JP3756505B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a slot machine or a pachinko machine.

A slot machine generally includes three reels, three reel stop buttons corresponding to each reel, and a start lever for starting a game. When the player depresses the start lever, all reels rotate at the same time, and each reel stops at the timing when the player depresses each reel stop button. Of the combinations of symbols arranged on the winning line in a state where the reels are stopped, a combination of symbols that gives a game value is called a role. When a combination of symbols composing a combination on the effective winning line is completed, a winning is made, and the player can obtain the number of medals corresponding to the winning combination. That is, when the state where the reels are stopped is a state (predetermined state) that is a combination of symbols constituting the winning combination, the winning combination is awarded and a game value corresponding to the winning winning combination is given.

Here, the winning is generally determined by two steps. The first step is called internal lottery. In the internal lottery, the lottery is executed at the operation timing of the start lever to determine which prize group will be won or lost, and internal lottery information indicating the lottery result is generated. Here, the prize group refers to a group of one or a plurality of roles and corresponds to a lottery category. That is, a prize group and a combination may correspond one-to-one, or a plurality of combinations may correspond to one prize group.

In the second step, the reel stop position is controlled in accordance with the operation of the reel stop button. If the internal lottery information indicates a loss, even if the player operates the reel stop button at the timing when the symbol that constitutes a certain role reaches the valid winning line, the reel stop timing is delayed, The reel is controlled so that the symbols constituting the winning combination do not stop on the valid winning line. The same applies to the combination corresponding to the prize that was not won in the internal lottery. Such control is called kicking control. On the other hand, if a prize group which is an internal lottery is won, even if the operation timing of the reel stop button is slightly early, the pull-in control is performed so that the symbols constituting the role corresponding to the prize group stop on the winning line. The However, if the operation timing of the reel stop button is significantly deviated, no prize will be awarded. In other words, in order for a player to win a prize, it is necessary to win a prize group by internal lottery and align the winning prize group on an effective prize line. Winning any prize group in the internal lottery is called winning, and not winning any prize group is called losing. And
The fact that a symbol stopped on the winning line constitutes a winning combination is called winning, and the non-winning is not constituted. In non-winning cases, when the internal lottery result is lost, even if the internal lottery is won, the operation timing of the reel stop button is greatly shifted, so that the role corresponding to the winning prize is not established, so-called Includes missing items.

The plurality of prizes include a start prize for switching the game state from the normal game to another game, and a payout prize for giving a predetermined number of medals as a dividend. The start prize includes the BB prize, and the payout prize includes the watermelon prize with 15 medals and the 10 bell prize. When the BB prize is won in the internal lottery and the combination of symbols "7-7-7" is arranged, the BB prize is won, and the BB game is started with a high probability of lottery in the internal lottery of the payout prize from the next game. The

The slot machine has a set value obtained by changing the lottery value of the prize used in the internal lottery in six steps, and can be changed by a probability setting change operation based on a key operation.
Is low, and the lottery probability is changed step by step so that setting 6 becomes high. That is, as compared with the game played in setting 1, the game played in setting 6 is relatively easier to win a prize, and more medals can be obtained by payout.

Some slot machines have a game period in which a BB prize can be won, which is advantageous to the player, and a game period in which a BB prize cannot be won. In such a slot machine, when the probability setting is changed and the contents of the RAM are reset, the game period is such that the BB prize can be won. Since such a game state is managed by storing game information in the RAM, when the contents of the RAM are reset, the game information is also cleared and the initial state is entered. It was an advantageous game state.

On the other hand, the power is temporarily turned off due to trouble with the slot machine while operating in the store.
There was something to do. Alternatively, the power supply may be instantaneously turned off due to a trouble on the power supply side. In order to cope with such a temporary power-off state, the slot machine retains the contents of the RAM even if the power supplied from the outside of the slot machine by a battery or an electric double layer capacitor is cut off. When the power is restored, the game can be continued by returning to the state just before the power was turned off.

In the slot machine, since the probability setting value and the game state are managed by the RAM mounted on the main board, it is conceivable to mount a battery, an electric double layer capacitor, or the like holding the contents of the RAM on the main board. However, once a battery, electric double layer capacitor, etc. are mounted on the main board, once invalid data is written to the RAM, it becomes difficult to clear the data, or the RAM data is cleared. New functions are needed. Therefore, by not mounting a battery, an electric double layer capacitor, or the like on the main board, the contents of the RAM are completely cleared when the main board is used alone, so that the countermeasure against fraud is effective. Therefore, in the slot machine, an electric double layer capacitor is mounted on the power supply unit that takes in the external power supply and supplies the DC power required by the electronic circuit such as the main board, etc., and is supplied to the RAM on the main board when the external power supply is cut off As a power source, it was supplied together with other power sources by connecting to a connector on the main board with a cable.

Further, the power supply unit is provided with a power switch for turning on / off the power of the slot machine and a lottery probability setting key switch (for example, Patent Document 1). In this way, the operability is enhanced by concentrating the operation unit on the power supply unit. The signal of the lottery probability setting key switch provided in the power supply unit is also connected to the connector on the main board by a cable. Also,
The power supply unit was covered with a metallic casing because of the high voltage circuit that could cause an electric shock.

JP 2003-88655 A

However, in the conventional slot machine, the contents of the RAM are cleared because the power supply to the main board and the auxiliary power supply are not supplied by connecting / disconnecting the cable to / from the main board.
The probability setting value and game state have been reset. In addition, fraudulent acts such as changing the probability setting value by short-circuiting the cable signal and making it the same state as the probability setting key switch ON, or improper parts were installed in the power supply unit. If fraudulent actions related to these probability settings are performed, the store will operate with unintended probability settings, and the probability setting value will be changed to a high probability setting that is advantageous to the player out of six levels. It will cause a disadvantage to the store.

