JP2023139597A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a game machine capable of conforming whether multiple detection switches are operating normally.SOLUTION: A game machine 10 includes a microcomputer 601 having an inspection mode as inspection means for inspecting whether multiple detection switches 180 for detecting passage of game balls are in a normal state capable of detecting the passage of game balls. After power is turned on, a state in which an inspection can be started based on satisfaction of conditions including a memory clear state is enabled, a state in which an inspection can be performed based on satisfaction of conditions including passage of predetermined time is completed, and a display plate 84 is allowed to blink and notification of a result is executed when all the detection switches 180 are in a normal state as a result of the inspection. During execution, the execution of the notification is displayed on a display screen 52G.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

The present disclosure relates to a gaming machine including a plurality of detection switches.

BACKGROUND ART Conventionally, as this type of gaming machine, one in which the passage of a game ball is detected by a plurality of detection switches is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

JP2021-108977A (Claim 1)

However, in this type of gaming machine, if a plurality of detection switches are out of order, the game cannot be played normally, so a countermeasure is required.

The invention of claim 1 made to solve the above problem includes a plurality of detection switches for detecting the passage of a game ball, and a detection switch that detects whether or not each of the detection switches is in a normal state capable of detecting the passage of a game ball. The gaming machine is provided with an inspection means for testing, and a first notification means that makes a first notification when all of the plurality of detection switches are in a normal state.

According to the above invention, it is possible to check and know whether or not the detection switch can normally detect the passing of a game ball by the inspection means, so it is possible to prevent a game from being played without knowing that the detection switch is malfunctioning. . Further, when all of the plurality of detection switches are in a normal state, the first notification is performed by the first notification means. This allows you to check whether there is an abnormality in multiple detection switches based on whether or not the first notification has been received, without having to take the trouble of checking whether each of the multiple detection switches is in a normal state. This makes it easier to confirm the presence or absence of an abnormality.

Front view of the gaming machine of the present disclosure Perspective view of the gaming machine main body Enlarged perspective view of the right side area of the gaming area Perspective view of rear parts Perspective view of the light emitting board and block body seen from the rear side Block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the gaming machine Flowchart of mode determination program Flowchart of the first part of the inspection program Flowchart of the second half of the inspection program

Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 1 to 9, a pachinko gaming machine 10 (corresponding to a "gaming machine" in the claims; hereinafter simply referred to as "gaming machine 10") according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. explain. In the following description, unless otherwise specified, "right" and "left" refer to "right" and "left" when the gaming machine 10 is viewed from the front.

The gaming machine 10 includes a gaming machine main body 30A shown in FIG. 2 removably attached to a gaming frame 90 shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 2, the game machine main body 30A is provided with a back surface assembly 50 combined with the rear surface of the game board 40. Furthermore, when the game machine main body 30A is attached to the game frame 90, the entire game board 40 is covered from the front by the front frame 91 included in the game frame 90, as shown in FIG. Through this, the game area R1 provided on the front side of the game board 40 becomes visible.

A portion of the front frame 91 having the glass window 91W serves as a front door 91T, which is normally locked in a closed state. Then, when the front door 91T is unlocked and opened by the manager of the game hall who owns the game machine 10, the game area R1 of the game board 40 is exposed.

Further, the game frame 90 is fixed to a game island of the game hall. Then, the gaming slot 90 is diverted and only the gaming machine main body 30A is replaced with a new gaming machine main body 30A, or both the gaming slot 90 and the gaming machine main body 30A are replaced with new ones, and the so-called " "New machine replacement" will be carried out.

An operation knob 94 is provided at the lower right of the front surface of the front frame 91. Then, a game ball (see reference numeral K in FIG. 1) is driven into the game area R1 in response to a rotational operation of the operation knob 94. Note that the game balls to be hit into the game area R1 are accommodated in an upper tray 93 located below the glass window 91W in the front frame 91.

As shown in FIG. 2, the game board 40 is constructed by assembling a plurality of parts on the front and rear surfaces of a base plate 41, and the game area R1 is surrounded by a plurality of parts protruding from the front surface of the base plate 41. ing. Furthermore, a display window 11W is formed in the base plate 41 at a portion located within the game area R1. The display screen 52G of the display device 52 included in the back assy 50 and a movable accessory (not shown) disposed between the display device 52 and the base plate 41 are visible through the display window 11W. Furthermore, an entry regulating wall 12 is provided at the outer edge of the opening edge of the display window 11W to prevent game balls from entering the display window 11W from above and from both sides. Then, the player operates the operation knob 94 so that the game ball flows down the area to the left of the display window 11W, so-called "left-handed hitting", and the player operates the operation knob 94 so that the game ball flows down the area to the right of the display window 11W. It is possible to arbitrarily select so-called "right-handed hitting" in which the operating knob 94 is operated.

