JP4693605B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine in which a predetermined restriction is provided on the start time of a game in relation to the previous game.

In this type of gaming machine, for example, a slot machine, the next game is started when a predetermined time has not elapsed even after one game is finished so that the player cannot insert excessive medals at a certain time. I can't do that. For this reason, even if an operation switch such as a start switch or a stop switch is operated before a predetermined time elapses, the signal is invalidated.
On the other hand, since a player who wants to start the next game quickly hits the operation switch many times even though the operation signal is invalid, there is a problem that the consumption of the switches becomes intense. In order to solve this problem, an invention that absorbs an impact when the bet button is pressed (see Patent Document 1) or an invention that physically restricts the stop button from being pressed (see Patent Document 2) Has been devised.
JP 2004-113477 A Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2005-245592

However, in the invention described in Patent Document 1, it is not possible to urge the player not to repeatedly hit the bet switch. In the invention described in Patent Document 2, the player tries to forcefully press the switch in the fixed state. There is a risk of damage.
Accordingly, each invention described in each claim focuses on a bet switch that is first operated when starting a game, and has the following objects in order to determine the above problems.
In other words, the invention according to claim 1 provides a gaming machine capable of preventing a player from hitting continuously and making it possible to effectively prevent breakage of the switch by making it impossible to continuously press the bet switch for a certain period during the game. The purpose is to do. The invention according to claim 2 is intended to prevent repeated betting of the bet switch during a predetermined period in which the execution of the game is restricted from the execution of one game to the start of the next game. The invention described in claim 3 is intended to prevent repeated betting of the bet switch after the bet operation has been accepted effectively until the next game can be bet.

The present invention has been made to achieve the above-described object, and features of the present invention will be described below with reference to embodiments of the invention shown in the drawings.
In addition, the code | symbol in parenthesis shows the code | symbol used in embodiment of invention, and does not limit the technical scope of this invention.
(Feature point)
(Claim 1)
The invention described in claim 1 is characterized by the following points.
That is, the invention according to claim 1 is a game medium input port (medal input port 34) and a game medium detection device (medal sensor 38) for detecting a game medium input from the game medium input port (34). And a stored game medium display unit (credit display unit 35B) for displaying up to a certain number as the number of stored game media based on the detection signal of the game medium detection device (38), and a plurality of symbols on the surface The displayed plurality of rotating reels (20), a start switch (50) for starting rotation of the plurality of rotating reels (20), and the rotating reel (20) being rotated are individually stopped. A stop switch (60), and a bet switch (40) for causing the display of the stored game medium display unit (35B) to be displayed by subtracting a predetermined number by pressing, and treating the same number of game media as the subtraction value. A game medium input or The operation of the start switch (50) is enabled by pressing the bet switch (40), and the symbols of the plurality of rotating reels (20) are stopped in a predetermined manner by the operation of the stop switch (60). It relates to a gaming machine formed so as to be awarded when it can be won.

The gaming machine according to the present invention is a gaming machine that plays a game by inserting gaming media, such as a slot machine or a parrot gaming machine. Here, the “game medium” includes medals, game balls (pachinko balls), coins, and the like used for games. In addition to the above configuration, the gaming machine may have a payout device (hopper unit 5) for storing and paying out game media and a control device (4) for controlling the operation of the gaming machine. Good.
The gaming machine according to the present invention is formed so as to be capable of so-called “credit”, and stores a larger number of gaming media in advance in the gaming machine than the input gaming media necessary for playing the game. Can do. It is the stored game medium display unit, that is, the credit display unit (35B) that displays the number of game media that have been input to the gaming machine in advance, in order to play the number of game media that has been previously input to the gaming machine. The bet switch (40) is used by the player.

  Further, in the present invention, the bet switch (40) is moved to the pressing position when pressed, and returns to the protruding position when the pressing force is released, and the moving body (42). ) At the pressing position and at least a pressing and fixing device (pressing and fixing device 10) for maintaining the pressing state of the switch. After the predetermined inoperable period starts, the pressing and fixing device (10 ) Allows the moving body (42) to move to the pressing position and prevents the moving body (42) at the pressing position from returning to the protruding position. The device (10) is formed so as not to obstruct the movement of the moving body.

The moving body (42) is urged in the protruding direction by, for example, a spring, and the operation of the bet switch (40) can be detected by detecting the movement of the moving body (42).
Here, "the pressing and fixing device (10) allows the movement to the pressing position and prevents the moving body (42) at the pressing position from returning to the protruding position" means that the pressing and fixing device (10) is working. In other words, once the switch is pressed, it is formed so that it does not return to the original protruding position.Specifically, for example, the protrusion that can be moved in and out by the operation of the solenoid (11) in the pressing and fixing device (10). (Moving prevention rod 12), while the moving body (42) is provided with an elastic locking portion capable of locking the movement in the protruding direction, and the protrusion (12) is provided on the moving body (42). When the moving body (42) is pressed while projecting toward the front, the locking portion that comes into contact with the protrusion (12) is elastically deformed and moves to the pressing position. The movable body (42) may be formed so as to be engaged with (12) and fixed at the pressing position.

Further, here, “does not inhibit the movement of the moving body (42)” means that the movement of the moving body (42) from the protruding position to the pressing position and the movement from the pressing position to the protruding position are not inhibited. .
The “inoperable period” is a period set in advance for causing the pressing and fixing device (10) to function. For example, the time until the previous game ends or the rotation reel (20) is determined. It can be set as a so-called wait time until high speed rotation is achieved. Conditions for starting and ending the period can be set as appropriate, but it is preferable to select a period during the game in which the bet switch (40) is easily hit.
(Function)
In the present invention, the pressing and fixing device (10) operates from the start of the inoperable period until the end of the inoperable period. Therefore, if the bet switch (40) is pressed during the inoperable period, the bet switch (40) remains fixed at the pressed position and does not return to the original protruding position. This makes the player feel uncomfortable and makes it difficult for the player to press the switch in the pressed state, so that the player can hesitate to hit the switch repeatedly, and as a result, the bet switch (40) can be prevented from being damaged.