In addition, if an illegal act that clears the contents of the RAM is performed, the game state may be reset, causing a disadvantage to the store. For example, in a slot machine that sets a state immediately after power-on to be advantageous to the player in order to attract players during the time when the store opens, the RAM backup state is cut off and then restored (memory backup). (Referred to as a clear operation) and the state immediately after the power is turned on, the game state may be switched to a game state advantageous to the player.

As a countermeasure, cover the connector so that the cable connector between the power supply unit and the main board cannot be easily removed or the terminal of the connector cannot be accessed and short-circuited. I installed it. Or the adhesive agent was apply | coated and fixed to the connector part. Such a countermeasure has a problem that it becomes difficult to detect even if there is a fraud because there are many connector connection parts because it becomes a factor that increases the cost of parts and manufacturing.

This invention is made | formed in view of the situation mentioned above, and makes it a solution subject to provide the gaming machine which prevents an unauthorized act beforehand.

The present invention will be described below. In order to facilitate understanding of the present invention, reference numerals in the accompanying drawings are appended in parentheses, but the present invention is not limited to the illustrated embodiment.

In the gaming machine according to the present invention, the main unit (70) and the subunits (80A, 80B, 80C, 80D) are fixed to the housing (2), and a main power signal is generated and supplied to the main unit (70). The main unit (70) includes a first case portion (71) having a first opening and covering the entire main unit (70), and the main unit (70). Storage means (34) for storing management information for managing the progress of the game by the auxiliary power signal when the power signal is cut off, and the auxiliary power signal which is disposed in the first opening and is input from the outside of the main unit (70) First connection means (72) for controlling and control means (31) for controlling the progress of the game with reference to the management information stored in the storage means (34), the subunit (80A , 8 B, 80C, 80D) has a second opening and has a second case portion (81) covering the whole of the subunits (80A, 80B, 80C, 80D), and an auxiliary power source for generating the auxiliary power signal ( 83) and second connection means (85) arranged in the second opening and fitted in the first connection means to output the auxiliary power signal to the outside of the subunits (80A, 80B, 80C, 80D). ), First fixing means for fixing one of the main unit or the subunit to the casing, and second fixing means for fixing the other of the main unit or the subunit to the casing, The second fixing means connects the first connecting means and the second connecting means in a state where one of the main unit or the subunit is fixed to the housing by the first fixing means. After the combined order, which fixes the other of the main unit or the subunit to the housing, the first fixing means, the other of the main unit or the subunit being fixed to the housing The main unit or the subunit is hidden behind the other .

When the main power signal is interrupted, the storage means retains the stored contents by the auxiliary power signal, and the management information is cleared when the supply of the auxiliary power signal is interrupted. According to the present invention, since the a first connection hand stage second connection means are directly connected, the cable is not interposed in the transmission of the auxiliary power source signal from the sub unit to the main unit. Therefore, management information is not lost by connecting / disconnecting the cable or incorporating an unauthorized circuit in the cable. This improves security. Note that the gaming machine may include a pachinko machine in addition to the slot machine. Note that the first connecting means, the first opening, and the gap are preferably closed. It is preferable that the gap between the second connecting means and the second opening is also closed. Alternatively, the subunit may be fixed by the first fixing means and the main unit may be fixed by the second fixing means, or the main unit may be fixed by the first fixing means and the subunit may be fixed by the second fixing means. May be.

Here, the first connection means inputs a change signal for changing the management information in addition to the auxiliary power signal from the outside of the main unit (70), and the control means is the storage means (34). with reference to the stored management information to control the progress of the game in the updates the management information based on the change signal, the sub-unit (80A, 80B, 80C, 80D ) is a pre-Symbol change signal Signal generating means (84, 86) for generating is provided , and the first connecting means outputs the change signal in addition to the auxiliary power signal to the outside of the subunits (80A, 80B, 80C, 80D) .

According to the present invention, the change signal related to the change of the management information is supplied to the main unit via the first connecting means, but the first connecting means is fitted into the second connecting means, so that the sub unit to the main unit. No change signal is transmitted through the cable. Therefore, an unauthorized circuit cannot be incorporated in the cable, and security is improved. In addition, in the gaming machine,
In addition to the slot machine, a pachinko machine, a sparrow ball game machine, or an arrange ball game machine may be included.

In the above-described gaming machine, the variable display of a plurality of display columns (R1, R2, R3) for cyclically variably displaying a plurality of types of symbols and the plurality of display columns (R1, R2, R3) are stopped. The payout unit (payout unit) that pays out game media when the symbol arrangement in the state becomes a predetermined mode and wins
31, 50), a lottery part (31) for determining whether the winning or not is determined by lottery, and the lottery part (
A stop control unit (31) for controlling a stop state of the display rows (R1, R2, R3) so as to allow the arrangement of the symbols to be in a predetermined mode when the lottery result of 31) is a win. The management information stored in the storage means (34) includes setting information for designating the winning probability of the lottery unit, and the signal generating means (84, 86) is permitted to change the setting information. An input means (86) for generating a signal in response to an operation of an administrator and outputting it as the change signal is provided, and the control means (31) controls the winning probability of the lottery section with reference to the setting information. It is preferable that the setting information can be changed by the permission signal. In this case, since the sub unit and the main unit are directly connected by the first connecting means and the second connecting means, the transmission path of the permission signal cannot be accessed. Therefore, it is possible to prevent an unauthorized person from rewriting setting information by supplying a false permission signal to the main unit. In addition, the lottery in the lottery section corresponds to so-called internal lottery, and a winning combination is awarded when a stop mode of a plurality of display columns is a predetermined mode, and the payout unit receives a quantity of game media corresponding to the winning combination. You may pay out. In this case, the lottery unit may determine one by lottery from a plurality of prize groups or out of prizes, and each of the plurality of prize groups may correspond to one or a plurality of combinations. Here, when any prize group is selected, it corresponds to winning.

