JP4394550B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine capable of setting a bet number using a game medium such as a pachinko ball or medal that can be used in a game and playing a game by setting the bet number.

  Conventionally, in this type of gaming machine, it is common to borrow a gaming medium such as a pachinko ball or a medal from a gaming medium lending machine arranged side by side, but in recent years, Lending game media by paying out the number of game media corresponding to the lending request from a lending processing device such as a card unit installed corresponding to the gaming machine with a payout device built in the gaming machine A gaming machine that can do this has been proposed.

  As described above, as a gaming machine capable of renting game media, for example, during a game, that is, after receiving an operation for starting variable display of a variable display device such as a reel, the display result of the variable display device Until the game medium is paid out and when the payout occurs and the game medium payout process is performed after the display result of the variable display device is derived, There is one that prohibits rental of game media in response to a rental request (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

  In addition, when an operation for starting the next game is performed during the rental of the game medium according to the loan request from the loan processing device, the operation for starting the game is suspended and the loan processing is completed. There is one that performs processing for starting the next game that has been suspended (see, for example, Patent Document 2).

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2003-801 (page 8, FIG. 5) JP 2003-52901 A (page 8, FIG. 5)

  However, in the slot machine described in Patent Document 1, the lending of the game medium by the lending processing device is restricted during the game and during the payout of the game medium accompanying the occurrence of a prize, and the player can use the game medium. When borrowing, there is an annoyance that the lending operation must be performed after waiting for the game and winning a prize.

  In addition, in the slot machine described in Patent Document 2, the start operation of the next game performed while the game medium is being lent is suspended until the game medium is rented, so that the game proceeds smoothly. There was a problem that it could not be made to.

  The present invention has been made paying attention to such problems, and the slot of the game medium is not restricted during the game and the progress of the game is not hindered by the rental of the game medium. The purpose is to provide a machine.

The gaming machine according to claim 1 of the present invention,
A lending device is provided corresponding to a lending device that transmits a lending request for a game medium that can be used for a game using the valuable value stored in the storage medium, and a predetermined number of bets are given to one game using the game medium. A game can be started by setting, and a display result of a variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information each identifiable is derived, so that one game is completed, and the variable display device A gaming machine in which a winning can be generated according to a display result,
Main control means for controlling the game;
Game medium payout means for paying out the game medium;
Sub-control means connected to the main control means and the lending device, and for controlling the game medium payout means;
With
The main control means is a payout unit that requests the payout of the number of game media to be paid out based on the grant display result when the grant display result accompanied by the grant of the game medium is derived as the display result of the variable display device. A payout request transmitting means for transmitting a request to the sub-control means;
The sub-control means includes
Grant game medium payout control means for performing payout control for causing the game medium payout means to pay out the number of game media requested by the payout request when the payout request is received;
A payout completion information transmitting means for sending payout completion information indicating that payout of the number of game media requested by the payout request has been completed to the main control means;
Lending device connection determination means for determining whether or not the lending device is connected based on connection confirmation information transmitted from the lending device;
Connection determination information transmitting means for transmitting connection determination information capable of specifying the determination result of the lending device connection determination means to the main control means;
When the lending request is received, the number of game media requested by the lending request is determined to be connected to the lending device by the lending device connection determining unit. Lending game medium payout control means for carrying out lending control for paying out by,
Including
The main control means receives the connection determination information indicating that it is determined that the game is not being executed and is connected to the lending device from the sub-control means. A bet number setting permission means for allowing the setting of
The betting number setting permission means allows the setting of the betting number on the assumption that the execution of the game is completed by receiving the payout completion information from the sub-control means when the giving display result is derived. ,
When the payout request is received during execution of the lending control by the lending game medium payout control means, the grant game medium payout control means is configured to perform payout control based on the payout request after the lending control being executed is completed. And
After receiving the payout request, the payout completion information transmitting means pays out by the game medium payout means the number of game media required by the payout request regardless of whether the payout is payout by the payout control or the payout by the lending control. When issued, the payout completion information is transmitted to the main control means.
It is characterized by that.
According to this feature, when a lending request is received from a lending device, the gaming medium is rented on the condition that it is determined that the lending device and the gaming machine are connected. It is possible to prevent gaming media from being rented even though the machines are not normally connected. Further, since the setting of the bet number is allowed on the condition that the lending device and the gaming machine are connected, it is possible to secure the connection between the lending device and the gaming machine when playing the game. Further, when the payout request is received, the payout completion information indicating that the payout of the game medium based on the payout request is completed, so that the setting of the bet number is allowed as the game has been completed. The player can be surely recognized that the number of game media corresponding to the display result of the game has been paid out. In addition, when a payout request is received during execution of a game medium payout based on a loan request, the game medium payout based on the payout request is performed after the game medium payout based on the loan request is completed. After receiving the request, the payout completion information is sent to the main control means when the number of game media requested by the payout request is paid out regardless of whether the payout is based on the payout request or the payout based on the loan request. Since the setting of the number is allowed, the game can be played more quickly than when the payout completion information is transmitted based on the completion of the payout of the game medium based on the payout request made after the payout of the game medium based on the loan request is completed. Can proceed.
Note that the predetermined number of bets is at least one bet number, and a game can be started by setting a bet number of two or more or setting a maximum bet number. good.
The game being executed is a period from when the game start condition is satisfied until the game is ended. For example, after accepting a game start operation in a state where the game can be started, the variable display device This corresponds to the period from when the display result is derived until the game ends. In the case where the giving display result is derived as the display result of the variable display device, after the game start operation is accepted in a state where the game can be started, the game medium payout based on the giving display result is completed. The period is applicable.
Also, the betting number setting permission means means that, for example, when a gaming medium is inserted and the betting number is set, the gaming medium inserted in a state where the setting of the betting number is not permitted is not used for setting the betting number. The setting of the bet number may be permitted by setting the state where the game medium is returned to the player to the state where the inserted game medium is taken in without being returned to the player and the bet number is set. Further, when setting a bet number by performing a predetermined bet number setting operation, the bet number setting operation acceptance is invalidated in a state where the bet number setting is not permitted. It is only necessary to allow the bet number to be set by setting the reception to be valid.

A gaming machine according to claim 2 of the present invention is the gaming machine according to claim 1 ,
The main control means is configured such that the connection determination information received from the sub-control means is connected to the lending device when a game start condition is satisfied with the predetermined number of bets already set. A game starting means for starting the game regardless of whether or not the determination is made;
It is characterized by that.
According to this feature, when the number of bets has already been set, it is possible to play a game for that amount regardless of the determination result of whether or not the lending device and the gaming machine are connected. The game used to set the bet amount will not be able to start the game because the connection between the lending device and the game machine will be cut off even though the game medium is already used to set the bet amount. It is possible to prevent the player from suffering a disadvantage because the medium is not returned to the player.

A gaming machine according to claim 3 of the present invention,
Provided corresponding to a lending device that transmits a lending request for a game medium that can be used for a game using the valuable value stored in the storage medium, and using the game medium, a predetermined number of bets are assigned to one game. A game can be started by setting, and a display result of a variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information each identifiable is derived, so that one game is completed, and the variable display device A gaming machine in which a winning can be generated according to a display result,
Main control means for controlling the game;
Game medium payout means for paying out the game medium;
Sub-control means connected to the main control means and the lending device, and for controlling the game medium payout means;
With
The main control means includes
When the display result of the variable display device is derived as the display result of the game medium, the sub-control unit issues a payout request for paying out the number of game media to be paid out based on the grant display result. A payout request transmitting means for transmitting to
First lending device connection determining means for determining whether or not the lending device is connected based on connection confirmation information transmitted from the lending device;
Including
The sub-control means includes
Grant game medium payout control means for performing payout control for causing the game medium payout means to pay out the number of game media requested by the payout request when the payout request is received;
A payout completion information transmitting means for sending payout completion information indicating that payout of the number of game media requested by the payout request has been completed to the main control means;
Second lending device connection determining means for determining whether or not the lending device is connected based on the connection confirmation information;
When the lending request is received, the number of game media requested by the lending request is determined on the condition that the second lending device connection determining means determines that the lending device is connected. Lending game medium payout control means for carrying out lending control for letting out by the medium payout means,
Including
The main control means allows the setting of the bet amount on condition that the game is not being executed and the first lending apparatus connection determining means determines that the game apparatus is connected to the lending apparatus. And further comprising a bet number setting permission means,
The betting number setting permission means allows the setting of the betting number on the assumption that the execution of the game is completed by receiving the payout completion information from the sub-control means when the giving display result is derived. ,
When the payout request is received during execution of the lending control by the lending game medium payout control means, the grant game medium payout control means is configured to perform payout control based on the payout request after the lending control being executed is completed. And
After receiving the payout request, the payout completion information transmitting means pays out by the game medium payout means the number of game media required by the payout request regardless of whether the payout is payout by the payout control or the payout by the lending control. When issued, the payout completion information is transmitted to the main control means.
It is characterized by that.
According to this feature, when a lending request is received from a lending device, the gaming medium is rented on the condition that it is determined that the lending device and the gaming machine are connected. It is possible to prevent gaming media from being rented even though the machines are not normally connected. Further, since the setting of the bet number is allowed on the condition that the lending device and the gaming machine are connected, it is possible to secure the connection between the lending device and the gaming machine when playing the game. Further, when the payout request is received, the payout completion information indicating that the payout of the game medium based on the payout request is completed, so that the setting of the bet number is allowed as the game has been completed. The player can be surely recognized that the number of game media corresponding to the display result of the game has been paid out. In addition, when a payout request is received during execution of a game medium payout based on a loan request, the game medium payout based on the payout request is performed after the game medium payout based on the loan request is completed. After receiving the request, the payout completion information is sent to the main control means when the number of game media requested by the payout request is paid out regardless of whether the payout is based on the payout request or the payout based on the loan request. Since the setting of the number is allowed, the game can be played more quickly than when the payout completion information is transmitted based on the completion of the payout of the game medium based on the payout request made after the payout of the game medium based on the loan request is completed. Can proceed.
Note that the predetermined number of bets is at least one bet number, and a game can be started by setting a bet number of two or more or setting a maximum bet number. good.
The game being executed is a period from when the game start condition is satisfied until the game is ended. For example, after accepting a game start operation in a state where the game can be started, the variable display device This corresponds to the period from when the display result is derived until the game ends. In the case where the giving display result is derived as the display result of the variable display device, after the game start operation is accepted in a state where the game can be started, the game medium payout based on the giving display result is completed. The period is applicable.
Also, the betting number setting permission means means that, for example, when a gaming medium is inserted and the betting number is set, the gaming medium inserted in a state where the setting of the betting number is not permitted is not used for setting the betting number. The setting of the bet number may be permitted by setting the state where the game medium is returned to the player to the state where the inserted game medium is taken in without being returned to the player and the bet number is set. Further, when setting a bet number by performing a predetermined bet number setting operation, the bet number setting operation acceptance is invalidated in a state where the bet number setting is not permitted. It is only necessary to allow the bet number to be set by setting the reception to be valid.

A gaming machine according to claim 4 of the present invention is the gaming machine according to claim 3 ,
The main control means starts the game regardless of the determination result of the first lending device connection determination means when the game start condition is satisfied when the predetermined number of bets is already set. Comprising a starting means,
It is characterized by that.
According to this feature, when the number of bets has already been set, it is possible to play a game for that amount regardless of the determination result of whether or not the lending device and the gaming machine are connected. The game used to set the bet amount will not be able to start the game because the connection between the lending device and the game machine will be cut off even though the game medium is already used to set the bet amount. It is possible to prevent the player from suffering a disadvantage because the medium is not returned to the player.

A gaming machine according to claim 5 of the present invention is the gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4 ,
A payout detecting means for detecting payout of game media by the game medium payout means;
The sub-control means includes
Regardless of whether or not the lending control is being executed, first payout request number storage means for storing the number requested by the payout request;
A second payout request number storage means for storing a number required by the payout request during execution of the lending control;
Regardless of whether the payout is based on the payout control or the payout based on the lending control, when the payout detecting means detects the payout of the game medium, the number stored in the first payout request number storage means is decremented by 1. Subtracting means;
Further including
The payout completion information transmitting means receives the payout request, and when the number stored in the first payout request number storage means becomes 0, the number of game media requested by the loan request is It is determined that the game medium payout means has been paid out, and the payout completion information is transmitted to the main control means,
When the payout request is received during execution of the lending control, the granted game medium payout control means is based on the number stored in the second payout request number storage means after execution of the lending control. Performing the payout control;
It is characterized by that.
According to this feature, the number of game media to be paid out after receiving the payout request during the execution of the lending control until the payout completion information is transmitted, and the number of game media to be paid out based on the payout request are individual storage means. Accordingly, the payout completion information can be transmitted at an accurate timing, and the payout of the number of game media required by the payout request can be completed with certainty.

A gaming machine according to claim 6 of the present invention is the gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5 ,
When the lending game medium payout control means receives the lending request during execution of the payout control by the granted game medium payout control means, the lending control based on the lending request is completed after the payout control being executed is completed. I do,
It is characterized by that.
According to this feature, since the payout of the game medium based on the payout request is not interrupted by the loan request, the game can be advanced promptly.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

  The gaming machine of the first embodiment to which the present invention is applied will be described with reference to the drawings. As shown in FIG. 1, the slot machine 1 which is the gaming machine of the present embodiment has a valuable value as shown in FIG. The slot machine is used in parallel with a card unit 100 that accepts a recorded prepaid card. In this slot machine, reels 2L, 2C, and 2R (hereinafter referred to as a left reel, a center) Reels, also referred to as right reels) are juxtaposed in the horizontal direction, and three consecutive symbols out of symbols arranged on these reels 2L, 2C, 2R are provided through a see-through window 3 provided on the front surface of the slot machine 1. Arranged to be visible.