The inner surface of the lower part of the display window 11W is a rolling stage 19 that can roll the game ball laterally and eject it forward, and the left side of the entry control wall 12 is equipped with a rolling stage 19 that allows the game ball to be rolled laterally and ejected forward. An intake port 12A is provided for taking the material onto the rolling stage 19.

A game ball hit into the game area R1 is taken into the rear of the game board 40 through either of the plurality of winning holes or the plurality of out holes provided in the game area R1, and is taken into the rear of the game board 40, and is sent to the lower part of the game board 40. It is collected in a collection duct (not shown). The plurality of out ports and the plurality of winning ports have the following arrangement and structure.

That is, as shown in FIG. 2, an out opening 16 is provided at the center of the lowermost part of the gaming area R1 in the horizontal direction, and a starting winning opening 14 is provided at a position directly above the exit opening 16. Further, in the left side portion at the bottom of the gaming area R1, a plurality of normal winning holes 13 and a plurality of out holes 16 are provided side by side in a mixed state. In addition, among the above-mentioned out openings 16 and winning openings 13, the lowest out opening 16 opens on the front surface of the base plate 41, and the others open upward on the upper surface of the protrusion protruding from the front surface of the base plate 41. It is open. In addition, both left-handed and right-handed game balls enter the bottom out port 16, and left-handed balls enter the other out ports 16, the plurality of normal winning holes 13, and the starting winning hole 14. The played game ball enters the ball.

As shown in FIG. 3, in the area on the right side of the display window 11W in the game area R1, in order from the top, a starting gate 70, a starting winning device 71, a first attacker 72, a normal winning opening 74, and a second attacking player 75 are provided. , a normal winning opening 76 and three out openings 79A, 79B, and 79C are provided. Most of the right side area of the gaming area R1 including the winning openings other than the normal winning opening 76 and the outgoing opening 79C, the outgoing opening, and the starting gate 70 is covered with a transparent front cover 18, for example, as shown in FIG. Covered from the front.

As shown in FIG. 3, in the area behind the front cover 18, the downstream circuit of the game ball is divided into three routes in the horizontal direction above the starting gate 70, and when the game ball flows down the central route, it enters the starting gate 70. pass through. Further, the right route curves and merges with the center route after passing through the starting gate 70, and the slide plate 71B of the starting prize winning device 71 is placed directly below the merging portion. The slide plate 71B slides back and forth and guides the game ball to the starting prize opening 71A at the lower right while being placed at the front end position.

In addition, the game balls that have passed through the starting prize opening 71A are taken into the downflow gutter 73 as winning balls. Further, an out port 79A is opened just above the slide plate 71B, and the game ball that enters there is taken into the downflow gutter 73 as an out ball. The game ball in the downflow gutter 73 is taken into the rear side of the base plate 41 at the lower right end position of the game area R1.

The left route passing through the left side of the starting gate 70 extends straight in the vertical direction, passes through the starting winning device 71, bends diagonally to the right, and extends at an angle so as to gently descend below the starting winning device 71. At the left side position of the upper part of the downflow gutter 73, it is bent to the left so as to turn back and extends at an inclination so as to gently descend. Then, the downstream flow path downward to the left is formed by the slide plate 72B of the first attacker 72. The slide plate 72B slides back and forth, and when the slide plate 72B retreats, a game ball enters the grand prize opening 72A. In addition, the downstream side that has passed through the big winning opening 72A is divided into a downstream route heading towards the V winning opening 72C and a downstream route heading towards the normal winning opening 72D. The winnings will be distributed to one of the winning slots 72D.

The downstream path bends downward after passing over the slide plate 72B of the first attacker 72, and then laterally divides into three routes. An out port 79B is arranged at the end of the right route, and a normal winning port 74 is arranged at the end of the center route. The left route extends obliquely to the lower left and is formed by the slide plate 75B of the second attacker 75. The slide plate 75B also slides back and forth, and when the slide plate 75B retreats, a game ball enters the grand prize opening 75A.

After passing through the slide plate 72B, the flow path bends downward, and the normal winning opening 76 is arranged ahead of it, and the out opening 79C is arranged to the right of it.

A game ball enters multiple winning holes (normal winning holes 13, 74, 76, starting winning holes 14, 71, V winning hole 72C, normal winning hole 72D, big winning hole 75A) (this is called "winning") Then, the payout device 605 shown in FIG. 6 is activated, and a predetermined plurality of game balls are paid out onto the upper tray 93 (see FIG. 1) as prize balls. In addition, when a prize is won in the starting prize opening 14, 71A, a correctness judgment called a special figure judgment is carried out, and when a game ball passes through the starting gate 70, a correctness judgment called a regular figure judgment is carried out. Then, the game state changes and the production contents also change due to the validity judgment results of the special pattern judgment and the normal pattern judgment. In addition, winnings to each of the plurality of winning holes and passage of the game ball through the starting gate 70 are detected by detection switches 180 provided in each of the winning holes. Note that FIG. 6 shows only the main parts of the electrical configuration of the gaming machine 10 that are relevant to the present disclosure.