In the above-described gaming machine, the variable display of a plurality of display columns (R1, R2, R3) for cyclically variably displaying a plurality of types of symbols and the plurality of display columns (R1, R2, R3) are stopped. The payout unit (payout unit) that pays out game media when the symbol arrangement in the state becomes a predetermined mode and wins
31, 50), a lottery unit (31) for determining whether or not to win by lottery, and the display so as to allow the arrangement of the symbols to be in a predetermined mode when the lottery result of the lottery unit is a winner. A stop control unit (31) for controlling the stop state of the columns (R1, R2, R3), and the management information stored in the storage means (34) includes setting information for specifying the winning probability of the lottery unit The signal generation means (84, 86) includes an input means (86) for generating the setting information in response to an operation of an administrator and outputting it as the change signal, and the control means (31) The winning probability of the lottery section (31) is controlled with reference to the setting information stored in the storage means (34), and via the first connection means (72) and the second connection means (85). Based on the setting information supplied It is preferable to update the stored contents of 憶 means (34). In this case, since the change signal is the setting information itself, higher security is required. Since the sub unit and the main unit are directly connected by the first connecting means and the second connecting means, an unauthorized person cannot access the transmission path of the setting information. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent an unauthorized person from rewriting setting information by supplying false setting information to the main unit.

The gaming machine described above further includes a plurality of display columns (R1, R2, R3) that cyclically variably display a plurality of types of symbols, and the variable display of the plurality of display columns (R1, R2, R3) is stopped. A game is awarded when the arrangement of the symbols in a predetermined state is in a predetermined mode, and the game from the bet operation for inputting the number of bets to the next bet operation is managed as one game, and the game value given to the player The management information stored in the storage means (34) includes game number information indicating the number of games or game type information indicating the type of game. The control means (31) controls the progress of the game with reference to the game number information or the game type information. In this case, an illegal act of clearing the number of games can be prevented in a gaming machine that advances the game under conditions advantageous to the player until the number of games reaches a predetermined number. In addition, in gaming machines that give gaming value according to the type of game, it is possible to prevent fraudulent acts that shift to an advantageous game. Note that the bet operation includes a case where the bet number is operated by operating the bet button and a case where the bet number is input by inserting a game medium (medal) into the insertion slot. In short, any means may be used as long as the number of bets is effectively designated.
In addition, a bet operation is not always possible, and the next bet operation can be performed when a predetermined condition is satisfied, such as the end of the payout of medals at the time of winning a prize or the fact that a predetermined time has elapsed since the start lever operation. In other words, the period from a bet operation until the next bet operation becomes possible means a period from when the game is started with a certain bet operation and when the next bet operation becomes possible by satisfying a predetermined condition. .

Further, in the above-mentioned gaming machine, the first fixing means (N3), the front by the second fixing means (N1,70a) Symbol main unit (70) or the subunit (80A, 80B, 80C, 80D ) Is preferably fixed to the casing (2) so that it cannot be released. In this case, unless the first fixing means is released, the unit fixed thereby cannot be separated from the housing, but in order to release the first fixing means, the unit fixed by the second fixing means is removed. There is a need. In order to remove this unit, it is necessary to separate the main unit and the subunit. Therefore, the unit fixed to the first fixing means cannot be easily separated, and the difficulty against illegal acts such as incorporating illegal parts can be increased.

Further, in the above-mentioned gaming machine, the second fixing means (N1,70a) is pre SL main unit (70) or the subunit (80A, 80B, 80C, 80D) on the other of said housing (2) It is preferable to provide attachment means for leaving a release history when released after fixing. In this case, if the main unit or the sub unit is removed due to an illegal act, the release history remains in the second fixing means, so that it is possible to know that there is an illegal act.

  According to the present invention, fraud can be prevented in advance.

<1: External configuration of slot machine>
FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an appearance of the slot machine 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The housing of the slot machine 1 includes a housing 2 and a front door 3 attached to the front surface of the housing 2. A liquid crystal display device 64 for presenting predetermined information to the player is provided on the upper stage of the front door 3. The panel display portion D in the middle stage of the front door 3 is provided with three vertically long display windows 4a, 4b, and 4c. The display windows 4a, 4b, and 4c are formed of a transparent material such as acrylic resin. Further, three winning lines L1 to L5 are provided horizontally and obliquely on the display windows 4a, 4b, and 4c.

In addition, an auxiliary display unit 20 is provided on the left side of the display window 4a. The auxiliary display unit 20 is composed of five LEDs respectively corresponding to the pay lines L1 to L5. When the player inserts medals or performs a bet operation to be described later, the number of pay lines L1 to L5 corresponding to the number of bets becomes valid. In this slot machine 1, the winning line L1 is valid when the number of bets is one, the winning lines L1 to L3 are valid when the number of bets is two, and the winning lines L1 to L1 when the number of bets is three. L5 becomes effective. Each L constituting the auxiliary display unit 20
The ED is turned on when the corresponding pay lines L1 to L5 are valid, and turned off when the pay lines are invalid. Thus, the player can know which winning lines L1 to L5 are valid.

Inside the panel display D, there are three rows of left, middle, and
Right reels R1, R2, and R3 are rotatably provided. Each of the reels R1 to R3 has an annular shape, and various symbols are printed on its surface (surface visible from the display windows 4a to 4c). Below the display windows 4a, 4b, and 4c, there is provided an operation unit OP on which various operation members for a player to execute a game are arranged. The operation unit OP has a medal slot 5,
A start lever 6, left / middle / right reel stop buttons 7 a, 7 b, 7 c, a credit button 8, a display 9 and a BET button 15 are provided.

The medal slot 5 is provided below the display window 4c so that medals can be inserted. When one medal is inserted, the winning line L1 is activated, when two medals are inserted, the winning lines L1 to L3 are activated, and when three medals are inserted, the winning lines L1 to L5 are activated. Furthermore, if the player inserts more than 3 medals, the slot machine 1
Stores 4 or more medals as credits. The slot machine 1 includes a storage device therein. The storage device stores the medals acquired by the medals inserted into the slot machine 1 so that the player can operate the buttons and other devices without newly inserting medals into the slot machine. It is a device that can provide a predetermined number of medals from among medals in order for a game, and is used for the game based on the total number of medals entered in the slot machine and medals acquired by the game. It is possible to record the number obtained by subtracting the total number of objects by an electromagnetic method.

