ends.

The special symbols can be regarded as "identification information", and the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 that variably displays the special symbols can also be regarded as "identification information display means".

<Holding special symbols>
When the game ball enters the first start port 24 or the second start port 25, as described above, the special symbol hit determination and variation display are performed, but these special symbol hit determination and variation display are The game ball is not executed immediately after entering the first start port 24 or the second start port 25, but the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 stores the acquired determination random number as a special symbol suspension (special symbol suspension). is stored once.

Specifically, when the game ball enters the first starting port 24, the judgment random number is acquired, and the acquired judgment random number is temporarily stored as the first special figure reservation. Then, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, perform a special figure hit determination and a variable display of the first special figure with respect to the stored first special figure reservation. Such a first special figure reservation is stored with an upper limit of four. The number of stored first special figure reservations (first special figure reservation number) is displayed in the first special figure reservation display section 53 of the segment display section 50 . That is, as shown in FIG. 4, two LEDs are arranged in the first special figure reservation display unit 53, and in this first special figure reservation display unit 53, both of the two LEDs are turned off. This indicates that the number of the first special figure reservation is 0, and by lighting one LED, it indicates that the number of the first special figure reservation is 1, and by lighting two LEDs Indicates that the number of the first special figure pending is 2, blinking one LED indicates that the number of the first special figure pending is 3, and blinking the two LEDs is the first Indicates that the special figure pending number is four.

In addition, when the game ball enters the second starting port 25, the judgment random number is acquired, and the acquired judgment random number is temporarily stored as the second special figure reservation. Then, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, perform a special figure hit determination and a variable display of the second special figure with respect to the stored second special figure reservation. Such a second special figure reservation is also stored with an upper limit of four. The number of stored second special figure reservations (the number of second special figure reservations) is displayed in the second special figure reservation display section 54 of the segment display section 50 . That is, as shown in FIG. 4, two LEDs are also arranged in the second special figure reservation display unit 54, and in this second special figure reservation display unit 54, both of the two LEDs are turned off. This indicates that the second special figure reservation number is 0, and by lighting one LED, it indicates that the second special figure reservation number is 1, and by lighting two LEDs Indicates that the second special figure pending number is 2, blinking one LED indicates that the second special figure pending number is 3, blinking 2 LEDs 2nd Indicates that the special figure pending number is four.

In the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, during the variable display of any special symbol, during the fixed display of any special symbol, or during the jackpot game, even if the special symbol reservation is stored, Judgment and special symbol fluctuation display are not performed. Also, when a plurality of special figure reservations are stored, regardless of whether they are the first special figure reservation or the second special figure reservation, the special figure for the first stored special figure reservation Performs hit determination and variable display of special symbols (having a so-called sequential variation function of special symbols).

<Game state>
The CPU 201 of the main control board 200 determines, as the game state of the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, "the game state related to the probability of being determined to be a big hit in the special hit determination" and "the entry of the game ball into the second start port 25". "Game state related to ball frequency" is set as appropriate. Among these, "low probability state" or "high probability state" is set as the "game state related to the probability of being determined to be a big hit in special hit determination". "Low probability state" is a state in which the probability of being determined as a big hit in the special hit determination is low (probability of about 1/100), and "high probability state" is determined as a big hit in the special hit determination It is a state with a high probability (probability of about 1/10).

Further, as the "game state related to the frequency of the game ball entering the second starting port 25", the "non-electric support state" or the "electric support state" is set. The “non-electrical support state” is a state in which the frequency of game balls entering the second starting port 25 is low, and the “electrical support state” is a state in which the frequency of game balls entering the second starting port 25 is high. is. By doing this, it is easier for the game ball to enter the first starting port 24 than the second starting port 25 in the "non-electrical support state", and the second starting port 24 rather than the first starting port 24 in the "electrical support state". A game ball can easily enter the starting port 25.例文帳に追加Therefore, in the "non-electrical support state", the player can be made to hit to the left (to aim for the ball entering the first starting port 24), and in the "electrical support state", the player can be made to hit to the right. It can be made to do (to aim the ball into the second starting port 25).

Incidentally, the segment display section 50 is provided with an electric support display section 58 for indicating that the electric support state described above is in progress. That is, as shown in FIG. 4, three LEDs are arranged in the power supply display unit 58, and when the power supply is in the power supply state, these three LEDs are turned on to indicate that the power supply is in the power supply state. is shown to the player. Further, the segment display section 50 is provided with a right-handed display section 59 for prompting the player to hit right-handed. During the electric sapo state, the frequency of entering the game ball into the second starting port 25 is high, and since the second starting port 25 can enter the game ball hit to the right, during the state of the electric sapo, it hits to the right. is beneficial to the player. Therefore, during the electric sapo state, two LEDs arranged in the right-handed display section 59 are turned on to urge the player to hit to the right.

<Jackpot game>
The CPU 201 of the main control board 200 has a plurality of round games in which when the first special symbol or the second special symbol is stop-displayed with one of the jackpot symbols, the first big winning hole 28 or the second big winning hole 35 is opened. A big hit game is started. As described above with reference to FIG. 2, right-handed game balls can be entered into the first big winning hole 28 and the second big winning hole 35, so right-handed balls are hit during the big win game. Become.

As shown in FIG. 5, the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment can execute a "V short" jackpot game and a "V long" jackpot game as jackpot games. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 5(a), when the first special figure is stopped at the jackpot symbols 101 to 280 (if the first special figure is stopped at the jackpot pattern, there is a probability of 90% ), when the "V short" jackpot game is performed and the first special pattern is stopped and displayed with the jackpot patterns 281 to 300 (if the first special pattern is stopped and displayed with the jackpot pattern, there is a probability of 10% ), a “V long” jackpot game is played. Also, as shown in FIG. 5(b), when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed with the big hit symbols 401 to 600 (with a probability of 100% when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed with the big winning symbol). , "V long" jackpot game is performed.

In the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, two round games are performed regardless of whether the "V short" jackpot game or the "V long" jackpot game is performed, and the first round game is performed. , the first big winning hole 28 is opened, and the second big winning hole 35 is opened in the second round game. However, the "V-short" jackpot game and the "V-long" jackpot game differ from each other in the "possibility of the game ball entering the specific opening 38". That is, in the "V short" jackpot game and the "V long" jackpot game, the first big prize opening 28 is opened for 10 seconds (or until four game balls enter) in the first round game. However, the opening times of the second big winning openings 35 in the second round game are different from each other. Specifically, in the "V short" jackpot game, since the opening time of the second big winning hole 35 in the second round game is 0.2 seconds, it is difficult for the game ball to enter the specific hole 38, In the "Long" jackpot game, since the opening time of the second big winning hole 35 in the second round game is 10 seconds (or until four game balls enter), the game ball enters the specific hole 38. Easy to hit.

Then, as shown in FIG. 5(c), when the game ball enters the specific hole 38 during the "V short" jackpot game, the game state after the jackpot game ends is "high probability state and electric support state". (high probability, electric sapo state)”, and if the game ball does not enter the specific port 38 during the “V short” jackpot game, the game state after the jackpot game ends is “low probability state and It is set to "non-electrical support state (low probability, non-electrical support state)".

Further, when the game ball enters the specific slot 38 during the "V long" jackpot game, the game state after the jackpot game is finished is set to "high probability/electrical support state", and the "V long" jackpot game is won. When the game ball does not enter the specific hole 38 during the game, the game state after the end of the jackpot game is set to "low probability state and electric support state (low probability/electric support state)".

In addition, the "high probability/electrical sapo state" continues until the next big hit game is performed, and the "low probability/electrical sapo state" continues until the symbol variation game is performed 45 times. end if done).