After the inoperable period, the pressing and fixing device (10) stops operating and the bet switch (40) is released, so that the bet switch (40) automatically returns to the original protruding position.
In the present invention, it does not matter whether the handling of the pressing operation of the bet switch (40) during the inoperable period is invalidated (not treated as pressed) or validated (treated as pressed). . That is, when a bet signal (a signal for subtracting the display of the stored game medium display unit (35B)) is output by a switch pressing detection signal, the pressing operation of the bet switch (40) during the inoperable period is It is effective (however, the switch remains pressed until the game execution limit period ends). On the other hand, when the bet signal is output in response to the switch return detection signal, the pressing operation of the bet switch (40) during the inoperable period is invalid (however, it is automatically validated after the fixation is released).

(Claim 2)
The invention described in claim 2 is characterized by the following points in addition to the features of the invention described in claim 1 described above.
That is, the invention according to claim 2 is characterized in that the inoperable period is a game execution restriction period in which a time for restricting a game start time is defined in a continuation relationship from the previous game to the next game. .
The present invention and the invention of the next section limit the “inoperable period”.
The gaming machine according to the present invention is provided with a predetermined game execution restriction period. The game execution restriction period is a period for restricting an excessive number of games from being executed in a short time. During this period, for example, by preventing the rotation of the rotating reel (20) or disabling the stop switch (60), the game execution limit period is set even if the previous game ends. If the predetermined time has not elapsed, the next game cannot be performed.

According to the present invention, repeated betting of the bet switch (40) during the game execution restriction period can be prevented.
(Claim 3)
The invention described in claim 3 has the following features in addition to the features of the invention described in claim 1 described above.
That is, according to the third aspect of the present invention, the operation of the start switch (50) is performed after the display of the stored game medium display section (35B) is subtracted and displayed during the inoperable period by pressing the bet switch (40). This is a period until all of the rotating reels (20) rotated by the above are stopped by the operation of the stop switch (60) or until a predetermined winning process is completed.

Here, “the winning process is completed” means that, for example, when the game medium is paid out by winning, the payout of the game medium ends, and in the case of a win without paying out the game medium (for example, re-game win), the next game Is performed (for example, processing for enabling the start switch (50) without inserting a medal or operating the bet switch (40)). Needless to say, if the winning is not made, the inoperable period is ended by the total stop of the rotating reel (20).
According to the present invention, it is possible to prevent repeated betting of the bet switch (40) during a game (not limited to the game execution restriction period) after an effective operation of the bet switch (40).

  Since this invention is comprised as mentioned above, there exist the following effects. That is, according to the first aspect of the present invention, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that can suppress the player's bet switch continuous hitting and effectively prevent breakage of the switch. According to the invention described in claim 2, it is possible to prevent repeated betting of the bet switch during a predetermined period in which the execution of the game is restricted. According to the invention described in claim 3, once the betting operation is effectively received. After being played, it is possible to prevent repeated betting of the bet switch during the next game and before the next game can be bet.

A preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings by taking a slot machine as an example and dividing it into a first embodiment and a second embodiment.
(First embodiment)
(Explanation of drawings)
1 to 6 show a first embodiment of the present invention.
1 is an external front view of the slot machine S, FIG. 2 is a sectional view of the bet switch 40, FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing input, output, and control of the slot machine, and FIG. 4 is a time chart showing bet signal output. 5 and 6 are flowcharts showing the operation of the slot machine.

(Slot Machine S)
As shown in FIG. 1, the slot machine S has a box-shaped housing 1, and a front door 3 is attached to the front surface of the housing 1. Further, inside the housing 1, a reel unit 2 having a rotating reel 20, a control device 4 for controlling the overall operation of the slot machine S, and a hopper unit for storing and paying out game medals. 5 is built-in.
The front door 3 is a plate-like door in which a display window facing the player side is formed, and a symbol display window 30 through which the symbols of the three rotary reels 20 can be seen is located at the upper center of the display window. Is formed. A substantially central portion of the front door 3 below the symbol display window 30 is a counter-like operation portion provided with operation means for operating the slot machine S. Further, a medal discharge port 36 for discharging a payout medal or a refund medal and a medal tray 39 for storing medals discharged from the medal discharge port 36 are formed at the lower part of the front door 3.

On the front of the operation unit, there are also a start switch 50 for starting the rotation of the rotary reel 20, a stop switch 60 provided corresponding to each rotary reel 20 and for stopping the rotation of the rotary reel 20, and the operation unit. On the upper left side of the above, a bet switch 40 for replacing medals stored as credits with insertion of medals and a settlement switch 70 for paying back credit medals are provided. On the right side of the operation unit, a medal slot 34 for inserting game medals is formed.
Further, below the medal slot 34 and on the back side of the front door 3 (inside the housing), the game medal inserted from the medal slot 34 is detected by the medal sensor 38 (see FIG. 3), A medal selector 37 for transferring various game medals to the hopper unit 5 is provided.

Below the symbol display window 30, a bet display unit 35A for displaying the number of bets and a credit display unit 35B for displaying the number of credit medals are provided. The bet display part 35A is composed of three light emitting display parts, and the credit display part 35B is a display part capable of displaying numbers by a liquid crystal display, a 7-segment LED, or the like.
Here, the bet number is the number of medals to be started in the game to be started, and the slot machine S inserts one to three medals, thereby enabling effective winnings corresponding to the respective number of medals. A line is set. The credit means that medals for use in subsequent games are stored in the gaming machine in advance, and the slot machine S is inserted into the medal insertion slot 34 and passed through the medal selector 37. A maximum of 50 game medals to be paid out by winning a prize can be stored inside the gaming machine.