The BET button 15 is provided on the lower left side of the display window 4a. The BET button 15 is used for designating the number of medals bet by the player in one game. This bet
By operating the button 15, the player can bet the stored medals without inserting medals from the medal insertion slot 5. Therefore, the winning lines L1 to L5 are appropriately enabled according to the number of medals designated by operating the BET button 15. The relationship between the number of medals designated by the operation of the BET button 15 and the valid pay lines L1 to L5 is the same as when medals are directly inserted.

The display 9 is provided on the right side of the BET button 15. In addition to the number of medals won by winning and the number of remaining BB games, the display 9 displays 6 in the setting mode to be described later.
Stage setting information is displayed.

The start lever 6 is provided below the BET button 15. The start lever 6 is used by the player to instruct the start of the game. When the player depresses the start lever 6, the reels R1, R2, and R3 start to rotate all at once, and the display windows 4a, 4b,
The symbols in 4c are variably displayed.

Left, middle and right reel stop buttons 7 a, 7 b and 7 c are provided on the right side of the start lever 6. The left / middle / right reel stop buttons 7a, 7b, 7c are provided on display windows 4a, 4b,
Used to stop the three rows of left, middle and right reels R1, R2 and R3 rotating within 4c.

On the right side of the reel stop button 7c, a credit check button 8 is provided for returning medals stored as credits to the medal tray 10.

Each reel R1, R2, R3 displays 21 symbols and 7 types of symbols. In a game by the slot machine 1, when a predetermined combination of symbols is aligned on the winning lines L1 to L5 enabled by inserting medals, the number of medals corresponding to the aligned symbols is paid out. The medal is inserted into the slot machine 1 when starting the game, and is necessary for the player to continue the game. That is, a medal can be said to be a medium (game medium) having a game value such as continuation of a game. In this case, the medal corresponds to the game value. Note that an information recording medium such as a magnetic card or an IC card in which information corresponding to the number of medals is recorded is also included in the game medium.

Of the arrangement (combination) of symbols, the one that gives game value is called “role”, and is distinguished from “valueless” non-winning. The game value refers to a privilege given to the player, and includes transferring a predetermined amount of medals to the player and shifting from one type of game to another type of game. The type of game value given as a result of one game is called “prize”, and obtaining “prize” is called “winning”. The awards are roughly classified into a start prize for shifting from a normal game to another type of game and a small role award (payout prize) with a medal payout. The start prize may be accompanied by a medal payout, or may not be paid out.

The types of games that can be executed by the slot machine 1 (game state) include normal games, regular bonus games (hereinafter referred to as RB games), and big bonus games (hereinafter referred to as B).
B game), challenge bonus game (hereinafter referred to as CB game), free bonus game (hereinafter referred to as FB game), and replay game. The RB game start prize is called RB prize, the BB game start prize is called BB prize, the CB game start prize is called CB prize, the FB game start prize is called FB prize, and the replay game start prize is called replay prize.

The CB game is a game having a higher probability of winning the FB prize in the internal lottery than the normal game. The CB game end condition may be, for example, a condition that a predetermined number of games such as 100 games are consumed, or a condition that the number of medals acquired during the CB game reaches a predetermined number. Alternatively, it may be a condition that the number of medals acquired during the FB game performed during the CB game reaches a predetermined number.
In the FB game, stop control is executed for at least one reel regardless of the result of the internal lottery, and the operation is completed in one game. Therefore, in the FB game, kick control is not executed for at least one reel. In the following description, the FB game in the CB game is referred to as the FB in CB, and the FB game won in the base game is referred to as the single FB.

The replay game refers to a game that can be played without inserting medals (including using the medals for games by operating buttons and other devices related to the storage device). The RB game ends when the JAC game is played 12 times or a maximum of 8 times is won. J
The AC game is played by betting one medal and enabling only the central pay line L1. JAC games will adopt the JAC Award. When winning the JAC Award, slot machine 1 is 1
Pay out 5 medals.

The BB game has a higher probability of winning the RB prize than the normal game. However, there is a limit to the number of medals that the player can acquire during the BB game, and the BB game is terminated before the predetermined number is exceeded. In the following explanation, in order to distinguish between RBs in BB and RBs that have won a single prize,
The former is called RB in BB, and the latter is called single RB. On the other hand, the small role prize includes a cherry prize with two medal payouts, a bell prize with five medal payouts, and a watermelon prize with seven medal payouts.

<2: Electrical configuration of slot machine>
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a control device that controls the game processing operation in the slot machine 1 and a circuit configuration that includes peripheral devices related to the present invention among those constituting the slot machine 1.

The control device has the main board 30 as a main component. The main board 30 is a CPU 31.
A clock generation circuit 32, a sequence generation circuit 33, a RAM 34, a ROM 35, a transmission timing control circuit 36, a data transmission circuit 37, an input port 38 and an output port 39. A main power signal is supplied to the main board 30 from the power supply unit 90, whereby the CPU
31 and the RAM 34 and the like operate. When the main power signal is interrupted for some reason, R is determined by the auxiliary power signal supplied from the capacitor 83 of the subunit 80A.
The AM 34 holds the stored contents.

The CPU 31 is connected to each component of the main board 30 excluding the transmission timing control circuit 36 via a bus (not shown). The CPU 31 executes the first control program CP1 and controls each component. The first control program CP1 describes how to operate the entire slot machine 1. For this reason, the CPU 31 functions as a control center of the slot machine 1. The clock generation circuit 32 includes an oscillation circuit including a crystal resonator, generates a reference clock signal CLK having a fixed period, and outputs the reference clock signal CLK to the CPU 31 and the sequence generator circuit 3.
3 and supply.