  The reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are rotated by reel motors 34L, 34C, and 34R (see FIG. 4) provided in correspondence with each other, so that the symbols of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are continuous with the see-through window 3. In addition to the display being changed, the rotation of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R is stopped, and three consecutive symbols are derived and displayed on the fluoroscopic window 3 as display results.

  The reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are rotated by reel motors 34L, 34C, and 34R (see FIG. 4) provided in correspondence with each other, so that the symbols of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are continuous with the see-through window 3. In addition to the display being changed, the rotation of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R is stopped, and three consecutive symbols are derived and displayed on the fluoroscopic window 3 as display results.

  The slot machine 1 of the present embodiment also displays a credit indicator 10 that displays credits (the number of medals stored as a player's gaming value), the progress status during the bonus, and the contents when an error occurs. A game auxiliary indicator 16 for displaying an error code or the like, a card remaining number indicator 11 for displaying the remaining value of the valuable value read from the prepaid card as a storage medium inserted in the card unit 100 arranged in parallel, The medal insertion unit 4 where medals can be inserted, the one bet switch 5 operated when setting the bet number for one medal using credits, and the maximum bet number (3 in this embodiment) using credits MAXBET switch 6 that is operated when setting, settlement switch 15 that is operated when the number of medals stored as credits is settled, card A card return switch 12 for returning a prepaid card inserted in the knit 100, a lending switch 13 that is operated when a medal is lent within the range of the remaining valuable value displayed on the remaining card number display 11, and a game Is provided with stop switches 8L, 8C and 8R which are operated when stopping the rotation of the start switch 7 and the reels 2L, 2C and 2R, respectively.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 1, the card unit 100 arranged in parallel with the slot machine 1 displays an operation LED 101 indicating an operation status, and a card remaining amount on which the remaining value of valuable value read from the inserted prepaid card is displayed. A display 102, a card insertion LED 103 indicating that a prepaid card is being inserted, and a card insertion slot 104 for inserting a prepaid card are provided.

  Also, in the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, a take-in flow path 302 (see FIG. 2A) for guiding medals inserted from the medal insertion slot 4 to a hopper tank (not shown) or a medal payout hole. A medal selector 300 (see FIG. 3) is provided for distribution to any one of the return side channels 303 (see FIG. 2 (a)) leading to 9 (see FIG. 1). Unauthorized medals with different diameters and thicknesses are sorted by the medal selector 300 and returned from the medal payout holes 9.

  Further, the medal selector 300 is provided with a flow path switching solenoid 14 (see FIG. 4) for selectively switching the flow path of the flowing medal to either the intake side flow path 302 or the return side flow path 303. It has been. In the state where medal insertion is permitted, the flow path switching solenoid 14 is energized, and the medals flowing down in this state flow down the take-in side flow path 302 and first to third insertion sensors 31a to 31c (described later). After being detected by FIG. 4 and FIG. 2 (a)), it is stored in the hopper tank. In the state where medal insertion is prohibited, the excitation of the flow path switching solenoid 14 is released, the flow path is switched to the return side flow path 303 and returned from the medal payout hole 9.

  2A and 3A are cross-sectional views showing the structure of the medal selector 300, FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA in FIG. 2A, and FIG. It is BB sectional drawing of 3 (a).

  As shown in FIG. 2 (a), the medal selector 300 has an insertion channel 301 through which medals inserted from the medal insertion port 4 flow down, and a take-in side for guiding the medals flowing down the insertion channel 301 to the hopper tank. A flow path 302 is formed. Further, as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, below the input flow path 301, a flow path switching plate 304 that swings around the shaft 304 a by the excitation of the flow path switching solenoid 14 and the input flow path 301. A return-side channel 303 is provided for guiding the medals dropped from the medals to the medal payout holes 9.

  When the flow path switching solenoid 14 is not excited, the flow path switching plate 304 has its upper end 304b accommodated in a recess 305 provided in the medal selector body as shown in FIGS. Since the charging channel 301 and the return side channel 303 are in communication with each other, the medal flowing down the charging channel 301 falls into the return side channel 303 and is discharged from the medal payout hole 9. Is done. Further, in the state where the flow path switching solenoid 14 is excited, the flow path switching plate 304 has an upper portion of the flow path switching plate 304 with the shaft 304a as a fulcrum as shown in FIGS. 3 (a) and 3 (b). By swinging in the direction (arrow direction), the upper end portion 304 b of the flow path switching plate 304 protrudes from the recess 305, so that the medal flowing down the input flow path 301 is the upper end portion 304 b of the flow path switching plate 304. Along the intake side flow path 302 and guided to the hopper tank.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 3A, the intake-side flow path 302 includes a light projecting section and a light-receiving section disposed at positions facing each other with the capture-side flow path 302 interposed therebetween. First to third insertion sensors 31a to 31c for detecting medals flowing down the take-in flow path 302 by detecting light blocking to the light receiving unit are provided, and these first to third insertion sensors 31a to 31c are provided. In order to set the number of bets by detecting this, the passage of medals inserted from the medal insertion slot 4 is detected.

  Of these first to third input sensors 31a to 31c, the first input sensor 31a and the third input sensor 31c flow down the position along the upper portion of the intake side flow path 302, that is, the intake side flow path 302. The passage of the upper end of the disk-shaped medal is arranged at a position where it can be detected on the upstream side and the downstream side, respectively, and the second input sensor 31b is a lower position of the intake side flow path 302, that is, the intake side flow path. The disc-shaped medal flowing down 302 is disposed at a position where the passage of the lower end can be detected. Further, the second insertion sensor 31b is configured such that a medal that normally flows down the intake side channel 302 between the first insertion sensor 31a and the third insertion sensor 31c is the first insertion sensor 31a, the second insertion sensor 31b, It is arranged at the position detected in the order of the 3 input sensors 31c. For this reason, in this embodiment, the transition of the detection state by the first to third insertion sensors 31a to 31c of medals that normally flow down the intake side flow path 302 is always the same pattern state transition. When the detection state transitions by the sensors 31a to 31c are different state transitions, it is possible to detect fraud related to medal insertion.

  When a game is played in the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, first, medals are inserted from the medal insertion slot 4 or a bet number is set using credits. To use credits, the MAX BET switch 6 or the single BET switch 5 may be operated. When a predetermined number of bets are set, the winning lines L1, L2, L2 ′, L3, and L3 ′ (see FIG. 1) are enabled according to the set bets, and the operation of the start switch 7 is enabled That is, the game can be started. The predetermined number of bets may be at least one bet number.

  When the start switch 7 is operated in a state where the game can be started, the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R rotate, and the symbols of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R continuously vary. If any one of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R is operated in this state, the rotation of the corresponding reels 2L, 2C, 2R is stopped, and the display result is derived and displayed.

  Then, when all the reels 2L, 2C, 2R are stopped, one game is finished, and is determined in advance on any of the pay lines L1, L2, L2 ′, L3, L3 ′ activated according to the number of bets. When the given symbol combination stops as a display result of each reel 2L, 2C, 2R, a winning occurs, and a predetermined number of medals are awarded to the player and added to the credit Is done. When the credit reaches the upper limit (50 in this embodiment), medals are paid out directly from the medal payout hole 9 (see FIG. 1).

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing configurations of the slot machine 1 and the card unit 100.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the slot machine 1 is provided with a game control board 40, a payout control board 60, and an effect control board 90. The game state is mainly controlled by the game control board 40, and the payout control board 60. The medal payout and medal lending are controlled, and the effect control board 90 controls the effect according to the gaming state.

  The game control board 40 is connected to the above-described one-sheet BET switch 5, MAXBET switch 6, start switch 7, checkout switch 15, stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R, and first to third insertion sensors 31a to 31c. A reel sensor 35 for detecting the reference position of the reels 2L, 2C, 2R and a reset switch 36 for canceling the error are connected, and detection signals of these connected switches and sensors are input. Yes.

  The game control board 40 is connected to the reel motors 34L, 34C, 34R, the credit display 10, the game auxiliary display 16, and the flow path switching solenoid 14, and these electrical components are connected to the game control board 40. It is driven based on the control of a later-described game control unit 41 mounted on the.

  The game control board 40 includes a CPU that performs calculations according to a predetermined procedure, a ROM that stores CPU control programs and various data tables, and a microcomputer that includes a RAM that writes and reads necessary data. 41, a switch connected to the game control board 40, a switch circuit 42 for detecting a signal input from the sensor, a motor circuit 43 for controlling the driving of the reel motors 34L, 34C, 34R, a credit display, and a game auxiliary display 16 The display drive circuit 44 that controls the drive of various displays including various LEDs, the solenoid drive circuit 45 that controls the drive of the flow path switching solenoid 14, and the like are mounted. Various controls according to the progress of the game in response to detection signals from switches and sensors connected to the substrate 40 Do.

  The payout control board 60 has a payout sensor 33 for detecting medals paid out from the medal payout holes 9, and a prescribed amount in the hopper tank (in this embodiment, the maximum number of medals to be paid out when one winning occurs) In this embodiment, a medal number less than the maximum payout number is applied as the number of medals lent (number of rented units) by one lending request from the card unit 100. Therefore, the prescribed amount is also an amount that is equal to or greater than the number of loaned units.) A medal supply sensor 37 for detecting a state in which the above medals are supplied is connected, and detection signals of these connected sensors are input. It has come to be.

  Also, the payout control board 60 is connected to electrical components such as a hopper motor 32 for paying out medals stored in the hopper tank from the medal payout hole 9, and these electrical parts are connected to the payout control board 60. It is driven based on control by a later-described payout control unit 61 mounted.

  Similarly to the game control unit 41, the payout control board 60 includes a payout control unit 61 composed of a microcomputer having a CPU, a ROM, and a RAM, and a switch circuit that detects a signal input from a sensor connected to the payout control board 60. 62 and the like, the payout control unit 61 receives a signal output from the game control unit 41 mounted on the game control board 40 and a detection signal from a sensor connected to the payout control board 60, Payout control for paying out medals. Further, the payout control board 60 is connected to the card unit 100 arranged in parallel via the connection terminal plate 70, and the payout control unit 61 receives a request from a control unit (not shown) mounted on the card unit 100. Lending control for lending medals according to

  The effect control board 90 is connected with a liquid crystal display 51 (see FIG. 1) disposed on the front surface of the slot machine 1, an effect LED 52, speakers 53 and 54, and a reel lamp 55. It is driven on the basis of control by a later-described sub-control unit 91 mounted on the control board 90.

  On the effect control board 90, as with the game control part 41, a sub-control part 91 composed of a microcomputer equipped with a CPU, ROM, RAM, etc., and a liquid crystal that controls the drive of the liquid crystal display 51 connected to the effect control board 90. A drive circuit 92, a lamp drive circuit 93 that controls the drive of the effect LED 52, a sound output circuit 94 that controls sound output from the speakers 53 and 54, and the like are mounted. The sub-control unit 91 is a game control board 40. In response to a command transmitted from the game control unit 41 mounted on the computer, various controls are performed to produce effects.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the game control unit 41 mounted on the game control board 40 confirms the connection check between the game control board 40 and the payout control board 60 on the payout control board 60 side. To output a game control board connection confirmation signal. Then, the payout control unit 61 mounted on the payout control board 60 confirms the connection with the game control board 40 based on the detection of the game control board connection confirmation signal. In addition, the game control unit 41 outputs, to the payout control board 60, a payout number signal indicating a value of 0 to 50, a payment request signal for requesting credit settlement, and a payout request signal for requesting medal payout. Then, when the payout control unit 61 detects the settlement request signal or the payout request signal, the payout control unit 61 performs payout control for paying out the number of medals indicated by the payout number signal at that time.

  On the other hand, the payout control unit 61 issues a payout control board connection confirmation signal for checking the connection between the game control board 40 and the payout control board 60 to the game control board 60 on the game control board 40 side, the card unit 100. A card unit connecting signal indicating that the card is connected, and an operating signal indicating that the medal payout operation is being performed based on the settlement request or the payout request. Then, the game control unit 41 confirms the connection with the payout control board 60 based on the detection of the payout control board connection confirmation signal, and connects the payout control board 60 with the card unit 100 based on the detection of the card unit connecting signal. Based on the detection of the in-operation signal, the start and end of the medal payout operation by the payout control unit 61 is confirmed.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the card unit 100 includes a control unit 106 on which a microcomputer is mounted. The control unit 106 is connected with the operation LED 101, the remaining card indicator 102 and the card insertion LED 103 described above, and as shown in FIG. 5, the aforementioned remaining card indicator 11 provided in the slot machine 1 is connected. Are connected via a connection terminal board 70, and these LEDs and display devices are driven under the control of a microcomputer mounted on the control unit 106. Further, as shown in FIG. 5, the control unit 106 is connected to the card return switch 12 and the lending switch 13 provided in the slot machine 1 via the connection terminal plate 70, and the detection signals of these switches. Is input to the control unit 106.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 5, the card unit 100 includes a card reader / writer 105 that reads and writes recorded information of the prepaid card inserted from the card insertion slot 104. The card reader / writer 105 is a prepaid card. Is output to the control unit 106, and the recording information of the prepaid card inserted is updated based on a command from the control unit 106.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the control unit 106 of the card unit 100 has a card unit connection indicating that the card unit 100 is normally connected to the payout control board 60 (the payout control unit 61) of the slot machine 1. A signal (VL), a card unit READY signal (MRDY) indicating the start and end of the lending process by the card unit 100, and a lending request signal (MRQ) requesting medal lending are output. The card unit connection signal is also a power source for communication between the control unit 106 and the payout control board 60.