Here, when starting the big win game, the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 transmits a big win game start command indicating that the big win game is started toward the sub control board 220 . When the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 receives the big-hit game start command, it executes a big-hit game effect corresponding to the big-hit game.

It should be noted that the first big winning hole 28 and the second big winning hole 35 can also be regarded as a "variable ball entry hole", and the open state of the first big winning hole 28 and the second big winning hole 35 is a "ball-enterable state". ”, and the jackpot game can be regarded as a “specific game”. In addition, the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 that executes a jackpot game (specific game) in which the first big winning hole 28 and the second big winning hole 35 (variable ball entry hole) are in an open state (ball entry possible state), It can also be regarded as "specific game execution means".

<Normal pattern fluctuation display, normal pattern per game, normal pattern hold>
As described above with reference to FIG. 2, the normal symbol actuating gate 27 allows a game ball struck to the right to pass through. When the right-handed game ball passes through the normal symbol operation gate 27 and is detected by the gate sensor 27s, the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 generates a predetermined determination random number (a normal symbol per determination random number to be described later). is obtained, and a normal pattern hit determination is performed to determine whether it is a normal pattern hit or off based on the determination random number. Then, based on the result of the normal pattern hit determination, the normal pattern is variably displayed and then stopped. As shown in FIG. 4, the segment display portion 50 is provided with a normal pattern display portion 56 for displaying normal symbols, and the normal pattern display portion 56 is provided with two LEDs. The normal pattern is variably displayed by switching which LED among the two LEDs is lit in the normal pattern display unit 56, and is stopped by lighting a predetermined LED among the two LEDs. In the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, two kinds of patterns are stopped as normal patterns: a normal pattern winning pattern in which the left LED of the two LEDs is lit, and a normal pattern out-of-pattern pattern in which the right LED is lit. Displayable. If the result of the normal pattern hit determination is a normal pattern, the normal pattern will be stopped and displayed with a normal pattern per pattern, and if the result of the normal pattern hit determination is a normal pattern deviation, the normal pattern will be stopped and displayed with a normal pattern deviation. be done. When the normal patterns are stopped and displayed as hit patterns or lost patterns in this way, the stop-displayed state of the patterns is maintained until a prescribed time elapses (fixed display) in order to fix the stopped-displayed patterns. When the normal symbol is stopped and displayed as the normal per pattern, the normal per pattern game is performed in which the second starting port 25 is opened and then closed.

The non-electrical support state and the electric support state described above are set by differentiating the mode of normal pattern hit determination, the normal pattern variable display mode, and the normal pattern per game mode. In other words, the probability of being determined to be per normal pattern in the normal per pattern determination is 1/100 in the non-electrical support state and 99/100 in the electrical support state. In addition, as the fluctuation time of the normal pattern, a long time is likely to be selected in the non-electrical support state (1000 ms, 2000 ms, or 3000 ms is evenly selected), and a short time is selected in the electric support state. (either 1000 ms, 1252 ms or 1500 ms are evenly chosen). In addition, as a normal game, in the non-electrical support state, the second starting port 25 is open for a short time (16 ms x 1 time). A normal pattern per game is performed in which the starting port 25 is in an open state for a long time (840 msec.times.2 times). As a result, during the non-electrical support state, the frequency of opening the second starting port 25 is reduced, and the frequency of entry of game balls into the second starting port 25 is also reduced. On the other hand, during the electric sapo state, the frequency of opening the second starting port 25 increases, and the frequency of entering the game ball into the second starting port 25 also increases.

When the game ball passes through the normal symbol operation gate 27, normal symbol hit determination and normal symbol variation display are performed, but these normal symbol hit determination and variation display are performed immediately after the game ball passes through the normal symbol operation gate 27. Instead of being performed, the acquired judgment random number is temporarily stored as a normal pattern hold. Then, when a predetermined condition is established, normal pattern hit determination and normal pattern fluctuation display are performed based on the stored normal pattern reservation. Such a normal pattern reservation is also stored with an upper limit of four. The number of stored normal map reservations (the number of normal pattern reservations) is displayed in the general pattern reservation display section 57 of the segment display section 50 . That is, as shown in FIG. 4, two LEDs are arranged in the normal map reservation display unit 57, and in this normal map reservation display unit 57, by turning off both of the two LEDs Indicates that the number of reservations is 0, and by lighting one of the two LEDs, it indicates that the number of reservations is 1, and by lighting two LEDs, the normal figure Indicates that the number of reservations is 2, blinking 1 LED indicates that the number of normal diagram reservations is 3, and blinking 2 LEDs indicates that the number of normal diagram reservations is 4. indicates that there is In addition, in the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, when the normal pattern suspension is stored, if it is not during the variable display of the normal patterns, during the fixed display of the normal patterns, or during the normal pattern winning game, It performs the variable display of the normal pattern hit determination and the normal pattern related to the stored normal pattern reservation.

<Contents of Display on Effect Display Device 41>
In the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, an effect of displaying various images on the effect display device 41 is performed in accordance with the progress of the game as described above. Processing for performing such effects is mainly performed by the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 . That is, the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 receives a command indicating the progress of the game from the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 (for example, the above-described variation pattern designation command, jackpot game start command, etc.). The progress status is grasped, and an effect is performed according to the progress status of the game.

For example, when the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 receives the variation pattern specification command, it performs a symbol variation effect in accordance with the variation display (variation pattern) of the first special figure or the second special figure. That is, in synchronization with the start timing of the variable display (symbol variation game) of the special symbol (first special symbol or second special symbol), the effect display device 41 starts variable display of the three identification symbols 41a, 41b, 41c. do. Thereafter, the variable display of the identification symbols 41a, 41b, 41c is performed in various manners until the special symbol variation time elapses. Then, when the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 receives the variation stop command, it ends the symbol variation effect. That is, the variable display of the identification symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c is ended in synchronization with the end timing of the variable display of the special symbols (stopped display of the special symbols). In the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, it is possible to display nine numbers "1" to "9" designed as identification symbols.

FIG. 6(a) conceptually shows how the three identification patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c are simultaneously variably displayed. When a predetermined time elapses after the start of the variable display, for example, the left identification pattern 41a is stopped and displayed first, then the right identification pattern 41c is stopped and displayed, and finally the middle identification pattern 41b is stopped and displayed. The combination of the three identification symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c stop-displayed in the effect display device 41 is the special symbol (the second 1 special figure or 2nd special figure). For example, when the first special figure or the second special figure is stopped and displayed with a big hit pattern (that is, when the variation pattern selected when the result of the special figure hit determination is "big hit" is received), The three identification patterns 41a, 41b, 41c of the effect display device 41 are stopped and displayed in the same pattern combination (hereinafter also referred to as "double eyes"). In addition, when the first special figure or the second special figure is stopped and displayed in the off pattern (that is, when the variation pattern selected when the result of the special figure hit determination is "big hit" is received), The three identification patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c are stop-displayed in a pattern combination (hereinafter also referred to as a "separate pattern") in which the same patterns are not aligned. Incidentally, the identification symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c that are stopped and displayed are in a state of being stopped and displayed (determined display) until the fixed display time of the special symbols elapses.