The sequence generator 33 is composed of a high-speed ring counter and a reference clock signal CL.
K is counted to generate count data CD. The numerical value range of the count data CD is, for example, 0 to 65535, depending on the contents stored in the prize group lottery table TBL1 described later.
The count data CD can be input to the CPU 31 via the input port.
1 detects the timing at which the player depresses the start lever 6 and reads the count data CD through the input port at the timing to generate sampling data SD.

Since the player cannot know the value of the count data CD, the timing at which the start lever 6 is pushed down by the player is random. Therefore, the value of the sampling data SD is equivalent to a value sampled from a random number. In addition,
Since the sequence generator 33 operates in synchronization with the reference clock signal CLK, the count data C
The period of D is extremely short. For example, if the frequency of the reference clock signal CLK is 30 MHz, the time required for the value of the count data CD to change from “0” to “65535” is
2.2 msec. Therefore, the count data C can be obtained by an unauthorized means.
Even if the value of D can be known, it is impossible to cause the CPU 31 to generate sampling data SD having a desired value by operating the start lever 6.

Next, the RAM 34 functions as a work area of the CPU 31 and stores management information such as intermediate results of arithmetic processing, data generated as necessary, flags used for various controls, and the like. The management information is information for managing the progress of the game. For example, setting information for designating the probability of internal lottery in six stages, game number information indicating the number of games, BB game, CB game, and normal game type Game type information indicating the internal lottery data ISD indicating the result of the internal lottery
Etc. are included. The CPU 31 controls the progress of the game with reference to the management information. For example, C
The PU 31 refers to the game type information and selects a prize group lottery table corresponding to the type of game. Alternatively, the winning probability of the BB prize and the CB prize in the base game is controlled with reference to the setting information. Alternatively, with reference to the game number information, when the number of games since power-on is less than a predetermined number, the game is advantageous to the player.

In addition to the first control program CP1, the ROM 35 stores a prize group lottery table group TBL1, a stop table group TBL2, a winning symbol combination table TBL3, and the like. In the winning symbol combination table TBL3, a winning combination and a medal payout number are stored in association with each other.

Since the control of the slot machine 1 requires control according to the difference in game value, it is convenient to classify various roles by paying attention to the game value. In the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, one prize group is assigned to each winning combination, but one or more winning combinations may be assigned to one winning group.

Next, the prize group lottery table group TBL1 includes a plurality of prize group lottery tables. CPU31 performs internal lottery using the prize group lottery table selected according to the gaming state. As a prize group lottery table, a table used for a normal game, a table used for a BB game, a table used for an RB game, a table used for a CB game, a table used for an FB game, an FB game in a CB Table is prepared. further,
The table used for the normal game includes six sub-tables corresponding to six stages of settings.
Each sub-table has a different BB prize or CB prize lottery probability, and the higher the setting, the higher the lottery probability. The CPU 31 refers to the setting information stored in the RAM 34 and selects a sub table.

The transmission timing control circuit 36 and the data transmission circuit 37 transmit the type of the combination determined by the internal lottery and information on the stop table selected corresponding to the combination to an auxiliary board (not shown). The auxiliary board is responsible for processing for notifying the player of predetermined information.

Next, the input port 38 is an input interface for signals supplied from various sensors described later. On the other hand, the output port 39 is an output interface for supplying control signals to each motor and various devices.

The main input signal generating means connected to the input port 38 and generating various input signals includes the following. The contact switch 84 is provided in the subunit 80A, detects rotation of a cylinder lock described later, and outputs a pulse signal 84a. The CPU 31 detects the pulse signal 84a and switches the operation mode. The operation mode means the control state of the slot machine 1 and includes a normal mode and a setting mode. The normal mode is a control state in which the player can play the game. In contrast, the setting mode is a control state in which the lottery probability of the internal lottery is set, and is a control state in which the administrator changes the setting information. When detecting the pulse signal 84a, the CPU 31 toggles the control state. That is, when the pulse signal 84a is detected in the normal mode, the control state is shifted from the normal mode to the setting mode. On the other hand, when the pulse signal 84a is detected in the setting mode, the control state is shifted from the setting mode to the normal mode.

In the setting mode, it is possible to switch the lottery probability pattern of the internal lottery to six stages. In this case, the set value is displayed on the display device 9 and the set value can be changed by the administrator operating the start lever 6. When the administrator depresses the BET button 15 when the desired set value is reached, the set value is confirmed and the setting information stored in the RAM 34 is updated.

The inserted medal detection sensor 41 detects a medal inserted through the medal slot 5 and
One output pulse is generated for one medal. Therefore, the CPU 31 can detect the number of inserted medals by counting the output pulses.

The BET button sensor 42 detects the operation of the BET button 15. The start lever sensor 43 detects the operation of the start lever 6 and outputs a start operation signal 43a. The left / middle / right reel stop button sensors 44, 45, 46 are the left / middle / right reel stop buttons 7a, 7
The operations b and 7c are detected and stop operation signals 44a, 45a and 46a are output. The left / middle / right reel position detection sensors 47, 48, 49 are connected to the left / middle / right reels R1, R2, R3.
Are detected, and detection signals 47a, 48b, and 49c are generated. The CPU 31 detects these signals to detect the operation timing of the start lever 6, the reel stop button 7a,
The operation timings 7b and 7c and the rotation positions of the reels R1, R2, and R3 are acquired.

The main means connected to the output port 39 and receiving various output signals is the left
There are middle / right reel drive motors 51, 52, 53 and a medal solenoid 50. The left, middle, and right reel drive motors 51, 52, and 53 are motors that respectively rotate the left, middle, and right reels R1, R2, and R3, and in this example, are constituted by stepping motors. Therefore, the CPU 31 adjusts the number of pulses of the drive signals 51, 52a, 53a supplied to the left / middle / right reel drive motors 51, 52, 53 to thereby adjust the left / middle / right reel R1,
It is possible to accurately determine the stop positions of R2 and R3. The medal solenoid 50 operates so as to pay out medals in a state where the solenoid signal SOL is active. The solenoid signal SOL becomes active when the credit button 8 is operated under the control of the CPU 31.

