JP4793969B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
[Field of the Invention]
The present invention relates to a gaming machine installed at an appropriate place where a game can be performed, such as a game hall, such as a pachinko gaming machine, a sparrow ball gaming machine, an arrangement ball gaming machine, or a slot that uses coins or gaming balls as a gaming medium. The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a machine, and more particularly to a gaming machine that can significantly reduce the amount of gaming media required for one gaming machine.
[0002]
Along with the improvement in gambling of these gaming machines, there is a tendency for pachinko balls, which are gaming media discharged outside the gaming machine and stocked, to increase, and as described above, the gaming machines installed in the game hall Since the number of machines tends to increase, it is necessary for the game hall to prepare and manage pachinko balls, which are a huge amount of game media, but purchase and manage such a large amount of game media. As a gaming machine that can solve these problems, etc., credit the game media acquired through the game once and credit it as necessary A credit-type gaming machine that can be used for games by paying out game media again is conceivable.
[0003]
As described above, these credit-type gaming machines can reduce the amount of game media that must be prepared by the game hall, and can greatly reduce the labor required to manage these game media. However, these credit-type gaming machines also require replenishment facilities for replenishing gaming media to the gaming machines as in the case of conventional gaming machines. In this case, it is necessary to select a place where the replenishing equipment is already installed or a place where these replenishing equipment can be newly installed, and the degree of freedom in installing these credit-type gaming machines is low. There was a problem that it was not possible to respond to the desire to place in any desired location.
[0004]
Therefore, the present invention has been made paying attention to the above-mentioned problems, and by eliminating the need to provide various devices such as replenishing devices and transporting devices in the remodeling or new installation of the island, the degree of freedom in installing the gaming machine is increased. It is an object of the present invention to provide a gaming machine that can be improved and can greatly reduce the number of gaming media required for one gaming machine.
[0005]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
  In order to solve the above-described problem, the gaming machine of the present invention includes a game medium payout unit that pays out a game medium based on establishment of a predetermined payout condition, and a game medium standby unit on which the game medium stands by, A gaming machine that plays a game using a game medium waiting in a game medium standby unit,
A payout game medium detecting means for detecting a game medium paid out from the game medium payout unit;
A used game medium detecting means for detecting use of the game medium waiting in the game medium standby section in a game;
Game medium number calculating means for calculating the number of game media owned by the player from the number of game media detected by the payout game medium detecting means and the number of game media detected by the used game medium detecting means;
A storage unit for storing the number of game media calculated by the game media number calculation means;
A game medium number display unit for displaying the number of game media stored in the storage unit;
Use control means for enabling the use of game media waiting in the game media standby unit on the condition that the number of game media stored in the storage unit remains;
A game medium storage unit for storing at least the game medium detected by the payout game medium detection means;
A game medium transfer passage constructed from a lower position of the gaming machine to an upper position and capable of transferring a game medium;
A transfer unit connected to the game medium storage unit and transferring the game medium stored in the game medium storage unit to an upper position of the gaming machine through the game medium transfer path;
It was transferred by the transfer unit and discharged from a position above the game medium transfer passage.Game media circulation for guiding game media to the game media payout unitThroughRoad,
Game medium payout means for paying out game media within the range of the number of game media stored in the storage unit;
A payout game medium detecting means for detecting a game medium paid back by the game medium payout means;
A game medium storage unit configured to be able to store the game medium paid back by the game medium payout means and to visually recognize a storage state and an empty state of the paid-back game medium;
An external takeout unit for taking out the game medium to the outside;
An external take-out operation unit that is operated by a player to take out game media within the range of the number of game media stored in the storage unit from the external take-out unit to the outside of the gaming machine;
A game medium take-out means for letting out the game medium within the range of the number of game media stored in the storage unit based on the operation of the external take-out operation unit from the game medium payout unit to the external take-out unit;
An external take-out game medium detecting means for detecting a game medium to be paid out to the external take-out section from the game medium pay-out section;
A game medium payout path for guiding the game medium paid out from the game medium payout unit to the payout game medium detection means;
A game medium take-out path for guiding the game medium paid out from the game medium payout unit to the external take-out unit;
With
The game medium number calculating means is the payout game medium detecting means.And said externally extracted game medium detecting meansBased on the detection of the game medium by the subtracting and updating the number of game media stored in the storage unit,
The game medium payout unit is provided with a path switching unit that switches a path of game media to be paid out to one of the paths.It is characterized by that.
  According to this feature, at least the game medium paid out from the game medium payout unit and detected by the payout game medium detection means is added and stored in the storage unit, and the detected game medium is stored in the storage unit. AboveGame medium storage section, transfer section, game medium transfer path, game medium circulation pathThe game medium is then recirculated to the game medium payout unit, and is again paid out from the game medium payout unit. Since these game media are circulated and used in one game machine, it is required for one game machine. The amount of game media that can be greatly reduced, andGame medium storage section, transfer section, game medium transfer path, game medium circulation pathTherefore, the degree of freedom in installing the gaming machine can be improved, the game medium can be paid out by the game medium payout means, and the amount of the paid-out game medium stored in the game medium storage unit can be grasped. Can do.Further, the number of game media stored in the storage unit can be visually confirmed. Furthermore, the player can arbitrarily take out the game media stored in the storage unit to the external take-up unit by operating the external take-out operation unit, and pay out the game media to the game medium payout passage. There is no need to separately provide a game medium payout unit for playing and a game medium payout unit for paying out game media to the game medium takeout passage, and the gaming machine can be simplified.
[0010]
The gaming machine of the present invention includes an input unit for inputting game media, and input game medium detection means for detecting game media input from the input unit, wherein the game medium number calculation means is the input game. It is preferable that the game medium detected by the medium detection means is added and updated to the number of game media stored in the storage unit.
In this way, the player can play the game by inserting the game medium from the input unit.
[0014]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, a pachinko machine is shown as an example of a gaming machine, but the gaming machine according to the present invention is not limited to these pachinko machines, and a slot machine for playing a game using coins or a pachinko ball. The present invention can also be applied to a pachi-lot that is a slot machine for playing games.
[0015]
(Example 1)
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a gaming system to which a pachinko machine 2 as a gaming machine according to a first embodiment of the present invention is applied, and the gaming system is installed in a game hall and uses a pachinko ball as a gaming medium. Management of the pachinko machine 2 that can be played in the game, the card unit 3 installed one-on-one with the pachinko machine 2, and prepaid cards or membership cards used in the card unit 3 Management computer 100 for performing the game, a POS register 101 for exchanging a prize ball acquired by a game in the pachinko machine 2 for a predetermined prize, and management of game information of the pachinko machine 2 The card unit 3 and the POS register 101 and the management computer 100 are connected to the communication cable 8. Together they are connected to allow data communication over the the pachinko machine 2 and the hall computer 102 is data communicably connected via a communication cable 10.
[0016]
First, the pachinko machine 2 that is the gaming machine of the first embodiment will be described. The pachinko machine 2 has a glass door frame 201 formed in a frame shape as shown in FIG. The upper surface is provided with a credit display section 285 (game medium number display section) for displaying the number of credit balls, which is the number of pachinko balls that can be used in the game, and the interruption time of the game. The operation unit 220 is provided so that the upper surface is inclined toward the player side. In addition, on both sides of the operation unit 220 in the glass door frame 201, standby ball confirmation windows 239a and 239b that allow a pachinko ball waiting on a hitting ball waiting rod 239, which will be described later, to be seen are provided. The player can check the movement of the ball. Further, at the lower part of the operation part 220 in the glass door frame 201, a take-out ball tray 243 as an external take-out part for storing pachinko balls discharged to the outside, and a game medium provided inside the surface side of the pachinko machine 2 A hitting ball operating handle 235 for launching a pachinko ball waiting on a hitting ball waiting bar 239 as a waiting portion is provided. In addition, 236 provided in the upper left end position of the glass door frame 201 is a full tank notification for notifying that a pachinko ball stored in an upper tank 246 described later has reached a predetermined storage upper limit amount. 237 is a tank empty notification lamp for notifying that the storage ball in the upper tank 246 is empty.
[0017]
On the upper surface of the operation unit 220, as shown in FIG. 3, a card balance display unit 221 for displaying the frequency as a game valuable value read from the prepaid card or the membership card being accepted in the card unit 3; A credit display unit 222 that displays the number of credit balls, which is the number of pachinko balls that can be used in the game, and a non-credit display unit 227 that displays the number of loaned balls and prize balls that have not yet been added to the number of credit balls. It is operated when the game starts or when the number of credit balls displayed on the credit display unit 222 decreases or disappears. A ball lending button 223 for lending a ball and when the number of credit balls displayed on the credit display unit 222 is lost, the ball An automatic ball lending button 224 for performing setting / canceling of the automatic ball lending mode, an automatic ball lending lamp 225 for notifying that the automatic ball lending mode is set, and a game The payment button 230 (checkout operation section) for recording and returning the credit ball number as a premium ball number to the prepaid card or membership card being accepted as a result of being operated when ending the game, and temporarily suspending the game When the interruption button 231 for invalidating various operations, the interruption lamp 232 for notifying that the game is being interrupted by lighting, and the number of credit balls displayed on the credit display unit 222 remain When operated, an external takeout button 228 (external takeout operation) for paying out the pachinko balls within the credit ball count to the takeout ball receiving tray 243 ) And a take-in ball counting button 229 for taking the pachinko balls stored in the take-out ball tray 243 into the pachinko machine 2 and adding them to the credit ball number, and these parts are provided on the operation board 233. Implemented above.
[0018]
A game board 202 is detachably attached to the rear of the glass door frame 201 as shown in FIG. A game area 203 is provided in front of the game board 202. Near the upper center of the game area 203, a first variable display unit 204 variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information called “special symbols” and a plurality of types of identification information called “ordinary symbols” are variably displayed. A second variable display section 205 is provided. In addition, in the vicinity of the lower center of the game area 203, a normal winning opening 213b and a specific winning opening 213a are formed, and a distribution device 212 having a rotating disk 213 that is always rotated by turning on the power is provided. Further, on the right side of the first variable display portion 204, a notch 214a capable of accommodating one pachinko ball is formed, and a rotating rotor 214 that is always rotated when the power is turned on is provided. In addition, the game board 202 is provided with a plurality of normal winning holes 209, a passing gate 206, a starting winning hole 207, a first variable winning ball device 210, a second variable winning ball device 215, and a lower portion of the game area 203. Is formed with an out port 217 for collecting pachinko balls that have not won any winning ports.
[0019]
In addition, the game board 202 in the pachinko machine 2 of the first embodiment is a game board having a larger diameter than the game board in a general pachinko machine. By using a large-diameter game board in this way, for example, an accessory (a first type in the first embodiment) for performing a plurality of types of games (a first type game and a third type game in the first embodiment). The winning prize opening 209, the first variable display unit 204, and the like are provided as the winning combination, and the sorting device 212 and the like are provided as the third type accessory, and can be arranged on the game board. As a result, a game can be performed in a plurality of game processes, so that the interest of the player can be greatly improved.
[0020]
By operating the hitting operation handle 235, the hitting motor 270 (see FIG. 8) is driven, and accordingly, the hammer 270 'swings and the pachinko balls waiting on the hitting ball waiting bar 239 are shot one by one. The These fired pachinko balls are detected by a fire ball detection switch 241 as a used game medium detection means, subtracted from the credit ball number, enter the game area 203 through the hit ball launch rail 240, and then play area 203 flows down. At this time, the pachinko ball whose launch momentum is too weak to reach the game area 203 is collected in the foul port 242 and sent to the foul ball guide rod 257 on the back side as shown in FIG. 259 and is added to the credit ball number, and is collected in a lower tank 253 as a game medium storage unit provided at a lower position on the back side of the pachinko machine 2.
[0021]
In addition, pachinko balls that have been driven into the game area 203 and have not won any winning holes are collected at the outlet 217, and as shown in FIG. Is sent to the collecting passage) and detected by the hitting ball detection switch 258, and is added to the number of hitting balls, which will be described later, and recovered in the lower tank 253.
[0022]
Further, when the pachinko ball that has been driven into the game area 203 wins the normal winning opening 209, the winning pachinko ball is detected by the normal winning ball detection switch SW3, and then, as shown in FIG. The ball is sent to the ball confluence 282, detected by the driving ball detection switch 258, added to the number of the driving balls, and collected in the lower tank 253.
[0023]
When the pachinko ball driven into the game area 203 passes through the passage gate 206, the gate switch SW1 detects the passage of the pachinko ball, and the normal symbol stopped and displayed on the second variable display unit 205 starts variably. .
[0024]
When the display result after the variable display operation of the second variable display unit 205 becomes a predetermined specific display result (for example, 7), the movable piece 208 provided in the start winning opening 207 is opened for a predetermined time. It becomes an advantageous state for the player.
[0025]
When a pachinko ball wins the start winning opening 207, the winning pachinko ball is detected by the start winning ball detection switch SW2, and all the special symbols are variably displayed (variable display) in the first variable display unit 204. After that, when the left, middle and right special symbols are stopped and the stop display result is a predetermined display mode (for example, 777), the first type specific gaming state (big hit state) is set. appear. When the big hit state occurs in this way, the opening / closing plate 211 provided in the first variable winning ball apparatus 210 is opened, and a first state advantageous to the player is obtained. This first state ends when a predetermined period (for example, 30 seconds) or a predetermined number of pachinko balls (for example, 10) wins, whichever comes first, and then for the player A disadvantageous second state, that is, the open / close plate 211 is closed. The first variable winning ball apparatus 210 is provided with a normal winning opening and a specific winning opening, and a pachinko ball that has entered the first variable winning ball apparatus 210 in the first state is provided. If a winning is made in the specific winning opening and detected by the specific winning ball detection switch (V count switch) SW5, the second state is controlled from the second state after the end of the first state. Repeated continuation control is performed. The upper limit number of the repeated continuation control is set to 15 times, for example.
[0026]
Further, the pachinko ball that is won at the start winning opening 207 and is detected by the start winning ball detection switch SW2 is sent to the back-side hitting ball confluence 282 as shown in FIG. 258 and is added to the number of balls to be hit and collected in the lower tank 253. Further, the pachinko ball that has entered the first variable winning ball device 210, won a prize in the normal winning hole and was detected by the normal winning ball detection switch SW4, is also a back-side shot ball as shown in FIG. It is sent to the confluence 282, detected by the shot ball detection switch 258, added to the number of shot balls, and collected in the lower tank 253. Further, the pachinko ball that has entered the first variable winning ball apparatus 210, won a prize at the specific winning opening and was detected by the specific winning ball detection switch SW5, is also a back-side shot ball as shown in FIG. It is sent to the confluence 282, detected by the shot ball detection switch 258, added to the number of shot balls, and collected in the lower tank 253.
[0027]
Further, when the pachinko ball driven into the game area 203 enters the distribution device 212 and wins the normal winning slot 213b of the rotating disk 213, the winning pachinko ball is detected by the normal winning ball detection switch SW7. Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 4, it is sent to the back-side hitting ball confluence 282, detected by the hitting ball detection switch 258, added to the number of hitting balls, and collected in the lower tank 253. .
[0028]
Further, when the pachinko ball that has entered the distribution device 212 wins the specific winning opening 213a of the rotary disk 213, the winning pachinko ball is detected by the specific winning ball detection switch SW6, as shown in FIG. The ball is sent to the back-side hitting ball confluence 282, detected by the hitting ball detection switch 258, added to the number of hitting balls, and collected in the lower tank 253.