In FIG. 4, a rear part is attached to the rear of the lower left part of the base plate 41 and has a plurality of passages 13A and 16A that communicate with the plurality of normal winning openings 13 and the plurality of out openings 16, respectively, in the lower left part mentioned above. Part 31 is shown. Moreover, in the same figure, the detection switch 180 of the passage 13A communicating with the normal winning a prize opening 13 is shown in a removed state. As shown in the figure, the detection switch 180 has a flat rectangular parallelepiped shape, and its planar shape when viewed from the flat direction is a rectangular corner with a long side approximately twice as long as a short side. It has a chamfered shape and includes a detection hole 180R penetrating in the thickness direction. The detection hole 180R has a circular shape with an inner diameter that allows the game ball to pass through, and is located near the chamfered end (referred to as the "tip") in the longitudinal direction of the detection switch 180. Regarding the plurality of winning holes, the detection switch 180 is arranged in the middle or at the starting end of the path through which the winning game ball passes through each winning hole, and a part of the path is formed by the inner surface of the detection hole 180R. There is. Further, as shown in FIG. 3, regarding the starting gate 70, the detection switch 180 is incorporated into the starting gate 70, and the inside of the starting gate 70 is inside the detection hole 180R of the detection switch 180. Note that in FIG. 3, the detection switch 180 is shown with gray hatching.

Further, the detection switch 180 is provided with a coil (not shown) surrounding the detection hole 180R. Then, passage of the game ball is detected based on a change in the inductance of the coil when the game ball, which is a magnetic material, passes through the detection hole 180R. Further, as shown in FIG. 4, a connector insertion port 180M is opened at the base end surface of the detection switch 180, into which the connector of the harness of the game machine main body 30A is inserted, and the control board shown in FIG. 600. Note that the control board 600 is arranged on the rear surface of the rear surface assembly 50.

A microcomputer 601 is mounted on the control board 600, and the microcomputer 601 takes in the detection results of game balls by each detection switch 180, and outputs a command to the payout device 605 accordingly, so that the prize balls are placed in the upper tray 93 as described above. At the same time, the game is controlled so as to have the game contents described later.

Note that the microcomputer 601 may be one or more than one. Further, although the detection switch 180 of this embodiment is a non-contact type, it may be a contact type. Furthermore, although the detection switch 180 is provided to detect the passage of a game ball, it may also be used, for example, to detect the passage of a movable part of a movable accessory.

The gaming machine 10A of this embodiment is a so-called one-type, two-type mixing machine, and the game contents are as follows. That is, in the above-mentioned general figure determination caused by the passage of the game ball to the starting gate 70, it is determined whether or not to move the slide plate 71B forward so that the game ball can win in the starting prize opening 71A. In addition, in the above-mentioned special figure determination caused by a winning in the starting winning opening 14, 71A, a determination is made as to whether it is a "big hit", a "small hit", or a "miss". The probability of a jackpot is the same for a special figure determination resulting from winning in the starting prize hole 14 and a special figure determination resulting from winning in the starting prize hole 71A, but the probability of a small hit is higher than that of the starting prize hole. The special figure judgment due to winning in 71A is higher. In addition, the determination result of the regular pattern determination is notified by the normal pattern displayed on the display screen 52G, and the determination result of the special pattern determination is notified by the special pattern displayed on the display screen 52G.

When a jackpot is determined by the special figure determination, a "jackpot game" is executed in which the slide plate 75B of the second attacker 75, which is normally closed, opens multiple times for a predetermined period of time. Here, if the operation of the slide board 75B from opening to closing is called a "round", one jackpot game continues until a predetermined number of rounds are executed. One round ends when a predetermined number of game balls enter the grand prize opening 75A, or when a predetermined time has elapsed since the slide plate 75B was opened. When a game ball enters the big prize opening 75A, for example, a predetermined number of game balls are paid out to the upper tray 93 as prize balls for each winning.

When a small win is determined by the special figure determination, a ``small win game'' is executed in which the normally closed slide plate 72B of the first attacker 72 is opened for a predetermined period of time multiple times. The game ball that enters the big winning hole 72A is sorted into the V winning hole 72C or the normal winning hole 72D by operating a sorting member at the back of the big winning hole 72A. When the game ball enters the V winning hole 72C, it becomes a jackpot (type 2 jackpot), the slide plate 75B of the second attacker 75 opens, and a jackpot game is executed. As described above, in the gaming machine 10A of this embodiment, the conditions for executing the jackpot game are that the special pattern is determined to be a hit (type 1 jackpot), and that the special pattern is determined to be a small hit and then the game ball is played. There are two options available: 1. Enter the ball into the V winning hole 72C (2nd type jackpot).