Next, the auxiliary board 60 includes a CPU, a data input circuit, a clock generation circuit, a ROM, and a RAM.
And a liquid crystal display control circuit, and displays various effects on the liquid crystal display device 64. Further, the auxiliary board 60 controls turning on / off of the left, middle, and right backlights and emits sound effects from the speakers. In addition, the CPU of the auxiliary board 60 receives various commands transmitted from the main board 30. This command includes internal lottery data ISD and the like.
The CPU determines the BB award or CB based on the BB winning flag or CB winning flag of the internal lottery data.
In order to notify the player that the prize has been won, an animation or a character is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 64.

<3: Internal structure of slot machine>
Next, the internal structure of the slot machine 1 will be described. The main part of the slot machine 1 is
The main unit 70, the sub unit 80A, the power supply unit 90, and the housing | casing 2 are provided. FIG. 3 shows the internal structure of the slot machine 1. The main unit 70 includes a main substrate 30, a substrate case 71, and a fixing portion 70a. The main board 30 is housed in a board case 71 composed of an upper cover and a lower cover made of transparent resin. Once the lower cover and the upper cover are fixed, the substrate case 71 cannot be opened unless the fixing portion is destroyed. Therefore, when an unauthorized access is made to the main board 30, a destruction trace of the fixed portion remains, so it can be visually confirmed whether or not the unauthorized access has been made.

Also in the housing 2 and the substrate case 71, a fixing method is adopted in which once fixed, the fixed portion cannot be removed unless the fixing portion is destroyed. Specifically, the fixing portion 70 a provided in the substrate case 71 and the housing 2.
The fixing portion 70b provided in the above is fitted and fixed. The fixing portions 70a and 70b are provided with four fixing members, and when fixing, one of the four locations is used and fixed using the one-way screw N1. When detaching from the housing 2, it is fixed 1 with a one-way screw N1.
It is necessary to destroy the fixing member at the location. Since the four fixing members are provided in the fixing portions 70a and 70b, the fixing and removing four times can be repeated. Thereby, it is possible to cope with the inspection of the main board 30 and the like. In addition, what is necessary is just to provide the number of adhering members suitably, according to the frequency | count of the test | inspection etc. which should be provided.

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating the coupling between the main unit 70 and the subunit 80A. The attachment method of the main unit 70 and the subunit 80A is as follows. First, the base member 70c is attached to the subunit 80A from the back surface thereof with screws N2, and the base member 70c is attached to the housing 2 with screws N3 in an integrated state (see FIGS. 2 and 3). Second, the main unit 70 containing the main board 30 is placed in the housing 2 and slid to the right along the guide portion G of the fixing member 70b and the base member 70c. It is combined with the connector 85 of 80A. At this time, screw N
3 is hidden under the main unit 70 and cannot be released. Thirdly, the main unit 70 is sealed with the fixing portion 70a and the fixing member 70b on the housing 2 side.

According to this fixing method, in a state where the main unit 70 is attached at the normal position with respect to the housing 2, the screw N3 to which the base member 70c is attached cannot be accessed, and as a result, the subunit 80A is fixed. The screw N2 cannot be accessed. Thereby, unauthorized access to the inside of the subunit 80A can be prevented. Also, subunit 80
In a state where the connector 72 of the main unit 70 is fitted in the connector 85 of A, a power cable is connected to the power connector 73 of the main unit 70 and a main power signal is supplied to the main unit 70 from the power supply unit 90 (not shown). As described later, the auxiliary power supply of the subunit 80A is charged with electric power.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the subunit 80A. The sub unit 80A includes a sub substrate 82, a transparent resin case 81 covering the sub substrate 82, and a cylinder lock 86. The transparent resin case 81 is used because various internal components and the sub-board 82 can be visually recognized. As a result, when an unauthorized part is incorporated by somebody, it is possible to see the modification at a glance. A connector 85 is attached to the sub-board 82 so as to be exposed from the transparent resin case 81. In addition, the sub-board 82 is provided with an electric double layer capacitor 83 and a contact switch 84.

In the slot machine 1, the lottery probability pattern of the internal lottery can be switched to six levels. When changing the lottery probability, it is necessary to switch the control state of the slot machine 1 from the normal mode to the setting mode. In the setting mode, the start lever 6
When the button is operated, six levels of setting information are displayed on the display 9. The subunit 80A has a mode switching function for switching between the normal mode and the setting mode. Specifically, cylinder lock 86
When the key is inserted and rotated, the rotating portion 86a rotates in conjunction with it, and the contact switch 84 is pressed to turn on the contact. Each time the contact switch 84 is turned ON, the above-described pulse signal 84a is generated and the mode is changed. That is, when the current mode is the normal mode, when the key is rotated 90 degrees, the mode is switched from the normal mode to the setting mode, and when the key is further rotated 90 degrees, the mode is returned from the setting mode to the normal mode. The cylinder lock 86 and the contact switch 84 function as a signal generation unit that generates a permission signal that allows the setting information to be changed. The permission signal is output to the main unit 70 via the connector 85.

FIG. 6 shows a main part of the electrical configuration of the main unit 70 and the subunit 80A. When power is supplied from the power connector 73 to the main board 30, it is supplied as a main power signal from the main board 30 to the subunit 80A through the diode D.
Electric charges are stored in the electric double layer capacitor 83 via 1 and 85. On the other hand, when there is no power supply from the power connector 73 or when the power cable is pulled out from the power connector 73, the RA is passed through the connectors 85 and 72 from the electric double layer capacitor 83.
An auxiliary power signal is supplied to M34. At this time, since no current flows to the connector 72 due to the diode D, the auxiliary power signal is supplied only to the RAM 34. In other words, the electric double layer capacitor 83 functions as a signal generating unit that generates an auxiliary power signal. Any auxiliary power source may be used as long as it can generate auxiliary power, and a battery or a rechargeable battery may be employed in addition to the capacitor.