Thus, the special symbols displayed in the first special symbol display unit 51 or the second special symbol display unit 52, and the three identification symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c displayed in the effect display device 41, the display contents are They correspond to each other, and when the special symbol during variable display is stopped and displayed, the three identification symbols 41a, 41b and 41c are also stopped and displayed. Moreover, as shown in FIG. 2, the effect display device 41 is provided at a position more conspicuous than the first special figure display portion 51 or the second special figure display portion 52 (segment display portion 50). Since the screen is large and the display contents are easy to understand, the player normally plays the game while visually recognizing the screen of the effect display device 41 . Therefore, as shown in FIG. 6(b), for example, the left identification symbol 41a that is first stop-displayed on the display screen of the effect display device 41 and the right identification symbol 41c that is subsequently stop-displayed are the same pattern. If there is, the middle identification symbol 41b that is stopped and displayed at the end also stops at the same symbol, and the player says, ``Isn't the jackpot game starting?'' ) will be watched closely. In this way, the identification patterns excluding one identification pattern among the plurality of identification patterns are stopped at the same pattern (a mode that can be doubled), and the one identification pattern is displayed in a variable display. It is called "reach effect", and it is possible to increase the interest in the game by generating this reach effect.

In addition, at the bottom of the display screen of the effect display device 41, there is a first reservation display area 41d for indicating the first special figure reservation number, and a second reservation display area 41e for indicating the second special figure reservation number. is set. In the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, the first special figure reserved number ( The upper limit number is 4), and the second special figure reservation number is displayed by displaying the same number of "reserved symbols" as the second special figure reservation number (the upper limit number is 4) in the second reservation display area 41e. Therefore, in the example shown in FIG. 6, it is indicated that the first special figure reservation number is four and the second special figure reservation number is four. Of course, the number of reservations indicated by the reserved symbols displayed on the display screen of the effect display device 41 and the first special figure reservation display section 53 and the second special figure reservation display section 54 of the segment display section Matches the number of holds shown.

<Lamp lighting effect>
Further, in the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, it is possible to execute a "lamp lighting effect" for lighting the lamp 5 during execution of the above-described symbol variation effect. "Expectation of reach" and "expectation of big hit" differ depending on the situation. The "ready-to-win expectation degree" is the possibility of performing the ready-to-win performance, and the "big-hit expectation degree" is the possibility of being judged as a "big-hit" in the big-hit judgment (possibility of playing a big-hit game). Such ``reach expectation'' and ``big hit expectation'' are set to be higher when the ``lamp lighting performance'' is performed than when the ``lamp lighting performance'' is not performed.

In addition, in the "lamp lighting effect", the lighting color of the lamp 5 suggests the "reach expectation" and the "jackpot expectation". Specifically, the "expectation of reach" and "expectation of big win" when the "lamp lighting effect" is performed are lowest when the lighting color of the lamp 5 is blue, second lowest when the lighting color is green, and red is set to be the highest when .

The "reach expectation" and "jackpot expectation" related to such a "lamp lighting effect" are the execution probability of the "lamp lighting effect", that is, the probability that the variation pattern corresponding to the "lamp lighting effect" is selected. It is realized by setting appropriately. In other words, the ``lamp lighting effect'' is configured to be executed when a variation pattern corresponding to the ``lamp lighting effect'' is selected, and the probability of selecting such a variation pattern is appropriately set. , it is possible to achieve the above-described "expectation of reach" and "expectation of big win".

For example, as shown in FIG. 7, when the result of the big hit determination is a big hit (or when a ready-to-win effect is performed), the "probability of selecting a variation pattern that does not perform a lamp lighting effect (probability of not performing a lamp lighting effect )” is set to be the lowest, and “probability of selecting a variation pattern that lights up the blue lamp (probability of performing a lamp lighting effect that lights up in blue)” → “lighting up the lamp that lights up in green” The probability of selecting a variation pattern to be performed (the probability of performing a lamp lighting effect that lights up in green)”, and the probability of selecting a variation pattern that performs a lamp lighting effect that lights up in red (the lamp that lights up in red It is set so that the probability of performing production) is the highest. Conversely, if the result of the big hit determination is out (or if the reach effect is not performed), the "probability of selecting a variation pattern that does not perform the lamp lighting effect (probability of not performing the lamp lighting effect)" is the highest. It is set, "Probability of selecting a variation pattern with a blue lamp lighting effect (probability of performing a blue lamp lighting effect)" → "Variation pattern with a green lamp lighting effect is selected The probability of being selected (probability of performing a lamp lighting effect that lights up in green)”, and the probability of selecting a variation pattern that performs a lamp lighting effect that lights up in red (probability of performing a lamp lighting effect that lights up in red) ” is set to be the lowest.

C. LED control board:
The “lamp lighting effect” as described above is performed by the LED control board 300 controlling the light emitting modes of the three LEDs provided inside the lamp 5 . That is, inside the lamp 5, a “red LED 71 that emits red light”, a “green LED 72 that emits green light”, and a “blue LED 73 that emits blue light” are provided. In the case, the red LED 71 is caused to emit light, the green LED 72 is caused to emit light when performing the lamp lighting effect of lighting in green, and the blue LED 73 is caused to emit light when performing the lamp lighting effect of lighting up in blue.

In addition, in the lamp lighting effect described above, not only the lighting color of the lamp 5 but also the brightness of the lamp 5 (brightness of the LED) are varied depending on the "big hit expectation (or reach expectation)". That is, in the lamp lighting effect in which the "big hit expectation (or reach expectation)" is lit in red, the lamp 5 is lit with the highest luminance (lights the red LED 71 with the highest luminance), and the "big hit expectation (or reach expectation)" Or reach expectation) "is the next highest in the lamp lighting effect of lighting in green, the lamp 5 is lit with the next high luminance (the green LED 72 is emitted with the next high luminance), and the "jackpot expectation (or reach expectation)" )” lights up in the lowest blue light, the lamp 5 is lit with the lowest luminance (the blue LED 73 is lit with the lowest luminance). In order to perform such a lamp lighting effect, in this embodiment, LEDs having different emission luminances are employed as the red LED 71, the green LED 72, and the blue LED 73. FIG. That is, the red LED 71, the green LED 72, and the blue LED 73 have different emission luminances, and therefore have different drive currents (forward currents). Specifically, the red LED 71 with the highest emission luminance has the largest drive current (eg, 30 mA), the green LED 72 with the next highest emission luminance has the next largest drive current (eg, 20 mA), and the blue LED 73 with the lowest emission brightness. has the smallest drive current (eg, 10 mA).

The LED control board 300 of the present embodiment that causes the red LED 71, the green LED 72, and the blue LED 73 to emit light will be described below, but first, the conventional LED control board 400 will be described as a preparation.

C-1. Conventional LED control board 400:
FIG. 8 conceptually shows the configuration of a conventional LED control board 400 . As shown in FIG. 8 , a constant-voltage LED driver 401 is mounted on the LED control board 400 , and a red LED 71 , a green LED 72 , and a blue LED 73 are connected to the LED driver 401 . That is, the cathode side of the red LED 71 is connected to the output terminal O1 of the LED driver 401 via the wiring H1, and the cathode side of the green LED 72 is connected to the output terminal O2 of the LED driver 401 via the wiring H2. , the cathode side of the blue LED 73 is connected to the output terminal O3 of the LED driver 401 via the wiring H3. Anode sides of the red LED 71, the green LED 72, and the blue LED 73 are connected to the power source V1. Since the LED driver 401 is of a constant voltage type, it is equipped with an electronic circuit that applies the same constant voltage to the output terminals O1 to O3.