Specifically, when a game medal is inserted from the medal slot 34, first, up to three cards are displayed on the bet display portion 35A. That is, each time one medal is inserted, the light emitting display section is turned on one by one. The fourth and subsequent medals are added and displayed on the credit display unit 35B. Further, even when the winning combination with medal payout wins, the display of the credit display unit 35B is added. When the display on the credit display unit 35B becomes “50”, the inserted medals thereafter are canceled by the medal selector 37 and paid back to the medal tray 39, and the payout medals by winning a prize are paid out from the hopper unit 5 to the medal tray 39.
Further, when the bet switch 40 is operated, the bet number is displayed on the bet display portion 35A and the display on the credit display portion 35B is subtracted. Here, as shown in FIG. 1, the slot machine S is provided with only one bet switch 40. This is because three bets (max bets) are placed by pressing the bet switch 40 once. This is the specification of the 3-seat dedicated switch.

In the present embodiment, when the bet switch 40 is pressed during a predetermined period during the game, the bet signal is not output and the bet switch 40 cannot be pressed until a predetermined time elapses. This will be described later in detail.
Further, the installation position and display form of the bet display unit 35A and the display form are not limited to those illustrated. For example, a winning line that is effective in accordance with the number of pieces to be inserted is clearly indicated by causing a lamp provided near the symbol display window 30 to emit light or displaying a winning line on an EL plate provided on the surface of the symbol display window 30. Such a configuration is also included in the bet display portion 35A.
In addition to the above, the slot machine S is provided with an effect display unit for performing various effects such as notifying a player of a prize or the like. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 1, a lamp 32, a speaker 33, and an image display device 31 are provided. The lamp 32 and the speaker 33 are for informing a winning or the like by lighting or blinking of a light emitter and generation of a winning sound. The image display device 31 is for displaying a prize notification and other effects using LEDs, a dot matrix, a liquid crystal screen, and the like. Note that the image display device 31 is not limited to the above-described one. For example, a rotation reel dedicated to the effect may be provided, and the effect may be displayed by a design or character of the reel.

In the slot machine S, when a game medal is inserted or when the game medal is credited, the operation of the start switch 50 is valid on the condition that the bet switch 40 is operated. 20 starts rotating all at once. Then, each rotary reel 20 is stopped by operating the stop switch 60, and when the symbols visible from the symbol display window 30 when all the rotary reels 20 are stopped are in a predetermined winning mode, a prize is awarded. It is formed so that medals can be paid out or advantageous games can be started.
(Bet switch 40)
Here, the configuration of the bet switch 40 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. Here, FIG. 2A is a cross-sectional view showing a case where the bet switch 40 is not operated, that is, in a protruding position, and FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional view showing a case where the bet switch 40 is operated, that is, a pressed position. FIG.

  The bet switch 40 is a push button provided on the upper surface of the operation unit, and is movable up and down in a cylindrical casing 41 fixed to the door frame of the front door 3 as shown in FIG. The switch body 42 is housed. The switch main body 42 has a head portion 42A which is a button portion protruding and retracting from the casing 41, and is always urged in a protruding direction (upward) by a spring 45 provided in the casing 41. Further, a claw-like locking portion 44 is formed on the leg portion 42B of the switch body 42. As shown in FIG. 2A, the locking portion 44 has a claw portion engaged with the upper end portion of the opening portion 41A provided on the side surface of the casing 41, and the upper surface of the switch body 42 is the upper end of the casing 41. The switch body 42 is locked at a position above the portion.

Further, a shielding plate 43 is formed at the center of the switch body 42 on the opposite side of the head portion 42A, and the casing 41 includes a light receiving portion and a light emitting portion facing each other with the shielding plate 43 interposed therebetween. An optical sensor 46 is provided. When the bet switch 40 is not operated, that is, when the switch main body 42 is locked at the upper limit, the shielding plate 43 is detached from the light receiving unit and the light emitting unit, and the light receiving unit detects light from the light emitting unit. Yes. At this time, the switch is in the OFF state. When the switch main body 42 moves downward by pressing the switch, the shielding plate 43 blocks the light from the light emitting unit, and the light receiving unit is in a non-detecting state. At this time, the switch is turned on.
By the way, contrary to the above, when the bet switch 40 is in the projecting position, the shielding plate 43 blocks the light from the light emitting unit and the light receiving unit is in the non-detection state, and when the bet switch 40 moves to the pressed position. The opening provided in the shielding plate 43 can be formed so that the positions of the light receiving unit and the light emitting unit coincide with each other, and the light receiving unit detects light from the light emitting unit. In this case, the non-detection time when the light receiving unit is shielded from light is the switch OFF state, and the detection time when light is transmitted through the light receiving unit is the switch ON state.

In the present embodiment, the optical sensor 46 is used as the operation detection unit of the bet switch 40. However, the operation detection unit is not limited to the optical sensor, and a magnetic sensor or a contact sensor may be used. The relationship between the ON / OFF state of the bet switch 40 and the effective operation signal (bet signal) of the bet switch 40 will be described in the description of the control device 4.
(Pressing and fixing device 10)
The bet switch 40 is provided with a pressing and fixing device 10 for maintaining the pressed state during a predetermined game execution restriction period.
Here, the “game execution restriction period” is a period in which the start of the next game is reserved after the end of one game, and specifically, all the rotating reels 20 that have started rotating start constant speed rotation. This is the time until 4.1 seconds elapse (after the stop switch 60 can be operated) (see FIGS. 5 and 6). This time is determined by laws and regulations for setting a limit on one game time so that the number of medals inserted within a certain time does not become large.