  On the other hand, the game control board 40 (game control unit 41) sends a slot machine READY signal (SRDY) and MRQ indicating a state in which medals can be lent to the control unit 106 of the card unit 100. A lending completion signal (EXS) indicating the start and completion of the medal lending operation is output.

  Further, as described above, the remaining card number display 11, the card return switch 12, and the lending switch 13 mounted in the slot machine 1 are connected to the control unit 106 of the card unit 100, and the remaining card number display 11 is Driven based on the remaining number display control signal output from the control unit 106, the detection signal (return operation detection signal) of the card return switch 12 and the detection signal (lending operation detection signal) of the lending switch 13 are controlled by the control unit 106. Is input. Then, the control unit 106 outputs the MRDY described above on the condition that the valuable value read from the accepted prepaid card remains as a result of the detection of the lending switch 13, and outputs the MRQ described above. The processing for requesting lending of medals to the slot machine 1 (5 in this embodiment) is performed a prescribed number of times (10 in this embodiment) within the range of the remaining valuable value, and the card is returned. When the switch 12 is detected, a process for returning the prepaid card being accepted is performed.

  Next, various control contents executed by the game control unit 41 mounted on the game control board 40 of the slot machine 1 as the game progresses will be described based on the flowchart of FIG.

  First, an initial process for preparing for a game start is executed as the power is turned on (Sa1). Specifically, the connection of various devices, the operation status, and the like are confirmed, and if it is possible to return to the gaming state before the power is turned off, a recovery process is performed. In the present embodiment, the above-described game control board connection confirmation signal is turned on in the initial process. Note that the game control board connection confirmation signal is always kept on while power is supplied.

  Next, a BET process (Sa2), an internal lottery process (Sa3), a reel rotation process (Sa4), a reel stop process (Sa5), a winning determination process (Sa6), a payout process (Sa7), and a game state update process (Sa8). Move to loop processing to be executed repeatedly.

  In the BET process in step Sa2, the system stands by in a state where medals and credits can be received, sets the number of bets according to the reception of medals and credits, and determines the number of bets when the operation of the start switch 7 is detected. Execute the process. Further, when a replay winning is generated in the previous game, the same bet number as in the previous game is set. In this embodiment, the bet amount can be set only during the BET process. After the operation of the start switch 7 is detected and the game is started, the game state update process of the game is completed, and the next The bet number setting is invalidated until the game BET process. That is, setting of the bet number is allowed on condition that the game is not being executed.

  In the internal lottery process in the step Sa3, a winning is generated based on a comparison result between a random value acquired simultaneously with the start of the game by the detection of the start switch 7 in the step Sa2 and an internal winning probability table in which the winning probability of each winning is determined. Whether or not to allow is determined, and processing for setting an internal winning flag is executed according to the result.

  In the reel rotation process in step Sa4, a process of rotating each reel 2L, 2C, 2R is executed. In this reel rotation process, the operation of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R is validated when all the reels 2L, 2C, 2R rotate at a constant speed.

  In the reel stop process in the step of Sa5, the stop switch 8L, 8C, 8R by the player is detected from the time when the operation of the stop switch 8L, 8C, 8R by the player is detected or the reels 2L, 2C, 2R rotate at a constant speed. The processing for stopping the rotation of the corresponding reels 2L, 2C, 2R is executed in response to the fact that the automatic stop time has elapsed without detecting the operation, that is, the stop condition of each reel 2L, 2C, 2R is satisfied. To do.

  In the winning determination process in step Sa6, when it is determined in step Sa5 that the rotation of all reels 2L, 2C, and 2R has been stopped, a winning is determined according to the display result derived for each reel 2L, 2C, and 2R. A process of determining whether or not it has occurred is executed.

  In the payout process in step Sa7, when it is determined in step Sa6 that a winning has occurred, a process for requesting addition of credits and payout of medals is performed based on the number of awards given in accordance with the winning.

  In the game state update process in step Sa8, a process for setting the game state in preparation for the next game is executed.

  8-12 is a flowchart which shows the control content of the BET process which the game control part 41 performs in the step of Sa2.

  In the BET process, first, it is confirmed whether or not the current game is a replay game (Sb1). If the game is a replay game, the start switch 7 is awaiting detection (Sb2). In this state, the start switch 7 is detected. Then, the game is started and the process proceeds to the internal lottery process shown in FIG. At this time, since the bet number of the previous game is set as it is in the BET counter to which the value of the bet number is set, the game starts with the same bet number as the previous game.

  If it is not a replay game in step Sb1, the value of the BET counter is cleared (Sb3), and whether or not the card unit connection signal on is detected, that is, the card unit 100 is connected to the payout control board 60. It is confirmed whether it is connected (Sb4).

  If it is detected in step Sb4 that the card unit connection signal is on, it is confirmed whether the value of the BET counter is 3, that is, whether the maximum bet number is set (Sb5). If the value of 3 is 3, it is further confirmed whether the value of the credit counter is 50, that is, whether the credit has reached the upper limit (Sb6). If the value of the BET counter is less than 3 in step Sb5 or the value of the credit counter is less than 50 in step Sb6, that is, if the medal can be inserted, the driving state of the flow path switching solenoid 14 is changed. On is set (Sb7). That is, if the flow path of the inserted medal is the return side flow path 303, it is switched to the intake side flow path 302 side. Further, when the value of the BET counter is 3 and the value of the credit counter is 50 in the steps of Sb5 and Sb6, that is, if the medal insertion is prohibited, the driving state of the flow path switching solenoid 14 is turned off. Set (Sb8). That is, if the flow path of the medal is the intake side flow path 302, the return side flow path 303 is switched.

  Next, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the credit counter is 0, that is, whether or not the credit can be settled (Sb9). If the value of the credit counter is not 0, it is confirmed whether or not the settlement switch 15 has been detected. (Sb10). If the settlement switch 15 is detected in the step Sb10, the settlement process for requesting the settlement control board 60 to settle the number of medals stored in the credit counter is executed (Sb11), and the step Sb4 is performed. Return.

  In addition, when the value of the credit counter is 0 in the step Sb9 or when the settlement switch 15 is not detected in the step Sb10, the detection state transitions of the first to third insertion sensors 31a to 31c are acquired and acquired. It is confirmed whether or not the passage of medals flowing down the inflow side channel 302 is detected (Sb12).

  If the passage of medals flowing down the take-in channel 302 is not detected in step Sb12, it is confirmed whether the value of the BET counter is 3, that is, whether the maximum bet number is set (Sb13). If the value of the BET counter is not 3, it is further confirmed whether or not the value of the credit counter is 0, that is, whether or not the credit used for setting the bet number remains (Sb14). When the value of the BET counter is less than 3 and the value of the credit counter is not 0 in the steps of Sb13 and Sb14, that is, when the number of bets can be set using credits, one BET switch 5 or MAXBET It is confirmed whether or not the switch 6 is detected (Sb15, Sb16).

  If the value of the credit counter is 0 in step Sb14, or if neither the single BET switch 5 nor the MAXBET switch 6 is detected in steps Sb15 and Sb16, whether the value of the BET counter is 0, that is, It is confirmed whether or not the game can be started (Sb17). If the value of the BET counter is 0, the process returns to the step Sb4. If the value of the BET counter is 3 in step Sb13, or if the value of the BET counter is 1 or more in step Sb17, whether or not the start switch 7 is detected, that is, whether or not a game start operation has been performed. (Sb18), and if the start switch 7 is not detected, the process returns to the step Sb4. If the start switch 7 is detected in step Sb18, the driving state of the flow path switching solenoid 14 is set to off (Sb19). That is, if the flow path of the medal is the intake side flow path 302, the return side flow path 303 is switched. And it transfers to the internal lottery process shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, if the card unit connecting signal on is not detected in step Sb4, the driving state of the flow path switching solenoid 14 is set to off (Sb20). That is, if the flow path of the medal is the intake side flow path 302, the return side flow path 303 is switched. Then, until the passage waiting time elapses, the transition of the detection state of the first to third insertion sensors 31a to 31c is acquired and it is confirmed whether or not the passage of the medal flowing down the take-in side channel 302 is detected. (Sb21, Sb22).

  Further, when the passage of medals flowing down the take-in channel 302 is detected in steps Sb21 and Sb22, whether or not the value of the BET counter is 3, that is, whether the maximum bet number has already been set. (Sb31), if the value of the BET counter is less than 3, 1 is added to the value of the BET counter (Sb32). If the value of the BET counter is 3 in step Sb31, it is confirmed whether the value of the credit counter is 50, that is, whether the credit has reached the upper limit (Sb33), and the value of the credit counter is 50. Otherwise, 1 is added to the value of the credit counter (Sb34).

  If the passage of medals flowing down the take-in flow path 302 is not detected even when the passage waiting time elapses in the steps Sb21 and Sb22, the value of the BET counter is less than 3 in the steps Sb31 and Sb32, and the credit counter If the value is 50, or 1 is added to the value of the BET counter in the step of Sb32 or 1 is added to the value of the credit counter in the step of Sb34, it indicates that the card unit 100 is not connected to the slot machine 1 An error code is set (Sb23). That is, the error code is displayed on the game auxiliary display 16 to notify a connection error.

  Next, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the credit counter is 0, that is, whether or not the credit can be settled (Sb24). If the value of the credit counter is not 0, it is confirmed whether or not the settlement switch 15 has been detected. (Sb25). If the settlement switch 15 is detected in the step Sb10, the settlement process described above is executed (Sb26), and the process returns to the step Sb24.

  If the value of the credit counter is not 0 in step Sb24, or if the settlement switch 15 is not detected in step Sb25, whether the value of the BET counter is 0, that is, whether the game can be started. It is confirmed whether or not (Sb27). If the value of the BET counter is 1 or more in step Sb27, it is confirmed whether or not the start switch 7 has been detected, that is, whether or not a game start operation has been performed (Sb18), and the start switch 7 has been detected. Then, the game is started and the process proceeds to the internal lottery process shown in FIG.

  If the value of the BET counter is 0 in step Sb27, or if the start switch 7 is not detected in step Sb28, whether or not the card unit connection signal on is detected, that is, the card unit 100 and whether the payout control board 60 is connected or not (Sb29). If the card unit connecting signal on is not detected, the process returns to the step Sb24, and the card unit connecting signal on is turned on. If detected, the error code set in step Sb23 is cleared (Sb30). That is, the connection error notification is canceled. And it returns to the step of Sb4.

  In addition, when the passage of the medal flowing down the take-in channel 302 is detected in the step Sb12, whether or not the value of the BET counter is 3, that is, whether or not the maximum bet number has already been set. (Sb35), if the value of the BET counter is less than 3, 1 is added to the value of the BET counter (Sb36), and the process returns to the step of Sb4. If the value of the BET counter is 3 in step Sb35, it is confirmed whether the value of the credit counter is 50, that is, whether the credit has reached the upper limit (Sb37), and the value of the credit counter is 50. Otherwise, 1 is added to the value of the credit counter (Sb38), and the process returns to Sb4. If the BET counter value is less than 3 and the credit counter value is 50 in the steps Sb35 and Sb37, the process returns to the Sb4 step.

  If the single BET switch 5 is detected in the step Sb15, the credit counter value is decremented by 1 (Sb39), the BET counter value is incremented by 1 (Sb40), and the process returns to the Sb4 step. .

  If the MAXBET switch 6 is detected in step Sb16, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the credit counter is 0, that is, whether or not the credit used for setting the bet number remains (Sb41). If the credit value is 0, the process returns to Sb4. If the value of the credit counter is not 0 in step Sb41, 1 is subtracted from the value of the credit counter (Sb42), and 1 is added to the value of the BET counter (Sb43). Then, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the BET counter is 3, that is, whether or not the maximum bet number is set (Sb44). If the value of the BET counter is 3, the process returns to the step of Sb4, and the value of the BET counter is 3 If it is less, the process returns to Sb41. That is, when the MAXBET switch 6 is detected in the step of Sb16, the steps of Sb41 to Sb44 are repeated until the value of the credit counter becomes 0 or the value of the BET counter becomes 3.

  As described above, in the BET process, when the card unit connection signal “on” is detected, if the value of the BET counter is less than 3, that is, the maximum bet number is not set, the medal flow path is Since the passage of the medals by the first to third insertion sensors 31a to 31c is effectively detected as the take-in channel 302, in such a state, a bet can be placed by inserting a medal from the medal insertion slot 4. The number can be set. Furthermore, if one or more credit counter values remain, both the single BET switch 5 and the MAXBET switch 6 are detected effectively, so that the single credit BET switch 5 or the MAXBET switch 6 can be operated within the credit range. It becomes possible to set the number of bets.

  On the other hand, in a state where the card unit connection signal on is not detected, the medal flow path is switched to the return-side flow path 303, and the medal passage detection by the first to third insertion sensors 31a to 31c is performed. Since the detection of the sheet BET switch 5 or the MAX BET switch 6 is invalidated, in this state, it is impossible to set the number of bets.

  Note that the settlement switch 15 and the start switch 7 are effectively detected regardless of whether or not the card unit connecting signal on is detected, so even if the card unit connecting signal on is not detected, It is possible to start the game by paying out credits or setting the number of bets already set.