The LED driver 401 makes the voltage output to the output terminal O1 lower than that of the power supply V1, thereby causing a current to flow through the wiring H1, thereby causing the red LED 71 to emit light. Also, by setting the voltage output to the output terminal O2 lower than the power source V1, current flows through the wiring H2, thereby causing the green LED 72 to emit light. Also, by making the voltage output to the output terminal O3 lower than the power source V1, current flows through the wiring H3, thereby causing the blue LED 73 to emit light. The LED driver 401 is, of course, provided with various terminals in addition to the output terminals O1 to O3. It is

Then, when the LED driver 401 lights the lamp 5 in red (when it receives a lighting pattern designation command indicating that the lamp 5 is to be lit in red), the LED driver 401 causes the red LED 71 to emit light by causing a current to flow through the wiring H1. When the lamp 5 is to be lit in green (when a lighting pattern designation command indicating that the lamp 5 is to be lit in green is received), current is passed through the wiring H2 to cause the green LED 72 to emit light, and the lamp 5 is lit in blue. When the blue LED 73 is to be lit (when a lighting pattern specification command indicating that the lamp 5 is to be lit in blue is received), current is passed through the wiring H3 to cause the blue LED 73 to emit light.

As described above, conventionally, when the red LED 71, the green LED 72, and the blue LED 73 with different drive currents are caused to emit light, a constant-voltage LED driver (here, the LED driver 401) is used. If the LED driver is of a constant current type instead of a constant voltage type, of course (as is well known), multiple output terminals (here, terminals corresponding to the output terminals O1 to O3) are connected to the same terminal. This is because a constant current flows at , and LEDs having different drive currents cannot be caused to emit light. For example, when a current of 30 mA is applied to the output terminal (terminal corresponding to the output terminal O1) to cause the red LED 71 to emit light (to drive), the green LED 72 and the blue LED 73 (terminals corresponding to the output terminals O2 and O3) A current of 30 mA will also flow, and there is a risk that the green LED 72 and the blue LED 73 will be damaged. Conversely, when a current of 10 mA is applied to the output terminal (terminal corresponding to the output terminal O3) to cause the blue LED 73 to emit light, a current of 10 mA is also applied to the red LED 71 and the green LED 72 (terminals corresponding to the output terminals O1 and O2). The red LED 71 and the green LED 72 do not emit light, or the brightness of the red LED 71 and the green LED 72 becomes insufficient.

On the other hand, the constant voltage type LED driver 401 is configured to apply the same constant voltage to the output terminals O1 to O3, so resistors R1 to R3 are provided as shown in FIG. Thus, currents (driving currents) corresponding to the red LED 71, the green LED 72, and the blue LED 73 can be supplied (adjusted). That is, the wiring H1 to which the red LED 71 is connected is provided with a resistor R1 having a resistance value that allows a current of 30 mA to flow, and the wiring H2 to which the green LED 72 is connected is provided with a resistor that allows a current of 20 mA to flow. A resistor R2 having a resistance value such that a current of 10 mA flows is provided in the wiring H3 to which the blue LED 73 is connected.

As described above, conventionally, when the red LED 71, the green LED 72, and the blue LED 73 having different drive currents are caused to emit light, the constant voltage LED driver (here, the constant voltage LED driver 401) has to be used. didn't get However, in the constant-voltage type LED driver 401, of course (as is well known), when the voltage of the power supply V1 fluctuates, the currents flowing through the wirings H1 to H3 also fluctuate. , there is a problem that the luminance of the blue LED 73 cannot be stabilized.

Therefore, in the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, even when the red LED 71, the green LED 72, and the blue LED 73 with different drive currents are caused to emit light, a constant current type LED driver is used instead of the constant voltage type. . In other words, if a constant-current type LED driver is used, it is impossible to cause the red LED 71, the green LED 72, and the blue LED 73, which drive currents different from each other, to emit light as described above. However, the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment makes this possible. Below, the LED control board 300 of the present embodiment that enables this will be described.

C-2. LED control board 300 of this embodiment:
FIG. 9 conceptually shows the configuration of the LED control board 300 of this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 9, an LED control board 300 of this embodiment is equipped with a constant-current type LED driver 301 instead of a constant-voltage type. The cathode side of the red LED 71 is connected to the output terminal O1 of the constant-current type LED driver 301 via the wiring H11, and the cathode side of the green LED 72 is connected to the output terminal O2 via the wiring H12. The cathode side of the blue LED 73 is connected to the terminal O3 via the wiring H13.

Here, as shown in FIG. 9, the wiring H2 is provided with a resistor R10 and the wiring H3 is provided with a resistor R11. If there is, it is not provided in the constant current type LED driver 301 . The reason will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing circuits around the output terminals O1 to O3 of the constant current type LED driver 301. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 10, the constant current type LED driver 301 is equipped with electronic circuits E1 to E3 having the same circuit configuration. These electronic circuits E1-E3 have the function of supplying a constant current to the output terminals O1-O3.

That is, each of the electronic circuits E1-E3 has a constant current diode (CRD). A CRD is a device that allows a constant current to flow even if the applied voltage changes. In the LED driver 301 of this embodiment, the output terminals O1 to O3 are connected to the anode side of the CRD, and the cathode side of the CRD is grounded (grounded). Therefore, by providing the CRD, a constant current flows through the output terminals O1 to O3→CRD→ground. However, a MOS transistor m is provided between CRD and ground. Specifically, the drain side of the MOS transistor m is connected to the cathode side of a constant current diode (CRD), and the source side of the MOS transistor m is connected to the ground. Therefore, when the MOS transistor m is turned on (when the source-drain are conductive), a constant current flows through the output terminals O1 to O3→CRD→ground. In order to turn on the MOS transistor m, a voltage must be applied to the gate of the MOS transistor m, which is connected to the node IN. That is, when a voltage is applied to this node IN (when a signal is input), a constant current flows through the output terminals O1 to O3→CRD→ground. In this case, as a matter of course, a current also flows through the wiring H11 to the wiring H13 (red LED 71, green LED 72, and blue LED 73).

The LED driver 301 of this embodiment is equipped with various electronic circuits in addition to the electronic circuits E1 to E3 described above. An electronic circuit (also referred to herein as a "command parsing circuit") is also mounted.

This command analysis circuit applies a voltage to the node IN of the electronic circuit E1 when lighting the lamp 5 in red (when receiving a lighting pattern designation command indicating lighting of the lamp 5 in red). A constant current is passed through the output terminal O1→CRD→ground. In this case, as a matter of course, a current flows through the wiring H11 and the red LED 71 as well.

When the lamp 5 is lit in green (when a lighting pattern specification command indicating that the lamp 5 is to be lit in green is received), a voltage is applied to the node IN of the electronic circuit E2 to generate a constant current. Output terminal O2→CRD→ground. In this case, as a matter of course, a current flows through the wiring H12 and the green LED 72 as well.

When the lamp 5 is to be lit in blue (when a lighting pattern designation command indicating that the lamp 5 is to be lit in blue is received), a voltage is applied to the node IN of the electronic circuit E3 to generate a constant current. Output terminal O3→CRD→ground. In this case, as a matter of course, a current flows through the wiring H13 and the blue LED 73 as well.

In addition to the elements described above, the electronic circuits E1 to E3 are also provided with resistors R21 to R23 for regulating (adjusting) the voltage applied to each node.

As described above, the LED driver 301 of this embodiment can pass a constant current through the output terminals O1 to O3 by providing the electronic circuits E1 to E3. The value of this constant current is defined by the resistance value of resistor Rx connected to terminal EXT of LED driver 301 . In this embodiment, a resistor Rx having a resistance value that causes a current of 30 mA to flow through the output terminals O1 to O3 is connected.

Here, as described above, if the current flowing through the output terminals O1 to O3 is set to 30 mA, naturally the current of 30 mA also flows to the red LED 71, the green LED 72, and the blue LED 73 (wirings H11 to H13). In this case, the red LED 71 with a drive current of 30 mA has an appropriate current value and emits light without any problem. , and there is a risk of damage.