  During the game execution restriction period, even if the bet switch 40 is pressed, a bet signal is not output and the bet switch 40 cannot be pressed by the press fixing device 10 thereafter. " The period other than the game execution restriction period is a “pressable period”, which is a period during which the bet switch 40 can be normally pressed. However, if the bet switch 40 is pressed and the bet display portion 35A is displayed (max bet display) after the game execution limit period has elapsed, the bet switch 40 can be physically pressed thereafter. However, the operation is invalid (a bet signal is not output). That is, the “pressable period” of the bet switch 40 is different from the “pressing valid period”.

Whether or not the rotating reel 20 has been rotated at a constant speed depends on the specification of the driving motor for rotating the rotating reel 20, and a certain period of time from receiving a drive start signal (transmitting an operation signal of the start switch 50) is an acceleration period. Can be set in advance. Alternatively, the reel rotation detection sensor 21 (see FIG. 3) may be confirmed by measuring a time interval at which a start index (not shown) provided on the rotary reel 20 is detected.
As shown in FIG. 2, the pressing and fixing device 10 includes a solenoid 11 provided outside the opening 41A of the casing 41, and a movement blocking rod 12 that can project from the solenoid 11 toward the opening 41A. ing. The movement blocking rod 12 is a rod-like member having an inclined portion 12a that is inclined downward toward the inside of the casing 41 at the upper end, and is always urged in a direction to be immersed in the solenoid 11. During the pressable period, as shown in FIG. 2A, the switch body 42 is positioned so as not to interfere with the locking portion 44. Therefore, the switch body 42 can move up and down without any trouble.

  On the other hand, during the invalid pressing period, the solenoid 11 is activated, and the movement preventing rod 12 protrudes toward the opening 41A as shown in FIG. When the switch main body 42 is pressed in this state, the lower end portion of the locking portion 44 first comes into contact with the inclined portion 12a of the movement preventing rod 12. Then, due to the pressing force from above and the elasticity of the leg portion 42B, the locking portion 44 moves downward while bending inward along the inclined portion 12a and passes through the movement blocking rod 12. At this time, since the inclined portion 44a that is inclined in the opposite direction to the inclined portion 12a of the movement blocking rod 12 is formed outside the locking portion 44, the tip of the movement blocking rod 12 may be caught by the locking portion 44. Absent. After that, even if the pressing force to the switch body 42 is released and the switch body 42 is pushed up by the restoring force of the spring 45, the claw portion of the locking portion 44 is locked to the movement blocking rod 12, and the switch body 42 is The shielding plate 43 is fixed in a position where it blocks the optical sensor 46. That is, when the bet switch 40 is pressed once during a period other than the pressable period, the button does not return while being pressed, and the bet switch 40 cannot be pressed.

In the above-described state, when the pressing-down period is reached, the movement preventing rod 12 returns to the original position due to the operation stop of the solenoid 11, and the switch main body 42 that has been prevented from moving upward by the movement preventing rod 12 is moved to the movement preventing rod 12. 2 is released by the repulsive force of the spring 45 and returns to the position shown in FIG.
By the way, the configuration of the pressing and fixing device 10 is not limited to the above. For example, the switch body 42 pushed down to the pressed position may be attracted by an electromagnet. In short, the switch main body 42 is allowed to be pressed by the operation of the pressing and fixing device 10, but the return by the spring 45 may be prevented.

(Control device 4)
The control device 4 is configured around a CPU, and includes a ROM, a RAM, an I / O, and the like. The number of CPUs is not limited to one and may be controlled by two or more CPUs. Further, the CPU, ROM, RAM, I / O, and the like may be integrated to form a one chip. Then, when the CPU reads the program stored in the ROM, the game control device 80 and the effect control device 90 are configured as shown in FIG.
The game control device 80 mainly controls the game, and the effect control device 90 mainly controls the effect. The medal sensor 38, the bet switch 40, the start switch 50, the stop switch 60, the settlement switch 70, and the reel rotation detection sensor 21 are connected to the input stage of the control device 4. Here, the reel rotation detection sensor 21 is a sensor provided on the frame of the reel unit 2 (not shown), and detects a start index (not shown) provided on each rotary reel 20. This is for recognizing the current position of the symbol of each rotary reel 20.

Further, the output stage of the control device 4 includes a reel unit 2, a hopper unit 5, a bet display unit 35A, a credit display unit 35B, a pressing and fixing device 10 (specifically, a solenoid 11), and an image display device as an effect display unit. 31, lamp 32 and speaker 33 are connected.
(Game control device 80)
Next, the game control device 80 will be described in detail.
The game control device 80 is for controlling the rotation and stop of the rotary reel 20 by operating the start switch 50 and the stop switch 60. The game control device 80 functions as the following means (1) to (7).

(1) Medals insertion control means 81
(2) Winning lottery means 82
(3) Reel control means 83
(4) Winning determination means 84
(5) Hopper control means 85
(6) Pressing fixing control means 86
Note that the game control means 81 is not limited to the means (1) to (6) described above, and may include other means.

(Medal insertion control means 81)
The medal insertion control means 81 controls the display of the bet display unit 35A and the credit display unit 35B based on the medal detection signal from the medal sensor 38 or the operation signal of the bet switch 40, and enables the game to be started (betting). Output a signal). Specifically, when the medal sensor 38 detects a medal normally, it is determined that the medal is inserted, and the display of the bet display unit 35A or the credit display unit 35B is added and displayed. Further, when credit is given, a bet signal is output based on the sensing signal of the optical sensor 46 of the bet switch 40, the display of the credit display unit 35B is subtracted and the display of the bet display unit 35A is added and displayed. Let By performing these displays, it is considered that a medal has been inserted, and the operation of the start switch 50 is validated.