[0029]
Further, the third type specific gaming state (big hit state) occurs based on the detection of the pachinko ball by the specific winning ball detection switch SW6. In this state, when a pachinko ball enters the notch 214a of the rotary rotor 214 and the entered pachinko ball wins a prize in the rotor winning opening 214b with the rotation of the rotary rotor 214, the winning pachinko ball becomes the prize winning ball detection switch SW8 in the rotor. The opening / closing plate 216 provided in the second variable winning ball device 215 is opened, and a first state advantageous to the player is obtained. This first state is ended when the rotation of the rotary rotor 214 at a predetermined angle or a predetermined number (for example, 10) of pachinko balls, whichever comes first, is satisfied. A disadvantageous second state, that is, the open / close plate 211 is closed. In this second state, when the pachinko ball again wins the in-rotor winning opening 214b and is detected by the in-rotor winning ball detection switch SW8, repeated continuous control for controlling from the second state to the first state is performed. Done. The upper limit number of the repeated continuation control is set to 15 times, for example.
[0030]
Further, the pachinko balls that have been won by the in-rotor winning opening 214b and detected by the in-rotor winning ball detection switch SW8 are sent to the back-side hitting ball confluence 282 as shown in FIG. It is detected by the detection switch 258, added to the number of hit balls, and collected in the lower tank 253. Also, the pachinko ball that has been won in the second variable winning ball device 215 and detected by the specific winning ball detection switch SW9 is also sent to the back-side hitting ball confluence 282 as shown in FIG. It is detected by the throwing ball detection switch 258, added to the number of hit balls, and collected in the lower tank 253.
[0031]
On the back side of the pachinko machine 2 according to the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, an upper tank 246 (payout portion guide passage, upper part of the game medium) in which a predetermined number of pachinko balls are stored at a substantially central position on the left side in the drawing. The pachinko ball stored in the upper tank 246 flows down the payout ball supply passage 279 (payout portion guide passage) and is supplied to the ball payout device 248 as a game medium payout portion. . In addition, 247 shown in FIG. 4 is an upper tank full tank switch (upper storage game medium detecting means) for detecting that the pachinko balls stored in the upper tank 246 have reached a predetermined upper limit amount.
[0032]
As shown in FIGS. 5A to 5C, the ball payout device 248 receives pachinko balls supplied from the upper tank 246 through the payout ball supply passage 279 based on the drive rotation by the drive motor 249a. A sprocket 249b for paying out one ball at a time is provided. Further, below the sprocket 249b, it swings by excitation or release of the solenoid 251, and the flow path of the pachinko balls discharged by the sprocket 249b is either an internal flow path 281 or an external flow path 280 described later. A passage switching valve 250 (passage switching unit) is provided for switching between the two. In addition, 278 shown in FIGS. 5B and 5C is a ball breakage detection switch provided in the payout ball supply passage 279 for detecting the presence or absence of pachinko balls supplied to the ball payout device 248.
[0033]
In the ball dispensing device 248, the passage switching valve 250 is normally in the state shown in FIG. 5B, and the pachinko balls dispensed by the ball dispensing device 248 are connected to the lower tank 253. Is discharged to an internal flow path 281 as a game medium discharge path, and is detected by a payout ball detection switch 252 as a payout game medium detection means provided in the path of the internal flow path 281, Is added to the number of replenishing balls and discharged into the lower tank 253 for storage. In addition, when the external take-out button 228 of the operation unit 220 is operated, the passage switching valve 250 is swung by the excitation of the solenoid 251, and the state as shown in FIG. The pachinko balls paid out in the above are discharged to an external flow passage 280 as a game medium take-out passage connected to the take-out ball outlet 244 in the take-out ball receiving tray 243 on the surface side of the pachinko machine 2, and the external flow passage It is detected by a take-out ball detection switch 277 as an external take-out game medium detecting means provided in the route 280, subtracted from the credit ball number, and discharged to the take-out ball receiving tray 243.
[0034]
As described above, the lower tank 253 is provided at the lower position on the back side of the pachinko machine 2. The lower tank 253 is discharged by the ball discharge device 248 and flows down the internal flow passage 281. Pachinko balls, fired toward the game area 203 and sent to the foul ball guide cage 257 without reaching the game area 203, and detected by the foul ball detection switch 259, each winning mouth and out mouth 217 Thus, the pachinko balls collected by the driving ball confluence 282 and detected by the driving ball detection switch 258 are stored. Further, as shown in FIG. 4, the lower tank 253 is connected to the take-out ball receiving tray 243 via an take-out ball inlet 245 as an input portion and an inflow ball guide rod 283, and the intake ball inlet The shutter 245 ′ for closing the 245 is opened by driving the shutter solenoid 267 (see FIG. 8), so that the pachinko balls in the take-out ball receiving tray 243 flow into the inflow ball guide rod 283 and are provided in the inflow ball guide rod 283. The inflow ball detection switch 256 is detected, added to the credit ball number, discharged to the lower tank 253, and stored. 4 and 6 is a tilting plate that tilts with the weight of the pachinko ball stored in the lower tank 253, and the lower tank empty detection switch 255 detects the tilting of the tilting plate 254. It is a micro switch that detects whether or not pachinko balls are stored in the lower tank 253. Also, 260 shown in FIG. 4 is a lower tank full switch that detects that the pachinko balls stored in the lower tank 253 have reached a predetermined upper limit amount.
[0035]
Further, the pachinko balls stored in these lower tanks 253 are supplied to a lifting device 261 as a transfer section provided continuously with the lower tank 253 as shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 6, the lifting device 261 is provided with a sprocket 402 that rotates in the direction of the arrow in the drawing as the drive motor 401 is driven, and the lower tank 253 is rotated by the rotation of the sprocket 402. The supplied pachinko balls are transferred to a position above the upper tank 246 through a lifting path 263 as a game medium transfer path.
[0036]
Further, as shown in FIG. 4, a polishing device 262 as a cleaning unit that polishes pachinko balls transferred through the lifting path 263 is provided in the path of the lifting path 263. As shown in FIG. 6, this polishing apparatus 262 includes a pedestal 412 provided with a drive shaft 416 that is rotationally driven by a take-up motor 419 and a rotational shaft 417 that is rotatably supported. It has reels 414 and 415 around which the wound polishing cloth 418 is wound, and a ball guide path 413 through which pachinko balls can pass in a row, so that the polishing cloth 418 passes over the ball guide path 413. The polishing cassette 410 is mainly composed of a laid polishing cassette 410, and the polishing cassette 410 is detachable from the pedestal 412.
[0037]
By attaching the polishing cassette 410 to the pedestal 412, the lifting path 263 and the ball guiding path 413 are connected, and the pachinko balls transferred through the lifting path 263 are guided in the ball guiding path 413. By moving in this manner, it is cleaned by sliding contact with the polishing pad 418 laid in the ball guiding path 413.
[0038]
Further, the reels 414 and 415 around which the polishing cloth 418 is wound are fitted to the drive shaft 416 and the rotation shaft 417 which rotate in synchronization with the rotation of the winding motor 419 by the mounting, and at predetermined intervals. The drive shaft 416 is rotated by the rotation of the driven take-up motor 419, whereby the reels 414 and 415 are rotated so that the polishing pad 418 is taken up on the reel 414 side. As a result, a portion of the polishing cloth 418 laid in the ball guide path 413, that is, a portion to which dirt has adhered due to polishing of the pachinko balls is wound on the reel 414 side, and the portion on the reel 415 side to which dirt has not yet adhered is wound. The portion is unwound and laid in the ball guide path 413 so that good polishing (cleaning) can be performed.
[0039]
As in these examples, the use of the polishing apparatus 262 using the polishing cassette 410 causes the polishing cloth 418 and the pachinko ball that are not properly soiled to come into sliding contact with each other, so that good polishing (cleaning) is achieved. It is preferable because it can be carried out and space-saving and the replacement of the polishing cloth is easy to carry out by adopting a cassette shape. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the pachinko that is fed through these feed paths 263 is used. Any polishing (cleaning) apparatus can be used as long as the sphere can be cleaned.
[0040]
The pachinko balls that have been transported by the lifting device 261 through the lifting path 263 and have reached the uppermost portion of the lifting path 263 are supplied to the replenishment rod 264 (dispensing portion guiding passage), and the replenishment rod 264 is moved downstream. Flow down.
[0041]
As shown in FIG. 4, the end of the replenishing rod 264 has a waiting ball guiding rod 265 as a waiting portion guiding passage continuously provided to the hit ball waiting rod 239 via the waiting ball inlet 238 and the upper tank 246. Branching portions 286 that are connected in two directions are formed, and the pachinko balls that have been transferred from the lower tank 253 toward the upper position and flowed down from the replenishing rods 264 are hit through the standby ball guiding rods 265 on the other hand. The ball is supplied to the standby rod 239 and used again as a launch ball, and on the other hand, it is supplied to the upper tank 246 and used again as a pachinko ball paid out from the ball dispensing device 248.
[0042]
The branching portion 286 is connected to the upper tank 246 on the most downstream side and connected to the standby ball guide rod 265 on the upstream side. As a result, as shown in FIG. 7 (a), the pachinko balls that have flowed down the replenishment basket 264 are preferentially supplied to the standby ball guide basket 265 at the branching section 286, and FIG. As shown in b), the pachinko ball in the standby ball guide rod 265 is supplied to the upper tank 246 only when it is full.
[0043]
As shown in FIG. 4, a control box 226 for storing various substrates for controlling the pachinko machine 2 is provided at the upper position on the back side of the pachinko machine 2. The control box 226 includes a game control board 273 for giving a prize ball based on a prize and performing various lotteries, and a display control board for controlling display of the first variable display section 204 and the second variable display section 205. 274, a lamp control board 275 for controlling game effect lamps, a voice control board 276 for controlling sound output from a speaker, and a control of a hitting motor 270 for launching a pachinko ball to the game area 203 The launch control board 269 for performing the above, the ball delivery control board 271 for performing the drive control of the drive motor 249a and the solenoid 251 for performing the pachinko ball delivery in the above-described ball delivery apparatus 248, the drive control of the lifting apparatus 261, the polishing apparatus 262, and the like. A lifting control board 268 as an annular flow rate control means, and a holding ball control board 272 for calculating the number of credit balls are provided. And, these various substrates such are connected as shown in FIG.
[0044]
Next, the configuration of various boards in the control box 226 will be described. The game control board 273 is provided with a game control microcomputer (not shown), and the game control microcomputer receives each prize of the game board 202. In addition to giving a prize ball based on the detection of pachinko balls by various switches SW1 to SW9 provided in the mouth, and performing various lotteries, the display control board 274, the voice control board 275, and the lamp control board 276 are provided. Various instruction signals are output, and the effect control according to the gaming state is performed on each of the boards. The game control microcomputer may receive a prize ball signal indicating the number of prize balls given based on the detection of pachinko balls by the various switches SW1 to SW9, or a jackpot signal indicating the occurrence of the above-mentioned specific game state (big hit state). Various signals such as a start signal of the first variable display unit 204 are sequentially output to the ball holding control board 272.
[0045]
The launch control board 269 is provided with a launch control microcomputer (not shown). The launch control microcomputer is in a state where a launch permission signal is output from the holding ball control board 272. When the operation of the hitting ball operating handle 235 is detected, the hitting ball launch motor 270 is driven to launch a pachinko ball.
[0046]
Further, the lifting control board 268 includes the lifting device 261 and the polishing device 262, the upper tank full switch 247, the lower tank empty detection switch 255, the ball break detection switch 278, the lower tank full detection switch 260, and the glass. A door opening / closing detection switch 287 (see FIG. 4) for detecting the opening / closing state of the door frame 201 is connected as shown in FIG. Further, the lifting control board 268 is provided with a lifting control microcomputer (not shown), and the lifting control microcomputer includes the upper tank full switch 247, the lower tank empty detection switch 255, and the door opening / closing. Based on the detection status of the detection switch 287, the detection status of the pachinko balls of the ball break switch 278, and the detection status of the lower tank full tank detection switch 260, drive control of the lifting device 261 and the polishing device 262 is performed, and The lighting control of the tank notification lamp 236 and the tank empty notification lamp 237 is performed.
[0047]
The control operation of the lifting control of the lifting device 261 by the lifting control microcomputer mounted on the lifting control board 268 will be described based on the flow shown in FIG. The pachinko ball detection by the upper tank full switch 247 is not detected (“OFF”), and the detection of the lifted ball by the lower tank empty detection switch 255 is detected (“ON”), and Whether the door state by the door opening / closing detection switch 287 is closed ("ON") is monitored (Sf1), and when these conditions match the above conditions, the operation of the lifting device 261 is started (Sf2), If the condition is not met, the process proceeds to Sf3 to Sf5 below. Further, when the lifting device 261 is already in operation at the stage of Sf1, and the above conditions are met, the operation of the lifting device 261 is continued in Sf2.
[0048]
Next, after the lifting device 261 starts operating in Sf2, whether the upper tank full switch 247 detects pachinko balls ("ON"), or the lower tank empty detection switch 255 detects the lifted balls. It is determined whether the detection is not detected (“OFF”) or the door state is opened (“OFF”) by the door opening / closing detection switch 287 (Sf3 to Sf5), and any of these determinations is performed. If they match, the process proceeds to Sf6, and the lifting of the pachinko balls by the lifting device 261 is stopped.
[0049]
If none of the determinations from Sf3 to Sf5 is met, the process proceeds to Sf7, where the pachinko ball detection by the upper tank full switch 247 is detected ("ON") and the lower tank A determination is made as to whether pachinko ball detection by the full tank switch 260 is detected ("ON"). If the determination is met, the process proceeds to Sf8, the full tank notification lamp 236 is turned on, and the process proceeds to Sf10. At the same time, by outputting the determination result to the ball control board 272, the output of the firing permission signal by the ball control microcomputer 272a, which will be described later, is stopped, and the operation of the ball operation handle 235 is invalidated and the game is played. If it is interrupted and the determination does not match, the process proceeds to Sf9, the full tank notification lamp 236 is turned off, and the process proceeds to Sf10.
[0050]
In Sf10, it is determined whether the detection of the pachinko sphere by the ball break switch 278 is non-detection (“OFF”), and if the determination matches (non-detection (“OFF”)) Proceeding to Sf11, the tank empty notification lamp 237 is turned on and the process returns to Sf1. When the determination does not match, the process proceeds to Sf12 and the tank empty notification lamp 237 is turned off and the process returns to Sf1.
[0051]
By performing these processes, excessive pachinko balls are not lifted and overflowed into the upper tank 246, and when the lower tank 253 has no lifted balls, it is prevented that the lifting device 261 is idling. When the full tank notification lamp 236 and the tank empty notification lamp 237 are turned on, the upper tank 246 is empty and the upper tank 246 and the lower tank 253 have pachinko balls. Is informed that is full.
[0052]
Returning to FIG. 8, the ball control board 272 includes a ball control microcomputer 272a (use control means, game, etc.) that performs various controls, calculation processes, data communication processes, and the like that are performed on the ball control board 272. A medium number calculating means, a game medium extracting means), a ROM 272b storing a control program of the holding ball control microcomputer 272a, a credit ball number calculating program, a RAM 272c as a storage unit used as a work memory, and the like. It has been.