Therefore, the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment is devised as follows. That is, as described above, the constant-current type LED driver 301 can pass a constant current through the output terminals O1 to O3. However, there is a condition that the voltage Vac applied to the CRD provided in the electronic circuits E1 to E3 (potential difference Vac between the node Na on the anode side of the CRD and the node Nc on the cathode side of the CRD) must be within a predetermined range. There is a need. FIG. 11 shows the voltage-current characteristics of the CRD. As shown in FIG. 11, in the CRD of this embodiment, a constant current (here, 30 mA) flows when the applied voltage Vac is Vth (threshold value, for example, 2.5 V) or higher, but the current is less than Vth. If there is, it has the characteristic that a current flows (to the output terminal) depending on the applied voltage. For this reason, as a matter of course in the conventional art, in order to take advantage of the characteristics of the constant-current type LED driver 301 (characteristics in which a constant current flows through the output terminal), each element is set so that a voltage of Vth or higher is applied to the CRD. was connected.

In the present embodiment, contrary to the above description, only a voltage less than Vth is applied to the CRDs of the electronic circuits E2 and E3. That is, focusing on the fact that the CRD has "a characteristic that a current flows depending on the voltage when the applied voltage is less than Vth" as described above, only a voltage less than Vth is applied to the CRD ( A resistor R10 and a resistor R11 are provided so that the potential difference Vac between the node Na on the anode side of the CRD and the node Nc on the cathode side of the CRD is less than Vth. This intentionally caused the output terminals O2, O3 to flow a current dependent on the voltage applied to the CRD.

Specifically, for the electronic circuit E2, a resistor R10 is provided between the CRD and the green LED 72 (wiring H12) so that only a voltage of V2 (for example, 1.0 V) smaller than Vth is applied to the CRD ( The potential difference Vac between the node Na on the anode side of the CRD and the node Nc on the cathode side of the CRD is set to V2 which is smaller than Vth, and a current of 20 mA depending on the voltage V2 applied to the CRD flows through the output terminal O2. did. As a result, even when the constant-current type LED driver 301 is used, which supplies a constant current of 30 mA, a current of 20 mA can be supplied to the output terminal O2 (the green LED 72). It is possible to emit light without

As for the electronic circuit E3, a resistor R11 is provided between the CRD and the blue LED 73 (wiring H13) so that only a voltage of V3 (for example, 0.5 V) smaller than Vth is applied to the CRD (CRD The potential difference Vac between the node Na on the anode side and the node Nc on the cathode side of CRD is set to V3 which is smaller than Vth), and 10 mA, which is a current dependent on the voltage V3 applied to CRD, flows through the output terminal O3. . As a result, even when the constant-current type LED driver 301 that supplies a constant current of 30 mA is used, a current of 10 mA can be supplied to the output terminal O3 (blue LED 73), causing the blue LED 73 to malfunction. It is possible to emit light without

As described above, in the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, when using the constant-current type LED driver 301, a voltage of Vth or higher is applied to the CRD to cause a constant current to flow through the output terminals O1 to O3. We adopted a configuration that overturned the obvious. That is, for the electronic circuits E2 and E3, only a voltage less than Vth is applied to the CRD, and a current depending on the voltage applied to the CRD is intentionally applied to the output terminals O2 and O3. did. As a result, even when the constant-current type LED driver 301 is used (while the brightness of the red LED 71 is stabilized by using the constant-current type LED driver 301), the red LEDs 71 having different drive currents It becomes possible to cause the green LED 72 and the blue LED 73 to emit light without any problem.

Further, the LED driver 301 of this embodiment has a terminal EXT connected to a resistor for limiting the maximum value of the current that can flow through the output terminals O1 to O3. , is connected to a resistor Rx that limits the maximum value to 30 mA, which is the drive current for the red LED 71 . That is, simply by connecting the resistor Rx to the terminal EXT, the drive current for the red LED 71 can be passed to the output terminal O1 (red LED 71), so there is no need to add any other electronic components (resistor (There is no need to provide resistors corresponding to the resistors R10 and R11), and productivity can be improved.

The output terminal O1 can be regarded as a "first terminal", and the output terminals O2 and O3 can be regarded as a "second terminal". Also, the wiring H11 can be regarded as a "first wiring", and the wirings H12 and H13 can be regarded as a "second wiring". Also, the red LED 71 can be regarded as a "first LED", and the green LED 72 and the blue LED 73 can be regarded as a "second LED". Also, the resistors R10 and R11 can be regarded as "current limiting resistors." Further, the electronic circuit E1 can be regarded as a "first electronic circuit", and the electronic circuits E2 and E3 can be regarded as a "second electronic circuit".

D. Variant:
Next, a modified example will be described.
D-1. Modification 1:
In Modification 1, an LED driver 501 is employed instead of the LED driver 301 described above. Like the LED driver 301, the LED driver 501 is also of constant current type, and includes electronic circuits E11 to E13 in place of the electronic circuits E1 to E3 described above.

FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing electronic circuits E11 to E13. As shown in FIG. 12, the constant-current type LED driver 501 is equipped with electronic circuits E11 to E13 having the same circuit configuration. These electronic circuits E11 to E13 have the function of supplying constant currents to the output terminals O1 to O3.

That is, each of the electronic circuits E11 to E13 has a bipolar transistor b between the output terminals O1 to O3 and the ground. Specifically, the collector side of the bipolar transistor b is connected to the output terminals O1 to O3, and the emitter side of the bipolar transistor b is connected to the ground. Therefore, when the bipolar transistor b is turned on (when the collector-emitter is conductive), a constant current flows from the output terminals O1 to O3 to the ground. In order to turn on the bipolar transistor b, a voltage must be applied to the base of the bipolar transistor b, which is connected to the node IN. That is, when a voltage is applied to this node IN (a signal is input), a constant current flows from the output terminals O1 to O3 to the ground. In this case, as a matter of course, a current also flows through the wiring H11 to the wiring H13 (red LED 71, green LED 72, and blue LED 73).

The LED driver 501 of the modified example 1 is equipped with various electronic circuits in addition to the electronic circuits E11 to E13 described above. An electronic circuit (also referred to herein as a "command parsing circuit") is also mounted.

This command analysis circuit applies a voltage to the node IN of the electronic circuit E11 when lighting the lamp 5 in red (when receiving a lighting pattern specification command indicating lighting of the lamp 5 in red). A constant current flows from the output terminal O1 to ground. In this case, as a matter of course, a current flows through the wiring H11 and the red LED 71 as well.

Further, when lighting the lamp 5 in green (when receiving a lighting pattern designation command indicating lighting the lamp 5 in green), a constant current is generated by applying a voltage to the node IN of the electronic circuit E12. It flows from the output terminal O2 to the ground. In this case, as a matter of course, a current flows through the wiring H12 and the green LED 72 as well.

When the lamp 5 is to be lit in blue (when a lighting pattern specification command indicating to light the lamp 5 in blue is received), a constant current is generated by applying a voltage to the node IN of the electronic circuit E13. It flows from the output terminal O3 to the ground. In this case, as a matter of course, a current flows through the wiring H13 and the blue LED 73 as well.

In addition to the elements described above, the electronic circuits E11 to E13 are provided with resistors R31 to R33 for regulating (adjusting) the voltage applied to each node.

As described above, the LED driver 501 of Modification 1 can pass a constant current through the output terminals O1 to O3 by including the electronic circuits E11 to E13. The value of this constant current is defined by the resistance value of resistor Rx connected to terminal EXT of LED driver 501 . Also in Modification 1, a resistor Rx having a resistance value that causes a current of 30 mA to flow through the output terminals O1 to O3 is connected.