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the control contents of the settlement process executed by the game control unit 41 in steps Sb11 and Sb26.

  In the settlement process, first, the driving state of the flow path switching solenoid 14 is set to off (Sc1). That is, if the flow path of the medal is the intake side flow path 302, the return side flow path 303 is switched.

  Next, it is confirmed whether or not the payout control board connection confirmation signal “on” is detected, that is, whether or not the game control board 40 and the payout control board 60 are connected (Sc2). If is not detected, error processing is executed (Sc3). When the error process is canceled, the process returns to the step Sc2. In the error process, a process of disabling control of the game control unit 41 is executed until the reset switch 36 is detected.

  If the payout control board connection confirmation signal on is detected in step Sc2, the value indicated by the payout number signal is updated to the value of the credit counter (Sc4), and the settlement request signal is turned on (Sc5). ).

  Next, the output status of the operating signal is monitored until the response waiting time (1 second in this embodiment) elapses (Sc6, Sc7). Even if the response waiting time elapses in the steps of Sc6 and Sc7, When on is not detected, that is, when the start of the medal payout operation based on the settlement request cannot be confirmed even after the response waiting time elapses, the settlement request signal is turned off (Sc8), and the error processing described above is executed. (Sc9). When the error process is canceled, the process returns to the step Sc2.

  Further, when the on-operation signal is detected in the steps Sc6 and Sc7, that is, when the start of the medal payout operation based on the settlement request is confirmed, the value of the credit counter is cleared (Sc10), and the operation is performed. The output state of the medium signal is monitored (Sc11). When the off-operation signal is detected in Sc10, that is, when the completion of the payout operation based on the settlement request is confirmed, the settlement request signal is turned off (Sc12), and the process returns to the original processing.

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the control contents of the payout process executed by the game control unit 41 in step Sa7.

  In the payout process, first, it is confirmed whether or not a winning has occurred (Sd1). If no winning has occurred, the process proceeds to a game state updating process of Sa8.

  In addition, when a prize is generated in the step of Sd1, the number of medals awarded by the occurrence of the prize (hereinafter referred to as the number of awarded medals) is the number of medals that have not been awarded among the number of awarded medals. It memorize | stores in the grant counter memorize | stored (Sd2).

  Next, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the credit counter is 50, that is, whether or not the credit has reached the upper limit (Sd3). If the value of the credit counter is less than 50, 1 is added to the value of the credit counter. (Sd4), 1 is subtracted from the value of the grant counter (Sd5), and it is confirmed whether or not the value of the grant counter is 0, that is, whether or not medals of all the number of medals have been awarded (Sd6). If the value of the grant counter is not 0 in step Sd6, the process returns to step Sd3. That is, steps Sd3 to Sd6 are repeated until the value of the credit counter reaches 50 or the value of the grant counter reaches 0.

  If the value of the grant counter is 0 in step Sd6, the process proceeds to Sa8 game state update processing.

  If the value of the credit counter is 50 in step Sd3, whether or not the payout control board connection confirmation signal is on is detected, that is, whether or not the game control board 40 and the payout control board 60 are connected. (Sd7), and if the on of the payout control board connection confirmation signal is not detected, the error processing described above is executed (Sd8). When the error process is canceled, the process returns to the step Sd7 again.

  If the payout control board connection confirmation signal on is detected in step Sd7, the value indicated by the payout number signal is updated to the value of the grant counter (Sd9), and the payout request signal is turned on (Sd10). ).

  Next, the output state of the operating signal is monitored until the response waiting time (1 second in this embodiment) elapses (Sd11, Sd12). Even if the response waiting time elapses in the steps of Sd11, Sd12, If on is not detected, that is, if the start of the medal payout operation based on the payout request cannot be confirmed even after the response waiting time elapses, the payout request signal is turned off (Sd13), and the error processing described above is executed. (Sd14). When the error process is canceled, the process returns to the step Sd7 again.

  If the on-operation signal is detected in steps Sd11 and Sd12, that is, if the start of the medal payout operation based on the payout request is confirmed, the value of the credit counter is cleared (Sd15). The output state of the medium signal is monitored (Sd16). If an off-operation signal is detected in Sd16, that is, if the completion of the payout operation based on the payout request is confirmed, the payout request signal is turned off (Sd17), and the process proceeds to the game state update process of Sa8. .

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the main control contents executed by the payout control unit 61 mounted on the payout control board 60 when the power is turned on.

  The payout control unit 61 executes initial processing for preparing for payout when the power is turned on (Se1). Specifically, the connection and operation status of various devices are checked, and if it can be restored to the state before the power is turned off, a restoration process is performed. In this embodiment, the above-described payout control board connection confirmation signal is set to on in the initial process. Note that the payout control board connection confirmation signal is always kept on while power is supplied. Then, after executing the initial process, the interrupt is permitted (Se2), and the process proceeds to the loop process.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the control content of the interrupt process that is periodically executed after the payout control unit 61 permits the interrupt.

  In the interrupt process, a switch detection process (Sf1), a connection confirmation process (Sf2), a main board communication process (Sf3), a lending control process (Sf4), a payout control process (Sf5), and a motor control process (Sf6) are sequentially executed. To do.

  In the switch detection process in the step of Sf1, a process for acquiring detection states of various sensors and signals is executed. In the connection confirmation process in step Sf2, a process of confirming the connection status with the card unit 100 is executed. In the main board communication process in the step of Sf3, a process of exchanging signals with the game control board 40 is executed. In the lending control process in step Sf4, a process for exchanging signals with the card unit is executed. In the payout control process in step Sf5, a process for setting the driving state of the hopper motor 32 is executed. In the motor control process of Sf6, a process of performing output control of the drive signal of the hopper motor 32 is executed based on the drive state of the hopper motor set in the step of Sf5.

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the detailed control contents of the connection confirmation process executed by the payout control unit 61 in step Sf2.

  In the connection confirmation process, first, it is confirmed whether or not VL on is detected, that is, whether or not it is connected to the card unit 100 (Sg1). If VL on is detected in the step of Sg1, the card unit connecting signal is turned on. Further, when the VL on is not detected in the step of Sg1, the card unit connecting signal is turned off.

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing detailed control contents of the main board communication process executed by the payout control unit 61 in the step Sf3.

  In the main board communication process, first, the main board communication process selection flag (0 to 2) indicating the type of the main board communication process is confirmed (Sh1). If the main board communication process selection flag is 0, the main board communication process 1 is performed. (Sh2), if the main board communication process selection flag is 1, the main board communication process 2 is executed (Sh3), and if the main board communication process selection flag is 2, the main board communication process 3 is executed ( Sh4).

  FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing detailed control contents of the main board communication process 1 executed by the payout control unit 61 in the step Sh2.

  In the main board communication process 1, first, it is confirmed whether or not the game control board connection confirmation signal “on” is detected, that is, whether or not the game control board connection confirmation signal is connected (Si1), and the game control board connection confirmation is confirmed. If the signal on is not detected, the process returns to the original process. Further, if the game control board connection confirmation signal on is detected in the step of Si1, whether or not the payout request signal or the payment request signal is on, that is, the payout of medals or credits from the game control board 40 is detected. It is confirmed whether or not settlement is requested (Si2, Si3), and if neither the on-off of the payout request signal nor on of the settlement request signal is detected, the process returns to the original processing. Further, if the payout request signal or the payment request signal on is detected in the steps of Si2 and Si3, whether or not the medal supply sensor 37 is detected, that is, whether or not a predetermined amount of medals are supplied or not. (Si4), and if the medal supply sensor 37 is not detected to be on, the process returns to the original process. If the medal supply sensor 37 is detected to be on in the Si4 step, the main board communication process selection flag is set to 1 (Si5), and the process returns to the original process.

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing detailed control contents of the main board communication processing 2 executed by the payout control unit 61 in the step Sh3.

  In the main board communication process 2, first, it is checked whether or not the game control board connection confirmation signal “on” is detected, that is, whether or not it is connected to the game control board 40 (Sj1). If the signal on is not detected, the main board communication process selection flag is set to 0 (Sj2), and the process returns to the original process. Further, if the game control board connection confirmation signal on is detected in step Sj1, the value indicated by the payout number signal is read (Sj3), whether EXS is on, that is, a lending request from the card unit 100. (Sj4), and if EXS is on, based on the payout request and settlement request from the game control board 40, the loan request from the card unit 100 The value of the payout counter that stores the number of medals that have not yet been paid out of the number of medals to be paid out is stored in the interruption memory for temporarily saving the value of the payout counter (Sj5). Next, the value of the payout number signal read in step Sj2 is stored in the payout counter (Sj6), and the operating signal is turned on (Sj7). Then, the main board communication process selection flag is set to 2 (Sj8), and the process returns to the original process.

  FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing detailed control contents of the main board communication process 3 executed by the payout control unit 61 in the step Sh4.

  In the main board communication process 3, first, it is checked whether or not the game control board connection confirmation signal “on” is detected, that is, whether or not the game control board connection confirmation signal is connected (Sk1), and the game control board connection confirmation is confirmed. If the signal on is not detected, the operating signal is turned off (Sk3), the main board communication process selection flag is set to 0 (Sk4), and the process returns to the original process. If the game control board connection confirmation signal “on” is detected in the step of Sk1, it is confirmed whether the value of the payout counter is 0, that is, whether the payout of medals has been completed (Sk2). If the value of 0 is 0, the in-operation signal is turned off (Sk3), the main board communication process selection flag is set to 0 (Sk4), and the process returns to the original process. If the value of the payout counter is not 0 in the step Sk2, the process returns to the original process.

  FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing detailed control contents of the lending control process executed by the payout control unit 61 in step Sf4.

  In the lending control process, first, the lending process selection flag (0 to 3) indicating the type of the lending control process is confirmed (Sm1). If the lending process selection flag is 0, the lending communication process 1 is executed (Sm2), If the lending process selection flag is 1, execute the lending communication process 2 (Sm3), if the lending process selection flag is 2, execute the lending communication process 3 (Sm4), and lend if the lending process selection flag is 3. Communication process 4 is executed (Sm5).

  FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing detailed control contents of the lending communication processing 1 executed by the payout control unit 61 in step Sm2.

  In the lending communication process 1, first, it is confirmed whether or not VL on is detected, that is, whether or not the VL is connected to the card unit 100 (Sn1). Return to processing. Also, if VL on is detected in the step of Sn1, it is confirmed whether or not the game control board connection confirmation signal on is detected, that is, whether or not it is connected to the game control board 40 (Sn2). ), If the game control board connection confirmation signal on is not detected, the process returns to the original process. Further, if the game control board connection confirmation signal on is detected in the step of Sn2, whether or not MRDY is on, that is, whether or not the card unit 100 has notified that the lending operation has been performed. (Sn3), if MRDY on is not detected, the process returns to the original process. Also, if MRDY on is detected in the step of Sn3, the lending process selection flag is set to 1 (Sn4), and the process returns to the original process.

  FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing detailed control contents of the lending communication process 2 executed by the payout control unit 61 in step Sm3.

  In the lending communication process 2, first, it is checked whether or not the VL is detected, that is, whether or not the VL is connected (Sp1). If the VL is not detected, the lending process is selected. The flag is set to 0 (Sp2) and the process returns to the original process. Also, if VL on is detected in the step of Sp1, it is confirmed whether or not the game control board connection confirmation signal on is detected, that is, whether or not the game control board 40 is connected (Sp3). If the game control board connection confirmation signal “on” is not detected, the lending process selection flag is set to 0 (Sp2), and the process returns to the original process. Further, if the game control board connection confirmation signal on is detected in the step of Sp3, whether or not MRDY is on, that is, whether or not the card unit 100 notifies that the lending operation has been performed. (Sp4). If MRDY on is not detected, the lending process selection flag is set to 0 (Sp2), and the process returns to the original process. If MRDY on is detected in the step of Sp4, it is confirmed whether or not MRQ on is detected, that is, whether or not a medal lending is requested (Sp5), and MRQ on is detected. If not, the process returns to the original process. If MRQ on is detected in the step of Sp5, it is confirmed whether or not the medal supply sensor 37 is detected, that is, whether or not more than a prescribed amount of medals are supplied (Sp6). If the on of the medal supply sensor 37 is not detected, the process returns to the original process. If the medal supply sensor 37 is detected to be on in the step Sp6, the lending process selection flag is set to 2 (Sp7), and the process returns to the original process.

  FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing detailed control contents of the lending communication process 3 executed by the payout control unit 61 in step Sm4.

  In the lending communication process 3, first, it is confirmed whether or not VL on is detected, that is, whether or not it is connected to the card unit 100 (Sq1). If VL on is not detected, lending process selection is performed. The flag is set to 0 (Sq2), and the process returns to the original process. Also, if VL on is detected in step Sq1, it is confirmed whether or not the game control board connection confirmation signal on is detected, that is, whether or not the game control board 40 is connected (Sq3). If the game control board connection confirmation signal “on” is not detected, the lending process selection flag is set to 0 (Sq2), and the process returns to the original process. If the game control board connection confirmation signal on is detected in step Sq3, whether or not MRDY is on, that is, whether or not the card unit 100 has notified that the lending operation has been performed. (Sq4), and if MRDY on is not detected, the lending process selection flag is set to 0 (Sq2), and the process returns to the original process. If MRDY on is detected in step Sq4, it is confirmed whether or not the payout counter value is 0, that is, whether or not the medal payout has been completed (Sq5), and the payout counter value is 0. If not, return to the original process. If the value of the payout counter is 0 in step Sq5, EXS is turned on to notify the start of the lending operation (Sq6). Then, the lending unit number (5 in the present embodiment) which is the number of medals lent by one lending request is stored in the payout counter (Sq7), the lending process selection flag is set to 3 (Sq8), and the original processing is performed. Return to.

  FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing detailed control contents of the lending communication processing 4 executed by the payout control unit 61 in step Sm5.

  In the lending communication process 4, first, it is checked whether or not VL on is detected, that is, whether or not it is connected to the card unit 100 (Sr1). If VL on is not detected, the lending process is selected. The flag is set to 0 (Sr2), and the process returns to the original process. Also, if VL on is detected in step Sr1, it is checked whether or not the game control board connection confirmation signal on is detected, that is, whether or not the game control board 40 is connected (Sr3). ) If the game control board connection confirmation signal on is not detected, the lending process selection flag is set to 0 (Sr2), and the process returns to the original process. If the game control board connection confirmation signal on is detected in step Sr3, whether or not MRDY is on, that is, whether or not the card unit 100 has notified that the lending operation has been performed. (Sr4), if MRDY on is not detected, the lending process selection flag is set to 0 (Sr2), and the process returns to the original process. If MRDY on is detected in step Sr4, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the payout counter is 0, that is, whether or not the payout of medals has been completed (Sr5), and the value of the payout counter is 0. If not, return to the original process. If the value of the payout counter is 0 in step Sr5, it is checked whether or not the value of the payout counter that has been saved because a payout request has been received during the lending process is stored in the interruption memory (Sr6). If the value of the counter is not stored in the interruption memory, EXS is turned off to notify the completion of the lending operation (Sr7), the lending process selection flag is set to 2 (Sr8), and the process returns to the original process. If the value of the payout counter is stored in the interruption memory in step Sr6, the value stored in the interruption memory is stored in the payout counter (Sr9), and the process returns to the original process.

  FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing detailed control contents of the payout control process executed by the payout control unit 61 in step Sf5.

  In the payout control process, first, it is confirmed whether or not the hopper motor 32 is being driven, that is, whether or not a medal payout operation is being performed for payout control or lending control (St1). If the hopper motor 32 is not being driven. Then, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the payout counter is 0, that is, whether or not there are medals that have not been paid out yet (St2). If the value of the payout counter is not 0, the driving state of the hopper motor 32 is changed. Set to on (St3). Further, if the hopper motor 32 is being driven in the step of St1, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the payout counter is 0, that is, whether or not there are remaining medals remaining (St4). If the value is 0, the driving state of the hopper motor 32 is set to off (St5). Next, it is confirmed whether or not the payout sensor 33 has been changed from on to off, that is, whether or not a medal payout has been detected (St6). If the payout sensor 33 has not changed from on to off, Returning to the process, if the payout sensor 33 is changed from on to off, 1 is subtracted from the value of the payout counter (St7), and the process returns to the original process.

  Next, the operation state of the slot machine 1 and the card unit 100 based on the control of the game control unit 41 and the payout control unit 61 described above will be described based on the timing charts of FIGS.

  FIG. 28 is a timing chart showing an operation situation when a winning occurs or when a payment process is executed.

  When a winning occurs or when the settlement process is executed, the game control unit 41 updates the value of the number-of-payout signal to a value indicating the number of medals requested to be paid out according to the payout request or the settlement request (ta1). The signal or the settlement request signal is turned on (ta2). When the payout control unit 61 detects that the payout request signal or the checkout request signal is on, the game control unit 41 is notified of the start of the medal payout operation based on the payout request or the checkout request by setting the in-operation signal to on (ta3). . Then, the payout operation for paying out the medals of the number indicated by the payout number signal is started (ta4), and when the payout operation is completed (ta5), the operation signal is turned off and the medal payout operation based on the payout request or the settlement request is ended. Is notified to the game control unit 41 (ta6). Next, when the game control unit 41 detects the off-operation signal, it confirms the end of the payout operation and sets the payout request signal or the settlement request signal to off. Note that the payout control unit 61 secures medals necessary for paying out medals based on the payout request, even if the turn-on of the medal supply sensor 33 is not detected even if the payout request signal is turned on in the main board communication processing 1. If not, the process does not proceed to the main board communication process 2 and the medal payout operation based on the payout request is not performed.

  FIG. 29 is a timing chart showing an operation state when a lending process is performed by the card unit 100 when the lending switch 13 is detected.

  When the lending switch 13 is detected, the control unit 106 of the card unit 100 turns on MRDY and notifies the payout control unit 61 of the start of lending processing (tb1). Further, MRQ is turned on to request the lending of medals for the number of lending units (tb2). When the payout control unit 61 detects MRQ on, it sets EXS on and notifies the card unit 100 of the start of the medal lending operation based on MRQ (tb3). Then, a lending operation for lending medals of the number of lending units is started (tb4), and when the lending operation ends (tb6), the end of the medal lending operation based on MRQ is notified to the card unit 100 with EXS turned off ( tb7). On the other hand, when the control unit 106 of the card unit 100 turns MRQ on and detects that EXS is on, it confirms that the lending operation has started and turns MRQ off (tb5). When it is detected that the lending operation has been completed, if the specified number of lending requests are not completed within the range of the remaining valuable value, MRQ is turned on again to request lending of the number of lending units. (Tb8). In addition, when it is confirmed that the lending operation has been completed by detecting the EXS off, if the required value for the lending request does not remain, or if the specified number of lending requests have been completed, lending MRDY as off The end of the process is notified to the payout control unit 61 (tb9). It should be noted that the payout control unit 61 does not detect that the medal supply sensor 33 is turned on even if MRQ is turned on in the lending communication processing 2, that is, a medal necessary for paying out medals based on the lending request is secured. If not, the process does not proceed to the lending communication process 3 and the medal lending operation based on the lending request is not performed.

  FIG. 30 is a timing chart showing an operation state when a winning occurs during execution of the lending operation.

  When the payout control unit 61 detects that the payout request signal is on during execution of the lending operation, the game control unit 41 is notified of the start of the medal payout operation based on the payout request by setting the in-operation signal to on (tc1). At this time, the value of the payout counter is stored in the interruption memory, and the value indicated by the payout number signal is stored in the payout counter. As a result, the lending operation is interrupted and the payout operation is executed. Then, when the payout operation is completed, the game control unit 41 is notified of the end of the medal payout operation based on the payout request by setting the in-operation signal to off (tc2). At this time, the value stored in the interruption memory, that is, the value stored in the payout counter when the lending operation is interrupted is restored to resume the payout operation. For example, when a payout request for 15 payouts is detected at the time when 3 medals have already been lent during execution of a 5 medals renting operation based on a renting request, the renting operation is interrupted. Then, a payout operation for 15 medals based on the payout request is executed, and after the payout operation is completed, the suspended lending operation is resumed, and the lending operation for the remaining two medals is executed. Note that the payout control unit 61 does not detect that the medal supply sensor 33 is on even when the payout request signal “on” is detected in the main board communication processing 1 as described above. If the required medal is not secured, the process does not proceed to the main board communication processing 2 and the medal payout operation based on the payout request is not performed. Therefore, even if the payout request is detected during the lending operation, the payout request The lending operation is not interrupted unless the medals necessary for paying out are secured. In addition, the payout control unit 61 is configured to maintain the EXS in the on state while interrupting the lending operation and executing the payout operation, so that the lending operation is resumed and the lending operation ends. Accordingly, the end of the medal lending operation based on MRQ is notified by setting EXS off (tc4). That is, while the lending operation is interrupted and the payout operation is executed, a signal indicating that the lending operation is being performed is continuously output to the card unit 100.

  In this embodiment, when a winning occurs during the execution of the lending operation, the lending operation is interrupted at that time, and the paying operation associated with the winning is executed. The lending operation is resumed. However, when a lending request is repeatedly made a plurality of times when the lending switch 13 is detected as in this embodiment, a winning is performed during the lending operation. When the lending operation is detected and the lending operation is completed, the lending operation based on the lending request is executed in preference to the lending operation based on the lending request, even if the lending request is detected again when the lending operation ends. A lending operation based on a lending request may be performed after the dispensing operation is completed.

  FIG. 31 is a timing chart showing a modified example of the operation situation when a winning occurs during the execution of the lending operation.

  In this modification, when the payout control unit 61 detects that the payout request signal is on during the lending operation, the payout control unit 61 waits until the lending operation ends, and when the lending operation ends (td1), even when MRQ is turned on again. Then, the in-operation signal is turned on to notify the game control unit 41 of the start of the medal payout operation based on the payout request (td2). Then, a payout operation for paying out the medals of the number indicated by the payout number signal is started (td3), and when the payout operation is finished (td4), the operation signal is turned off and the end of the medal payout operation based on the payout request is controlled by the game control. This is notified to the unit 41 (td5). At this time, if MRQ on is detected, EXS is turned on to notify the card unit 100 of the start of the medal lending operation based on MRQ (td6). A lending operation for lending medals of the number of lending units is started (td7).

  FIG. 32 is a timing chart showing an operation state when the lending process is performed by the card unit 100 in association with the detection of the lending switch 13 during the execution of the payout operation.

  Even if the payout control unit 61 detects MRQ on during the payout operation, the payout operation is prioritized and waits until the payout operation ends. When the payout operation ends (te1), the game control unit 41 is notified of the end of the medal payout operation based on the payout request with the in-operation signal being turned off (te2). At this time, when MRQ on is detected, EXS is turned on to notify the card unit 100 of the start of the medal lending operation based on MRQ (te3). A lending operation for lending medals of the number of lending units is started (te4).

  FIG. 33 is a diagram illustrating an operation state when the connection between the card unit 100 and the payout control board 60 is disconnected during the BET process.

  When the connection between the card unit 100 and the payout control board 60 is cut off and VL cannot be detected (tf1), the payout control unit 61 always selects the loan communication process 1 as the type of the loan control process. In addition to prohibiting the control, the game control unit 41 is notified that the card unit 100 is not connected by turning off the card unit connection signal. When the game control unit 41 detects that the card unit connection signal is off and confirms that the card unit 100 is not connected, the bet number using the credit by invalidating the detection of the single BET switch 5 and the MAXBET switch 6 And the flow path switching solenoid 14 is turned off to switch the flow path of the medal inserted from the medal insertion port 4 from the intake side flow path 302 to the return side flow path 303. And after switching the flow path of the medal inserted from the medal insertion port 4 from the intake-side flow path 302 to the return-side flow path 303, the passage waiting time (the intake-side flow path is surplus even if the flow path is switched). The first to third insertion sensors 31a to 31c are detected from the time (tf2) when a time sufficient for the first to third insertion sensors 31a to 31c to detect the passage of the medal flowing down the 302 side (for example, 500 ms) has elapsed. The setting of the number of bets based on the medal passage detection by the first to third insertion sensors 31a to 31c is invalidated. Further, an error code indicating that the card unit 100 is not connected to the slot machine 1 is displayed on the game auxiliary display 16 to notify the connection error.

  After that, when the connection between the card unit 100 and the payout control board 60 is restored and VL is detected to be on (tf3), the payout control unit 61 permits the prohibited loan control and outputs a card unit connecting signal. The game control unit 41 is notified that the card unit 100 is connected as “on”. When the game control unit 41 detects that the card unit connection signal is on and confirms that it is connected to the card unit 100, the detection of the single BET switch 5 and the MAXBET switch 6 is validated and the bet number using the credits And the flow path switching solenoid 14 is turned on to switch the flow path of medals inserted from the medal insertion port 4 from the return side flow path 303 to the intake side flow path 302. Then, the detection of the first to third insertion sensors 31a to 31c is validated from that time point, the setting of the bet number based on the medal passage detection by the first to third insertion sensors 31a to 31c is validated, and further the connection error is notified. To release.

  In the state where the bet number is already set, the connection between the card unit 100 and the payout control board 60 is disconnected, and the game control unit 41 detects the off of the card unit connection signal and is connected to the card unit 100. Even if it is confirmed that there is not, the detection of the start switch 7 is effective, and even when the start switch 7 is detected in such a state, the game is effectively started. That is, if the number of bets is already set, the game can always be effectively started based on the detection of the start switch 7 regardless of the connection state between the card unit 100 and the payout control board 60. Further, the connection between the card unit 100 and the payout control board 60 is cut off in the state where the credit remains, and the game control unit 41 detects that the card unit connecting signal is off and is not connected to the card unit 100. Even if it is confirmed, the detection of the settlement switch 15 is effective, and even when the settlement switch 15 is detected in such a state, the settlement of credit is effectively performed. That is, as long as the credit remains, regardless of the connection state between the card unit 100 and the payout control board 60, the credit can be settled effectively based on the detection of the settlement switch 15 at all times.

  FIG. 34 is a diagram illustrating an operation state when the connection between the game control board 40 and the payout control board 60 is disconnected.

  When the connection between the game control board 40 and the payout control board 60 is cut off and the game control board connection confirmation signal “on” cannot be detected (tg1), the payout control unit 61 always uses the loan communication process 1 as the type of the loan control process. Lending control is prohibited by selecting. Thereafter, when the connection between the game control board 40 and the payout control board 60 is restored and the game control board connection confirmation signal on is detected (tg2), the payout control unit 61 permits the prohibited loan control.