  Here, the bet signal is an effective operation signal of the bet switch 40 for changing the display of the bet display unit 35A and the credit display unit 35B. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. So-called falling detection is performed. FIG. 4A is a time chart showing the relationship between the detection signal of the bet switch 40 and the bet signal during the pressable period. As shown in the figure, when the bet switch 40 returns from the OFF state to the ON state and then returns to the OFF state, a bet signal is output. That is, when the switch body 42 is pressed and the pressed switch body 42 returns to the original state, it is determined that the bet switch 40 has been operated, and a bet signal is output to another predetermined means of the control device 4. It has become so.

On the other hand, when the bet switch 40 is operated during the press invalidation period, the switch main body 42 is fixed at the pressed position by the operation of the press fixing device 10 described above, so as shown in FIG. Remains ON. Thereafter, when 4.1 seconds have elapsed from the start of constant speed rotation of all the reels 20, the fixing by the pressing and fixing device 10 is released, the switch is turned off, and a bet signal is output.
The medal insertion control means 81 outputs a credit excess signal to the medal selector 37 when the credit exceeds 50, and operates the cancel device of the medal selector 37. Thereby, medals inserted in the medal insertion slot 34 exceeding the maximum possible credit number are canceled by the medal selector 37. Further, when a medal payout signal is received from a winning determination means 84 described later, the number of payout medals is added as credit until the credit reaches 50. When the credit exceeds 50, a credit excess signal is output to the winning determination means 84. Upon receiving the credit excess signal, the winning determination means 84 operates the hopper unit 5 by the hopper control means 85 to pay out a winning medal. Further, when the settlement switch 70 is operated and the credited medal is paid out from the hopper unit 5, the display of the credit display unit 35B is returned to zero.

(Winning lottery means 82)
The winning lottery means 82 performs a lottery for determining whether or not to win based on a predetermined lottery probability. The lottery for winning determination is performed when the start switch 50 is operated. Then, the random number extraction means obtains the extracted random number data from the random numbers generated by the random number generation means, and the selected random number data and the winning area having the winning area of each winning item in the entire random number area taken by the random number generating means. The winning table corresponding to the winning area to which the extracted random number data belongs is determined by comparing with the determination table.
Here, the winning includes a payout combination with payout of game medals, a zero-sheet combination without paying out game medals, and a special win combination with payout of game medals and shifting to an advantageous game. When a payout player wins, a game medal corresponding to the winning combination is paid out. When a zero-card player wins, no game medal is paid out, but instead, the next game is performed without inserting a medal. Can do. When the special winning combination wins, a special game such as a regular bonus game or a big bonus game is started after a predetermined number of medals are paid out.

The winning lottery means 82 has a plurality of winning determination tables, and the winning determination table is selectively used depending on the setting of the slot machine S, the number of medals bet, or the game state (normal game or special game). .
(Reel control means 83)
The reel control means 83 rotates the rotary reel 20 based on the operation of the start switch 50 and recognizes the current position of the symbol based on the detection signal of the reel rotation detection sensor 21, while the lottery result of the winning lottery means 82 and This is for controlling the stop of the rotary reel 20 based on the operation timing of the stop switch 60.

  Specifically, when the display of the bet display portion 35A is “1” or more (when a medal is inserted), or when the medal insertion control means 81 outputs a bet signal (the bet switch 40 is operated). In the case) and the hopper unit 5 satisfies other predetermined conditions such as not paying out medals, the operation signal of the start switch 50 is validated, and the start signal (starts driving the drive motor of the reel unit 2). Signal) for rotating the rotating reel 20. If the lottery result of the win determination is a loss, three lots of reels 20 will not be aligned in any winning manner, and if the lottery result is won for a predetermined winning role, Control is performed so as to delay the time from when the stop switch 60 is operated until the rotary reel 20 stops so that the design of the rotary reel 20 is in the form of winning as much as possible.

(Winning determination means 84)
The winning determination means 84 determines whether or not the winning symbol of the three rotary reels 20 can be stopped in the winning manner by operating the stop switch 60 when the lottery result of the winning determination is winning. If it is possible to stop in the winning mode, the winning is determined. When the prize is accompanied by a medal payout, a game medal payout signal is output to the medal insertion control means 81 and the hopper unit 5, and in the case of a special prize such as a bonus game prize, the winning judgment means 83 is determined to win. This is to change the table and start a special game.

(Hopper control means 85)
The hopper control means 85 is for operating the hopper unit 5 based on the medal payout signal from the winning determination means 84 and the operation signal of the settlement switch 70.
(Pressing and fixing control means 86)
The pressing and fixing control means 86 is for controlling the operation of the pressing and fixing device 10 provided in the bet switch 40. That is, the solenoid 11 of the pressing and fixing device 10 is turned ON (energized state) during the pressing invalid period of the bet switch 40 and the movement preventing rod 12 is projected, and during the pressing possible period, the solenoid 11 is OFF and protrudes. Immerse the movement prevention rod 12.

Specifically, the pressing and fixing control means 86 has time measuring means 87 such as a pulse counter as shown in FIG. Then, after receiving the operation signal of the start switch 50, the start of constant speed rotation of the rotary reel 20 is judged by the elapse of a predetermined acceleration time, the solenoid 11 is turned on, and then the solenoid 11 is turned on when the time count has passed 4.1 seconds. It is supposed to be turned off.
The time measuring means 87 may be able to measure time other than the invalid press period. The time measuring means 87 may be provided outside the pressing and fixing control means 86.
(Operation of slot machine S)
Next, an outline of a single game flow in the slot machine S having the above-described configuration will be described based on the flow of FIGS. 5 and 6. In the figure, “X” represents a period during which the bet switch 40 is disabled.