Here, as described above, if the current flowing through the output terminals O1 to O3 is set to 30 mA, naturally the current of 30 mA also flows to the red LED 71, the green LED 72, and the blue LED 73 (wirings H11 to H13). In this case, the red LED 71 with a drive current of 30 mA has an appropriate current value and emits light without any problem. , and there is a risk of damage.

Therefore, in Modification 1, the following measures are taken. That is, as described above, the constant-current type LED driver 501 can pass a constant current through the output terminals O1 to O3. However, there is a condition for that. The potential difference Vce between the two must be within a predetermined range. FIG. 13 shows the voltage-current characteristics of the bipolar transistor b. As shown in FIG. 13, in the bipolar transistor b of Modification 1, when the applied voltage Vce is Vth2 (threshold value, for example, 2.5 V) or higher, a constant current (here, 30 mA) flows from the collector side to the emitter side. However, if it is less than Vth2, the current depending on the applied voltage has the characteristic of flowing from the collector side (to the output terminal) to the emitter side. For this reason, conventionally, of course, in order to take advantage of the characteristics of the constant current type LED driver 501 (characteristic that a constant current flows through the output terminal), the bipolar transistor b (between the collector and the emitter) has a voltage of Vth2 or higher. Each element was connected so that a voltage was applied.

In Modified Example 1, the above-mentioned nature is overturned, and in the electronic circuits E12 and E13, only a voltage less than Vth2 is applied to (between the collector and the emitter of) the bipolar transistor b. That is, focusing on the fact that the bipolar transistor b has the above-described characteristic that a current dependent on the voltage flows from the collector side to the emitter side when the applied voltage is less than Vth2, the collector of the bipolar transistor b ( between the emitters) is applied only to a voltage less than Vth2 (the potential difference Vce between the collector-side node Nc of the bipolar transistor b and the emitter-side node Ne is less than Vth2). I decided to As a result, a current dependent on the voltage applied to (between the collector and the emitter of) the bipolar transistor b was intentionally made to flow through the output terminals O2 and O3.

Specifically, for the electronic circuit E12, by providing a resistor R20 between the bipolar transistor b and the green LED 72 (wiring H12), V2 smaller than Vth2 (for example, 1.1. 0 V) is applied (the potential difference Vce between the node Nc on the collector side of the bipolar transistor b and the node Ne on the emitter side of the bipolar transistor b is set to V2 which is smaller than Vth2). As a result, 20 mA, which is a current dependent on the voltage V2 applied to (between the collector and the emitter of) the bipolar transistor b, can flow through the output terminal O2. As a result, even when the constant-current type LED driver 501 that supplies a constant current of 30 mA is used, a current of 20 mA can be supplied to the output terminal O2 (the green LED 72), causing the green LED 72 to malfunction. It is possible to emit light without

Further, for the electronic circuit E13, by providing a resistor R21 between the bipolar transistor b and the blue LED 73 (wiring H13), V3 (for example, 0.5 V) smaller than Vth2 is applied to the bipolar transistor b (between the collector and the emitter). ) is applied (the potential difference Vce between the collector-side node Nc and the emitter-side node Ne of the bipolar transistor b is set to V3, which is smaller than Vth2). As a result, a current of 10 mA, which depends on the voltage V3 applied to (between the collector and the emitter of) the bipolar transistor b, can flow through the output terminal O3. As a result, even when the constant-current type LED driver 501 that supplies a constant current of 30 mA is used, a current of 10 mA can be supplied to the output terminal O3 (blue LED 73), causing the blue LED 73 to malfunction. It is possible to emit light without

As described above, in Modification 1, "when using the constant-current type LED driver 501, a voltage of Vth2 or more is applied to (between the collector and the emitter of) the bipolar transistor b, and a constant voltage is applied to the output terminals O1 to O3. We adopted a configuration that overturned the natural idea of "flowing an electric current". That is, for the electronic circuit E12 and the electronic circuit E13, only a voltage less than Vth2 is applied to (between the collector and the emitter of) the bipolar transistor b, and the output terminals O2 and O3 are intentionally connected to the bipolar transistor b (of A current was caused to flow depending on the voltage applied across the collector-emitter). As a result, even when the constant-current type LED driver 501 is used (while the brightness of the red LED 71 is stabilized by using the constant-current type LED driver 501), the red LEDs 71 and 71 having different drive currents It becomes possible to cause the green LED 72 and the blue LED 73 to emit light without any problem.

Further, the LED driver 501 of Modification 1 has a terminal EXT connected to a resistor for limiting the maximum value of the current that can flow through the output terminals O1 to O3. A resistor Rx that limits the maximum value to 30 mA, which is the drive current for the red LED 71, is connected to the terminal EXT. That is, simply by connecting the resistor Rx to the terminal EXT, the drive current for the red LED 71 can be passed to the output terminal O1 (red LED 71), so there is no need to add any other electronic components (resistor (There is no need to provide resistors corresponding to the resistors R20 and R21), and productivity can be improved.

In the second modification, the output terminal O1 can be regarded as a "first terminal," the output terminals O2 and O3 can be regarded as a "second terminal," and the terminal EXT is regarded as a "third terminal." ” can be taken as Also, the wiring H11 can be regarded as a "first wiring", and the wirings H12 and H13 can be regarded as a "second wiring". Also, the red LED 71 can be regarded as a "first LED", and the green LED 72 and the blue LED 73 can be regarded as a "second LED". Also, the resistors R10 and R11 can be regarded as "current limiting resistors." Further, the electronic circuit E11 can be regarded as a "first electronic circuit", and the electronic circuits E12 and E13 can be regarded as a "second electronic circuit".

D-2. Modification 2:
In the above-described embodiment and modification 1, the example in which the red LED 71, the green LED 72, and the blue LED 73 having different drive currents are connected to the output terminals O1 to O3 of the constant-current LED driver 301 and LED driver 501 has been described. Alternatively, the output terminals O1 to O3 may be connected to different numbers of LEDs.

For example, as shown in FIG. 14, three blue LEDs 73 are connected in parallel to the output terminal O1 (wiring H11 through which a current of 30 mA flows) of a constant current type LED driver 301 (drive current=10 mA×3), and the output Two blue LEDs 73 are connected in parallel to the terminal O2 (wiring 12 through which a current of 20 mA flows) (driving current=10 mA×2), and one blue LED 73 is connected to the output terminal O3 (wiring H13 through which a current of 10 mA flows). It may be connected (driving current=10 mA×1).

Here, the constant-current type LED driver 301 normally (conventionally) causes the same constant current to flow through the output terminals O1 to O3. Connecting two blue LEDs 73 and one blue LED 73) causes a problem. For example, when a current of 30 mA corresponding to the driving current of the three blue LEDs 73 is passed through the terminal of the output terminal O1 in order to cause (drive) the three blue LEDs 73 to emit light, a current of 30 mA is also applied to the output terminals O2 and O3. There is a risk that the LEDs (two blue LEDs 73 and one blue LED 73) connected to these terminals will be damaged. Conversely, when a current of 10 mA corresponding to the drive current of one blue LED 73 is passed through the output terminal O3 in order to cause one blue LED 73 to emit light (to drive), only a current of 10 mA flows through the output terminals O1 and O2. As a result, the LEDs (three blue LEDs 73, two blue LEDs 73) connected to these terminals do not emit light, or the brightness of these LEDs becomes insufficient.