[0053]
The RAM 272c stores a card balance register in which the frequency read from the prepaid card or member card received by the corresponding card unit 3 is stored, and a credit ball in which the number of credit balls usable in the game is stored. A number register, an uncredited ball number register in which the number of pachinko balls to be paid out by the ball payout device 248 is stored based on the prize ball signal from the game control board 273 or the operation of the ball lending button 223, the shot ball Every time a pachinko ball is detected by the detection switch 258, an added ball number register for storing the number of balls to be added and updated, and every time a pachinko ball is detected by the payout ball detection switch 252, the update is performed. The supply ball number register for storing the number of supply balls to be stored, the big hit signal output from the game control board 273, and the first variable table A game information register in which game information based on various signals such as a start signal of the unit 204 is updated and stored; an interrupt register in which interrupt data output to the card unit 3 is stored when the game is interrupted; and the corresponding card unit In FIG. 3, a card receiving register or the like in which information indicating that a prepaid card or a member card is being received is registered.
[0054]
Further, a credit display unit 285 provided on the glass door frame 201 and an operation substrate 233 in the operation unit 220 are connected to the ball holding control board 272 as shown in FIG. 272a displays the credit ball number stored in the credit ball number register of the RAM 272c on the credit display unit 285 and the credit display unit 222 provided on the operation board 233, and the uncredited ball number register Control is performed to display the number of balls stored in the non-credit display unit 227.
[0055]
The ball holding control board 272 includes a standby ball detection switch 266, a ball breakage detection switch 278 connected to the lifting control board 268, an upper tank full switch 247, and a detection status of the lower tank full switch 260. The ball holding microcomputer 272a determines whether a pachinko ball is detected in each switch and whether there is a credit ball number stored in the credit ball number register in the RAM 272c. Based on this, the output control of the launch permission signal is performed on the launch control board 269, and thereby the validity / invalidity of the pachinko ball launch by the operation of the hitting operation handle 235 is controlled.
[0056]
In addition, a ball payout control board 271 is connected to the ball holding control board 272, and the ball holding control microcomputer 272a detects a prize ball signal output from the game control board 273 and the operation unit 220. Based on the input detection of the ball lending button 223, the input detection of the external take-out button 228, etc., the path instruction signal and the payout signal are output to the ball payout control board 271, and the ball payout device 248 pays out the pachinko balls. Is supposed to be implemented.
[0057]
Also connected to the holding ball control board 272 are the payout ball detection switch 252, the launch ball detection switch 241, the foul ball detection switch 259, the take-out ball detection switch 277, the inflow ball detection switch 256, and the hit ball detection switch 258. A signal from each switch is inputted, and the holding ball control microcomputer 272a receives the credit ball stored in the credit ball number register of the RAM 272c based on the detection of the pachinko ball by each switch. Calculation to add / subtract the number, the number of uncredited balls stored in the uncredited ball number register, the number of hit balls stored in the pitched ball number register, and the number of supplied balls stored in the supply ball number register Processing is to be implemented.
[0058]
Specifically, every time the payout ball detection switch 252 detects a pachinko ball, the credit ball number and the replenishment ball number are incremented by one and the uncredited ball number is decremented by one. Further, every time the shot ball detection switch 241 detects a pachinko ball, the credit ball number is decremented by one. Each time the foul ball detection switch 259 detects a pachinko ball, the number of credit balls is incremented by one. Each time the take-out ball detection switch 277 detects a pachinko ball, the credit ball number is decremented by one. Each time the inflow ball detection switch 256 detects a pachinko ball, the credit ball number is incremented by one. Further, every time the hitting ball detection switch 258 detects a pachinko ball, the number of hitting balls is incremented by one.
[0059]
Further, the shutter solenoid 267 is connected to the ball control board 272, and the ball control microcomputer 272a is based on the input detection of the take-in ball count button 229 provided in the operation unit 220. The shutter solenoid 267 is driven, and control is performed to open and close a shutter 245 ′ that closes the intake ball inlet 245 provided in the take-out ball receiving tray 243.
[0060]
The ball holding control board 272 is connected to the corresponding card unit 3 via a first communication unit 289 (COM1) described later, and the ball holding control microcomputer 272a is provided in the operation unit 220. The payment data including the number of credit balls stored in the credit ball number register is transmitted to the corresponding card unit 3 based on the input detection of the payment button 230, and the prepaid card or membership card being accepted is returned. A settlement process is performed to reset each part.
[0061]
The ball holding control microcomputer 272a stops the output of the firing permission signal to the firing control board 269 based on the input detection of the interruption button 231 provided on the operation unit 220, and controls the hitting ball operation handle 235. The operation is invalidated and the prepaid card or membership card being accepted is returned by sending interruption data including the credit ball number stored in the credit ball number register to the corresponding card unit 3 to temporarily play the game. When the returned prepaid card or membership card is received again, the output of the firing permission signal to the firing control board 269 is resumed, and the operation of the hitting operation handle 235 is made effective. The interruption process that allows the game that was interrupted to be resumed can be resumed That.
[0062]
In addition, the ball holding control microcomputer 272a is based on the input detection of the automatic ball lending button 225 provided in the operation unit 220, and when the frequency remains in the card balance register of the RAM 272c, it is stored in the credit ball number register. An automatic ball that causes the ball payout device 248 to automatically pay out pachinko balls by subtracting the frequency stored in the card balance register by a predetermined frequency on condition that the number of stored credit balls is 0 The lending mode is set / released.
[0063]
The ball control microcomputer 272a controls lighting of the automatic ball lending lamp 225 and the suspension lamp 232 provided in the operation unit 220 based on the execution status of the interruption process and the setting status of the automatic ball lending mode. The display control of the interruption time display in the credit display part 285 provided in the said glass door frame 201 is implemented.
[0064]
Further, as shown in FIG. 8, the ball holding control board 272 includes a first communication unit (COM1) 289 and a second communication unit (COM2) that perform data communication with the card unit 3 and external devices such as the hall computer 102. ) 288 is connected to the hall computer 102 through the second communication unit (COM 2) 288 in the first embodiment, and the ball computer 102 has a driving ball number register and a supply ball number in the RAM 272c. The game information such as the number of hit balls, the number of supply balls, the number of big hits, the number of starts, etc. registered in the register and game information register is output.
[0065]
Further, as shown in FIG. 8, the card unit 3 is connected to the first communication unit (COM1) 289 via the communication cable 9, and the card unit 3 is connected to the card unit 3. Card reception information indicating whether or not a prepaid card or membership card is accepted, information such as the frequency read from the accepted prepaid card or membership card, checkout data including the number of credit balls, interruption data, etc. Is now being implemented.
[0066]
Here, the card unit 3 used in the first embodiment will be briefly described. As shown in FIG. 2, the card unit 3 according to the first embodiment includes an operation lamp 301 that notifies the operation status of the card unit 3 by lighting on the front surface thereof, a bill insertion slot 303 in which a bill can be inserted, A bill indicator 302 that is flashed when a bill is returned from the bill insertion slot 303 to notify the return of the bill, and a card insertion slot 305 into which a prepaid card or a membership card as a game recording medium can be inserted, , A card indicator 304 that is flashed when the card is returned from the card insertion slot 305 to notify the return of the card, a coin insertion slot 306 into which a coin can be inserted, and a coin return button for returning the inserted coin 307, a coin return slot 310 through which the returned coins are discharged, and a coin that is flashed when coins are returned from the coin return slot 310 A coin indicator 309 for informing a return, are provided.
[0067]
As shown in FIG. 8, the configuration of the card unit 3 according to the first embodiment is connected to the bill insertion slot 303 in addition to the operation lamp 301, the bill indicator 302, the card indicator 304, and the coin indicator 309. A bill identification unit 311 for identifying the authenticity and type of a bill inserted from the bill insertion slot 303, a prepaid card or a membership card connected to the card insertion slot 305 and inserted from the card insertion slot 305 And a card reader / writer 312 for reading and writing recorded information recorded on the prepaid card or the membership card, and a coin inserted into the coin slot 306 connected to the coin slot 306. A coin identification unit 313 for identifying authenticity and type is provided; In addition, a control microcomputer (MPU) 318 is provided which is connected to each of these units and performs control, and a control program executed by the control microcomputer (MPU) 318 is recorded in the control microcomputer (MPU) 318. A ROM 314 and a RAM 315 that can be used as a work memory by the control microcomputer (MPU) 318 in various processes are connected.
[0068]
Further, the control microcomputer (MPU) 318 includes a first communication unit 317 that performs data communication with the first communication unit (COM1) 289 of the pachinko machine 2, and each card unit 3 as illustrated in FIG. When a prepaid card or a membership card is received in the card insertion slot 305, the card reader / writer 312 receives the data when the second communication unit 316 that performs data communication with the connected management computer 100 is connected. The record information of the prepaid card or the member card is read, and the card ID and the frequency data that are individually given to the prepaid card or the member card in the record information together with the unit ID that is given to the card unit 3 in advance. By transmitting to the management computer 100, the management computer 100 The number of verification is carried out. If the collation result does not match, the accepted card is returned. If the collation matches, the frequency data and card acceptance information are sent to the pachinko machine 2 through the first communication unit 317. By transmitting to the ball control board 272, information indicating that the card is being received in the card unit 3 corresponding to the card receiving register in the RAM 272c is registered, and the frequency based on the frequency data is stored in the card balance register. And is displayed on the card balance display unit 221, and the pachinko ball lending based on this frequency becomes possible. That is, it is possible to play a game with the pachinko machine 2 using this frequency.
[0069]
The second communication unit 316 transmits data such as the card ID, frequency data, and unit ID recorded on the prepaid card or member card received as described above, and the management computer 100 transmits each card. Information such as the remaining number of each time is managed, and the credit card number data recorded on the prepaid card or the membership card being accepted in the settlement process described later is also transmitted to the management computer 100, and each card Credit card number data is registered and managed in association with the ID, and the prepaid card returned in the checkout process is obtained by connecting the management computer 100 with a POS register 101 for gift exchange. By bringing your membership card to the POS register 101, you can exchange the number of credits It has become so can be used for.
[0070]
In the interruption process by the operation of the interruption button 231, the card ID of the prepaid card being accepted, the interruption information indicating that the interruption is in progress, and information such as the interruption elapsed time are output to the management computer 100, When the suspension is canceled, the card ID and the suspension cancellation information are output to the management computer 100.
[0071]
As described above, the card unit 3 according to the first embodiment can accept bills and coins that are money and can identify them, and accepts a prepaid card or a membership card in the card insertion slot 305. If the bill or coin is received, the control microcomputer (MPU) 318 determines the remaining number at that time through the first communication unit 317 and holds the ball of the pachinko machine 2. The prepaid card which is obtained from the control board 272, adds the frequency corresponding to the amount of money received to the obtained remaining frequency, and receives the new frequency after the addition by the card reader / writer 312. Or record on a membership card.
[0072]
The new frequency data is transmitted to the management computer 100 through the second communication unit 316 together with the unit ID given in advance to the card unit 3 and the card ID of the prepaid card or membership card being accepted. The remaining frequency data of the card ID to be updated is updated, and the information on the new frequency is transmitted to the holding control board 272 via the first communication unit 317, and the card balance in the RAM 272c of the holding control board 272 The remaining frequency of the register is updated, and the new frequency is displayed on the card balance display unit 221 so that the new frequency can be used for ball rental.
[0073]
Next, the processing status of the ball holding control microcomputer 272a in the pachinko machine 2 of the first embodiment and the operation status of each part will be described based on the flow shown in FIG.
[0074]
First, the holding ball control microcomputer 272a determines whether or not the credit ball number remains in the credit ball number register of the RAM 272c (Sa1). If the credit ball number remains, the ball holding control microcomputer 272a launches the firing control board 269. The permission signal is output, and the operation of the hit ball operation handle 235 is validated (Sa2). If the number of credit balls does not remain in Sa1, the output of the firing permission signal to the firing control board 269 is stopped and the operation of the hitting operation handle 235 is invalidated (Sa3).
[0075]
Next, detection of a ball lending request based on input of the ball lending button 223, detection of input of a prize ball signal from the game control board 273, detection of input of the external takeout button 228, detection of input of the takeout ball count button 229, checkout button 230 Detection of a settlement request based on the input of the stop button, detection of a suspension request based on the input of the suspension button 231, detection of a pachinko ball in the payout ball detection switch 252, detection of a pachinko ball in the launch ball detection switch 241, and pachinko in the foul ball detection switch 259 A state of waiting for detection of any of the spheres is detected (Sa4 to Sa12).
[0076]
When the ball lending button 223 is input and a ball lending request is detected in the state of waiting for detection of Sa4 to Sa12 (Sa4), it is determined whether or not the frequency stored in the card balance register of the RAM 272c remains. (Sa13) If the frequency does not remain, the process proceeds to Sa1. If the frequency remains in Sa13, the number of pachinko balls (125 balls in the first embodiment) corresponding to the ball lending request is added and updated to the uncredited ball number in the uncredited ball number register of the RAM 272c (Sa14). Further, the uncredited ball number displayed on the uncredited display unit 227 is also added and updated as the uncredited ball number register is added and updated in the uncredited ball number register.
[0077]
Next, the frequency stored in the card balance register is subtracted and updated by a predetermined frequency (5 in this embodiment) (Sa15), and a payout signal is output to the ball payout control board 271. The ball payout device 248 pays out the number of pachinko balls according to the ball lending request to the internal flow path 281 (Sa16), and the process proceeds to Sa1. In addition, the frequency displayed on the card balance display unit 221 is also subtracted and updated with the frequency subtraction update in the card balance register.
[0078]
In addition, when an input of a prize ball signal from the game control board 273 is detected in the state of waiting for detection of Sa4 to Sa12 (Sa5), the number of pachinko balls according to the number of prize balls of the detected prize ball signal (5 balls or 15 balls in the first embodiment) is added and updated to the uncredited ball number in the uncredited ball number register (Sa17).
[0079]
Next, a payout signal is output to the ball payout control board 271, and a payout of the number of pachinko balls according to the number of prize balls of the detected prize ball signal is performed to the internal flow path 281 (Sa18). The process proceeds to Sa1.
[0080]
Further, in the state of waiting for detection of Sa4 to Sa12, when an input of the external extraction button 228 is detected (Sa6), an external extraction process described in detail later is performed (Sa19), and the process proceeds to the process of Sa1 after the process ends. .
[0081]
When the input of the take-out ball counting button 229 is detected in the state of waiting for detection of Sa4 to Sa12 (Sa7), an internal take-in process described in detail later is performed (Sa20), and the process of Sa1 is performed after the process ends. Transition.
[0082]
Further, in the state of waiting for detection of Sa4 to Sa12, when the input of the settlement button 230 is detected (Sa8), the settlement process described in detail later is performed (Sa21), and the process proceeds to Sa1 after the process is completed.
[0083]
Further, in the state of waiting for detection of Sa4 to Sa12, when the input of the interrupt button 231 is detected (Sa9), an interrupt process described in detail later is performed (Sa22), and the process proceeds to the process of Sa1 after the process ends.