For example, as a small winning game, there is an easy ball entry small winning where the distribution member is arranged to make it easier for the game ball to enter the V winning opening 72C, and a small winning where the distribution member is placed in a V position than in the easy ball entry small winning. A small hit that makes it difficult for game balls to enter the winning opening 72C may be provided. For example, a small hit may occur more easily in the case where the second special pattern determination results in a small hit than in the case where the first special pattern determination results in a small hit.

By the way, if an abnormality occurs in which the detection switch 180 is unable to detect game balls (hereinafter referred to as "non-detection abnormality"), problems such as prize balls not being paid out or determination of validity occurring may occur. do. Further, the non-detection abnormality is thought to be due to a failure of the detection switch 180 itself, or due to a connection failure in which the connector of the harness is not properly connected to the correct location. Furthermore, the probability of failure of the detection switch 180 itself increases as the number of times the detection switch 180 is reused by the manufacturer increases. On the other hand, connection problems are likely to occur when the gaming machine 10 is manufactured or when a new machine is replaced.In particular, since replacing a new machine is carried out in a short time at the gaming hall site, the probability of undetected abnormalities occurring is high. . In addition, even if the inspection at the manufacturer's factory is normal, an undetected abnormality may occur due to the harness being pulled during transportation to the game hall or during installation on the game island of the game hall. . In order to deal with these problems, the gaming machine 10 of this embodiment includes an "inspection means" for checking the presence or absence of an undetected abnormality, and a "first notification means" for notifying the test results. Be prepared.

Specifically, as a part of the "first notification means", as shown in FIG. 4, a light emitting board 80 is provided at the left end of the rear component 31 described above. As shown in FIG. 5, the light-emitting board 80 is mounted with a plurality of light-emitting elements 81 as "a plurality of light-emitting means" corresponding to a plurality of detection switches 180, and the light-emitting board 80 is mounted with the mounting surface facing forward. It is housed in a board case 82 of the component 31. Further, a block body 82B is provided in a portion of the board case 82 that covers the light emitting board 80 from the front, and the block body 82B passes through the through hole of the base plate 41 and protrudes forward from the base plate 41. Furthermore, a plurality of through holes 82A facing the plurality of light emitting elements 81 are formed in the block body 82B, and a display plate 84 is stacked on the front surface of the block body 82B.

As shown in FIG. 4, the display board 84 is provided with a plurality of light emitting parts 84A that are transparent, for example, in a muddy color through which light can easily pass, in a portion facing the plurality of through holes 82A, and the light emitting parts 84A are connected to each other. A map 84B for differentiation is attached, and the entire display board 84 other than these is a black light shielding part 84C through which light is difficult to pass.

As shown in FIG. 6, the control board 600 includes a ROM 602 (Read Only Memory) that stores a plurality of programs, and a WRM 603 (WRM 603) that can write and erase data and that does not erase data even when the power is turned off. A read/write memory 603) and a clear switch 604 for erasing data in the WRM 603 and putting it in a memory clear state are installed. Further, the clear switch 604 can be operated arbitrarily by the administrator of the gaming hall.

FIG. 7 shows the mode discrimination program PG1, which is one of the plurality of programs stored in the ROM 602. This mode discrimination program PG1 is executed only once, for example, immediately after the gaming machine 10 is powered on, when the microcomputer 601 receives it as an interrupt signal.

When the mode determination program PG1 is executed, it is determined whether the power is turned on after a power outage or power outage (S10), and if the power is not turned on after a power outage or power outage (NO in S10), the WRM603 clears the memory. It is determined whether the state is the same or not (S11). If the WRM 603 is not in the memory clear state (NO in S11), the mode discrimination flag F1 for discriminating the mode of the gaming machine 10 is set to "1" (S12), and this mode discrimination program PG1 is terminated. do. Further, if the power is turned on after a power outage or power outage (YES in S10), the mode discrimination flag F1 is set to "1" (S12), and this mode discrimination program PG1 is ended. On the other hand, if the power is turned on normally, not after a power outage or power outage (NO in S10), and the WRM603 is in the memory clear state (YES in S11), the mode discrimination flag F1 is "0". (S13), and this mode discrimination program PG1 is ended. When the mode discrimination flag F1 is "1", the gaming machine 10 is in the normal mode, and when the mode discrimination flag F1 is "0", the gaming machine 10 is in the test mode.

Note that even if the gaming machine 10 is not set to the memory clear state when the power is turned off, the power is turned on while operating the clear switch 604, and the case that the power is turned on while the WRM 603 is in the memory clear state. Similarly, the mode discrimination flag F1 is set to "0" (S13), and this mode discrimination program PG1 is ended.