  As described above, in the slot machine 1 according to the present embodiment, in a game in which a prize accompanied by a medal is awarded, the number of medals to be paid out is completed based on the occurrence of the prize, thereby executing the game. Since the setting of the bet amount for the next game is allowed even after the game is completed, it is possible to make the player surely recognize the payout of the number of medals according to the occurrence of the winning of the game. In addition, when a winning with a medal grant occurs during the execution of a medal payout based on a lending request from the card unit 100, the medal payout based on the lending request is interrupted and the medal payout based on the occurrence of the winning is made. Compared to the case of paying out medals based on the occurrence of winnings after the completion of paying out medals based on the lending request, since the setting of the number of bets for starting the next game immediately is permitted. The game can proceed promptly.

  In this embodiment, when a winning occurs during the execution of the lending operation, the lending operation is interrupted at that time, and the paying operation associated with the winning is executed. The lending operation is resumed. However, when a lending request is repeatedly made a plurality of times when the lending switch 13 is detected as in this embodiment, a winning is performed during the lending operation. When the lending operation is detected and the lending operation is completed, the lending operation based on the lending request is executed in preference to the lending operation based on the lending request, even if the lending request is detected again when the lending operation ends. After the payout operation is completed, a loan operation based on the loan request may be performed. Even in this case, the payout operation has priority over the loan operation, and the setting of the bet number for promptly starting the next game is performed. Not allowed Therefore, it is possible to proceed rapidly to the game.

  Further, in this embodiment, even when a lending request from the card unit 100 is detected during the execution of a medal payout based on the occurrence of a win, the medal payout based on the occurrence of a win is prioritized and the payout ends. Since the medal payout based on the lending request is executed and the payout based on the payout request is not interrupted by the lending request, the game can be further advanced more quickly.

  Also, in this embodiment, when a lending operation based on a lending request from the card unit 100 is started, EX is turned on to notify the card unit 100 that the lending operation has started, and a lending operation based on the lending request When the credit card is finished, EXS is turned off to notify the card unit 100 that the lending operation has been completed, and the EXS is kept on while the lending operation is interrupted due to winning. Therefore, even when the lending operation based on the lending request from the card unit 100 is interrupted, it is possible to prevent the card unit 100 from erroneously recognizing that the lending operation is completed.

  Further, in this embodiment, the medal payout operation is performed on the condition that the number of medals to be paid out is secured by the payout request, and the lending operation is performed on the condition that the number of medals to be paid out by the loan request is secured. In addition, even if a winning occurs and a payout request is detected during execution of the lending operation, the lending operation is not interrupted if the number of medals to be paid out is not secured by the payout request. Since either the payout based on the loan request or the payout based on the occurrence of the winning is surely performed, it is possible to prevent the medal from being unable to be paid out in the middle of each of these payouts.

  In this embodiment, the medal supply sensor 37 confirms both whether the number of medals to be paid out by the payout request is secured and whether the number of medals to be paid out by the lending request is secured. However, it may be possible to confirm whether the number of medals to be paid out by the payout request is secured or whether the number of medals to be paid out by the loan request is secured by separate sensors.

  Further, in the present embodiment, it is determined that the card unit 100 and the slot machine 1 are connected when a lending request is detected from the card unit 100, that is, when MRQ on is detected, that is, the card Since medals are lent on condition that the unit connection signal (VL) is detected to be on, the medals are lent even though the card unit 100 and the slot machine 1 are not normally connected. Can be prevented. In addition, when it is determined that the card unit 100 and the slot machine 1 are connected, the setting of the bet number is allowed and it is determined that the card unit 100 and the slot machine 1 are not connected. Since the setting of the bet number is invalidated and it becomes impossible to set the bet number in order to newly play a game, the connection between the card unit 100 and the slot machine 1 can be secured when the game is performed.

  Further, in this embodiment, when the bet number has already been set, it is possible to play the game for that amount regardless of whether or not the card unit 100 and the slot machine 1 are connected. In spite of the fact that medals have already been used to set the bet amount, the connection between the card unit 100 and the slot machine 1 is broken, and the game cannot be started. It is possible to prevent the player from being disadvantaged without the medal being returned to the player.

  Further, in this embodiment, when it is determined that the card unit 100 and the slot machine 1 are not connected, the flow of medals used for setting the number of bets is set on the flow path of medals inserted from the medal insertion slot 4. The return side channel 303 from which the medal returned to the player flows down from the intake side channel 302 provided with the first to third input sensors 31a to 31c to be detected is inserted. Since the medal is returned to the player without being used for setting the bet number, the bet number setting can be disabled.

  Further, when it is determined that the card unit 100 and the slot machine 1 are not connected, the flow path of medals inserted from the medal insertion slot 4 is only switched from the intake side channel 302 to the return side channel 303. In addition, the detection of the first to third insertion sensors 31a to 31c is invalidated, and the setting of the bet number based on the medal passage detection by the detection of medals by the first to third insertion sensors 31a to 31c is invalidated. It is possible to reliably disable the bet setting. Furthermore, after the flow path of the medal inserted from the medal insertion port 4 is switched from the intake side flow path 302 to the return side flow path 303, the flow is made to flow down the intake side flow path 302 side even if the flow path is switched. Since the detection of the first to third insertion sensors 31a to 31c is invalidated after a passage waiting time sufficient for the first to third insertion sensors 31a to 31c to detect the passage of the medal to be performed, the medals have a momentum. The detection of the medal will be invalidated, that is, the medal will not be returned and will not be used for setting the number of bets even though it has flowed down to the take-in channel 302 side. Can be prevented.

  Further, in this embodiment, the connection between the card unit 100 and the payout control board 60 is cut off in the state where the credit remains, and the game control unit 41 detects the off of the card unit connecting signal and Even if it is confirmed that the connection is not established, the detection of the settlement switch 15 is effective, and even when the settlement switch 15 is detected in such a state, the settlement of credits is performed effectively. That is, as long as the credit remains, regardless of the connection state between the card unit 100 and the payout control board 60, the credit can be settled effectively based on the detection of the settlement switch 15 at all times. It is possible to prevent the player from suffering a disadvantage because the credit cannot be settled.

  Further, in this embodiment, when it is determined that the card unit 100 and the slot machine 1 are not connected, an error code indicating that fact is displayed on the game auxiliary display 16 so that a connection error is notified. Thus, it can be easily recognized from the outside that the card unit 100 and the slot machine 1 are not connected.

  In the present embodiment, a connection error is reported by displaying an error code on the game auxiliary display 16, but from other notification means such as the liquid crystal display 51, the effect effect LED 52, and the speakers 53, 54. You may alert | report using audio | voice output etc.

  In the present embodiment, a game control board 40 for controlling the game and a payout control board 60 for controlling the payout and lending are provided separately, and the card unit 100 and the payout control board 60 are connected. The payout control unit 61 mounted on the payout control board 60 determines whether or not the card unit 100 and the slot machine 1 are connected, and a card unit connecting signal indicating the determination result is sent to the game control board 40. When the game control unit 41 that is output and mounted on the game control board 40 detects that the card unit connection signal indicating that the card unit 100 is not connected is detected from the payout control board 60, the betting amount is set. Is supposed to be disabled. For this reason, the game control board 40 that controls the game does not need to be directly connected to the card unit 100 outside the slot machine 1, so that an illegal signal is input from the outside to the game control board 40 and affects the game control. It can prevent giving.

  In this embodiment, the payout control unit 61 mounted on the payout control board 60 determines whether or not the card unit 100 and the slot machine 1 are connected, and a card unit connecting signal indicating the determination result is a game. Although output to the control board 40, the card unit connection signal (VL) indicating that the card unit 100 is normally connected is branched at the connection terminal board 70 or the payout control board 60. The payout control board 60 and the game control board 40 are input to both the payout control board 60 and the payout control board 61 and the game control board 41 on the game control board 40 are connected to the card unit 100 and the slot machine. 1 and the payout control unit 61 determines that the card unit 100 and the slot machine 1 are connected. The game control unit 41 invalidates the setting of the bet amount when it is determined that the card unit 100 and the slot machine 1 are not connected. In this way, the control load of the game control means can be distributed and reduced, and the game control unit 41 and the payout control unit 61 can reliably check whether the card unit 100 is connected. Can be determined.

  In addition, a game control board connection confirmation signal for confirming the connection with the game control board 40 on the payout control board 60 side is output from the game control board 40 to the payout control board 60. The payout control unit 61 mounted on the control board 60 detects that the VL indicating that the card unit 100 and the slot machine 1 are connected, and indicates that the game control board 40 is connected. On condition that the control board connection confirmation signal “on” is detected, the medals are lent according to the rent request from the card unit 100, so that the game control board 40 and the payout control board 60 are normally connected. It is possible to prevent medals from being lent out even though they are not connected.

  In this embodiment, the payout control board 60 outputs a payout control board connection confirmation signal for confirming the connection with the payout control board 60 on the game control board 40 side to the game control board 40. The game control unit 41 mounted on the game control board 40 outputs a settlement request or a payout request on condition that the game control board 41 is connected to the payout connection board 60. Even though 40 and the payout control board 60 are not normally connected, it is possible to prevent a payment request or a payout request from being made to the payout control board 60.

  In the present embodiment, the game control unit 41 mounted on the game control board 40 is enabled to set the bet amount even when it is not connected to the payout connection board 60. Based on the payout control board connection confirmation signal, it is determined whether or not it is connected to the payout control board 60, the bet number setting is validated on the condition that it is determined that it is connected to the payout control board 60, and the payout is made If it is determined that the connection board 60 is not connected, the bet number setting may be invalidated, and the game control board 40 and the payout control board 60 are normally connected. It is possible to prevent the game from proceeding due to the bet amount being set even though it is not.

  Next, a gaming machine according to a second embodiment to which the present invention is applied will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the slot machine, which is a gaming machine of the present embodiment, has almost the same configuration and control contents as the slot machine 1 of the first embodiment described above, and therefore, differences will be mainly described here.

  FIG. 35 is a block diagram showing an outline of the configuration of the slot machine of the present embodiment.

  In this embodiment, a payout payout counter 1 and a payout payout counter 2 are provided in a part of the RAM area of the payout control unit 61 in addition to the payout counter described above. When a payout request is detected from the control unit 41, the value read from the payout number signal, that is, the number of medals to be paid out due to the occurrence of a win is stored in the payout payout counter 1 and the payout counter, and the game is executed during the lending operation. When a payout request is detected from the control unit 41, values read from the payout number signal are stored in the payout payout counter 1 and the payout payout counter 2.

  Of these, the value of the payout payout counter 1 is 1 each time the payout sensor 33 detects the payout of medals, regardless of whether the payout operation is being executed or the lending operation is being executed. When the value of the payout payout counter 1 becomes 0, the in-operation signal is turned off and the payout operation based on the payout request to the game control unit 41 is completed. Is to be notified.

  Further, the value of the payout payout counter 2 is not subtracted even when the payout sensor 33 detects the payout of medals during the execution of the lending operation, and when the value of the payout counter becomes 0, that is, the lending operation is completed. At this point, it is stored in the payout counter.

  In this embodiment, when a payout request is detected from the game control unit 41 except during the execution of the lending operation, the value read from the payout number signal is stored in the payout payout counter 1 and the payout counter, and the lending operation is performed. When a payout request is detected from the game control unit 41 during execution, the value read from the payout number signal is stored in the payout payout counter 1 and the payout payout counter 2, but the lending operation is executed. Regardless of whether it is in the middle or not, when a payout request is detected from the game control unit 41, the value read from the payout number signal is stored in both the payout payout counter 1 and the payout payout counter 2, and is always paid out for winning. The payout operation may be performed based on the value of the counter 2.

  FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing the detailed control contents of the main board communication process 2 executed by the payout control unit 61 of this embodiment in the step Sh3 shown in FIG.

  In the main board communication process 2, first, it is checked whether or not the game control board connection confirmation signal “on” is detected, that is, whether or not the game control board connection confirmation signal is connected to the game control board 40 (Su1). If the signal on is not detected, the main board communication process selection flag is set to 0 (Su2), and the process returns to the original process. Also, if the game control board connection confirmation signal on is detected in the step of Su1, the value indicated by the payout number signal is read (Su3), whether or not EXS is on, that is, a lending request from the card unit 100. It is confirmed whether or not the lending control based on is executed (Su4), and if EXS is on, the value of the payout number signal is stored in both the payout payout counter 1 and the payout payout counter 2 (Su5). Further, if EXS is not on in the step of Su4, the value of the payout number signal is stored in the payout counter (Su6). Next, the operating signal is turned on (Su7). Then, the main board communication process selection flag is set to 2 (Su8), and the process returns to the original process.

  FIG. 37 is a flowchart showing detailed control contents of the main board communication processing 3 executed in the step Sh4 shown in FIG. 18 by the payout control unit 61 of this embodiment.

  In the main board communication process 3, first, it is checked whether or not the game control board connection confirmation signal “on” is detected, that is, whether or not the game control board connection confirmation signal is connected to the game control board 40 (Sv1). If the signal on is not detected, the in-operation signal is turned off (Sv3), the main board communication process selection flag is set to 0 (Sv4), and the process returns to the original process. If the game control board connection confirmation signal on is detected in step Sv1, whether or not the value of the payout payout counter 1 is 0, that is, whether or not the payout of the number of medals requested by the payout request has been completed. If the value of the payout payout counter 1 is 0, the in-operation signal is turned off (Sv3), the main board communication processing selection flag is set to 0 (Sv4), and the original processing Return to. If the value of the winning payout counter 1 is not 0 in step Sv2, the process returns to the original process.

  FIG. 38 is a flowchart showing detailed control contents of the lending communication processing 4 executed in the step Sm5 shown in FIG. 22 by the payout control unit 61 of this embodiment.