Furthermore, the CPU 31 controls the lottery probability of the internal lottery with reference to the setting information stored in the RAM 34. Since winning is based on the premise of internal lottery, the setting information functions as information for controlling the probability of winning. Further, the CPU 31 permits the change of the setting information stored in the RAM 34 based on the pulse signal 84a of the contact switch 84 that is a permission signal.

As described above, in the slot machine 1 according to the present embodiment, the probability setting switch that is conventionally provided in the power supply unit is provided in the subunit 80A, and the RA that is provided in the power supply unit is further provided.
An auxiliary power source (electric double layer capacitor) of M34 was provided on the sub-board in the sub-unit 80A. As a result, the contents of the RAM 34 can be prevented from being cleared even if the power cable to the main unit 70 is pulled out. Further, since the main unit 70 and the subunit 80A are connected by the connectors 72 and 85, no connection cable is interposed between them. Therefore, it is physically impossible to insert an unauthorized substrate in the connection cable. In addition, when an unauthorized part is charged in the subunit 80A, it is necessary to separate the main unit 70 and the subunit 80A. However, if the two are separated, a damage trace remains on the fixing member 70a, so that it is illegal at first glance. You can see that it was done. Further, in order to remove the subunit 80A from the housing 2, it is necessary to release the screw N3. However, since the screw N3 is hidden under the main unit 70, the housing with the main unit 70 and the subunit 80A connected to each other. Cannot be removed from 2. When these are attached to the housing 2, it is necessary to separate them from the subunit 80 </ b> A. Therefore, even if a false main unit 70 in which incorrect setting information is written in the RAM 34 is prepared, it is being attached. The stored contents of the RAM 34 are cleared.

That is, the subunit 80A having the probability setting function and the memory backup function and the main unit 70 are directly connected to each other through the connectors, and the cases of both are fixed by the sealing and fixing means. Access to the connection with the main unit 70 becomes impossible. Further, as long as the main unit 70 and the housing 2 are fixed by the sealing and fixing means, the subunit 80A cannot be removed, and the countermeasures against the probability setting operation and the RAM clear operation can be enhanced.

<4: Modification>
Although the present invention has been described with reference to the most practical and preferred embodiments at the present time, the invention is limited to the embodiments disclosed herein. However, the present invention can be changed as appropriate without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention that can be read from the claims and the entire specification, and a gaming machine and a control method therefor are also included in the technical scope of the present invention. Must be understood as being. For example, the following modifications are naturally included in the present invention.

(1) In the embodiment described above, the CPU 31 may execute a power interruption process. in this case,
A three-terminal regulator is employed instead of the diode D shown in FIG. 6, and a main power signal of 7 V is supplied from the power supply unit 90. A detection unit for monitoring the voltage of the main power signal is provided on the main board 30. In the detection unit, the voltage of the main power signal is a predetermined reference voltage (for example, 6.5 V).
Is detected and a detection signal is generated. The CPU 31 uses the detection signal as an interrupt signal and writes predetermined data to the RAM 34. After the main power signal is cut off, the stored content of the RAM 34 is held by the auxiliary power signal. However, when the main power signal is cut off for a long time, the voltage of the auxiliary power signal is lowered by the discharge of the capacitor 83, and the stored content. Cannot be held accurately. When the main power signal returns, the CPU 31 reads predetermined data from the RAM 34 and determines whether the predetermined data has been read correctly. When erroneous data is read, an error display is performed using the liquid crystal display device 64. This is because when this error occurs while the stop machine 1 is operating, it is determined that an unauthorized access has been made.

(2) In the embodiment and the modification described above, the connector 85 of the subunit 80A is
Although it is directly attached to the sub-board 82, the sub-unit 80B shown in FIG. 7 may be adopted. In this case, the connector 85 is connected to the sub board 82 via the connection cable 85a. With such a structure, the positional relationship between the sub board 82 and the connector 85 can be given a degree of freedom.

(3) In the embodiment and the modification described above, the main power signal is supplied to the main unit 70 from the power supply unit 90 via the power cable. However, the main power signal may be supplied from the subunit. Good. FIG. 8 shows a connection example of the main unit 70, the subunit 80C, and the power supply unit 90. In this example, the power connector 8 is connected to the subunit 80C.
7, the main power signal is supplied from the power supply unit 90 to the subunit 80C, and the main power signal is supplied to the main unit 70 via the subunit 80C. The main power signal supplied to the main unit 70 may be supplied separately from the auxiliary power signal, or the main power signal may be supplied together with the auxiliary power signal. When these two power signals are supplied together, the subunit 80C switches between the main power signal and the auxiliary power signal as the power signal supplied to the main unit 70 according to the state of the power supplied from the outside.

(4) In the embodiment and the modification described above, the subunits 80A to 80C adopt the method of casing with the transparent resin member 81. However, the structure for removing the transparent resin member 81 is added by leaving the destruction traces on the casing. May be. This facilitates replacement due to failure of the parts and the cylinder lock 86. In particular, from the viewpoint of security, it is desirable that the manager of the store can replace the cylinder lock 86 independently. However, by adopting a casing that leaves a trace of destruction, the cylinder lock 86 can be removed without removing the main unit 70 from the housing 2.
Can be exchanged.

FIG. 9A is a plan view of the subunit 80D that leaves a destruction trace, and FIG. 9B is a cross-sectional view taken along the line ZZ ′. FIG. 10A is a perspective view of the base member 70c. The base member 70c of the subunit 80D is formed with a screw receiver 701, a locking receiver 702, bosses 703 and 704, and a window 705.
Assembling the sub unit 80D first places the sub board 82 on the base member 70c so that the connector 85 protrudes from the window 705 as shown in FIG.
Screw in 01 and fix. Next, the cover member 89 is attached to the two bosses 7 of the base member 70c.
Attach 03 and 704 to the guide. Here, as shown in FIG.
And 892 are formed. By inserting the guide rods 891 and 892 into the bosses 703 and 704, the cover member 89 is attached to the base member 70c. On this occasion,
A locking portion 893 provided at the lower portion of the cover member 89 is engaged and fixed to the locking receiving portion 702 of the base member 70c. At this time, once the cover member 89 is disposed at a correct position, the cover member 89 cannot be removed.