The microcomputer 601 when in the inspection mode corresponds to an "inspection means", and processes so that, for example, even if the detection switch 180 detects a game ball entering the winning hole, the prize ball is not paid out and no determination is made. At the same time, the light emitting section 84A shown in FIG. 4 (specifically, the light emitting element 81 shown in FIG. 5 facing the light emitting section 84A) corresponding to the detection switch 180 that detects the passage of the game ball on the light emitting board 80 is turned on. let In addition, during the inspection mode, the microcomputer 601 controls the slide plates 71B, 72B, 75B, and members that alternatively change the falling path of the game ball, such as a distribution member (not shown) in the first attacker 72, to Control is performed to alternately move to one end and the other end of the movable range at predetermined intervals (for example, approximately 0.5 second intervals). As a result, the game balls can reach any downstream path.

After the mode determination program PG1 ends, a plurality of programs are repeatedly executed at a predetermined period (for example, 400 [msec]). The plurality of programs include a game control program (not shown) and a test program PG2 shown in FIGS. 8 and 9.

Although not shown, when the gaming control program is executed, it is first determined whether the mode discrimination flag F1 is "1" or not, and if the mode discrimination flag F1 is not "1", the gaming control program is immediately terminated. However, when the mode discrimination flag F1 is "1", various processes of the game control program are executed. That is, the game control program is not substantially executed in the test mode, but is repeatedly executed at a predetermined cycle in the normal mode, and each part of the gaming machine 10 is controlled so that the game content described above is achieved. Also, at this time, the gaming state of the gaming machine 10 before the power was turned off is restored based on the data stored in the WRM 603.

As shown in FIG. 8, when the inspection program PG2 is executed, it is first determined whether the mode discrimination flag F1 is "0" (S20), and if the mode discrimination flag F1 is not "0", ( (NO in S20), the inspection program PG2 is immediately ended, and if the mode discrimination flag F1 is "0", various processes of the inspection program PG2 are executed. That is, the inspection program PG2 is not substantially executed in the normal mode, but is repeatedly executed at a predetermined period in the inspection mode.

As shown in FIG. 8, when the inspection program PG2 is executed in the inspection mode, it is determined whether the first timer is stopped depending on whether the first timer flag F2 is "0". (S21). If the first timer flag F2 is "0" which means that the first timer is stopped (YES in S21), the first timer flag F2 is set to "0" after the first timer is started (S22). "1" is set (S23), and, for example, a second notification that displays an inspection notification message on the display screen 52G of the display device 52 (see FIG. 2) is started (S24). The inspection notification message includes, for example, the following contents (1) to (4).

(1) It is in inspection mode and will automatically return to normal mode when the predetermined time elapses or when the clear switch 604 is turned on.

(2) If you wish to inspect the detection switch 180, please hit right and left for a predetermined time each in order to allow game balls to enter all winning holes and starting gate 70.

(3) If all the detection switches 180 are normal, the display board 84 at the lower left will flash and then the inspection mode will end.

(4) If the inspection mode ends without the display board 84 flashing, there is an abnormality detection switch 180, so please contact the manufacturer to determine the location of the light emitting section 84A that is not lit on the map 84B of the display board 84. Please contact me.

If the manager of the game hall hits the game ball into the game area R1 in response to this test notification message, the test will be executed, and if the manager does not hit the game ball into the game area R1, the test will not be performed. In addition, instead of hitting the left hand, the front door 91T may be opened and the game ball enters the normal winning hole 13, the starting winning hole 14, etc., but the right side area of the gaming area R1 is covered with the front cover 18. It is more efficient to hit the game ball to the right in the winning slot or the like.

After the start of the second notification (S24), it is determined whether all the detection switches 180 are detecting game balls (S25). Further, in the above-described determination of the first timer flag F2, if the first timer flag F2 is not "0", it is immediately determined whether or not all the detection switches 180 have detected a game ball (S25). Then, if all the detection switches 180 have detected game balls (YES in S25), after the first notification that causes all of the plurality of light emitting parts 84A of the display board 84 to blink is started (S26), It is determined whether the count result of the first timer has exceeded the first reference time T1 (S28) and whether the clear switch 604 has been turned on (S29). If all the detection switches 180 have not detected a game ball (NO in S25), both determinations (S28, S29) are performed without starting the first notification.

Then, if the count result of the first timer is that the first reference time T1 has elapsed (YES in S28), or if the clear switch 604 is turned on (YES in S29), then the second timer is used. After waiting for the second reference time T2 to elapse (S30 to S33), the first and second timer flags F2 and F3 are reset to "0" (S34), and the first and second timers are stopped. and is reset (S35), the first and second notifications are completed, and K et al. (S37), the mode discrimination flag F1 is set to "1" and changed to the normal mode (S34), and the inspection program PG2 is end.