In this regard, if a resistor R10 similar to that of the above-described embodiment is provided in the wiring H12, the LED driver 301 can pass a current of 20 mA to the output terminal O2 (wiring H12). A current of 10 mA flows through each of the two blue LEDs 73 connected in parallel. Also, if a resistor R11 similar to that of the above-described embodiment is provided in the wiring H13, the LED driver 301 can pass a current of 10 mA to the output terminal O3 (wiring H13). As a result, even when the constant-current type LED driver 301 is used, it is possible to cause LEDs of different numbers to emit light without any problem.

The LED driver 301 also has a terminal EXT to which a resistor is connected for limiting the maximum value of the current that can flow through the output terminals O1 to O3. A resistor Rx is connected to the terminal EXT to limit the maximum value to 30 mA, which is the driving current for the three blue LEDs 73 (driving current=10 mA×3). That is, by simply connecting the resistor Rx to the terminal EXT, the drive current for the three blue LEDs 73 can be supplied to the output terminal O1. (no need to provide resistors corresponding to the resistors R10 and R11), and productivity can be improved.

The output terminal O1 can be regarded as a "first terminal", the output terminals O2 and O3 can be regarded as a "second terminal", and the terminal EXT can be regarded as a "third terminal". . Also, the wiring H11 can be regarded as a "first wiring", and the wirings H12 and H13 can be regarded as a "second wiring". Also, the red LED 71 can be regarded as a "first LED", and the green LED 72 and the blue LED 73 can be regarded as a "second LED". Among the three blue LEDs 73 connected to the output terminal O1, the two blue LEDs 73 connected to the output terminal O2, and the one blue LED 73 connected to the output terminal O3, the larger one is the "first number of LEDs" and a lesser number can be seen as a "second number of LEDs".

D-3. Modification 3:
In the above-described embodiment and modification 1, the resistor R10 is provided to allow 20 mA to flow through the output terminal O2 (wiring H12), and the resistor R11 is provided to allow 10 mA to flow through the output terminal O3 (wiring H13). made it Alternatively, the resistors R10 and R11 may not be provided. That is, in this case, a current of 30 mA flows through the output terminal O2 (wiring H12) and the output terminal O3 (wiring H13), similarly to the output terminal O1 (wiring H11).

Therefore, as shown in FIG. 15, the wiring H12 branches into a wiring H21 and a wiring H22, the green LED 72 is connected to the wiring H21, and the resistor R30 is connected to the wiring H22. At this time, the resistance value of the resistor R30 is set so that a current of 20 mA flows through the wiring H21 (a current of 10 mA flows through the wiring 22). Further, the wiring H13 branches into wiring H23 and wiring H24, the blue LED 73 is connected to the wiring H23, and the resistor R31 is connected to the wiring H24. At this time, the resistance value of the resistor R31 is set so that a current of 10 mA flows through the wiring H23 (a current of 20 mA flows through the wiring 24). As a result, even when the constant-current type LED driver 301 is used (while the brightness of the red LED 71 is stabilized by using the constant-current type LED driver 301), the red LEDs 71 having different drive currents It becomes possible to cause the green LED 72 and the blue LED 73 to emit light without any problem.

The LED driver 301 also has a terminal EXT to which a resistor is connected for limiting the maximum value of the current that can flow through the output terminals O1 to O3. A resistor Rx that limits the maximum value to 30 mA, which is the drive current for the red LED 71, is connected to the terminal EXT. That is, simply by connecting the resistor Rx to the terminal EXT, the drive current for the red LED 71 can be passed to the output terminal O1 (red LED 71), so there is no need to add any other electronic components (resistor (There is no need to provide resistors corresponding to the resistors R30 and R31), and productivity can be improved.

The output terminal O1 can be regarded as a "first terminal", the output terminals O2 and O3 can be regarded as a "second terminal", and the terminal EXT can be regarded as a "third terminal". . Also, the wiring H11 can be regarded as a "first wiring", and the wirings H12 and H13 can be regarded as a "second wiring". Also, the red LED 71 can be regarded as a "first LED", and the green LED 72 and the blue LED 73 can be regarded as a "second LED".

Although the embodiments and modifications of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to these, and is not limited to the wording of each claim as long as it does not depart from the scope described in each claim. A person skilled in the art can easily replace them, and improvements based on the knowledge that a person skilled in the art usually has can be added as appropriate.

For example, in the above-described embodiments and modifications, the present invention is applied to the pachinko machine 1 in which a game is played by shooting game balls toward the game area 21 formed on the game board 20. The present invention may also be applied to a slot machine (rotary type game machine) in which a game is played by rotating a spinning drum on which a symbol is drawn and stopping the spinning drum. In the slot machine, game medals are paid out when the reels are stopped and displayed in a predetermined combination of symbols. Therefore, when the present invention is applied to the slot machine, the game medals can be regarded as game media.

In addition, in the above-described embodiment and modifications, the present invention is applied to the pachinko machine 1 that provides the player with a profit (game value) as a result of the game by paying out the game balls supplied from the island facility of the game hall. was applied. The present invention is not limited to this, and the present invention can be applied to a type of gaming machine that gives a game profit in a form different from "payout of game balls". For example, by storing data indicating the amount of profit (magnitude of game value) corresponding to the entry of a game ball into various ball entrances, a game profit (game The present invention can also be applied to a type of pachinko machine that gives a player a value), and in this case also, the same effects as in the above-described embodiment can be obtained. Pachinko machines that convert game profits (game values) into data and give them to players include machines that circulate and use a plurality of game balls built into the pachinko machine. , a pachinko machine (a so-called enclosed game machine) configured to return game balls ejected to the back side of the game board through various ball inlets or outlets to the shooting position again and shoot them.

<Gaming machines A1 to A6 that can be extracted from the above-described embodiment>
The pachinko machine of the embodiment described above can be regarded as the following game machines A1 to A6.

<Game machine A1>
A game machine for playing games using game media,
a constant-current type LED driver having a first terminal and a second terminal and capable of passing a predetermined value of current through the first terminal and the second terminal;
a first LED connected to the first terminal via a first wiring;
a second LED connected to the second terminal via a second wiring and having a drive current smaller than that of the first LED;
with
Among the first wiring and the second wiring, the second wiring is provided with a current limiting resistor that is a resistor that reduces the magnitude of the current flowing through the second wiring below the predetermined value. A game machine characterized by:

In such a game machine, the constant-current type LED driver supplies a predetermined value of current (the same current) to the first terminal and the second terminal. If the second LED) is connected to the first terminal and the second terminal, a problem occurs. For example, in order to cause the first LED to emit light (to drive), when a current corresponding to the driving current of the first LED (also referred to herein as a “large current”) is passed through the first terminal, the second terminal A "large current" will also flow through the second LED, and there is a risk that the second LED will be damaged. Conversely, in order to cause the second LED to emit light (to drive), a current corresponding to the driving current of the second LED (also referred to herein as a “small current”) is passed through the second terminal. A "small current" will also flow through the terminal, and the first LED will not emit light, or the brightness of the first LED will be insufficient.

Therefore, in this gaming machine, the second wiring is provided with a “current limiting resistor” that reduces the magnitude of the current flowing through the second wiring (second LED) below a predetermined value. In this way, even when a "large current" is passed through the first terminal to cause the first LED to emit light (drive), a "large current ( A current smaller than the predetermined value)" flows, and damage to the second LED can be prevented. As a result, even when a constant-current type LED driver is used, it is possible to cause LEDs having different drive currents to emit light without problems.