First, at the start of FIG. 5, the pressing and fixing device 10 is operating, and the bet switch 40 is in a pressing invalid state. In step 100, it is determined whether or not a medal has been inserted. This is determined by a medal detection signal from the medal sensor 38 of the medal selector 37. By the way, the medal selector 37 is in a canceled state until the end of the previous game (all reels stopped. In the case of winning with medal payout), the medal selector 37 counts even if a medal is inserted into the medal slot 34. Not. If no medal is inserted, the process proceeds to the next step 101.
In step 101, it is determined whether 4.1 seconds have elapsed since the start of the reel constant speed rotation of the previous game. If 4.1 seconds have not elapsed, the process returns to step 100. That is, the bet switch 40 continues to be in an invalid state. On the other hand, if 4.1 seconds have elapsed, the process proceeds to the next step 102.

In step 102, the pressing and fixing device 10 is turned OFF. That is, the fixed state of the bet switch 40 is released so that it can be pressed. At this time, if the bet switch 40 is pressed before 4.1 seconds and the switch main body 42 is fixed while being immersed, the switch main body 42 automatically protrudes. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 103.
In step 103, it is determined whether or not the bet switch 40 is turned on. More precisely, it is determined whether or not a bet signal has been output. As described above, when the bet switch 40 returns from the immersive state to the protruding state due to the release of the pressing and fixing device 10, a bet signal is output even if the player does not press the bet switch 40. If the bet switch 40 is not ON, the process returns to step 100. On the other hand, if the bet switch 40 is turned on, the process proceeds to the next step 104.

In step 104, it is determined whether there is a credit. That is, it is determined whether there is one or more displays on the credit display unit 35B. If there is no credit (ie the display is zero), the process returns to step 100. Thus, when there is no credit, the bet signal is invalid even if the bet switch 40 is pressed. On the other hand, if there is a credit, the process proceeds to the next step 105.
In step 105, the display part of the bet display part 35A is added (the lamp is turned on), and at the same time, the display of the credit display part 35B is displayed by subtraction for the number of bets. As a result, the token is handled as having been inserted. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 107.

In step 100, if a medal is inserted, the process proceeds to step 106.
In step 106, the display of the bet display unit 35A or the credit display unit 35B is added and displayed. That is, for each medal insertion signal, the display of the bet display unit 35A is added, and when the display of the bet display unit 35A is already “3”, the display of the credit display unit 35B is added. Incidentally, when the display on the credit display unit 35B becomes “50”, the canceling device of the medal selector 37 is activated, so that the medal cannot be inserted. Then, the process proceeds to next Step 107.
In step 107, it is determined whether or not the start switch 50 is turned on. That is, it is determined whether a start signal is output. The start signal is not validated before 4.1 seconds have elapsed, so even if, for example, a medal is inserted and the start switch 50 is operated before 4.1 seconds have elapsed, the operation signal Is invalid. If the start switch 50 is not turned ON, the process returns to step 100. On the other hand, if the start switch 50 is turned on, the process proceeds to the next step 108.

In step 108, lottery processing by the winning lottery means 82 is performed. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 109.
In step 109, the three rotary reels 20 start to rotate. Then, the process proceeds to step 200 in FIG.
In step 200, it is determined whether all the rotary reels 20 have reached constant speed rotation. If all the rotating reels 20 have not reached constant speed rotation, that is, during the acceleration period, the process returns to step 200. When all the rotating reels 20 have been rotated at a constant speed, the process proceeds to the next step 201.

In step 201, a time count of 4.1 seconds is started. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 202.
In step 202, the pressing and fixing device 10 is turned ON. Thus, once the bet switch 40 is pressed, the switch body 42 does not return as it is, and the bet signal is not output. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 203.
In step 203, it is determined whether any one of the stop switches 60 is turned on. If the stop switch 60 is not turned ON, the process returns to step 203. If any one of the stop switches 60 is turned on, the process proceeds to the next step 204.

In step 204, stop processing of the rotary reel 20 corresponding to the operated stop switch 60 is performed. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 205.
In step 205, it is determined whether all the rotating reels 20 have stopped. If all the rotating reels 20 are not stopped, that is, if there is a rotating reel 20 that is rotating, the process returns to step 203. On the other hand, if all the rotating reels 20 are stopped, the process proceeds to the next step 206.
In step 206, it is determined whether or not a prize has been won. If there is no winning, the game ends. When winning, the process proceeds to the next step 207.

In step 207, payout of medals and other winning processes are performed. Then, the game ends.
Thus, according to the present embodiment, the player is most likely to repeatedly hit the bet switch 40, and during the so-called wait time until the next game can be started after the previous game is over. If the switch 40 is pressed even once, the switch is physically fixed with the pressing and fixing device 10 being immersed, so that it cannot be pressed repeatedly. Therefore, unlike simply invalidating the switch signal, the switch can be prevented from being damaged due to repeated betting of the bet switch 40. Further, when the wait time has elapsed, the fixed switch returns to the original state and the bet is automatically activated, so that it is not necessary to operate the bet switch 40 again.