The explanation regarding the configuration of the gaming machine 10 of this embodiment is above. In this embodiment, the microcomputer 601 when the above-mentioned inspection mode is entered corresponds to the inspection means, and the microcomputer 601 and the light emitting unit 84A when executing step S26 of the inspection program PG2 correspond to the first notification means. However, the microcomputer 601 and the display device 52 when executing step S24 of the inspection program PG2 correspond to the second notification means.

Next, the effects of the gaming machine 10 of this embodiment will be explained. In the gaming machine 10 of this embodiment, it is possible to check and find out whether or not the detection switch 180 can normally detect the passing of a game ball, so it is possible to prevent a game from being played without knowing that the detection switch 180 is malfunctioning. I can escape. Furthermore, since the fact that all of the plurality of detection switches 180 are in a normal state is notified by blinking the plurality of light emitting parts 84A, it is necessary to check whether each of the plurality of detection switches 180 is in a normal state. It is possible to check whether or not there is an abnormality in the plurality of detection switches 180 by checking whether or not the light emitting section 84A blinks without much effort, and the work of checking whether there is an abnormality is facilitated.

Furthermore, when the passage of a game ball is detected by each of the plurality of detection switches 180, the light emitting section 84A corresponding to each of the detection switches 180 lights up, so it is possible to check whether there is any abnormality in each detection switch 180 as necessary. I can do it. Since these light emitting parts 84A blink when all of the plurality of detection switches 180 are in a normal state, effective use of the light emitting parts 84A is achieved. Furthermore, while the detection switch 180 is being tested, a message to that effect is displayed on the display screen 52G of the display device 52, thereby preventing the occurrence of a problem where the testing is being mistaken for an abnormality in the gaming machine 10.

Also, during the inspection, members that alternatively change the falling path of the game ball, such as the slide plates 71B, 72B, 75B and the distribution member (not shown) in the first attacker 72, are placed at predetermined intervals (for example, The variable path is controlled to alternately move to one end and the other end of the movable range at intervals of approximately 0.5 seconds), and the variable passage is alternately switched between the first state and the second state, so that the first state The game ball can easily pass through both the detection switch 180 that passes when the state is reached and the detection switch 180 that passes when the second state is reached. As a result, the game ball reaches the detection switch 180 of any downstream path.

In addition, after the power is turned on to the gaming machine 10, the inspection is automatically started due to the establishment of predetermined inspection start conditions, so the inspection can be carried out in situations where an inspection is necessary, such as after replacing a new machine. Forgetting is prevented. Furthermore, by operating the clear switch 604 when the power is turned on, the normal mode can be switched to the test mode, so the gaming machine 10 can be switched from the normal mode to the test mode at any time as needed. After the inspection starts, the state in which the inspection is possible automatically ends due to the establishment of the predetermined inspection termination conditions, thereby preventing problems such as the opening of the game hall without completing the inspection. . The test completion conditions include that a predetermined time has elapsed since the state became testable, so it is possible to predict the timing at which the test will end.

In addition, when a termination condition such as a predetermined time has elapsed after inspection is enabled (S28, S29 in FIG. 9), the inspection mode is not terminated immediately, but waits for a predetermined time (for example, 3 seconds) to elapse. (S30 to S33 in FIG. 9), by shifting to the normal mode, the game ball launched into the gaming area R1 during the inspection mode enters any winning slot after switching to the normal mode. This prevents it from being put away.

In this embodiment, the light emitting section 84A is provided as the first notification means, but even if a mark corresponding to each detection switch is displayed on the display screen 52G and the display mode of the mark changes. good.

Further, as in the present embodiment, an inspection notification message may be displayed on the display screen 52G as the second notification means, or notification may be made by voice, alarm, or the like.

When the test mode is entered, a configuration may be adopted in which right-handed and left-handed batting is automatically performed without operating the operation knob 94.

In addition, in this embodiment, members such as the slide plates 71B, 72B, and 75B that alternatively change the falling path of the game ball are switched between an easy-to-pass state and a difficult-to-pass state at predetermined intervals. For example, after confirming the detection of a detection switch passing in an easy-to-pass state, the control may be performed to switch to a difficult-to-pass state. In addition, in the case of a movable member that simply changes whether or not it becomes difficult for game balls to enter the prize opening, it may be held in a state where it is easy to pass through during the inspection mode.

The test completion condition may include that a predetermined number of game balls are launched. Further, in this embodiment, the condition is that either the predetermined time has elapsed or the clear switch 604 is operated, but the condition may be that both of them are satisfied.

<Additional notes>
Hereinafter, the features of the invention group extracted from the embodiments described above will be explained, showing effects etc. as necessary. In the following, for ease of understanding, configurations corresponding to the embodiments described above will be indicated in parentheses, etc., as appropriate, but the present invention is not limited to the specific configurations shown in parentheses.