[0084]
In the state of waiting for detection of Sa4 to Sa12, when a pachinko ball flowing down the internal flow path 281 is detected by the payout ball detection switch 252 (Sa10), the uncredited ball stored in the uncredited ball number register. 1 is subtracted and updated from the number (Sa23), and 1 is added to the credit ball number stored in the credit ball number register and updated (Sa24), and the process proceeds to Sa1. In addition, the uncredited ball number displayed in the uncredited display unit 227 is also subtracted and updated in accordance with the subtraction update of the uncredited ball number in the uncredited ball number register, and the credit is added in accordance with the addition update of the credit number in the credit ball number register. The number of credit balls displayed on the display unit 222 is also added and updated.
[0085]
Further, in the state of waiting for detection of Sa4 to Sa12, when a pachinko ball passing through the hit ball launch rail 240 is detected by the launch ball detection switch 241 (Sa11), the number of credit balls stored in the credit ball number register is calculated. 1 is subtracted and updated (Sa25), and the process proceeds to Sa1. Further, the credit ball number displayed on the credit display unit 222 is also subtracted and updated with the credit ball number subtraction update in the credit ball register.
[0086]
When a pachinko ball flowing down the foul ball guide rod 257 is detected by the foul ball detection switch 259 in the detection waiting state of Sa4 to Sa12, (Sa12) the number of credit balls stored in the credit ball number register 1 is added and updated (Sa26), and the process proceeds to Sa1. Further, the credit ball number displayed on the credit display unit 222 is also added and updated with the addition and update of the credit ball number in the credit ball register.
[0087]
Next, the external extraction process (Sa19) performed when the input of the external extraction button 228 is detected in the state of waiting for detection of Sa4 to Sa12 (Sa6) will be described based on the flow of FIG. When the input of the external take-out button 228 is detected, it is determined whether or not the credit ball number stored in the credit ball number register remains (Sb1). Exit.
[0088]
When the number of credit balls remains in Sb1, a path instruction signal is output to the ball payout control board 271, the passage switching valve 250 in the ball payout device 248 is swung, and the payout ball in the ball payout device 248 is output. Is switched to the external flow path 280 (Sb2), a ball payout signal is output to the ball payout control board 271, and the ball payout device 248 causes one pachinko ball to be externally flowed. Payout to the 280 side (Sb3).
[0089]
Next, the take-off ball detection switch 277 provided in the external flow path 280 enters a waiting state for detection of a pachinko ball (Sb4), and when the take-off ball detection switch 277 detects the pachinko ball paid out in Sb3. Then, 1 is subtracted and updated from the credit ball number stored in the credit ball number register (Sb5). Further, the credit ball number displayed on the credit display unit 222 is also subtracted and updated with the credit ball number subtraction update in the credit ball register.
[0090]
Next, it is determined whether or not the credit ball number stored in the credit ball number register remains (Sb6). If the credit ball number does not remain, a route instruction signal is output to the ball payout control board 271; The passage switching valve 250 in the ball dispensing device 248 is swung, the dispensing ball passage in the ball dispensing device 248 is returned to the internal flow passage 281 side (Sb8), and the process is terminated.
[0091]
If the number of credit balls remains in Sb6, it is determined whether the input of the external takeout button 228 is in a detection state (Sb7), and if it is in a detection state, the process returns to Sb3. If the input of the external takeout button 228 is not detected in Sb7, a path instruction signal is output to the ball payout control board 271 to swing the passage switching valve 250 in the ball payout device 248. The path of the payout ball in the ball payout device 248 is returned to the internal flow path 281 side (Sb8), and the process ends.
[0092]
Next, the internal acquisition process (Sa20) performed when the input of the acquisition ball count button 229 is detected in the state of waiting for detection of Sa4 to Sa12 (Sa7) will be described based on the flow of FIG. Then, first, when the input of the take-in ball counting button 229 is detected, whether a prepaid card or a member card is being received in the corresponding card unit 3 (information to that effect is registered in the card receiving register). (Sc1), and if no prepaid card or membership card is being received, the process is terminated. When a prepaid card or a membership card is being accepted in Sc1, the shutter solenoid 267 is driven to open the shutter 245 'of the take-in ball inlet 245 in the take-out ball receiving tray 243 (Sc2).
[0093]
Next, the inflow ball detection switch 256 provided in the inflow ball guide rod 283 waits for detection of a pachinko ball or waits for non-detection of the input of the take-in ball count button 229 (Sc3, Sc5).
[0094]
In this state, when the pachinko ball flowing in from the take-in ball inlet 245 is detected by the inflow ball detection switch 256, 1 is added to the credit ball number stored in the credit ball number register and updated (Sc4). Then, the state of Sc3 and Sc5 is entered again. Further, the credit ball number displayed on the credit display unit 222 is also added and updated with the addition and update of the credit ball number in the credit ball register.
[0095]
In addition, when the input of the take-in ball count button 229 becomes a non-detection state in the states Sc3 and Sc5, the drive of the shutter solenoid 267 is released, so that the take-in ball inlet 245 is moved to the shutter 245 ′. Is closed (Sc6), and the process is terminated.
[0096]
Next, a settlement process (Sa21) performed when the input of the settlement button 230 is detected (Sa8) in the state of waiting for detection of the Sa4 to Sa12 will be described based on the flow of FIG. Is detected, whether the prepaid card or the membership card is being accepted in the corresponding card unit 3 (whether the information is registered in the card acceptance register) (Sd1) If a prepaid card or membership card is not being accepted, the process is terminated.
[0097]
When a prepaid card or a membership card is being accepted in Sd1, the shutter solenoid 267 is driven to open the shutter 245 ′ of the take-in ball inlet 245 in the take-out ball receiving tray 243 (Sd2), and the inflow When the inflowing ball detection switch 256 provided in the ball guide rod 283 waits for a pachinko ball to be detected (Sd3, Sd5), and the inflowing ball detection switch 256 detects a pachinko ball in this state, the credit ball number register 1 is added to the number of credit spheres stored and updated (Sd4), and the inflow sphere detection switch 256 again enters a state of waiting for detection of a pachinko sphere (Sd3, Sd5). Further, the credit ball number displayed on the credit display unit 222 is also added and updated with the addition and update of the credit ball number in the credit ball register.
[0098]
When the detection waiting state in Sd3 and Sd5 continues for a predetermined time, the driving of the shutter solenoid 267 is released, the shutter 245 ′ of the take-out ball inlet 245 is closed (Sd6), and the number of credit balls The settlement data including the number of credit balls stored in the register and the frequency stored in the card balance register is transmitted to the corresponding card unit 3 (Sd7), and the data transmission waiting state is entered (Sd8). .
[0099]
When the data transmission to the card unit 3 is normally completed in this state, the credit ball number in the credit ball number register and the frequency in the card balance register are reset to 0 (Sd9), and the process ends.
[0100]
Further, in the card unit 3 that has received the settlement data based on the settlement process, the credit ball number and the frequency included in the settlement data are recorded on the prepaid card or member card that is being accepted through the card reader / writer 312. At the same time, the payment data including the card ID and the number of credit balls is transmitted to the management computer 100, and the payment data is registered in the management computer 100 in association with the received card ID.
[0101]
Next, the interruption process (Sa22) performed when the input of the interruption button 231 is detected (Sa9) in the state of waiting for detection of the Sa4 to Sa12 will be described based on the flow of FIG. Is detected, whether the prepaid card or the membership card is being accepted in the corresponding card unit 3 (whether the information is registered in the card acceptance register) (Se1) If a prepaid card or membership card is not being accepted, the process is terminated.
[0102]
Further, when a prepaid card or a membership card is being accepted at Se1, the operation of each button provided on the operation unit 220 and the operation of the batting operation handle 235 are invalidated (Se2), and the interruption including the number of credit balls The data is stored in the RAM 272c (Se3), the interruption data is transmitted to the corresponding card unit 3 (Se4), and the data transmission waiting state is set (Se5).
[0103]
When data transmission to the card unit 3 is normally completed in this state, the interruption lamp 232 is turned on (Se6), the credit display unit 285 is switched to the interruption time display, the timer count is started (Se7), and the resume data (Se8, Se9, Se11).
[0104]
The card unit 3 that has received the interruption data based on the detection of the interruption request records the interruption data to the prepaid card or the membership card that is being accepted through the card reader / writer 312 and returns it. The suspended information and the card ID of the returned prepaid card or membership card are output to the management computer 100. Based on this, the management computer 100 registers the interruption of the received card ID. Next, the card unit 3 is in a waiting state for receiving the returned prepaid card or member card, and when the same card as the returned prepaid card or member card is received, it is recorded on the received prepaid card or member card. The interruption data is read, and the read interruption data is transmitted to the corresponding pachinko machine 2 as resumption data.
[0105]
When resumption data is received from the corresponding card unit 3 while waiting for resumption data in Se8, Se9, and Se11, the received resumption data is compared with the interruption data stored in the RAM 272c (Se12). ) If these do not match, the received prepaid card or member card return instruction is transmitted to the corresponding card unit 3 (Se13), and the waiting state for waiting for resumption data in Se8, Se9, Se11 is again sent. It becomes. If the restart data and the interrupt data match in the comparison of Se12, the timer count is stopped (Se14), the display of the credit display unit 285 is switched to the credit ball number display, and the operation unit which has been invalidated The operation of each button 220 and the operation of the hitting ball operation handle 235 are validated (Se15), the interrupting lamp 232 is turned off (Se16), and the fact that the processing is completed is output to the card unit 3, and the processing is performed. finish. Based on this, the card unit 3 transmits the received prepaid card or membership card card ID and suspension cancellation information to the management computer 100, and based on this, the management computer 100 interrupts the corresponding card ID. Is released.
[0106]
In the state of waiting for resumption data in Se8, Se9, and Se11, the time from the start of the timer count in Se7 is monitored, and the time from the start of the timer count is displayed in the credit display unit 285. In addition to sequentially updating and displaying (Se11), when the time from the start of the timer count exceeds a predetermined upper limit time, error information is displayed on the credit display unit 285 (Se10). .
[0107]
Next, the processing status of the ball control microcomputer 272a described above and the operation status of each part will be described based on the actual gaming status. First, a prepaid card or a membership card is received in the corresponding card unit 3, When the frequency read from the prepaid card or the membership card and stored in the card balance register, that is, the frequency displayed in the card balance display unit 221 remains, when the ball lending button 223 is input, the card balance The frequency of the register and card balance display unit 221 is subtracted by a predetermined frequency, and the number of pachinko balls corresponding to the subtracted frequency is once stored in the uncredited ball number register, that is, the uncredited display In addition to the number of uncredited balls displayed in part 227 It is.
[0108]
Next, the number of pachinko balls corresponding to the subtracted frequency is paid out from the ball payout device 248 toward the internal flow path 281, and the paid-out pachinko balls are detected by the payout ball detection switch 252. Each time, the uncredited ball number register and the uncredited ball number of the uncredited display unit 227 are subtracted and updated one by one, and the credit ball number of the credit ball number register and the credit display unit 222 are incremented and updated one by one.
[0109]
Thus, when the credit ball number register and the credit ball number of the credit display unit 222 exist, the operation of the hitting ball operation handle 235 becomes effective, and when the hitting ball operation handle 235 is operated in this state, the pachinko ball is played in the game area 203. Will be launched towards. Each time these fired pachinko balls are detected by the fire ball detection switch 241, the credit ball number register and the credit ball number in the credit display unit 222 are decremented by one, and the fired pachinko ball is When the game area 203 is not collected and is collected in the foul port 242, it is detected by the foul ball detection switch 259, and 1 is added to the credit ball number register and the credit ball number in the credit display unit 222.
[0110]
Further, when the credit ball number in the credit ball register and the credit display unit 222 becomes 0 by subtraction of these credit ball numbers, the operation of the hit ball operation handle 235 becomes invalid, and even if the hit ball operation handle 235 is operated in this state, Pachinko balls are no longer fired.
[0111]
In addition, when a pachinko ball launched into the game area 203 by operating the hitting ball operation handle 235 wins, the number of pachinko balls corresponding to the winning prize is once counted as an uncredited ball number register and an uncredited display portion 227. It is updated by adding to the number of balls.
[0112]
Next, each time a pachinko ball corresponding to the number of prize balls is paid out to the internal flow passage 281 side from the ball paying device 248, and the paid-out pachinko ball is detected by the paying ball detection switch 252, The uncredited ball number register and the uncredited ball number in the uncredited display unit 227 are subtracted and updated one by one, and the credit ball number in the credit ball number register and the credit display unit 222 are incremented and updated one by one.
[0113]
Further, when the credit ball number remains in the credit ball register and the credit display unit 222, when the external take-out button 228 of the operation unit 220 is input, the pachinko ball is paid out to the external flow path 280 side, that is, the take-out ball receiving tray 243. In addition, every time these pachinko balls are detected by the take-out ball detection switch 277, the credit ball number register and the credit ball number of the credit display unit 222 are subtracted and updated one by one. While the external take-out button 228 is being input, the pachinko balls are taken out from the take-out ball receiving tray 243 until the credit ball count becomes 0 or the input of the external take-out button 228 is canceled. ing.
[0114]
In addition, when a prepaid card or a member card is received in the corresponding card unit 3, when the take-in ball count button 229 of the operation unit 220 is input, the shutter 245 ′ of the take-in ball inlet 245 in the take-out ball receiving tray 243. Is opened, and the pachinko balls stored in the take-out ball tray 243 are taken into the interior, and each time the taken-in pachinko balls are detected by the inflow ball detection switch 256, the credit ball number register and the credit The number of credit balls on the display unit 222 is updated by one. The shutter 245 ′ of the intake ball inlet 245 is always open while the intake ball count button 229 is being input, and when the input of the intake ball count button 229 is released, the shutter 245 ′ is also opened. Closed.
[0115]
In addition, when a prepaid card or a membership card is received in the corresponding card unit 3, when the checkout button 230 of the operation unit 220 is input, the shutter 245 ′ of the take-in ball inlet 245 in the take-out ball receiving tray 243 is opened. Each time the pachinko ball stored in the take-out ball tray 243 is taken in, and the pachinko ball taken in along with this is detected by the inflow ball detection switch 256, the credit ball number register and the credit display unit 222 are detected. The number of credit balls is updated by one. When the state in which pachinko balls are not detected by the inflowing ball detection switch 256 continues for a predetermined time (for example, 3 seconds), the shutter 245 'is closed and prepaid data on which payment data including the number of credit balls at that time is recorded. The card or membership card is returned from the corresponding card unit 3, and the card ID and settlement data of the returned prepaid card or visitor card are transmitted to the management computer 100 and received by the management computer 100 based on this. Checkout data is registered in association with the card ID. Further, the credit ball of the credit ball number register and the credit display unit 222 is reset, and the game is ended. Also, the player brings the returned prepaid card or membership card to the prize exchange counter where the POS register 101 is installed, and uses the credit card number recorded by the above-mentioned settlement for exchange with the desired prize. Can be used.
[0116]
In addition, when a prepaid card or a membership card is received in the corresponding card unit 3, if the interruption button 231 of the operation unit 220 is input, the operation of each button of the operation unit 220 and the hitting operation handle 235 are invalidated. The prepaid card or membership card in which the interruption data is recorded is returned from the corresponding card unit 3, and the card ID of the returned prepaid card or visitor card and the interruption information are transmitted to the management computer 100. At the same time, in the management computer 100, the interruption of the received card ID is registered. Further, when the prepaid card or the membership card in which the interruption data is recorded is received again, the operation of each invalid button and the hitting operation handle 235 becomes valid, and the game can be resumed again. At this festival, the card unit 3 is informed that the processing has been completed, and based on this, the card unit 3 sends the prepaid card or the membership card received to the management computer 100 and the suspension release information. At the same time, the management computer 100 cancels the interruption of the corresponding card ID. Further, during the interruption of these games, the elapsed time from the start of interruption is displayed on the credit display unit 285, and when the elapsed time from the start of interruption has exceeded a predetermined upper limit interruption time, the credit display unit An error display is displayed at 285 so that a game attendant or the like can confirm that the upper limit time has elapsed for the game interruption time.