  By the way, the pressing and fixing device 10 in the present embodiment is formed so as to fix the return from the pressing of the bet switch 40. A configuration that prohibits the downward movement of 42 is also conceivable. For example, although not particularly illustrated, when the movement prevention rod 12 protrudes, it engages with a locking hole provided in the switch body 42, and the switch body 42 protrudes at a position (position shown in FIG. 2A). It can be formed to be fixed. However, in this case, since the exposed portion of the switch body 42 becomes large, there is a possibility that the locked bet switch 40 may be damaged by being struck many times to try to force it. In this regard, as in the present embodiment, if the pressed bet switch 40 is not returned to the pressed state, the player can feel uncomfortable and hesitate to repeatedly hit the switch. In addition, since there are few convex parts, it can be hard to press down and it can suppress the player's repeated hitting, and even if the switch body 42 is hit repeatedly, only the surface of the head 42A is hit and can be damaged There is an advantage that the nature is reduced.

  Note that the slot machine S according to the present embodiment is formed so as to perform so-called falling detection in which a bet signal is output by releasing the pressing and fixing device 10 and the display of the credit display unit 35B is changed. However, the present invention can also be applied to a case where a so-called rising detection is performed in which a bet signal is output when the bet switch 40 is pressed. That is, even during the press invalidation period, the display of the bet display unit 35A may be added and the display of the credit display unit 35B may be subtracted by pressing the bet switch 40. In this case, although it is considered that a medal is inserted by the operation of the bet switch 40, a game cannot be performed if the operation of the start switch 50 is invalidated during the game execution restriction period. In any case, the bet switch 40 cannot be continuously pressed during the game execution limit period.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the depression invalid period of the bet switch 40 and the game execution restriction period of the slot machine S are formed to coincide with each other, but in the present invention, the start timing of the depression invalid period is It may not necessarily coincide with the game execution restriction period, that is, the measurement start time of 4.1 seconds. For example, the operation of the pressing and fixing device 10 may be the time when the first (or last) stop switch 60 is operated after the start of constant speed rotation of the all-reel reels 20, for example. This is because, after the rotary reel 20 is rotated, the player is usually more conscious of the stop switch 60, and it is unlikely that the bet switch 40 is repeatedly hit during this time. In such a case, if the game execution restriction period has already ended when all reels are stopped, the pressing and fixing device 10 does not operate. In short, when the game is over, if the game execution restriction period has not ended, the pressing and fixing device 10 should work.

(Second embodiment)
7 and 8 show a second embodiment of the present invention and are a flowchart showing the operation of the slot machine.
In the second embodiment, after the bet switch 40 is operated, the bet switch 40 is operated after the bet switch 40 is operated. After the bet switch 40 is operated, the game ends (that is, the rotary reel 20 is completely stopped or a winning process is performed). (End). Note that the configuration of the slot machine S according to the present embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment, and therefore description thereof is omitted, and only the feature points of the present embodiment are described.

(Operation of slot machine S)
An outline of the flow of one game of the slot machine S will be described based on the flow of FIG. 7 and FIG. In the figure, “Y” represents a period during which the bet switch 40 is disabled.
First, at the start of FIG. 7, the pressing and fixing device 10 is not operated, and the bet switch 40 is in a pressable state. In step 300, it is determined whether or not a medal has been inserted. If no medal is inserted, the process proceeds to the next step 301.
In step 301, it is determined whether or not the bet switch 40 is turned on. More precisely, it is determined whether or not a bet signal has been output. If the bet switch 40 is not ON, the process returns to step 300. On the other hand, if the bet switch 40 is turned on, the process proceeds to the next step 302.

In step 302, it is determined whether there is a credit. If there is no credit (that is, the display on the credit display unit 35B is zero), the process returns to step 300. On the other hand, if there is a credit, the process proceeds to the next step 303.
In step 303, the display part of the bet display part 35A is added (the lamp is turned on), and at the same time, the display of the credit display part 35B is displayed by subtraction for the number of bets. As a result, the bet switch 40 is operated effectively, and it is handled as if a medal has been inserted. Then, the process proceeds to Step 305.
In step 300, if a medal is inserted, the process proceeds to step 304.

In step 304, the display of the bet display unit 35A or the credit display unit 35B is added and displayed. Then, the process proceeds to Step 305.
In step 305, the pressing and fixing device 10 is turned ON. As a result, when the bet switch 40 is pressed once thereafter, the switch body 42 does not return as it is. Then, the process proceeds to next Step 306.
In step 306, it is determined whether or not the start switch 50 is turned on. That is, it is determined whether an operation signal for the start switch 50 is output. If the start switch 50 is not turned ON, the process returns to step 300. On the other hand, if the start switch 50 is turned on, the process proceeds to the next step 307.

In step 307, lottery processing by the winning lottery means 82 is performed. Then, the process proceeds to next Step 308.
In step 308, it is determined whether 4.1 seconds have elapsed since the start of the reel constant speed rotation of the previous game. If 4.1 seconds have not elapsed, the process returns to step 308. That is, the reel control means 83 does not output a start signal even if it receives an operation signal of the start switch 50, so the rotating reel 20 does not start rotating before 4.1 seconds have elapsed. On the other hand, if 4.1 seconds have elapsed, the process proceeds to the next step 309.
In step 309, the three rotary reels 20 start to rotate. Then, the process proceeds to step 400 in FIG.

In step 400, it is determined whether all the rotary reels 20 have reached constant speed rotation. If all the rotating reels 20 have not reached the constant speed rotation, that is, during the acceleration period, the process returns to step 400. When all the rotating reels 20 have been rotated at a constant speed, the process proceeds to the next step 401.
In step 401, a time count of 4.1 seconds is started. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 402.
In step 402, it is determined whether any one of the stop switches 60 is turned on. If the stop switch 60 is not turned ON, the process returns to step 402. If any one of the stop switches 60 is turned on, the process proceeds to the next step 403.