[Feature 1]
A gaming machine comprising a plurality of detection switches for detecting the passage of a game ball, and a testing means for inspecting whether each of the detection switches is in a normal state capable of detecting the passage of a game ball, The gaming machine is provided with a first notification means that performs a first notification when all of the plurality of detection switches are in a normal state.

According to feature 1, it is possible to check and find out whether or not the detection switch can normally detect the passing of a game ball by the inspection means, thereby preventing games from being played without knowing that the detection switch is malfunctioning. . Further, when all of the plurality of detection switches are in a normal state, the first notification is performed by the first notification means. This allows you to check whether there is an abnormality in multiple detection switches based on whether or not the first notification has been received, without having to take the trouble of checking whether each of the multiple detection switches is in a normal state. This makes it easier to confirm the presence or absence of an abnormality.

[Feature 2]
The gaming machine according to feature 1, wherein the first notification means includes a light emitting means, and the first notification is performed by blinking the light emission means.

According to feature 2, since the light emitting means blinks when all of the plurality of detection switches are in a normal state, it can be easily recognized that all of the plurality of detection switches are in a normal state.

[Feature 3]
The gaming machine according to feature 1 or 2, wherein a plurality of light emitting means are provided corresponding to each of the plurality of detection switches, and the light emitting means corresponding to the detection switch that detects passage of the game ball is turned on or off. .

Feature 3: When the passage of a game ball is detected through each of the plurality of detection switches, the plurality of light emitting means corresponding to each of the detection switches turns on or off, so check whether there is any abnormality in each detection switch as necessary. can do.

[Feature 4]
The gaming machine according to feature 3, wherein the first notification means performs the first notification by blinking the plurality of light emitting means corresponding to the plurality of detection switches.

Feature 4 is that the plurality of light-emitting means that individually notify the presence or absence of an abnormality in each of the plurality of detection switches indicates that all of the plurality of detection switches are in a normal state, so that the light-emitting means can be used effectively. It will be planned.

[Feature 5]
The gaming machine according to any one of features 1 to 4, further comprising a second notifying means for notifying that the testing is in progress during the testing by the testing device.

In feature 5, since it is notified that the detection switch is being inspected, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of a malfunction where the inspection is being mistaken for an abnormality in the gaming machine.

[Feature 6]
The plurality of paths for the game ball to reach the plurality of detection switches are switched between a first state in which the game ball can easily pass through and a second state in which it is difficult to pass through by a variable member driven by an electric drive source. Contains multiple variable passages,
According to any one of features 1 to 5, the plurality of variable passages include a first variable passage that alternately switches between the first state and the second state during the inspection by the inspection means. It is a gaming machine.

According to feature 6, the variable path alternately switches between the first state and the second state during the inspection, so the detection switch that passes when the variable path is in the first state and the detection switch that passes when it enters the second state. You can easily pass the game ball through both the switch and the switch.

[Feature 7]
The plurality of paths for the game ball to reach the plurality of detection switches are switched between a first state in which the game ball can easily pass through and a second state in which it is difficult to pass through by a variable member driven by an electric drive source. Contains multiple variable passages,
The gaming machine according to any one of features 1 to 6, wherein the plurality of variable passages include a second variable passage that is maintained in the first state during inspection by the inspection means.

According to feature 7, the variable passageway is maintained in the first state where it is easy to pass through during the inspection, so the game ball can easily pass through the detection switch that passes when passing through the variable passageway.

[Feature 8]
Features 1 to 7, comprising a mode switching means for switching from a normal mode in which the game is controlled based on the detection results of the plurality of detection switches to an inspection mode in which the inspection by the inspection means can be executed without controlling the game. The gaming machine according to any one of the features.

According to feature 8, the gaming machine can be switched from the normal mode to the inspection mode at any time as necessary.

[Feature 9]
After the inspection by the inspection means is started, the state in which the inspection by the inspection means is possible is automatically terminated due to the establishment of a predetermined inspection termination condition, and the game is played based on the detection results of the plurality of detection switches. The gaming machine according to any one of features 1 to 8, further comprising an automatic termination means for bringing the game into a normal state for controlling the game machine.

According to feature 9, problems such as opening of the game hall without completing the inspection can be prevented.

[Feature 10]
The gaming machine according to feature 9, wherein the inspection end condition includes that a predetermined time has elapsed since the inspection became possible.

According to feature 10, it is possible to predict the timing at which the test will end.

[Feature 11]
The feature according to any one of features 1 to 10, further comprising an automatic start means that automatically enables the test by the test means due to the establishment of a predetermined test start condition after the gaming machine is powered on. This is the gaming machine described.