[0117]
As described above, in the pachinko machine 2 according to the first embodiment, when the player finishes the game, he / she operates the checkout button 230 provided on the operation unit 220, and stores it in the credit ball register at that time. The credit card number being sent is transmitted to the corresponding card unit 3 and is recorded and returned on a prepaid card or a membership card being accepted by the card unit 3. That is, since the number of pachinko balls acquired in the game in the pachinko machine 2 is recorded on the prepaid card or membership card being accepted by the card unit 3 and returned, the player can use the acquired pachinko balls as before. There is no need to transport the ball to a ball counting machine or the like, and the convenience of the player can be improved.
[0118]
In this embodiment, when a prepaid card or a membership card is not accepted in the card unit 3, the payment process or the interruption process cannot be performed. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, even when a prepaid card or a membership card is not received in the card unit 3, an external pachinko ball is used. If the prepaid card or membership card is not accepted in the card unit 3 at the time of payment or interruption, a store clerk or the like Accepts a replacement card for payment or suspension held by the It may be in function.
[0119]
(Example 2)
FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a gaming system to which a pachinko machine 2 ′, which is a gaming machine as a gaming machine according to the second embodiment of the present invention, is applied. The gaming system is installed in a gaming ground and is a gaming medium. The pachinko machine 2 ′ in which a game can be performed using a certain pachinko ball, the card unit 3 installed one-on-one with the pachinko machine 2, and the prepaid card used in the card unit 3 Or a management computer 100 that manages membership cards and the like, and a POS register 101 that is installed at a prize counter or the like and exchanges a prize ball acquired by a game in the pachinko machine 2 for a predetermined prize. The pachinko machine 2 ′, the card unit 3, the POS register 101 and the management computer 100 are connected via a communication cable 8 so that data communication is possible. It is.
[0120]
Since the configuration of the second embodiment other than the pachinko machine 2 ′ is substantially the same as that of the first embodiment, the pachinko machine 2 ′ of the second embodiment and the pachinko machine 2 of the first embodiment are used here. And the processing executed by the holding ball control microcomputer 272a ′ (use control means, game medium number calculation means, game medium take-out means) provided on the ball control board 272 ′ in the pachinko machine 2 ′ The situation will be mainly explained.
[0121]
First, the pachinko machine 2 ′ according to the second embodiment has substantially the same configuration as the pachinko machine 2 according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, the pachinko machine 2 ′ is formed on the lower surface of the glass door frame 201. Is provided with an operation portion 220 ′ whose upper surface is inclined toward the player.
[0122]
Inside the operation unit 220 ′, there is provided a reader / writer housing unit in which a card reader / writer 290 as a recording medium processing unit for issuing a checkout card and an interruption card can be built. A card issuance port 291 is provided in the direction parallel to the front surface of the card to which a checkout card or an interruption card can be inserted or removed. In the first embodiment, the adjustment data and the interruption data are transmitted to the corresponding card unit 3. In contrast to the fact that the prepaid card or the membership card is recorded, in the second embodiment, the settlement data or the interruption data is recorded on the card issued by the card reader / writer 290 so that the settlement data or the interruption data is recorded. The card is issued from the card issuing slot 291 as a recorded settlement card or interruption card. The other structure has the same structure as a pachinko machine 2 of the first embodiment.
[0123]
The card reader / writer 290 used in the second embodiment has an appearance as shown in FIG. 17, and is mainly composed of a main body 89 and a cover 90. The main body 89 and the cover A conveying path 92 is formed between the conveying belt 92 and a conveying roller 87 driven by a timing belt 98 and a driving gear 99 for transmitting a driving force from a driving motor 96 so as to face the conveying path 92 and rotatable. A light emitting unit 97a for detecting the position of the rewrite card 37 in order to control the insertion, arrangement, and discharge of the free roller 88 and the rewrite card 37 as a recording medium issued as the settlement card or the interruption card. And a sensor composed of a light receiving unit 97b, a communication head 91 for recording data in a non-contact manner in the memory of the rewrite card 37, and a rewrite card. The thermal head 94 that performs printing and erasing on the printing unit provided in 7 by heat generation, and the platen roller 93 disposed so as to sandwich the rewrite card 37 with the thermal head 94 are provided and issued. It is possible to record information on the rewrite card 37 and to read recorded information on the inserted rewrite card 37, and to print and erase on a printing unit provided on the rewrite card 37. The transport path 92 is disposed in the reader / writer accommodating portion so as to communicate with the card issuing port 291.
[0124]
In addition, a storage box 80 capable of storing a rewrite card 37 to be issued as a settlement card or an interruption card is provided at the terminal side position of the transport path 92 of the card reader / writer 290 of the second embodiment. The rewrite card 37 can be easily replenished by exchanging 80, and the storage box 80 is exchanged in the corresponding part of the side surface of the operation unit 220 ′ corresponding to the storage box 80. A cover portion 292 that is detachable is provided to facilitate the operation. The cover 292 is locked so that it cannot be opened by the player in normal times, and can be opened by unlocking with a key held by the store clerk when the card is replenished.
[0125]
As shown in FIG. 18, this card reader / writer 290 is connected to the ball holding control board 272 and its operation is controlled by a ball holding control microcomputer 272a ′ provided on the ball holding control board 272. It has come to be.
[0126]
Next, the processing status of the ball holding control microcomputer 272a 'in the pachinko machine 2' according to the second embodiment and the operation status of each unit will be described with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIG. 9, FIG. 19, and FIG. Note that the processing status of the ball holding control microcomputer 272a of the first embodiment is the same as the processing status of the ball holding control microcomputer 272a 'of the second embodiment other than the internal capture processing, the settlement processing, and the interruption processing. Since this is the same as (see FIGS. 9 and 10), only the internal acquisition process, the settlement process, and the interruption process performed by the holding ball control microcomputer 272a ′ will be described here.
[0127]
First, the internal take-in process performed when the input of the take-in ball counting button 229 is detected in the state of waiting for detection of Sa4 to Sa12 in the flow shown in FIG. 9 (Sa7) is (Sa20) in FIG. Explaining based on the flow, first, when the input of the take-out ball counting button 229 is detected, the shutter solenoid 267 is driven to open the shutter 245 ′ of the take-in ball inlet 245 in the take-out ball receiving tray 243. (Sg1).
[0128]
Next, the inflow ball detection switch 256 provided in the inflow ball guide rod 283 waits for detection of a pachinko ball or waits for non-detection of the input of the take-in ball count button 229 (Sg2, Sg4).
[0129]
In this state, when the pachinko ball flowing in from the intake ball inlet 245 is detected by the inflow ball detection switch 256, 1 is added to the credit ball number stored in the credit ball number register and updated (Sg3 ), Sg2 and Sg4 again. Further, the credit ball number displayed on the credit display unit 222 is also added and updated with the addition and update of the credit ball number in the credit ball register.
[0130]
Further, when the input of the take-in ball counting button 229 becomes a non-detection state in the state of Sg2 and Sg4, the drive of the shutter solenoid 267 is released, so that the take-in ball inflow port 245 is moved to the shutter 245 ′. Is closed (Sg5), and the process is terminated.
[0131]
Next, the settlement process (Sa21) performed when the input of the settlement button 230 is detected (Sa8) in the state of waiting for detection of Sa4 to Sa12 in the flow shown in FIG. 9 will be described based on the flow of FIG. 19 (b). Then, first, when the input of the checkout button 230 is detected, the shutter solenoid 267 is driven to open the shutter 245 ′ of the take-in ball inlet 245 in the take-out ball receiving tray 243 (Sh1), and the inflow When the inflowing ball detection switch 256 provided in the ball guide rod 283 waits for a pachinko ball to be detected (Sh2, Sh4), and the inflowing ball detection switch 256 detects a pachinko ball in this state, the credit ball number register 1 is added to the number of credit balls stored in (5) and updated (Sh5), and the inflow ball detection switch 256 is again updated. Kicking the detection wait state of the pachinko balls (Sh2, Sh4). Further, the credit ball number displayed on the credit display unit 222 is also added and updated with the addition and update of the credit ball number in the credit ball register.
[0132]
When the detection waiting state in Sh2 and Sh4 continues for a predetermined time, the driving of the shutter solenoid 267 is released, and the shutter 245 'of the intake ball inlet 245 is closed (Sh5).
[0133]
Next, the card reader / writer 224 is instructed to take out the rewrite card 37 issued from the storage box 80 to the transport path 92 and obtain the card ID recorded on the rewrite card 37 from the card reader / writer 224. The obtained card ID is stored in the RAM 272c, and the credit ball number stored in the credit ball number register is output to the card reader / writer 224 to read out the card ID and the memory and printing unit of the rewrite card 37 Are recorded and then discharged as a settlement card from the card issuing port 291 and issued (Sh6).
[0134]
Next, after transmitting the card ID stored in the RAM 291c and the credit ball number together with the machine number of the pachinko machine 2 ′ to the management computer 100, the credit ball number in the credit ball number register is reset (Sh7). The process is terminated. In the management computer 100, payment data such as a machine number and a credit ball number are registered and managed in association with the card ID transmitted from the pachinko machine 2 '.
[0135]
Next, the interruption process performed when the input of the interruption button 231 is detected in the detection waiting state of the Sa4 to Sa12 will be described based on the flow of FIG. 20. First, the input of the interruption button 231 is detected. In this case, the operation of each button provided on the operation unit 220 ′ and the operation of the hitting ball operation handle 235 are invalidated (Sh1), and interruption data including the number of credit balls is stored in the RAM 272c (Sh2). The card reader / writer 290 issues the interruption card on which the data is recorded and the message related to the interruption is printed by the card reader / writer 290 in the same manner as the settlement card described above (Sh3), and the interruption lamp 232 is turned on (Sh4). The display unit 285 is switched to the interruption time display, and the timer count is started (Sh5). A state of reception waiting interruption card the issued (Sh6, Sh7, Sh9). At this time, the card ID of the issued suspended card and the suspended information are transmitted to the management computer 100. Based on this, the management computer 100 registers the interruption of the received card ID.
[0136]
When the interruption card is received in the state of waiting for the interruption card in Sh6, Sh7, Sh9, the interruption data recorded on the received interruption card is read by the card reader / writer 290, and the read interruption data and The interruption data stored in the RAM 272c is compared (Sh10). If they do not match, the accepted interruption card is returned (Sh11), and the interruption card waiting for the interruption card in Sh6, Sh7, Sh9 is waited again. It becomes a state. When the interruption data coincides in the Sh10 comparison, the timer count is stopped (Sh12), the display of the credit display unit 285 is switched to the credit ball number display, and each button of the operation unit 220 which has been invalidated is displayed. And the operation of the hitting ball operating handle 235 are validated (Sh13), the interrupting lamp 232 is turned off (Sh14), and the process is terminated. At this time, the card ID of the interrupted card and the interrupt release information are transmitted to the management computer 100, and based on this, the management computer 100 cancels the interruption of the corresponding card ID.
[0137]
Further, in the state of waiting for accepting the interruption card in Sh6, Sh7, Sh9, the time from the start of the timer count in Sh5 is monitored, and the time from the start of the timer count is sequentially displayed on the credit display unit 285. In addition to displaying an update (Sh9), if the time from the start of the timer count exceeds a predetermined upper limit time, error information is displayed on the credit display unit 285 (Sh8).
[0138]
Next, the processing status of the ball control microcomputer 272a 'described above and the operating status of each part will be described based on the actual gaming status.
[0139]
In the pachinko machine 2 according to the second embodiment, when the take-in ball counting button 229 of the operation unit 220 is input, the shutter 245 ′ of the take-in ball inlet 245 in the take-out ball receiving tray 243 is opened and stored in the take-out ball receiving tray 243. Each time a pachinko ball that has been taken in is captured by the inflow ball detection switch 256, the credit ball number register and the credit ball number in the credit display unit 222 are incremented by one. Updated. The shutter 245 ′ of the take-in ball inlet 245 is always opened while the take-in ball count button 229 is being input. When the input of the take-in number count button 229 is released, the shutter 245 ′ is also opened. Closed.
[0140]
When the settlement button 230 of the operation unit 220 is input, the shutter 245 ′ of the take-in ball inflow port 245 in the take-out ball receiving tray 243 is opened, and the pachinko balls stored in the take-out ball receiving tray 243 are taken into the inside. Each time the pachinko ball taken in along with this is detected by the inflow ball detection switch 256, the credit ball number register and the credit ball number of the credit display unit 222 are added and updated one by one. When the state in which the detection of the pachinko ball by the inflow ball detection switch 256 is not detected continues for a predetermined time, the shutter 245 ′ is closed, and the settlement data including the credit ball number at that time is recorded, and the credit ball The payment card with the number printed is issued from a card issuing slot 291 provided on the side of the operation unit 220 ′, and the card ID and payment data of the issued payment card are transmitted to the management computer 100. At the same time, the management computer 100 registers payment data in association with the card ID of the payment card received. In the pachinko machine 2 ', the credit ball number register and the credit ball of the credit display unit 222 are reset, and the game is ended. Also, the player brings the issued payment card to the prize exchange counter where the POS register 101 is installed, and uses the number of credit balls recorded by the above-mentioned settlement for exchange with the desired prize. Can do.
[0141]
In addition, when the interruption button 231 of the operation unit 220 is input, the operation of each button of the operation unit 220 and the hitting ball operation handle 235 are invalidated, interruption data are recorded, and interruption is printed. The card is issued from the card issuing port 291 and the card ID of the issued interrupted card and the information during suspension are transmitted to the management computer 100, and based on this, the management computer 100 The interruption of the received card ID is registered. Further, when the interruption card in which the interruption data is recorded is received again, the operation of each invalid button and the hitting ball operation handle 235 becomes valid, and the game can be resumed again. At this festival, the suspension cancellation information is transmitted to the management computer 100, and based on this, the suspension of the corresponding card ID is canceled in the management computer 100. Further, during the interruption of these games, the elapsed time from the start of interruption is displayed on the credit display unit 285, and when the elapsed time from the start of interruption has exceeded a predetermined upper limit interruption time, the credit display unit An error display is displayed at 285 so that a game attendant or the like can confirm that the upper limit time has elapsed for the game interruption time.
[0142]
As described above, in the pachinko machine 2 ′ according to the second embodiment, when the player finishes the game, by operating the settlement button 230 provided in the operation unit 220 ′, the number of credit balls in the RAM 272c at that time A payment card (rewrite card 37) in which the number of credit balls stored in the register is recorded is issued by the card reader / writer. In other words, since a checkout card in which the number of pachinko balls acquired in the game in the pachinko machine 2 ′ is recorded is issued, the player needs to transport these acquired pachinko balls to a ball counter or the like as in the past. The convenience of the player can be improved.