In step 403, the rotating reel 20 corresponding to the operated stop switch 60 is stopped. Then, the process proceeds to next Step 404.
In step 404, it is determined whether all the rotating reels 20 have stopped. If all the rotating reels 20 are not stopped, that is, if there are rotating reels 20 that are rotating, the process returns to step 402. On the other hand, if all the rotating reels 20 are stopped, the process proceeds to the next step 405.
In step 405, it is determined whether or not a prize has been won. When winning, the process proceeds to the next step 406.

In step 406, medals are paid out and other winning processes are performed. Then, the process proceeds to next Step 407.
If no winning is found in step 405, the process skips step 406 and proceeds to step 407.
In step 407, the pressing and fixing device 10 is turned OFF. That is, the fixed state of the bet switch 40 is released so that it can be pressed. Then, the game ends. When the bet switch 40 is pressed after step 305 in FIG. 7 and the switch main body 42 is fixed while being immersed, the switch main body 42 automatically protrudes. As a result, a bet signal is output, and a bet for the next game is automatically made. Alternatively, the bet signal after releasing the pressing and fixing may be treated as invalid so that the bet is not made unless the bet switch 40 is pressed again.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, the bet switch 40 can be pressed during the pressing effective period even before 4.1 seconds have elapsed, but once credit subtraction is performed by the switch operation. Thereafter, the bet switch 40 cannot be pressed. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the bet switch 40 from being repeatedly hit during a game time limit other than 4.1 seconds, for example, during the acceleration period of the rotary reel 20 in which the stop switch 60 cannot be operated. In addition, when a large number of medals are paid out due to winning, the operation of the bet switch 40 is not validated until the payout is completed even after 4.1 seconds have elapsed, so the bet switch is particularly useful in order to start the next game quickly. 40 is a period during which it is easy to hit repeatedly. According to the present embodiment, repeated hitting of the bet switch 40 can be effectively suppressed even during this period.

In this embodiment, the start signal is not output before 4.1 seconds elapses. However, even if the start signal is output before 4.1 seconds elapse (in other words, the rotary reel 20 is It is only necessary that the rotation at a constant speed (that is, the operation of the stop switch 60 is validated) after 4.1 seconds elapses (even if the rotation is started).
The present invention is a slot machine other than a three-seat dedicated machine (having only one max bet switch), for example, a bet switch for one bet and two bets in addition to a max bet. You may use for what has. In this case, it is preferable to provide the pressing and fixing device 10 on the max bet switch that is most likely to be repeatedly hit.

  The present invention can also be applied to gaming machines other than slot machines. For example, the present invention can be applied to a parrot game machine that uses a game ball (pachinko ball) as a game medium to perform a game similar to a slot machine.

FIG. 4 is a front view of the appearance of the slot machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention. It is 1st embodiment of this invention, Comprising: It is sectional drawing of a bet switch. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an input, output and control device of the slot machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a time chart of a bet switch pressing signal output according to the first embodiment of the present invention. It is a first embodiment of the present invention and is a flowchart showing the operation of the slot machine. It is a first embodiment of the present invention and is a flowchart showing the operation of the slot machine. It is a second embodiment of the present invention and is a flowchart showing the operation of the slot machine. It is a second embodiment of the present invention and is a flowchart showing the operation of the slot machine.

Explanation of symbols

S slot machine 1 housing 2 reel unit 3 front door 4 control device 5 hopper unit
10 Pressing and fixing device (Pressing and fixing device) 11 Solenoid
12 Movement prevention rod 12a Inclined part
20 rotation reel 21 reel rotation detection sensor
30 Symbol display window 31 Image display
32 lamps 33 speakers
34 Medal slot 35A Bet display
35B Credit display (stored game media display)
36 Medal outlet 37 Medal selector
38 Medal sensor (game media detector) 39 Medal tray
40 Bet switch 41 Casing
42 Switch body (moving body) 43 Shield plate
44 Locking part 44a Inclined part
45 Spring 46 Optical sensor (operation detection unit)
50 Start switch 60 Stop switch
70 Checkout switch
80 Game control device 81 Medal insertion control means
82 Winning lottery means 83 Reel control means
84 Winning judgment means 85 Hopper control means
86 Pressing and fixing control means 90 Production control device

Claims (3)

A game media slot,
A game medium detecting device for detecting a game medium input from the game medium input port;
Based on the detection signal of the game medium detection device, a stored game medium display unit for displaying up to a certain number as the number of stored game media,
A plurality of rotating reels having a plurality of symbols displayed on the surface;
A start switch for starting rotation of the plurality of rotating reels;
A stop switch for individually stopping the rotating reels in rotation;
At least a bet switch for causing the display of the stored game medium display unit to be displayed by subtracting a predetermined number by a pressing operation and treating the same number of game media as the subtraction value is inserted,
The operation of the start switch becomes effective by inserting a game medium or pressing the bet switch, and a prize is awarded when the symbols of the plurality of rotating reels can be stopped in a predetermined manner by the operation of the stop switch. In a gaming machine formed to be
The bet switch is
At least a moving body that moves to a pressing position when pressed and returns to a protruding position by releasing a pressing force, and a pressing fixing device that fixes the moving body at the pressing position and maintains the pressing state of the switch. Prepared,
After the start of the predetermined inoperable period, the pressing and fixing device allows the moving body to move to the pressing position and prevents the moving body at the pressing position from returning to the protruding position,
After the end of the inoperable period, the press fixing device is formed so as not to hinder the movement of the moving body.   2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the inoperable period is a game execution restriction period in which a time for restricting a game start time is defined in a continuation relationship from the previous game to the next game.   During the inoperable period, the display of the stored game medium display unit is subtracted and displayed by pressing the bet switch, and then the plurality of rotating reels rotating by operating the start switch are all stopped by operating the stop switch. 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the game machine is a period until a predetermined winning process is completed.

Images