According to feature 11, after the gaming machine is powered on, the inspection is automatically started due to the establishment of predetermined inspection start conditions, so in situations where an inspection is necessary, such as after replacing a new machine, This will prevent you from forgetting to take a test.

[Feature 12]
The gaming machine according to feature 11, wherein the test start condition includes a memory clear state in which data of games played before the power is turned off is erased.

The above-mentioned test start condition may be only that the power is turned on, or may be that the power is turned on under predetermined conditions. Examples of the predetermined conditions include, as in feature 12, that the memory is in a clear state and that a predetermined operation unit is operated at the same time as the power is turned on.

[Feature 13]
This gaming machine includes a plurality of detection switches and a testing means for testing whether or not the plurality of detection switches are in a normal state.

According to feature 13, it is possible to check and find out whether or not the detection switch can normally detect the passing of a game ball by the inspection means, thereby preventing games from being played without knowing that the detection switch is malfunctioning. .

[Correspondence between the constituent elements of the above feature group and each part in the embodiment]
Detection switch: detection switch 180, inspection means: microcomputer 601 when in inspection mode, first notification: blinking of display board 84, first notification means: microcomputer 601 when executing step S26 of inspection program PG2, Light emitting unit 84A, light emitting means: light emitting board 80, second notification means: microcomputer 601 when executing step S24 of inspection program PG2, display device 52, variable members: slide plates 71B, 72B, 75B, inside first attacker 72 Distribution member (not shown), variable passageway: slide plates 71B, 72B, 75B, distribution member (not shown) in the first attacker 72, first variable passageway: slide plate 71B, 72B, 75B, mode switching means: mode discrimination program Mode discrimination flag F1 of PG1, automatic termination means: S29, S33 of inspection program PG2, automatic start means: S10, S11 of mode discrimination program PG1

Note that although specific examples of technologies included in the scope of the claims are disclosed in this specification and drawings, the technologies described in the claims are not limited to these specific examples. This includes various modifications and changes to the example, as well as cases in which a part of the specific example is taken out alone.

10A Gaming machine 13,74,76 Normal winning slot 14,71A Starting winning slot 16,79A,79B,79C Out opening 31 Rear parts 52G Display screen 71A Starting winning slot 71B, 72B, 75B Slide board 72A, 75A Big winning slot 72C Winning slot 72D Normal winning slot 74, 76 Normal winning slot 80 Light emitting board 81 Light emitting element 84 Display board 180 Each detection switch 601 Microcomputer 604 Clear switch PG1 Mode discrimination program PG2 Inspection program R1 Game area T1 First reference time T2 Second reference time

Claims (12)

A gaming machine comprising a plurality of detection switches for detecting the passage of a game ball, and a testing means for inspecting whether each of the detection switches is in a normal state capable of detecting the passage of a game ball,
A gaming machine comprising: first notification means that provides a first notification when all of the plurality of detection switches are in a normal state. 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the first notification means includes a light emitting means, and the first notification is made by blinking the light emission means. 3. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of light emitting means are provided corresponding to each of the plurality of detection switches, and the light emitting means corresponding to the detection switch that detects passage of the game ball is turned on or off. 4. The gaming machine according to claim 3, wherein the first notification means performs the first notification by blinking the plurality of light emitting means corresponding to the plurality of detection switches. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising second notification means for notifying that the inspection is under way during the inspection by the inspection means. The plurality of paths for the game ball to reach the plurality of detection switches are switched between a first state in which the game ball can easily pass through and a second state in which it is difficult to pass through by a variable member driven by an electric drive source. Contains multiple variable passages,
The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the plurality of variable passages include a first variable passage that alternately switches between the first state and the second state during the inspection by the inspection means. The game machine described. The plurality of paths for the game ball to reach the plurality of detection switches are switched between a first state in which the game ball can easily pass through and a second state in which it is difficult to pass through by a variable member driven by an electric drive source. Contains multiple variable passages,
7. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of variable passages include a second variable passage that is maintained in the first state during inspection by the inspection means. 2. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising mode switching means for switching from a normal mode in which the game is controlled based on the detection results of the plurality of detection switches to an inspection mode in which the inspection by the inspection means can be executed without controlling the game. 7. A gaming machine according to claim 7. 9. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising automatic termination means for automatically terminating the state in which the inspection by the inspection means is possible due to the establishment of a predetermined inspection termination condition. gaming machines. 10. The gaming machine according to claim 9, wherein the test termination condition includes that a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the testable state was reached. 10. The claim of any one of claims 1 to 10, further comprising an automatic start means that automatically enables the test by the test means when a predetermined test start condition is met after the gaming machine is powered on. The gaming machine described in Section 1. 12. The gaming machine according to claim 11, wherein the test start condition includes a memory clear state in which data of a game played before the power is turned off is erased.

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