  In the lending communication process 4, first, it is confirmed whether or not VL on is detected, that is, whether or not it is connected to the card unit 100 (Sw1). If VL on is not detected, the lending process is selected. The flag is set to 0 (Sw2), and the process returns to the original process. In addition, if VL on is detected in the step of Sw1, it is confirmed whether or not the game control board connection confirmation signal on is detected, that is, whether or not the game control board 40 is connected (Sw3). If the game control board connection confirmation signal “on” is not detected, the lending process selection flag is set to 0 (Sw2), and the process returns to the original process. Further, if the game control board connection confirmation signal on is detected in the step of Sw3, whether or not MRDY is on, that is, whether or not the card unit 100 has notified that the lending operation has been performed. (Sw4) and if MRDY on is not detected, the lending process selection flag is set to 0 (Sw2), and the process returns to the original process. If the MRDY on is detected in the step of Sw4, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the payout counter is 0, that is, whether or not the payout of medals has been completed (Sw5), and the value of the payout counter is 0. If not, return to the original process. If the value of the payout counter is 0 in the step of Sw5, EXS is turned off to notify the completion of the lending operation (Sw6), the lending process selection flag is set to 2 (Sw7), and the process returns to the original process.

  FIG. 39 is a flowchart showing detailed control contents of the payout control process executed by the payout control unit 61 of this embodiment in the step Sf5 shown in FIG.

  In the payout control process, first, it is confirmed whether or not the hopper motor 32 is being driven, that is, whether or not a medal payout operation is being performed in accordance with payout control, lending control, or the like (Sx1). Then, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the payout counter is 0, that is, whether or not there are medals that have not been paid out yet (Sx2). If the value of the payout counter is not 0, the driving state of the hopper motor 32 is changed. Set to on (Sx3). If the value of the payout counter is 0 in step Sx2, whether or not the value of the payout payout counter 2 is 0, that is, a payout request is detected during the lending operation, and the value read from the payout number signal at that time is Whether the value is stored or not is checked (Sx4). If the value of the payout payout counter 2 is not 0, the value of the payout payout counter 2 is stored in the payout counter (Sx5). The value is set to 0 (Sx6). If the hopper motor 32 is being driven in step Sx1, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the payout counter is 0, that is, whether or not there are medals that have not been paid out (Sx7). If the value is 0, the driving state of the hopper motor 32 is set to off (Sx8). Next, it is confirmed whether or not the payout sensor 33 has changed from on to off, that is, whether or not the payout of medals has been detected (Sx9). If the payout sensor 33 has not changed from on to off, Returning to the processing, if the payout sensor 33 is changed from on to off, 1 is subtracted from the value of the payout counter (Sx10), and 1 is subtracted from the value of the payout payout counter 1 (Sx11). Return to processing.

  FIG. 40 is a timing chart showing an operation state when a winning occurs during execution of the lending operation in the present embodiment.

  When the payout control unit 61 detects that the payout request signal is on during the lending operation, the value of the payout number signal is stored in the payout payout counter 1 and the payout payout counter 2 respectively, and the in-operation signal is turned on and based on the payout request. The game control unit 41 is notified of the start of the medal payout operation (th1). When the lending operation is completed (th2), the value of the winning payout counter 2 is moved to the payout counter and stored in the payout counter even when the MRQ is detected again. The payout operation of paying out the number of medals requested by the payout request is started (th3). Even before the payout operation is completed, when the value stored in the payout payout counter 1 becomes 0, that is, the number of medals paid out by the payout operation and the payout operation thereafter. When the total number of medals reaches the number requested by the payout request, the in-operation signal is turned off to notify the game control unit 41 of the end of the medal payout operation based on the payout request (th4). When the payout operation is completed (th5), EXS is turned on to notify the card unit 100 of the start of the medal lending operation based on MRQ (th6). A lending operation for lending medals of the number of lending units is started (th7).

  In this embodiment, even when a winning occurs during the execution of the lending operation and MRDY is turned on after the lending operation is completed, there is a possibility that the lending request may be detected again. The payout operation is preferentially executed based on the above, but a winning occurs during the execution of the lending operation, and after the lending operation is completed, the MRDY on is detected and the lending request is detected again. When the MRDY on is detected, the lending operation based on the lending request is preferentially executed, and after the MRDY off is detected, the payout operation is executed. Also good.

  FIG. 41 is a timing chart showing a modified example of the operation status when a winning occurs during execution of the lending operation in the present embodiment.

  In this modified example, when the payout control unit 61 detects that the payout request signal is on during the lending operation, the value of the payout number signal is stored in the payout payout counter 1 and the payout payout counter 2 respectively, and the in-operation signal is turned on. The start of the medal payout operation based on the payout request is notified to the game control unit 41 (ti1). Then, when the value stored in the winning payout counter 1 becomes 0 during execution of the lending operation, that is, when the number of medals paid out by the lending operation reaches the number requested by the payout request. The game control unit 41 is notified of the end of the medal payout operation based on the payout request with the medium signal off (ti2). When the MRDY off is detected after the lending operation is finished (ti3), the value of the payout payout counter 2 is moved to the payout counter and requested by the number stored in the payout counter, that is, the payout request. A payout operation for paying out a predetermined number of medals is started (ti4). If the value stored in the payout payout counter 1 does not become 0 during the lending operation and becomes 0 during the subsequent payout operation, the in-operation signal is set to off at that time. The game control unit 41 is notified of the end of the medal payout operation based on the payout request.

  As described above, in the slot machine according to the present embodiment, when a payout accompanied by a medal grant occurs during the execution of a medal payout based on the lending request from the card unit 100, and the payout request is detected, the payout Payout of medals based on request after completion of payout of medals based on loan request. After detecting payout request, payout request is required regardless of payout based on payout request or payout based on loan request. When the number of medals are paid out, the in-operation signal is turned off, the game control unit 41 is notified that the number of medals requested by the payout request has been completed, and the game is executed based on the notification. Since the setting of the number of bets for the next game is permitted after the completion of the payout, the payout of medals based on the payout request made after the payout of medals based on the loan request is completed. Compared with the case where operation signal becomes off, game can proceed rapidly.

  In this embodiment, even when a winning occurs during the execution of the lending operation and MRDY is turned on after the lending operation is completed, there is a possibility that the lending request may be detected again. The payout operation is preferentially executed based on the above, but a winning occurs during the execution of the lending operation, and after the lending operation is completed, the MRDY on is detected and the lending request is detected again. When the MRDY on is detected, the lending operation based on the lending request is preferentially executed, and after the MRDY off is detected, the payout operation is executed. Even in this case, after detecting the payout request, the operation signal is output when the number of medals required by the payout request is paid out regardless of whether the payout is based on the payout request or the payout based on the loan request. Off and request for withdrawal The game control unit 41 is notified that the requested number of medals has been paid out, and the setting of the bet number for the next game is allowed based on the notification, and the game is quickly executed. Can proceed.

  In this embodiment, when a payout request is detected from the game control unit 41 in a part of the RAM area of the payout control unit 61 in addition to the above-described payout counter, regardless of whether or not the lending operation is being executed. In addition, when the payout request is detected from the game control unit 41 during the execution of the lending operation and the payout payout counter 1 in which the number of medals requested for payout is stored, the payout request requests the payout. A payout payout counter 2 for storing the number of medals, and the value of the payout payout counter 1 among them is the payout of medals regardless of payout based on payout operation or payout based on lending operation. Every time it is detected, it is decremented by 1. When the value of the payout payout counter 1 becomes 0, the in-operation signal is turned off, and the game control unit 41 is notified that the payout operation based on the payout request has ended. Because It is possible to perform the notification at an accurate timing. When the value of the winning payout counter 2 is not 0 after the lending operation is completed, that is, when a payout request is detected during execution of the lending operation, the value of the winning payout counter 2 is stored in the payout counter, and the payout operation is performed. Thus, the payout of the number of medals required by the payout request can be completed with certainty.

  As mentioned above, although the Example of this invention has been described based on drawing, this invention is not limited to this Example, Even if there is a change or addition in the range which does not deviate from the main point of this invention, it is in this invention. Needless to say, it is included.

  For example, in the above-described embodiment, an example in which medals are applied as game media has been described, but other game media such as pachinko balls may be applied as game media.

  In the above embodiment, the game control board 40 for controlling the game and the payout control board 60 for controlling the payout and lending are provided separately, and the payout control board 60 and the card unit 100 are connected via the connection terminal board 70. The game control unit 41 mounted on the game control board 40 controls the payout and the lending in addition to the game control, and the game control board 60 and the card unit 100 are connected directly or connected. You may make it connect via the terminal board 70 grade | etc.,.

  In the embodiment, a medal is inserted from the medal insertion slot 4, and the passage of the medal is detected by the first to third insertion sensors 31a to 31c, or one credit BET switch 5 or MAXBET with the credit remaining. Although it is possible to set the bet number by operating the switch 6, the bet number can be set only by inserting medals, or the bet number can be set using only credits. good. In the former case, when the connection between the card unit 100 and the slot machine 1 is cut off, the medal flow path inserted from the medal slot 4 is switched from the intake side flow path 302 to the return side flow path 303. What is necessary is just to invalidate the setting of the number of bets based on the insertion of medals. In the latter case, the setting of the bet number using credits may be invalidated by invalidating the detection of the single BET switch 5 or the MAX BET switch 6. In addition, for example, the player operates a take-in device for a game medium such as a pachinko ball stored in the storage unit by an operation of the take-in operation unit by a player, and sets the bet number using the game medium taken along with this. The present invention may be applied to a gaming machine. In this case, it is only necessary to invalidate the detection of the operation of the take-in operation unit.

  In the embodiment, the card unit 100 is rented to accept a prepaid card storing a valuable value as a storage medium and to allow a gaming machine to lend a medal using the valuable value read from the received prepaid card. Although it is applied as a device, for example, it accepts money, and a storage medium provided in the device with a valuable value based on the received money amount (for example, a recording medium or RAM enclosed so that a player cannot take it out) The lending device may be applied to allow the gaming machine to lend medals using the valuable value stored in the storage medium in the device.

  In the above embodiment, a slot machine is applied as a gaming machine. However, any gaming machine that sets a wager number and plays a game can be applied regardless of the type. For example, a sparrow ball gaming machine It can also be applied to game machines and arrange ball machines.

  Each element in the embodiment corresponds to the present invention as follows.

Claim 1 of the present invention, lending request storage medium value for available game in a game by using a value stored in (prepaid card) (medal): lending apparatus (card unit for transmitting (MRQ on) 100), the game can be started by setting a predetermined number of bets for one game using the gaming value, and a plurality of types of identification information ( The display result of the variable display device (reels 2L, 2C, 2R) capable of variably displaying the symbol) is derived, so that one game is completed, and a winning can be generated according to the display result of the variable display device. A gaming machine (slot machine 1),
Main control means (game control board 40) for controlling the game;
Game medium payout means (hopper motor 32) for paying out the game medium;
Sub-control means (payout control board 60) connected to the main control means and the lending device and controlling the game medium payout means;
With
The main control means pays out based on the grant display result when the grant display result accompanied by the grant of the game medium is derived as the display result of the variable display device (when a prize accompanied by the grant of a medal occurs). A payout request transmitting means {game control unit 41 (Sd9, Sd10 in payout processing) that sends a payout request (payout request signal: on, payout number signal) requesting payout of the number of game media to be paid out to the sub-control means. )},
The sub-control means includes
When the payout request is received, the assigned game medium payout control means {payout control unit 61 (main board communication) performs payout control for causing the game medium payout means to pay out the number of game media required by the payout request. Processing, payout control processing)}
Payout completion information transmitting means {payout control section 61 (mainly a payout control section 61 (main)) that sends out payout completion information (operation signal: off) indicating that payout of the number of game media requested by the payout request has been completed. Sk3)} in substrate communication processing 3;
Lending device connection determination means {payout control unit 61 (connection confirmation processing) for determining whether or not the lending device is connected based on the connection confirmation information {card unit connection signal (VL)} transmitted from the lending device }When,
Connection determination information transmitting means {delivery control section 61 (Sg2, in connection confirmation processing, Sg2, in connection confirmation processing) that transmits connection determination information (card unit connection signal) that can specify the determination result of the lending device connection determination means Sg3)},
When the lending request is received, the number of game media requested by the lending request is determined to be connected to the lending device by the lending device connection determining unit. Lending game medium payout control means {payout control unit 61 (lending control process, payout control process)} for carrying out lending control for paying out,
Including
The main control means receives connection determination information (card unit connecting signal: on) indicating that it is determined that the game is not being executed and the sub-control means is connected to the lending device. A bet number setting permission means {game control unit 41 (Sb4 to Sb18 in the BET process)} for allowing the setting of the bet number on the condition that
The betting number setting permission means allows the setting of the betting number on the assumption that the execution of the game is completed by receiving the payout completion information from the sub-control means when the giving display result is derived. ,
When the payout request is received during execution of the lending control by the lending game medium payout control means, the grant game medium payout control means is configured to perform payout control based on the payout request after the lending control being executed is completed. And
After receiving the payout request, the payout completion information transmitting means pays out by the game medium payout means the number of game media required by the payout request regardless of whether the payout is payout by the payout control or the payout by the lending control. When issued, the payout completion information is transmitted to the main control means.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, the main control means (game control board 40) is configured such that when the game start condition is satisfied when the predetermined number of bets has already been set (the start switch 7 is detected). ) Regardless of whether or not the connection determination information (card unit connection signal) received from the sub-control means (payout control board 60) indicates that it is determined to be connected to the lending device. Game start means {game control unit 41 (Sb2, Sb18, Sb28 in BET processing)}.