[0143]
As described above, in the pachinko machine 2 in the first embodiment and the pachinko machine 2 ′ in the second embodiment, the pachinko balls paid out by the ball payout device 248 and the pachinko balls used in the game are directed upward. Therefore, the pachinko balls 2 or the pachinko machine 2 'need not be replenished, and the pachinko machines 2' need not be replenished. Alternatively, the pachinko machine 2 ′ can be installed regardless of the presence / absence of a pachinko ball replenishing device and whether or not the replenishing device can be installed, so that the degree of freedom in installation can be improved.
[0144]
Further, in the pachinko machine 2 in the first embodiment and the pachinko machine 2 ′ in the second embodiment, the pachinko balls paid out by the ball payout device 248 and the pachinko balls used in the game are transferred upward. A polishing device 262 for polishing pachinko balls is provided in the path of the lifting path 263. Each time these pachinko balls are transported through the lifting path 263, they are polished and cleaned. Since the pachinko balls circulating in the machine 2 or the pachinko machine 2 ′ can be kept in a clean state, as a result, dirt such as pachinko ball passages in the pachinko machine 2 or the pachinko machine 2 ′ can be reduced.
[0145]
Further, in the pachinko machine 2 in the first embodiment and the pachinko machine 2 ′ in the second embodiment, the pachinko balls that are transported upward along the lifting path 263 and discharged to the replenishment rod 264 are the replenishment rod 264. Because of the structure of the branching portion 286 provided at the end position of the ball, the ball is supplied preferentially to the hitting ball supply rod 265 side, and the hitting ball supply rod 265 and the hitting ball waiting rod 239 connected thereto are pachinko. It is possible to avoid as much as possible that a ball is insufficient and a pachinko ball cannot be fired and a game cannot be played.
[0146]
Further, in the pachinko machine 2 in the first embodiment and the pachinko machine 2 ′ in the second embodiment, an upper tank 246 for storing the pachinko balls supplied to the ball dispensing device 248 is provided, and is used for circulation inside. It is possible to increase the total amount of pachinko balls that can be used, and the lifting device 261 can be used even if it is inexpensive but has a low transfer capability. As a result, the pachinko machine 2 and The cost of the pachinko machine 2 ′ can also be reduced.
[0147]
Further, in the pachinko machine 2 in the first embodiment and the pachinko machine 2 ′ in the second embodiment, the lifting control microcomputer provided on the lifting control board 268 stores the pachinko balls stored in the lower tank 253. The drive control of the lifting device 261 is performed based on the situation and the storage situation of the pachinko balls stored in the upper tank, and excessive pachinko balls are transferred or stored in the upper tank 246. It is possible to avoid as much as possible the disappearance of the pachinko balls that have been made.
[0148]
Further, in the pachinko machine 2 in the first embodiment and the pachinko machine 2 ′ in the second embodiment, the credit ball number register of the RAM 272c is operated by operating the operation unit 220 or the external eject button 228 provided in the operation unit 220 ′. The pachinko balls within the range of the number of credit balls stored in the game are discharged to the take-out ball receiving tray 243, and the player can arbitrarily take out these credit balls when the credit balls remain. Can do.
[0149]
Further, in the pachinko machine 2 in the first embodiment and the pachinko machine 2 ′ in the second embodiment, the pachinko ball path paid out in the ball payout apparatus 248 is connected to the ball payout apparatus 248 as the external flow path 280 or the internal flow path 281. A passage switching valve 250 is provided for switching to either one of these, and the switching of the payout passage can be performed by switching the passage switching valve 250. It is not necessary to separately provide a ball payout device to be performed and a ball payout device to pay out a pachinko ball accompanying external takeout, and the configuration of the pachinko machine 2 or the pachinko machine 2 ′ can be simplified.
[0150]
Further, in the pachinko machine 2 in the first embodiment and the pachinko machine 2 ′ in the second embodiment, the take-out ball tray is operated by operating the take-in ball counting button 229 provided in the operation unit 220 or the operation unit 220 ′. Since the pachinko balls in 243 are taken in and the number of the taken pachinko balls is added to the number of credit balls, the player can use the pachinko balls once taken out for the game again. It becomes like this.
[0151]
In addition, in the pachinko machine 2 in the first embodiment and the pachinko machine 2 ′ in the second embodiment, the pachinko balls that are driven into the game area 203 and used for the game or do not reach the game area 203 and are collected as foul balls. The pachinko balls join the lower tank 253 and circulate together with the pachinko balls paid out by the ball payout device 248, and these pachinko balls circulate uniformly inside the pachinko machine. As a result, when the lifting device 261 is provided as in the first embodiment or the second embodiment, the pachinko balls circulating inside are uniformly cleaned.
[0152]
Example 3
Next, a pachinko machine 2 '' as a gaming machine according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.
[0153]
The pachinko ball circulation path provided on the back side of the pachinko machines 2 and 2 'in the above embodiment is a pachinko ball stored in the upper tank 246, which is used as a pachinko ball for use in a game, or as an award ball. The pachinko ball circulation path provided on the back side of the pachinko machine 2 ″ in this embodiment is used for games. A pachinko ball and a pachinko ball to be paid out to a take-out ball receiving tray 243 as an external take-out portion as a prize ball are circulated separately.
[0154]
Here, the structure of the circulation path of the pachinko sphere in the pachinko machine 2 '' of the present embodiment will be specifically described based on FIG. In addition, in the pachinko machine 2 '' of the present embodiment, portions that are configured in the same manner as the pachinko machines 2, 2 'of the above embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals and detailed description thereof is omitted. It shall be.
[0155]
First, when the pachinko balls stored in the upper tank 246 are discharged to the internal flow path 281 by the ball dispensing device 248, the pachinko balls are detected by the dispensing ball detection switch 252 and then flow into the lower tank 253 and the ball dispensing device 248. , It is detected by the take-out ball detection switch 277 and then discharged from the take-in ball outlet 244 to the take-out ball tray 243 and flows into the lower tank 253 from the take-in ball inlet 245. It is like that. The pachinko balls stored in the lower tank 253 are lifted by the lifting device 261 via the lifting path 263 and discharged again into the upper tank 246 via the replenishing rod 264. Here, the branching portion 286 is not provided on the downstream side of the replenishing rod 264 in this embodiment, and all the pachinko balls that have been lifted by the feeding path 263 and flowed into the replenishing rod 264 are in the upper tank 247. It is supposed to be discharged.
[0156]
On the other hand, a pachinko that is driven into the game area 203 by the player's operation of the ball operating handle 235 and collected from the winning holes and the outlet 217 into the driving ball confluence 282 and detected by the driving ball detection switch 258. The ball and the pachinko ball that is fired toward the game area 203 and sent to the foul ball guide rod 257 without reaching the game region 203 and detected by the foul ball detection switch 259 flow down the junction ball 293, respectively. Then, after being lifted above the standby ball inlet 238 via the lifting rod 294 by the lifting and polishing device 284 provided separately from the lifting device 261, the standby ball guide rod 265 is flowed down. The ball flows into the hitting ball waiting bar 239 as a game medium waiting part via the waiting ball inlet 238 and is waited as a shot ball to be driven into the game area 203. .
[0157]
The lift polishing apparatus 284 includes a screw conveyor 295 that is inserted into the lifting rod 294 so as to be rotatable about its axis, a motor (not shown) that rotates the screw conveyor 295, and an inner peripheral surface of the lifting rod 294. The pachinko balls in the lifting rod 294 are lifted by rotating the screw conveyor 295, and the pachinko balls to be lifted are transferred in the lifting rod 294. By making sliding contact with the polishing cloth 296 adhered to the peripheral surface, dirt, dust, etc. adhering to the surface of the pachinko ball are removed during the feeding. In this embodiment, the lifting and polishing apparatus 284 in which the lifting portion and the polishing portion are integrated is used. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the lifting portion and the polishing portion. May be provided separately, and the lifting method and the polishing method are not limited to those using the screw or the polishing cloth 296, and other lifting methods and polishing methods may be used. good.
[0158]
FIG. 22 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the pachinko machine 2 ″. The pachinko machine 2 '' in the present embodiment is configured in substantially the same manner as the pachinko machines 2 and 2 'in each of the above embodiments, but as described above, the pachinko machine used for the game and the outside as a prize ball. The pachinko balls delivered to the take-out ball tray 243 as the take-out section are separately circulated, and a lifting and polishing device 284 for circulating and purifying the pachinko balls used in the game is provided on the lifting control board 268. It differs from the pachinko machines 2 and 2 ′ of the above embodiment in that the lifting and polishing apparatus 284 is controlled by the lifting control board 268. In addition, about the site | part comprised similarly to the pachinko machine 2 and 2 'of the said Example, the detailed description here shall be abbreviate | omitted by attaching | subjecting the same code | symbol.
[0159]
As described above, in the gaming machine to which the present invention is applied, the pachinko ball circulation path uses the same pachinko ball for the game as described in the first and second embodiments. It is not limited to a ball or a ball configured to be used as a pachinko ball to be paid out to an external take-out unit, but a pachinko ball to be used for a game or a pachinko to be paid out to an external take-out unit In order to use different pachinko spheres as spheres, different circulation paths are configured as in the pachinko machine 2 '' in this embodiment, and the pachinko spheres used for each are circulated separately. Good. In other words, a game medium payout unit that pays out game media based on the establishment of a predetermined payout condition and a game medium standby unit on which the game medium waits are used, and the game medium that waits on the game medium standby unit is used. A game machine for performing a game, wherein a payout game medium detection means for detecting a game medium paid out from the game medium payout section, a used game medium detection means for detecting a game medium used in the game, and the payout Game medium number calculating means for calculating the number of game media owned by the player based on the number of game media detected by the game medium detecting means and the number of game media detected by the used game medium detecting means, and the number of game media A storage unit that stores the number of game media calculated by the calculation means, and a game medium that is waiting in the game medium standby unit on the condition that the number of game media stored in the storage unit remains in the game The use control means for enabling, the game medium recirculation path for guiding the game medium detected by the payout game medium detection means to the game medium payout section, and the game medium recirculation path are separate and used for the game. A game machine equipped with a used game medium recirculation path (a confluence 293, a lifting rod 294, a waiting ball guide rod 265) that guides the game media to the game medium standby unit. Since game balls used for gaming and game balls used for payout are circulated individually, there is no occurrence of blockage of the branch portion compared to those that branch these game balls, It is possible to avoid problems caused by these ball clogging.
[0160]
Further, in FIG. 23, a glass door frame 201 (also referred to as a front frame) of the pachinko machine 2 ″ is a base frame 331 (outside for fixing to a game island base 330 on which a plurality of pachinko machines 2 can be installed. In the case where the front surface of the base frame 331 is provided so as to be openable and closable via a hinge 332 with respect to the frame)), a lifting device 261 that is a part of the game medium circulation path, The path 263, the polishing device 262, and the like are provided not on the glass door frame 201 side but on the game island platform 330 side, for example, on the mounting plate 334 of the game island platform 330, etc., and the pachinko machine 2 '' is installed on the game island platform 330. In the state where the front surface of the base frame 331 is closed by the glass door frame 201, the lifting device 261, the lifting path 263, the polishing device 262, etc. provided on the gaming island platform 330 side are game media. Formed a reflux path An example of a case is shown. That is, the present invention includes one in which the game medium circulation path is formed in a state where the pachinko machine 2 ″ is installed.
[0161]
As described above, the lifting device 261, the lifting path 263, the polishing device 262, and the like are provided on the game island platform 330 side, so that when replacing the pachinko machine 2 '', these devices are not replaced. It may be possible to divert it.
[0162]
Although not shown in particular, a game medium that is unitized by, for example, uniting the lifting device 261, the lifting path 263, the polishing device 262, and the like constituting the game medium circulation path in advance through a unit member or the like. The reflux path may be provided detachably with respect to the back surface of the glass door frame 201. In other words, the game medium circulation path may be provided so as to be attachable to and detachable from the pachinko machine 2 ″ which is a gaming machine, and in this way, these game medium circulation paths are provided to the pachinko machine 2 ′. When replacing ', it can be easily diverted to the newly installed pachinko machine 2' '.
[0163]
Incidentally, as shown in FIG. 23, the pachinko machine 2 '' of the third embodiment is configured such that the lifting device 261, the lifting route 263, the polishing device 262 and the like constituting the game medium circulation path are detachable. However, in the pachinko machines 2 and 2 ′ shown in the first and second embodiments, the lifting device 261, the lifting path 263, the polishing device 262, and the like can be configured to be detachable. Needless to say.
[0164]
The elements in the first embodiment, the second embodiment, and the third embodiment correspond to the present invention as follows.
[0165]
  According to claim 1 of the present invention, a game medium payout unit (ball payout device 248) for paying out a game medium (pachinko ball) based on establishment of a predetermined payout condition (winning or ball rental), and a game medium (pachinko ball) A game medium standby unit (pachinko ball 239) that waits, and a game machine (pachinko machine 2) that uses the game medium (pachinko ball) that waits on the game medium standby unit (hit ball standby ball 239) 2 ′, 2 ″), a payout game medium detection means (payout ball detection switch 252) for detecting a game medium (pachinko ball) paid out from the game medium payout unit (ball payout device 248); Used game medium detecting means (launching ball detection switch 241) for detecting use of the game medium (pachinko ball) waiting in the game medium standby section (hitting ball waiting ball 239), and the paid out game medium detecting means (paid out) Sphere detection 252) and the number of game media (pachinko balls) detected by the used game media detection means (launching ball detection switch 241) and the game media owned by the player Game medium number calculating means for calculating the number (ball holding control microcomputers 272a, 272a ′) and the number of game media (credit ball number) calculated by the game medium number calculating means (ball holding control microcomputers 272a, 272a ′) ) For storing the memory (RAM 272c),A game medium number display unit (credit display unit 222, credit display unit 285) for displaying the number of game media (credit balls) stored in the storage unit (RAM 272c);Usage control means (validation) that enables the use of the game media waiting in the game media standby unit (hit ball waiting base 239) on the game on condition that the number of game media stored in the storage unit (RAM 272c) remains. Sphere control microcomputers 272a, 272a ′),A game medium storage unit (lower tank 253) that stores at least the game medium (pachinko ball) detected by the payout game medium detection means (payout ball detection switch 252), and is constructed from a lower position of the gaming machine to an upper position. It is connected to the game medium transfer path (lifting path 263) through which the game medium (pachinko balls) can be transferred, and the game medium storage part (lower tank 253), and stored in the game medium storage part (lower tank 253). A transferred portion (lifting device 261) for transferring the played game medium (pachinko ball) to the upper position of the gaming machine through the game medium transfer path (lifting path 263), and the game medium transfer path transferred by the transfer section Discharged from aboveGame media circulation for guiding game media to the game media payout unitThroughA game medium payout means (external take-out button 228) for paying out game media within the range of the number of game media stored in the storage unit (RAM 272c), and the game media payout A game medium detection means (payout ball detection switch 252) for detecting a game medium paid back by the means, and a game medium paid back by the game medium payout means (external takeout button 228) can be stored, and the payout is performed. A game medium storage unit (lower tank 253) configured to visually recognize the storage state and empty state of the game medium (a configuration in which the upper surface of the take-out ball tray 243 is open);An outside take-out unit (take-out ball receiving tray 243) for taking out the game medium (pachinko ball) to the outside, and a game medium (with a credit ball number) stored in the storage unit (RAM 272c) ( An external take-out operation unit (external take-out button 228) for the player to take out the pachinko balls) from the external take-out unit (take-out ball tray 243) to the outside of the gaming machine, and the external take-out operation unit (external take-out button 228) The game medium (pachinko ball) within the range of the number of game media (number of credit balls) stored in the storage unit (RAM 272c) based on the operation of the game unit from the game medium dispensing unit (ball dispensing device 248) Game medium take-out means (a holding ball control microcomputer 272a, a holding ball control microcomputer 272) for paying out to the (removing ball receiving tray 243) ') And external take-out game medium detecting means (take-out ball detection switch) for detecting a game medium (pachinko ball) paid out from the game medium pay-out section (ball pay-out device 248) to the external take-out section (take-out ball receiving tray 243) 277), a game medium payout path (internal flow down path 281) for guiding the game medium paid out from the game medium payout section (ball payout device 248) to the payout game medium detection means (payout ball detection switch 252), and A game medium take-out path (external flow-down path 280) for guiding the game medium paid out from the game medium pay-out section (ball payout device 248) to the external take-out section (take-out ball receiving tray 243);The game medium number calculation means (the holding ball control microcomputers 272a, 272a ') includes the payout game medium detection means (the payout ball detection switch 252).And external take-out game medium detecting means (take-out ball detecting switch 277)Stored in the storage unit (RAM 272c) based on the detection of the game medium by
Subtract and update the number of game media being played,The game medium payout unit (ball payout device 248) is provided with a passage switching unit (passage switching valve 250) that switches the passage of game media to be paid out to one of the passages.