The cover member 89 is formed with a thin groove portion 894 and a handle portion 895. Toride 895
By pinching with a tool such as pliers and pulling it downward, the thin groove 89a cracks, and by lowering it further, a crack is formed in the circumferentially provided groove and the part is separated. Here, since the locking portion 893 is formed on the inner periphery of the thin groove portion 894, the thin groove portion 89 is provided.
4 are also separated together. Thereby, it becomes possible to remove the cover member 89 by leaving a destruction trace.

(4) Of course, the above-described embodiments and modifications may be applied to a pachinko machine instead of a slot machine. Even in the pachinko machine, management information such as winning probability setting information is stored in the storage means. Therefore, an illegal act by rewriting the management information can be considered. However, the above-described configuration can prevent the illegal action.
In addition, prepaid cards may be used for renting medals and pachinko balls. In this case, an interface board is provided as a sub board between the rental machine and the gaming machine.
You may employ | adopt the subunit mentioned above so that a fraudulent act may not be performed.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing an appearance of the slot machine 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention. 2 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the slot machine 1. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing an internal structure of the slot machine 1. FIG. It is a perspective view which shows the attachment structure of the main unit 70 and the subunit 80A. It is a perspective view which shows the structure of 80 A of subunits. It is a block diagram which shows the electrical constitution of the main unit 70 and the subunit 80A. It is a perspective view which shows the structure of the subunit 80A which concerns on a modification. It is a top view which shows the structure of the main unit 70, the subunit 80C, and the power supply unit 90 which concern on a modification. (A) is a plan view of the subunit 80D leaving a trace of destruction, and (B) is a sectional view taken along the line Z-Z '. It is a perspective view of the base member 70c used for the subunit 80D. It is a perspective view of the cover member 89 used for the subunit 80D.

Explanation of symbols

1 Slot machine 2 Housing 31 CPU
34 RAM
70 Main unit 70a, 70b Adhering member 80A, 80B, 80C, 80D Sub unit

Claims (7)

A gaming machine including a power supply unit that fixes a main unit and a subunit to a housing, generates a main power signal, and supplies the main unit to the main unit,
The main unit is
A first case portion having a first opening and covering the entire main unit;
Storage means for storing management information for managing the progress of the game by an auxiliary power signal when the main power signal is cut off;
A first connection means disposed in the first opening for inputting the auxiliary power signal from the outside of the main unit;
Control means for controlling the progress of the game with reference to the management information stored in the storage means,
The subunit is
A second case portion having a second opening and covering the entire subunit;
An auxiliary power source for generating the auxiliary power signal;
A second connecting means disposed in the second opening and fitted in the first connecting means to output the auxiliary power signal to the outside of the subunit;
First fixing means for fixing one of the main unit or the subunit to the housing;
Second fixing means for fixing the other of the main unit or the subunit to the housing;
The second fixing means is configured to fit the first connecting means and the second connecting means in a state where one of the main unit or the subunit is fixed to the casing by the first fixing means. , The other of the main unit or the subunit is fixed to the housing ,
The first fixing means is concealed by the other of the main unit or the subunit while the other of the main unit or the subunit is fixed to the housing.
A gaming machine characterized by that. The first connection means inputs a change signal for changing the management information in addition to the auxiliary power signal from the outside of the main unit,
The control means controls the progress of the game with reference to the management information stored in the storage means, updates the management information based on the change signal,
The subunit includes signal generation means for generating the change signal,
The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the first connection means outputs the change signal to the outside of the subunit in addition to the auxiliary power signal. A plurality of display columns for cyclically variably displaying a plurality of types of symbols, and a payout unit for paying out game media when winning in a predetermined manner when the symbols are arranged in a state where variable display of the plurality of display columns is stopped; A lottery unit for determining whether the lottery is won or not, and a stop for controlling the stop state of the display row so as to allow the arrangement of the symbols to be in a predetermined mode when the lottery result of the lottery unit is a win. A gaming machine comprising a control unit,
The management information stored by the storage means includes setting information for designating the winning probability of the lottery unit,
The signal generating means includes an input means for generating a permission signal for permitting the change of the setting information according to an operation of an administrator and outputting the change signal as the change signal.
The gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein the control means controls the winning probability of the lottery unit with reference to the setting information, and allows the setting information to be changed by the permission signal. . A plurality of display columns for cyclically variably displaying a plurality of types of symbols, and a payout unit for paying out game media when winning in a predetermined manner when the symbols are arranged in a state where variable display of the plurality of display columns is stopped; A lottery unit for determining whether the lottery is won or not, and a stop for controlling the stop state of the display row so as to allow the arrangement of the symbols to be in a predetermined mode when the lottery result of the lottery unit is a win. A gaming machine comprising a control unit,
The management information stored by the storage means includes setting information for designating the winning probability of the lottery unit,
The signal generating means includes input means for generating the setting information and outputting the change signal in response to an operation by an administrator,
The control means controls the winning probability of the lottery section with reference to the setting information stored in the storage means, and the setting information supplied via the first connection means and the second connection means Updating the storage content of the storage means based on
The gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein: Provided with a plurality of display rows that cyclically variably display a plurality of types of symbols, and when the display of the symbols in a state where the variable display of the plurality of display rows is stopped is a predetermined mode, a winning is entered and the number of bets is input A gaming machine that manages a game from a bet operation until the next bet operation becomes possible as one game, and is capable of executing a plurality of types of games having different game values given to the player,
The management information stored by the storage means includes game number information indicating the number of games or game type information indicating the type of game,
The control means controls the progress of the game with reference to the game number information or the game type information.
The gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein:   2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the first fixing unit is disabled when one of the main unit or the subunit is fixed to the housing by the second fixing unit.   2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the second fixing means includes attachment means for leaving a release history when the other of the main unit or the subunit is released after being fixed to the housing.

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