<Game machine A2>
A game machine for playing games using game media,
a constant-current type LED driver having a first terminal and a second terminal and capable of passing a predetermined value of current through the first terminal and the second terminal;
a first wiring having one end connected to the first terminal;
a second wiring having one end connected to the second terminal;
with
A first number of LEDs are connected to the other end of the first wiring,
A second number of LEDs smaller than the first number is connected to the other end of the second wiring,
Among the first wiring and the second wiring, the second wiring is provided with a current limiting resistor that is a resistor that reduces the magnitude of the current flowing through the second wiring below the predetermined value. A game machine characterized by:

In such a game machine, the constant-current type LED driver supplies a predetermined value of current (the same current) to the first terminal and the second terminal. , a second number of LEDs) to the first terminal and the second terminal, a problem arises. For example, in order to cause the first number of LEDs to emit light (to drive), if a current corresponding to the driving current of the first number of LEDs (here, also referred to as “large current”) is passed through the first terminal, A "high current" will also flow through the second terminal, and there is a risk that the second number of LEDs, which is less than the first number, will be damaged. Conversely, in order to cause the second number of LEDs to emit light (to drive), if a current corresponding to the driving current of the second number of LEDs (here, also referred to as “small current”) is passed through the second terminal , a "small current" will also flow through the first terminal, and the first number of LEDs, which is greater than the second number, will not emit light, or the brightness of the first number of LEDs will not be sufficient.

Therefore, in this gaming machine, the second wiring is provided with a “current limiting resistor” that reduces the magnitude of the current flowing through the second wiring (second LED) below a predetermined value. In this way, even when a "large current" is applied to the first terminal to emit light (drive) the first number of LEDs, a "large current" is applied to the second terminal (second wiring). Current (predetermined value)” flows, preventing damage to the second number of LEDs. As a result, even when a constant-current type LED driver is used, it is possible to cause LEDs of different numbers to emit light without any problem.

<Game machine A3>
In gaming machine A1 or gaming machine A2,
The LED driver
By applying a potential difference equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold between predetermined nodes of a first electronic circuit of the LED driver, it becomes possible to pass a current of the predetermined value to the first terminal,
By applying a potential difference equal to or greater than the predetermined threshold value between predetermined nodes of a second electronic circuit of the LED driver, it is possible to cause the predetermined value of current to flow through the second terminal,
A gaming machine, wherein the current limiting resistor is a resistor that provides a potential difference less than the predetermined threshold between the predetermined nodes of the second electronic circuit.

A typical constant-current type LED driver cannot pass a current of a predetermined value (so-called pinch-off current) to its terminals unless a potential difference of a predetermined threshold value or more is applied between predetermined nodes of the built-in electronic circuit. First, when only a potential difference less than a predetermined threshold value is applied, a current (current less than a predetermined value) depending on the potential difference flows. The same is true for the constant current type LED driver of this game machine, and if only a potential difference less than a predetermined threshold value is given between predetermined nodes of the built-in electronic circuit, a current (less than a predetermined value) depending on the potential difference current) flows through the first terminal and the second terminal. This game machine focuses on this fact, and for the second electronic circuit, by providing a "current limiting resistor" that allows only a potential difference less than a predetermined threshold to be given between predetermined nodes, A current (current less than a predetermined value) depending on the potential difference was intentionally made to flow through the second terminal. In this way, even when a "large current" is applied to the first terminal to cause the first LED (or the first number of LEDs) to emit light (to drive), the second terminal (the second 2 wiring), only a current smaller than the "large current (predetermined value)" flows, and damage to the second LEDs (or the second number of LEDs, which is less than the first number) can be prevented. As a result, even when a constant-current type LED driver is used, it is possible to cause LEDs having different drive currents (or numbers) to emit light without any problem.

<Game machine A4>
A game machine for playing games using game media,
a constant-current type LED driver having a first terminal and a second terminal and capable of passing a predetermined value of current through the first terminal and the second terminal;
a first wiring having one end connected to the first terminal;
a second wiring having one end connected to the second terminal;
with
A first LED is connected to the other end of the first wiring,
The other end of the second wiring is branched into two, one of which is connected to a second LED having a drive current smaller than that of the first LED, and the branched A gaming machine characterized in that a resistor having a predetermined resistance value is provided on the other side.

In such a game machine, the constant-current type LED driver supplies a predetermined value of current (the same current) to the first terminal and the second terminal. If the second LED) is connected to the first terminal and the second terminal, a problem occurs. For example, in order to cause the first LED to emit light (to drive), when a current corresponding to the driving current of the first LED (also referred to herein as a “large current”) is passed through the first terminal, the second terminal A "large current" will also flow through the second LED, and there is a risk that the second LED will be damaged. Conversely, in order to cause the second LED to emit light (to drive), a current corresponding to the driving current of the second LED (also referred to herein as a “small current”) is passed through the second terminal. A "small current" will also flow through the terminal, and the first LED will not emit light, or the brightness of the first LED will be insufficient.

Therefore, in this game machine, the second wiring (second LED) is branched, the second LED is connected to one of the branches, and the resistor is provided to the other branch. did. In such a case, when a "large current" is passed through the first terminal to cause the first LED to emit light (to drive), a "large current" also flows through the second terminal (second wiring). The current will be shunted at that point. Therefore, only a current smaller than the "large current (predetermined value)" flows through the second LED, and damage to the second LED can be prevented. As a result, even when a constant-current type LED driver is used, it is possible to cause LEDs having different drive currents to emit light without problems.

<Game machine A5>
In gaming machine A1 or gaming machine A4,
In addition to the first terminal and the second terminal, the LED driver is connected to a resistor for limiting the maximum value of the current that can flow through the first terminal and the second terminal. and a third terminal connected to
A gaming machine, wherein the third terminal is connected to a resistor that limits the maximum value to the driving current of the first LED.

In such a game machine, the drive current for the first LED can be passed through the first terminal simply by connecting the resistor to the third terminal. There is no need to add electronic components to the system, and productivity can be improved.

<Game machine A6>
In gaming machine A2,
In addition to the first terminal and the second terminal, the LED driver is connected to a resistor for limiting the maximum value of the current that can flow through the first terminal and the second terminal. and a third terminal connected to
A gaming machine, wherein the third terminal is connected to a resistor that limits the maximum value to the driving current of the first number of LEDs.

In such a game machine, by simply connecting a resistor to the third terminal, the drive current for the first number of LEDs can be passed through the first terminal. ), there is no need to add other electronic components, and productivity can be improved.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY The present invention can be used for gaming machines used in gaming halls.

1 Pachinko machine (gaming machine), 24 First starting port, 25 Second starting port, 28 First big winning port (variable ball entry), 35 Second big prize opening (variable ball entry) , 71... red LED (first LED), 72... green LED (second LED), 73... blue LED (second LED), 200... main control board, 201... CPU (identification information display means, specific Game executing means), 220... Sub control board, 221... CPU, 300... LED control board, 301... LED driver (control unit), 501... LED driver (control unit).

Claims (2)

A game machine for playing games using game media,
a constant-current type LED driver having a first terminal and a second terminal and capable of passing a predetermined value of current through the first terminal and the second terminal;
a first wiring having one end connected to the first terminal;
a second wiring having one end connected to the second terminal;
with
A first number of LEDs are connected in parallel to the other end of the first wiring,
A second number of LEDs smaller than the first number is connected to the other end of the second wiring,
Among the first wiring and the second wiring, the second wiring is provided with a current limiting resistor that is a resistor that reduces the magnitude of the current flowing through the second wiring below the predetermined value. A game machine characterized by: In the gaming machine according to claim 1,
In addition to the first terminal and the second terminal, the LED driver is connected to a resistor for limiting the maximum value of the current that can flow through the first terminal and the second terminal. and a third terminal connected to
A gaming machine, wherein the third terminal is connected to a resistor that limits the maximum value to the driving current of the first number of LEDs.

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