[0170]
  Claims of the invention2Is provided with an input unit (intake ball inlet 245) for inputting game media, and input game medium detection means (inflow ball detection switch 256) for detecting game media input from the input unit, The game medium number calculating means (ball control microcomputers 272a, 272a ′) adds and updates the game medium detected by the inserted game medium detection means to the number of game media stored in the storage unit (RAM 272c).
[0174]
In the claims, the establishment of the predetermined condition for the game medium payout unit to pay out the game medium corresponds to the ball lending operation, the external takeout button operation, and the generation of a prize ball in each of the above embodiments. It is not limited to.
[0175]
As mentioned above, although embodiment of this invention was described in the said Example 1 with drawing, this invention is not limited to these each Example 1, Example 2, Example 3, and the main point of this invention is demonstrated. Needless to say, changes and additions within the scope not departing are included in the present invention.
[0176]
For example, in each of the above-described embodiments, the upper surface of the take-out ball receiving tray 243 is opened so that the take-out ball receiving tray 243 that is a game medium storage unit can take out pachinko balls from the take-out ball receiving tray 243. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a transparent opening / closing lid or the like is provided on the upper surface to cover the upper surface of the take-out ball receiving tray 243 so as to close the game medium storage portion. It may be a space.
[0177]
Further, in each of the above embodiments, the shape of the take-out ball receiving tray 243 that is the game medium storage section is made into a dish-like shape that opens upward, so that the entire storage area of the take-out ball receiving tray 243 can be visually confirmed. The player can grasp the approximate amount of standby balls stored in the take-out ball receiving tray 243 from the occupied state of the stand-by balls in the take-out ball receiving tray 243 and the size and depth of the unoccupied portion. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to this, and the configuration of the game medium standby unit may be such that the player can perceive the empty state and the current occupied state of the standby ball. For example, a part of the take-out ball receiving tray 243 may be made opaque, or a scale may be provided so that it can be confirmed how much game balls remain in the take-out ball receiving tray 243 at these opaque portions. It may be. In other words, in order to make it possible to visually recognize the empty state and the storage state of the game medium storage unit, a lid that is not opened and the top is opened, or a transparent lid is used, or a lid that is mostly transparent and partially opaque. However, it is sufficient that the empty state and the storage state of the game medium storage unit that receives the game medium can be visually recognized.
[0178]
In each of the above embodiments, the credit display unit 222 is provided, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the credit display unit is displayed on a display device provided on a gaming island other than the gaming machine. Thus, the credit display unit may not be provided in the gaming machine. In addition, when a credit display unit is provided outside these gaming machines, a game medium amount display unit that makes it possible to visually recognize the credit amount with a bar-like display length is provided instead of the credit display unit. This is optional. In addition, a game medium amount display unit may be provided in the pachinko machine 2 separately.
[0179]
In each of the above embodiments, the upper tank 246 and the lower tank 253 are provided. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and these may be used as one tank or the pumping device 261 may provide sufficient pumping. In the case where the player has the ability, the game medium storage unit may not be provided.
[0180]
In each of the above embodiments, the pachinko balls collected in the lower tank 253 are lifted by the lifting device 261 and circulated to the ball dispensing device 248 which is a game medium dispensing unit. However, the game medium payout unit itself lifts and pays out a pachinko ball as a game medium, and the transfer device 261 is not necessarily placed on the transfer path 263 as a game medium circulation path. It is good also as a structure which does not have.
[0181]
Further, in each of the above embodiments, the polishing device 262 serving as a cleaning portion is provided on the transport path 263 that is the game medium circulation path, but the present invention is not limited to this, and these polishing devices 262 are provided. May be arranged at any position along the path along which the pachinko sphere circulates. For example, these polishing apparatuses may be provided with a polishing apparatus that is a cleaning unit in the ball dispensing apparatus 248, the lower tank 253, or the like. The cleaning unit is not limited to the polishing apparatus 262, but is cleaned with a pellet polishing machine that cleans the sphere, a liquid cleaning solution, or the like, in addition to a cloth or paper that wipes off dirt. You may make it use what you do.
[0182]
Further, in each of the above embodiments, the passage switching is performed using the passage switching valve 250, and external payout and prize ball payout are performed by the same ball payout device 248. However, the present invention is limited to this. Instead of these, these ball payout devices may be provided separately for the award ball and the external payout.
[0183]
Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the hitting ball waiting bar 239 which is the game medium waiting unit is supplied by arranging the waiting balls in a line, but the present invention is not limited to this, As a configuration of the game medium standby unit, the waiting balls are waited in a plurality of rows or non-rows, and the waiting balls are transferred one by one from the waiting rows or rows of waiting balls. You may make it supply using a rotating member (sprocket).
[0184]
For example, in the pachinko machine 2 or the pachinko machine 2 ′ according to each of the embodiments, the pachinko balls that have been transported through the transport path 263 and discharged to the supply rod 264 are provided at the downstream end portion of the supply rod 264. The branching portion 286 is preferentially supplied to the waiting ball supply rod 265 over the upper tank 246, and this makes the pachinko ball waiting on the hitting ball waiting rod 239 shortage, making it impossible to play a game. Can be avoided. In other words, the game medium circulation path has a payout part guide path for guiding the game balls to be recirculated to the game medium payout part, and a standby part guide path for guiding the game balls to be recirculated to the game medium standby part, What is necessary is just to make it a game machine provided with the guidance part which preferentially guides the game ball to be recirculated with respect to the waiting part guidance passage, and in this way, the game medium waiting part lacks the game medium, and the game However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a switching valve for switching the flow path by driving a solenoid or the like without providing the branching portion 286 is provided. By providing the pachinko ball discharged to the supply basket 264, the same effect as the case where the branching portion 286 is provided can be obtained even if the pachinko ball is preferentially supplied to the standby ball supply basket 265.
[0185]
Further, in each of the above embodiments, the upper tank 246 is provided as a game medium upper storage at a substantially central position of the pachinko machine 2 or the pachinko machine 2 ′ and the pachinko machine 2 ″. It is possible to increase the total amount of pachinko balls that can be circulated, and it is possible to use a small or inexpensive one with a relatively low lifting capacity as the lifting path 263 and the lifting device 262, Although these lifting devices 262 not only can reduce the space occupied on the back side of the pachinko machine 2 or the pachinko machine 2 ′ and the pachinko machine 2 ″, but can also reduce the cost of the gaming machine, the present invention is not limited to this. Without being limited thereto, the pachinko balls discharged from the lifting path 263 are directly supplied to the ball dispensing device 248 without providing the upper tank 246. It may be made to so that.
[0186]
In each of the above embodiments, the upper tank full tank detection sensor 247 for detecting whether the pachinko ball stored in the upper tank 246 has reached a predetermined upper limit amount is provided. Controlling the operation of the lifting device 261 according to the state of pachinko ball detection by the tank full sensor 247 allows a predetermined amount of pachinko balls to be steadily stored in the upper tank 247. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the lifting device 261 may be operated at all times, or the lifting device 261 may be operated at regular intervals.
[0187]
Further, in each of the above embodiments, the external take-out button 228 provided on the operation unit 220 or the operation unit 220 ′ is provided so that the player can arbitrarily take out the credit ball number to the take-out ball receiving tray 243 by his / her own operation. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the pachinko ball circulating inside may not be taken out to the outside.
[0188]
In each of the above embodiments, the credit ball is paid out while the external eject button 228 provided on the operation unit 220 or the operation unit 220 ′ is operated. The number of credit balls of a predetermined number may be paid out to the outside by a single operation of the external eject button 228, or a single operation or a continuous operation (double click, etc.). It is also possible to pay out all the credit balls to the outside by carrying out.
[0189]
Further, in each of the above embodiments, the pachinko balls to be paid out to the outside are paid out to the take-off ball tray 243 provided in the pachinko machine 2, the pachinko machine 2 ′, and the pachinko machine 2 ″. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the take-out ball receiving tray 243 may be provided without being provided in a storage box such as a ball box arranged outside.
[0190]
Further, in each of the above embodiments, the pachinko ball taken out to the take-out ball receiving tray 243 is taken into the inside by operating the take-out ball counting button 229 provided in the operation unit 220 or 220 ′, and the taken-in pachinko ball The ball is added to the number of credit balls so that it can be used for games. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the pachinko ball once taken out may be configured so that it cannot be returned to the inside.
[0191]
In each of the above embodiments, the automatic ball lending mode is set by operating the automatic ball lending button 232 provided on the operation unit 220 or the operation unit 220 ′, and the player performs the ball lending operation. At least, when the number of credit balls becomes 0, ball lending is automatically performed, and the convenience of the player can be improved, but the present invention is not limited to this. Instead of providing the function of the automatic ball lending mode, only manual ball lending may be implemented.
[0192]
In each of the above embodiments, the card unit 3 is provided corresponding to the pachinko machine 2 or the pachinko machine 2 ′ and the pachinko machine 2 ″, and the card unit 3 has a frequency as a game valuable value. Pachinko machine 2 or pachinko machine 2 'or pachinko machine 2' 'based on the frequency read from the received prepaid card or member card. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the prepaid card or the pachinko machine 2 ′ or the pachinko machine 2 ″ Accepting membership cards so that you can play games, and accepting money with the corresponding card unit 3 The pachinko ball corresponding to the received monetary amount may be lent, or the pachinko machine 2 or the pachinko machine 2 ′ and the pachinko machine 2 ″ are provided with a monetary accepting means. A pachinko ball corresponding to the amount of money accepted may be lent.
[0193]
Further, in each of the embodiments, the pachinko machine 2 or the pachinko machine 2 ′ and the pachinko machine 2 ″ are stored in the pachinko ball on the basis of the frequency read from the prepaid card or the member card received in the corresponding card unit 3. Although the example applied as a card reader type pachinko machine for carrying out ball rental has been described, the present invention is not limited to this, for example, a pachinko ball supplied from a cash ball rental machine provided adjacently You may make it use as a cash machine which can take in and can play a game.
[0194]
Further, in the pachinko machine 2 in the first embodiment, when the prepaid card or the membership card is not received in the corresponding card unit 3, the game cannot be performed, but the present invention is limited to this. For example, even when a prepaid card or a membership card is not received in the corresponding card unit 3, the pachinko ball thrown into the take-out ball tray 243 can be taken inside, and these are taken into the credit ball. You may enable it to implement a game using the pachinko ball added as a number. Further, in the case of such a configuration, when a prepaid card or a membership card is not received in the card unit 3 corresponding to the settlement or interruption, the fact is notified, and based on this notification, for example, the game room An attendant or the like may be able to cope by inserting a new card.
[0195]
In the first embodiment, the first communication unit (COM1) 289 connected to the card unit 3 is provided, and the payment data is sent to the connected card unit 3 to receive the prepaid card or member currently accepted. The information such as the number of credit balls is recorded on the card and the prepaid card or the membership card is returned. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the destination to which the settlement data is transmitted is other external. You may issue the card | curd which recorded information, such as the number of credit balls, with apparatus, for example, a dedicated adjustment apparatus, or a computer for adjustment.
[0196]
Further, in the first embodiment, as described above, the settlement processing for transmitting the settlement data including the number of credit balls to the card unit 3 is performed, but the present invention is not limited to this, For example, as in the second embodiment, the pachinko machine 2 is directly connected to the management computer 100, and the card ID and the number of credit cards of the prepaid card or the member card being received by the card unit 3 with respect to the management computer 100 It is also possible to perform the settlement process by transmitting and registering.
[0197]
Further, in the second embodiment, a reader / writer accommodating portion is provided in the operation portion 220 ′ of the pachinko machine 2 ′, and the card reader / writer 290 is arranged along the front surface of the pachinko machine 2 ′, so that the checkout card or interruption is performed. The rewrite card 37 as a card can be issued and inserted from the side of the pachinko machine 2 ′. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the arrangement form, position, etc. of the card reader / writer 290 are as follows. The rewrite card 37 may be issued and inserted from the front side of the pachinko machine 2 '. For example, the rewrite card 37 as a checkout card or an interruption card may be selected. .
[0198]
In each of the above embodiments, the pachinko balls that have been driven into the game area 203 and collected at each winning port or out port 217 are collected and stored in the lower tank 253 via the driving ball confluence 282. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the pachinko balls that have been driven into the game area 203 are not collected in the lower tank 253, and are discharged from the ball dispensing device 248 to the internal flow path 281. You may make it supply to the said waiting ball guide rod 265 and the upper tank 246 by the path | route different from the taken out pachinko ball.
[0199]
Further, in each of the above embodiments, the ball switching device 248 switches the pachinko ball path paid out by the ball paying device 248 to either the external flow path 280 or the internal flow path 281. 250 is provided, and the pachinko balls are paid out based on the awarding and lending of the prize balls, and the pachinko balls are paid out to the take-out ball tray 243 by the same ball paying device 248. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the pachinko balls are paid out based on the awarding of the prize balls and the lending of the balls, and the pachinko balls are paid out to the take-out ball tray 243 by using a separate ball dispensing device. Also good.
[0200]
In each of the above embodiments, the payout ball detection switch 252, the foul ball detection switch 259 for detecting the foul ball, and the inflow ball detection switch 256 are individually provided, but the present invention is limited to this. However, these are both switches for adding and updating the number of credit balls, so that these payout balls, foul balls, and inflow balls are merged into one passage, and the detection switch detects these merged pachinko balls. You may make it detect the pachinko ball added to the number of credit balls.
[0201]
In each of the above embodiments, the full tank notification lamp 236 and the tank empty notification lamp 237 are provided on the glass door frame 201 of the pachinko machine 2, but the present invention is not limited to this, and A signal output unit that interlocks with the lighting of the notification lamp 236 and the tank empty notification lamp 237 may be provided, and lighting or notification may be performed on a lamp based on these signals by an external device such as a calling lamp or a management computer. .
[0202]
Although not implemented in each of the above embodiments, the pachinko balls are paid out to the take-out ball receiving tray 243 based on the awarding or lending of the prize balls, and the pachinko balls paid out to the take-out ball receiving tray 243 are taken into the inside. Thus, the pachinko balls that have been taken in, that is, the pachinko balls that have been paid out based on the awarding or lending of the prize balls, are added to the number of credit balls, so that the game can be executed in the real ball payout mode so that the game can be executed. Anyway.