Claim 3 of the present invention is a lending device (card unit) for transmitting a lending request (MRQ: on) of a gaming value (medal) that can be used for a game using a valuable value stored in a storage medium (prepaid card). 100), the game can be started by setting a predetermined number of bets for one game using the gaming value, and a plurality of types of identification information ( The display result of the variable display device (reels 2L, 2C, 2R) capable of variably displaying the symbol) is derived, so that one game is completed, and a winning can be generated according to the display result of the variable display device. A gaming machine (slot machine 1),
Main control means (game control board 40) for controlling the game;
Game medium payout means (hopper motor 32) for paying out the game medium;
Sub-control means (payout control board 60) connected to the main control means and the lending device and controlling the game medium payout means;
With
The main control means includes
The number of game media to be paid out based on the grant display result when the grant display result accompanied by the grant of the game medium is derived as the display result of the variable display device (when a winning with the grant of a medal occurs) A payout request transmitting means {game control unit 41 (Sd9, Sd10 in payout processing)} for sending a payout request (payout request signal: on, payout number signal) to the sub-control means;
First lending device connection determining means {game control unit 41 (VL) for determining whether or not the lending device is connected based on the connection confirmation information {card unit connection signal (VL)} transmitted from the lending device. To determine whether or not is detected)}
Including
The sub-control means includes
When the payout request is received, the assigned game medium payout control means {payout control unit 61 (main board communication) performs payout control for causing the game medium payout means to pay out the number of game media required by the payout request. Processing, payout control processing)}
Payout completion information transmitting means {payout control section 61 (mainly a payout control section 61 (main)) that sends out payout completion information (operation signal: off) indicating that payout of the number of game media requested by the payout request has been completed. Sk3)} in substrate communication processing 3;
A second lending device connection determining means {dispensing control unit 61 (processing for determining whether or not VL is detected)} for determining whether or not the lending device is connected based on the connection confirmation information;
When the lending request is received, the number of game media requested by the lending request is determined on the condition that the second lending device connection determining means determines that the lending device is connected. Lending game medium payout control means {payout control unit 61 (lending control process, payout control process)} for carrying out lending control for paying out by the medium payout means;
Including
The main control means allows the setting of the bet amount on condition that the game is not being executed and the first lending apparatus connection determining means determines that the game apparatus is connected to the lending apparatus. Bet number setting permission means {game control unit 41 (Sb4 to Sb18 in BET processing)},
The betting number setting permission means allows the setting of the betting number on the assumption that the execution of the game is completed by receiving the payout completion information from the sub-control means when the giving display result is derived. ,
When the payout request is received during execution of the lending control by the lending game medium payout control means, the grant game medium payout control means is configured to perform payout control based on the payout request after the lending control being executed is completed. And
After receiving the payout request, the payout completion information transmitting means pays out by the game medium payout means the number of game media required by the payout request regardless of whether the payout is payout by the payout control or the payout by the lending control. When issued, the payout completion information is transmitted to the main control means.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the main control means (game control board 40) is configured such that the game start condition is satisfied when the predetermined number of bets has already been set (the start switch 7 is detected). Game start means {game control section) for starting the game regardless of the determination result of the first lending device connection determination means {game control section 41 (processing for determining whether or not VL is detected)} 41 (Sb2, Sb18, Sb28 in the BET process)}.

Claim 5 of the present invention comprises payout detection means (payout sensor 33) for detecting payout of a game medium (medal) by the game medium payout means (hopper motor 32).
The sub-control means (payout control board 60)
First payout request number storage means (winning payout counter 1) for storing the number requested by the payout request (payout request signal: on, payout number signal) regardless of whether or not the lending control is being executed; ,
A second payout request number storage unit (winning payout counter 2) for storing the number requested by the payout request during execution of the lending control;
Regardless of whether the payout is based on the payout control or the payout based on the lending control, when the payout detecting means detects the payout of the game medium, the number stored in the first payout request number storage means is decremented by 1. Subtraction means {payout control unit 61 (Sx11 in the payout control process)},
Further including
The payout completion information transmission means {payout control unit 61 (Sk3 in main board communication processing 3)} receives the payout request (payout request signal: on, payout number signal) and then stores the first payout request number storage. When the number stored in the means becomes zero, it is determined that the number of game media requested by the lending request has been paid out by the game medium payout means, and the payout completion information is sent to the main control means (game To the control board 40)
The granted game medium payout control means {payout control unit 61 (main board communication process, payout control process)} receives the payout request during execution of the loan control, and executes the loan control after executing the loan control. The payout control is performed based on the number stored in the payout request number storage unit 2.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the lending game medium payout control means {the payout control unit 61 (lending control process, payout control process)} is the given game medium payout control means {the payout control part 61 (main board communication process, When the lending request (MRQ: on) is received during the payout control by the payout control process)}, the payout control based on the loan request is performed after the payout control being executed is completed.

It is a front view of a slot machine which is a gaming machine to which the present invention is applied. (A) is sectional drawing which shows the structure of a medal selector, (b) is AA sectional drawing of (a). (A) is sectional drawing which shows the structure of a medal selector, (b) is BB sectional drawing of (a). It is a block diagram which shows the structure of a slot machine and a card unit. It is a figure which shows the signal exchanged between a game control board, a payout control board, and a payout control board and a card unit. It is a flowchart which shows the control content of the game control part mounted in the game control board of a slot machine. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed control content of the BET process shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed control content of the BET process shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed control content of the BET process shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed control content of the BET process shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed control content of the BET process shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed control content of the BET process shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed control content of the adjustment process shown in FIG.7 and FIG.8. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed control content of the payout process shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the control content which the payout control part mounted in the payout control board of a slot machine performs with power-on. It is a flowchart which shows the control content of the interruption process performed periodically after the payment control part mounted in the payment control board of a slot machine powers on. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed control content of the switch detection process shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed control content of the main board | substrate communication process shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed control content of the main board | substrate communication process 1 shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed control content of the main board | substrate communication process 2 shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed control content of the main board | substrate communication process 3 shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed control content of the lending control process shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed control content of the lending communication process 1 shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed control content of the lending communication process 2 shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed control content of the lending communication process 3 shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed control content of the lending communication process 4 shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed control content of the payout control process shown in FIG. It is a timing chart which shows the operation | movement condition when a winning occurs or when a payment process is performed. It is a timing chart which shows the operation | movement condition when a card unit performs a lending process in connection with the detection of a lending switch. It is a timing chart which shows the operation | movement condition when a prize generate | occur | produces during execution of a lending operation | movement. It is a timing chart which shows the modification of the operation | movement condition in case a prize generate | occur | produces during execution of lending operation | movement. It is a timing chart which shows the operation | movement condition when a lending process is performed by the card unit in connection with detection of a lending switch during execution of a payout operation. It is a figure which shows the operation | movement condition at the time of the connection between a card unit and a payment control board being cut off during BET processing. It is a figure which shows the operation | movement condition when the connection of a game control board and a payout control board is cut off. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an outline of a configuration of a slot machine according to a second embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed control content of the main board | substrate communication process 2 in Example 2. FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed control content of the main board | substrate communication process 3 in Example 2. FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed control content of the lending communication process 4 in Example 2. FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed control content of the payout control process in Example 2. FIG. 10 is a timing chart illustrating an operation state when a winning occurs during execution of a lending operation in the second embodiment. FIG. 10 is a timing chart illustrating a modified example of an operation state when a winning occurs during execution of a lending operation in the second embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

1 slot machine 2L, 2C, 2R reel 7 start switch 40 game control board 41 game control part 60 payout control board 61 payout control part 100 card unit

Claims (6)

A lending device is provided corresponding to a lending device that transmits a lending request for a game medium that can be used for a game using the valuable value stored in the storage medium, and a predetermined number of bets are given to one game using the game medium. A game can be started by setting, and a display result of a variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information each identifiable is derived, so that one game is completed, and the variable display device A gaming machine in which a winning can be generated according to a display result,
Main control means for controlling the game;
Game medium payout means for paying out the game medium;
Sub-control means connected to the main control means and the lending device, and for controlling the game medium payout means;
With
The main control means is a payout unit that requests the payout of the number of game media to be paid out based on the grant display result when the grant display result accompanied by the grant of the game medium is derived as the display result of the variable display device. A payout request transmitting means for transmitting a request to the sub-control means;
The sub-control means includes
Grant game medium payout control means for performing payout control for causing the game medium payout means to pay out the number of game media requested by the payout request when the payout request is received;
A payout completion information transmitting means for sending payout completion information indicating that payout of the number of game media requested by the payout request has been completed to the main control means;
Lending device connection determination means for determining whether or not the lending device is connected based on connection confirmation information transmitted from the lending device;
Connection determination information transmitting means for transmitting connection determination information capable of specifying the determination result of the lending device connection determination means to the main control means;
When the lending request is received, the number of game media requested by the lending request is determined to be connected to the lending device by the lending device connection determining unit. Lending game medium payout control means for carrying out lending control for paying out by,
Including
The main control means receives the connection determination information indicating that it is determined that the game is not being executed and is connected to the lending device from the sub-control means. A bet number setting permission means for allowing the setting of
The betting number setting permission means allows the setting of the betting number on the assumption that the execution of the game is completed by receiving the payout completion information from the sub-control means when the giving display result is derived. ,
When the payout request is received during execution of the lending control by the lending game medium payout control means, the grant game medium payout control means is configured to perform payout control based on the payout request after the lending control being executed is completed. And
After receiving the payout request, the payout completion information transmitting means pays out by the game medium payout means the number of game media required by the payout request regardless of whether the payout is payout by the payout control or the payout by the lending control. When issued, the payout completion information is transmitted to the main control means.
A gaming machine characterized by that. The main control means is configured such that the connection determination information received from the sub-control means is connected to the lending device when a game start condition is satisfied with the predetermined number of bets already set. A game starting means for starting the game regardless of whether or not the determination is made;
The gaming machine according to claim 1 . A lending device is provided corresponding to a lending device that transmits a lending request for a game medium that can be used for a game using the valuable value stored in the storage medium, and a predetermined number of bets are given to one game using the game medium. A game can be started by setting, and a display result of a variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information each identifiable is derived, so that one game is completed, and the variable display device A gaming machine in which a winning can be generated according to a display result,
Main control means for controlling the game;
Game medium payout means for paying out the game medium;
Sub-control means connected to the main control means and the lending device, and for controlling the game medium payout means;
With
The main control means includes
When the display result of the variable display device is derived as the display result of the game medium, the sub-control unit issues a payout request for paying out the number of game media to be paid out based on the grant display result. A payout request transmitting means for transmitting to
First lending device connection determining means for determining whether or not the lending device is connected based on connection confirmation information transmitted from the lending device;
Including
The sub-control means includes
Grant game medium payout control means for performing payout control for causing the game medium payout means to pay out the number of game media requested by the payout request when the payout request is received;
A payout completion information transmitting means for sending payout completion information indicating that payout of the number of game media requested by the payout request has been completed to the main control means;
Second lending device connection determining means for determining whether or not the lending device is connected based on the connection confirmation information;
When the lending request is received, the number of game media requested by the lending request is determined on the condition that the second lending device connection determining means determines that the lending device is connected. Lending game medium payout control means for carrying out lending control for letting out by the medium payout means,
Including
The main control means allows the setting of the bet amount on condition that the game is not being executed and the first lending apparatus connection determining means determines that the game apparatus is connected to the lending apparatus. And further comprising a bet number setting permission means,
The betting number setting permission means allows the setting of the betting number on the assumption that the execution of the game is completed by receiving the payout completion information from the sub-control means when the giving display result is derived. ,
When the payout request is received during execution of the lending control by the lending game medium payout control means, the grant game medium payout control means is configured to perform payout control based on the payout request after the lending control being executed is completed. And
After receiving the payout request, the payout completion information transmitting means pays out by the game medium payout means the number of game media required by the payout request regardless of whether the payout is payout by the payout control or the payout by the lending control. When issued, the payout completion information is transmitted to the main control means.
A gaming machine characterized by that. The main control means starts the game regardless of the determination result of the first lending device connection determination means when the game start condition is satisfied when the predetermined number of bets is already set. Comprising a starting means,
The gaming machine according to claim 3 . A payout detecting means for detecting payout of game media by the game medium payout means;
The sub-control means includes
Regardless of whether or not the lending control is being executed, first payout request number storage means for storing the number requested by the payout request;
A second payout request number storage means for storing a number required by the payout request during execution of the lending control;
Regardless of whether the payout is based on the payout control or the payout based on the lending control, when the payout detecting means detects the payout of the game medium, the number stored in the first payout request number storage means is decremented by 1. Subtracting means;
Further including
The payout completion information transmitting means receives the payout request, and when the number stored in the first payout request number storage means becomes 0, the number of game media requested by the loan request is It is determined that the game medium payout means has been paid out, and the payout completion information is transmitted to the main control means,
When the payout request is received during execution of the lending control, the granted game medium payout control means is based on the number stored in the second payout request number storage means after execution of the lending control. Performing the payout control;
The slot machine as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4. When the lending game medium payout control means receives the lending request during execution of the payout control by the granted game medium payout control means, the lending control based on the lending request is completed after the payout control being executed is completed. I do,
The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5 .

Images