[0203]
Although not implemented in each of the above embodiments, if the card inserted into the card unit 3 or the like is a membership card, the number of credit balls recorded on the membership card is obtained from the card unit 3. By registering in the credit ball number register, the player may be able to play using the credit ball number acquired by the other pachinko machine 2. In addition, when using the number of credit balls acquired with these other pachinko machines, it is optional to carry out subtraction of a predetermined number of balls as a fee so that the number of credit balls after the subtraction can be used. It is said.
[0204]
In the second embodiment, only the interrupted card is received from the card reader / writer 290. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the card reader / writer 290 can be used in the first embodiment. Alternatively, a prepaid card or a membership card received by the card unit 3 may be received.
[0205]
Moreover, in the said Example 2, although the rewrite card is used as a recording medium (card) issued as a checkout card and an interruption card, this invention is not limited to this, As these recording media issued May be a normal magnetic card or a receipt printed with a bar code or the like, which is an information recording symbol for which recording information can be specified, and can be used if at least the recording information can be specified. it can. Further, the shape of these recording media is not limited to a card shape, and may be a coin shape or a spherical shape. In each of the above embodiments, the shape of the membership card or visitor card that is a game recording medium inserted into the card unit 3 is not limited to the card shape, and may be a coin shape or a spherical shape. .
[0206]
In each of the above embodiments, the glass door frame 201 is provided with a credit display unit 285, and the credit display unit 285 displays the number of credit balls at that time in the same manner as the credit display unit 222. Although it is preferable to improve the appeal to other players, the present invention is not limited to this. Further, the display data displayed on the credit display unit 285 may be output to an external device having a display function, such as a calling lamp.
[0207]
In addition, it is optional to provide an operation unit that can be selected and operated by the player so as not to display the number of credit balls on the credit display unit 285.
[0208]
In each of the embodiments, the non-credit display unit 227 is provided in the operation unit 220 or the operation unit 220 ′ so as to display the number of unpaid pachinko balls from the ball dispensing device 248. It is not limited to this.
[0209]
Needless to say, the processing contents of the flowcharts shown in the above embodiments can be appropriately changed depending on the performance of the microcomputer to be used, the capacity of the memory, the capability of each connected device, and the like.
[0210]
In the above embodiment, the frequency is used as the form of game value used in the pachinko machine 2 which is a game machine. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the game value is determined in advance. Or the corresponding number of pachinko balls or coins, and the form may be arbitrarily selected.
[0211]
In the above embodiment, a pachinko machine using a pachinko ball as a game medium has been described as an example. However, the game medium of the present invention is not limited to this, and a game machine using other game media, for example, The present invention can also be applied to a slot machine that uses a coin to play a game, a patty lot that is a slot machine that uses a pachinko ball to play a game, and the like. In other words, a game medium (coin, pachinko ball) based on the establishment of a predetermined payout condition (when the variable display device wins a so-called winning in which identification information such as 777 becomes a specific combination by the player's stop operation) A game medium payout unit (a coin-operated hopper device for coins and a payout device such as a ball cutout device 265 for pachinko balls) and a game medium standby for game media to wait A game machine that plays a game using a game medium waiting on the game medium standby section (by pressing a bet button on the coin or pachinko ball on the tray) A predetermined amount may be taken in, if it is a coin, a small counter may be provided in the tray, and if it is a pachinko ball, it will be taken out using a mechanism similar to the ball cutting device 265. A game medium detecting means for detecting a game medium paid out from the game medium paying section, and a use for detecting use of the game medium waiting in the game medium standby section for a game. The number of game media for calculating the number of game media owned by the player from the game media detection means, the number of game media detected by the payout game media detection means, and the number of game media detected by the used game media detection means A calculation unit, a storage unit that stores the number of game media calculated by the game medium number calculation unit, and a game that stands by in the game medium standby unit on condition that the number of game media stored in the storage unit remains Use control means for validating use of the medium in the game, and a game medium circulation path for guiding the game medium detected by at least the payout game medium detection means to the game medium payout section In the case of a pachinko ball, a lifting device such as a lifting device 288 may be used, and in the case of a coin, the coin that is overflowed and guided from the game medium passage is circulated by a lifting and polishing device as disclosed in JP-A-11-179041. And a gaming machine provided with the above.
[0212]
【The invention's effect】
  The present invention has the following effects.
  (A) According to the first aspect of the present invention, at least the game medium paid out from the game medium payout unit and detected by the payout game medium detection means is added and stored in the storage unit, and the detected The game media that becameGame medium storage section, transfer section, game medium transfer path, game medium circulation pathThe game medium is then recirculated to the game medium payout unit, and is again paid out from the game medium payout unit. Since these game media are circulated and used in one game machine, it is required for one game machine. The amount of game media that can be greatly reduced, andGame medium storage section, transfer section, game medium transfer path, game medium circulation pathTherefore, the degree of freedom in installing the gaming machine can be improved, the game medium can be paid out by the game medium payout means, and the amount of the paid-out game medium stored in the game medium storage unit can be grasped. Can do.Further, the number of game media stored in the storage unit can be visually confirmed. Furthermore, the player can arbitrarily take out the game media stored in the storage unit to the external take-up unit by operating the external take-out operation unit, and pay out the game media to the game medium payout passage. There is no need to separately provide a game medium payout unit for playing and a game medium payout unit for paying out game media to the game medium takeout passage, and the gaming machine can be simplified.
[0217]
  (bClaim2According to this invention, the player can play a game by inserting a game medium from the insertion unit.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a game system to which a pachinko machine according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention is applied.
FIG. 2 is a front view showing a pachinko machine and a card unit in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.
FIG. 3 is a top view of an operation unit provided in the pachinko machine 2 in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.
FIG. 4 is a partially broken rear view of the pachinko machine 2 in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.
5A is a partially broken perspective view showing a configuration of a ball dispensing device provided in the pachinko machine in Embodiment 1 of the present invention, and FIGS. 5B and 5C are pachinko machines in the ball dispensing device. FIG. It is sectional drawing which shows the payout condition of a ball | bowl.
FIG. 6 is a partially cutaway view showing a configuration of a lifting device and a polishing device provided in the pachinko machine according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.
FIGS. 7A and 7B are cross-sectional views showing the structure of a branch portion provided in a supply rod of a pachinko machine in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.
FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a pachinko machine and a card unit in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the processing status of a ball control microcomputer provided on the ball control board of the pachinko machine in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.
FIG. 10A is a flowchart showing the processing status of an external extraction process performed by the ball holding control microcomputer according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 10B shows the processing status of an internal acquisition process; FIG.
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a processing state of a settlement process performed by the ball holding control microcomputer according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a processing status of interruption processing performed by the ball holding control microcomputer according to the first embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the processing status of the lifting control microcomputer provided on the lifting control board of the pachinko machine in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.
FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a configuration of a gaming system to which a pachinko machine according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention is applied.
FIG. 15 is a front view showing a pachinko machine and a card unit in Embodiment 2 of the present invention.
FIG. 16 is a top view of an operation unit provided in the pachinko machine 2 in Embodiment 2 of the present invention.
FIG. 17 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a card reader / writer provided in the operation unit of the pachinko machine 2 in Embodiment 2 of the present invention.
FIG. 18 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a pachinko machine and a card unit in Embodiment 2 of the present invention.
FIG. 19A is a flowchart showing the processing status of the internal loading process performed by the ball holding control microcomputer according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 19B is a flowchart showing the processing status of the settlement process; FIG.
FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the status of interruption processing performed by the ball holding control microcomputer according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 21 is a rear view of a pachinko machine 2 ″ according to a third embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 22 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a pachinko machine and a card unit in Embodiment 3 of the present invention.
FIG. 23 is a diagram showing a modification of the third embodiment of the present invention.
[Explanation of symbols]
2 Pachinko machines (game machines)
2 'Pachinko machine (game machine)
2 ’Pachinko machine
3 Card unit (game recording medium processing device)
8 Communication cable
9 Communication cable
10 Communication cable
37 Rewrite Card (Recording medium)
80 storage box
87 Conveyance roller
88 Free Roller
89 Body
90 Cover part
91 Communication head
92 Conveyance path
93 Platen roller
94 Thermal head
96 Drive motor
97a Light emitting part
97b Light receiver
98 Timing belt
99 Drive gear
100 Management computer
101 POS cash register
201 glass door frame
202 game board
203 Game area
204 1st variable display part
205 Second variable display section
206 Passing gate
207 Start prize opening
208 Movable piece
209 Regular winning opening
210 First variable winning ball apparatus
211 Opening and closing plate
212 Sorting device
213 rotating disk
213a Special prize opening
213b Regular winning opening
214 Rotating rotor
214a Notch
214b Winner in the rotor
215 Second variable winning ball apparatus
216 Opening and closing plate
217 Out mouth
220 Operation unit
220 'operation unit
221 Card balance display
222 Credit display
223 Ball rental button
224 Automatic ball lending button
225 Automatic ball rental lamp
226 control box
227 Uncredited display
228 External takeout button (external takeout operation part)
229 Take-in ball counting button
230 Settlement button (Settlement operation part)
231 Interrupt button
232 Interrupting lamp
233 Operation board
235 Hitting control handle
236 Full tank notification lamp
237 Tank empty notification lamp
238 Waiting ball inlet
239 Hitting ball waiting game (game media waiting section)
239a Waiting ball confirmation window
239b Waiting ball confirmation window
240 hitting rail
241 Launch ball detection switch (used game medium detection means)
242 Foul mouth
243 Take-out ball tray (external take-out part)
244 Intake ball outlet
245 Intake ball inlet (input)
245 'shutter
246 Upper tank (payout part guide passage, game medium upper storage part)
247 Upper tank full switch (upper storage game medium detection means)
248 Ball dispensing device (game media dispensing unit)
249a Drive motor
249b sprocket
250 passage switching valve (passage switching section)
251 Solenoid
252 Payout ball detection switch (payout game medium detection means)
253 Lower tank (game medium storage part)
254 Tilt plate
255 Lower tank empty detection switch
256 Inflow ball detection switch (input game medium detection means)
257 Foul Sphere Guidance Trap
258 Driving ball detection switch
259 Foul sphere detection switch
260 Lower tank full detection switch
261 Lifting device (transfer section)
262 Polishing device (cleaning part)
263 Lifting path (game media transfer path)
H.264 supply bowl (payout part guide passage)
265 Waiting ball guidance fence (waiting section guidance passage)
266 Standby ball detection switch
267 Shutter solenoid
268 Lifting control board (lifting control means)
269 Launch Control Board
270 Hitting ball motor
270 'hammer
271 Ball dispensing control microcomputer
272 Ball control board
272a Microball control microcomputer (use control means, game media number calculation means, game media takeout means)
272a 'holding ball control microcomputer (use control means, game media number calculation means, game media takeout means)
272b ROM
272c RAM (storage unit)
273 Game Control Board
274 Display control board
275 Lamp control board
276 Voice control board
277 Take-out ball detection switch (external take-out game medium detection means)
278 Ball break detection switch
279 Dispensing ball supply passage (payout section guide passage)
280 External downflow passage (game media takeout passage)
281 Internal flow passage (game media discharge passage)
282 Driving ball confluence (used game media collection passage)
283 Inflow sphere guide
285 credit display
286 Bifurcation part (guidance part)
287 Door open / close detection switch
288 Second communication unit (COM2)
289 First communication unit (COM1)
290 Card reader / writer (recording medium processing unit)
291 Card issuing slot
292 cover
293 Junction
294 Lifting kite
295 Screw conveyor
296 polishing cloth
301 Operation lamp
302 bill indicator
303 bill insertion slot
304 Card indicator
305 Card slot
306 coin slot
307 Coin return button
309 coin indicator
310 Coin return slot
311 Banknote recognition unit
312 Card reader / writer
313 Coin identification unit
314 ROM
315 RAM
316 Second communication unit
317 First communication unit
318 Control microcomputer (MPU)
330 Yugijimadai
331 Base frame
332 Hinge
334 Mounting plate
401 Drive motor
402 sprocket
410 Polishing cassette
412 pedestal
413 ball taxiway
414 reel
415 reel
416 Drive shaft
417 axis of rotation
418 Polishing cloth
419 Winding motor
SW1 Gate switch
SW2 start winning ball detection switch
SW3 Normal winning ball detection switch
SW4 Normal winning ball detection switch
SW5 specific winning ball detection switch
SW6 specific winning ball detection switch
SW7 Normal winning ball detection switch
SW8 winning ball detection switch in rotor
SW9 specific winning ball detection switch

Claims (2)

A game medium payout unit that pays out game media based on the establishment of a predetermined payout condition, and a game medium standby unit on which the game medium waits are provided. A gaming machine,
A payout game medium detecting means for detecting a game medium paid out from the game medium payout unit;
A used game medium detecting means for detecting use of the game medium waiting in the game medium standby section in a game;
Game medium number calculating means for calculating the number of game media owned by the player from the number of game media detected by the payout game medium detecting means and the number of game media detected by the used game medium detecting means;
A storage unit for storing the number of game media calculated by the game media number calculation means;
A game medium number display unit for displaying the number of game media stored in the storage unit;
Use control means for enabling the use of game media waiting in the game media standby unit on the condition that the number of game media stored in the storage unit remains;
A game medium storage unit for storing at least the game medium detected by the payout game medium detection means;
A game medium transfer passage constructed from a lower position of the gaming machine to an upper position and capable of transferring a game medium;
A transfer unit connected to the game medium storage unit and transferring the game medium stored in the game medium storage unit to an upper position of the gaming machine through the game medium transfer path;
And game media circulating through path for guiding the game medium discharged from the upper position of the game medium transport path is transferred to the game medium payout unit by said transfer unit,
Game medium payout means for paying out game media within the range of the number of game media stored in the storage unit;
A payout game medium detecting means for detecting a game medium paid back by the game medium payout means;
A game medium storage unit configured to be able to store the game medium paid back by the game medium payout means and to visually recognize a storage state and an empty state of the paid-back game medium;
An external takeout unit for taking out the game medium to the outside;
An external take-out operation unit that is operated by a player to take out game media within the range of the number of game media stored in the storage unit from the external take-out unit to the outside of the gaming machine;
A game medium take-out means for letting out the game medium within the range of the number of game media stored in the storage unit based on the operation of the external take-out operation unit from the game medium payout unit to the external take-out unit;
An external take-out game medium detecting means for detecting a game medium to be paid out to the external take-out section from the game medium pay-out section;
A game medium payout path for guiding the game medium paid out from the game medium payout unit to the payout game medium detection means;
A game medium take-out path for guiding the game medium paid out from the game medium payout unit to the external take-out unit;
With
The game medium number calculating means subtracts and updates the number of game media stored in the storage unit based on the detection of the game media by the payout game medium detection means and the externally taken out game medium detection means ,
The gaming machine is characterized in that the game medium paying section is provided with a path switching section for switching a path of game media to be paid out to one of the paths . An input unit for inputting game media; and an input game medium detection unit for detecting game media input from the input unit; the number of game medium calculation unit is detected by the input game medium detection unit The gaming machine according to claim 1 , wherein the gaming medium is added and updated to the number of gaming media stored in the storage unit.

Images