JP5065218B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine, and more particularly to a gaming machine that produces an effect of guiding a jackpot result.

  Conventionally, in gaming machines such as pachinko machines, game balls that have entered the entrance are sorted by the sorting unit, and a predetermined percentage of the game balls that have entered are introduced into the storage tank. The game balls stored in the storage tank are placed on the stage when the game balls are stored, and when a notice effect is performed to notify that the determination result of the jackpot determination is a jackpot (that is likely) There is a technique in which a game ball is rolled on the stage for a predetermined period of time by playing the game ball with a flipper that is released onto the stage and rotated on the stage (see, for example, Patent Document 1 below).

  Also, conventionally, when a specific winning opening is opened for a predetermined time according to the jackpot determination result (lottery result) by starting winning, and when a game ball wins the winning opening while the winning opening is open for a predetermined time, There has been a technique for opening an attacker a predetermined number of times for a predetermined time (see, for example, Patent Document 2 below).

  In conventional gaming machines including such a gaming machine, every gaming machine installed in the pachinko hall, or for each gaming machine that forms a predetermined arrangement (so-called “island”) in the pachinko hall The game balls are circulated, and the game balls once used for the game are collected and repeatedly used (for example, see Patent Documents 3 and 4 below).

  In gaming machines, the upper plate from which the game balls are paid out is opened to the outside, so that by repeatedly using the game balls, the sebum and cigarette smoke of the human hand can be added to the game balls paid out to the upper plate. The dirt accumulates on the game ball while the game machine is operated for a long period of time. When dirt accumulates in the game ball, it is assumed that the game ball does not roll due to the accumulated dirt and the game ball does not move as desired. We exchange regularly. Conventionally, there has been a technique in which it is determined whether or not a game ball has reached the replacement time, and when the replacement time has been reached, a notification to that effect has been made (see, for example, Patent Document 4 below).

JP 2006-239251 A JP 2007-105387 A JP 2004-187999 A Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 07-132173

  However, in the conventional techniques described in Patent Documents 1 and 2 described above, the behavior of the game ball depends on the situation in which the game ball is released (reached) to the stage, and the movement position of the game ball is accurately determined on the stage. It is difficult to control well. For this reason, the present situation is that it has not been possible to use the game ball to intentionally improve the player's expectation.

  Further, in the conventional technique described in Patent Document 2, when the game ball moves to an unintended position, an effect using the display screen, that is, an effect content for guiding the jackpot determination result and the game ball are used. There is a problem that the player cannot enjoy the game because the content of the production does not match and the content of the production is inconsistent.

  In addition, in gaming machines, it is inevitable that dirt will adhere to the gaming balls because the upper plate from which the gaming balls are paid out is open to the outside, but on the other hand, the accumulated gaming balls pass through the gaming machine. Then, there is a problem that if the game ball is accumulated on the moving path of the game ball or various mechanisms in the moving path, it may cause malfunction or failure of the gaming machine.

  In particular, as in the conventional techniques described in Patent Documents 1 and 2 described above, in a gaming machine in which a game ball moves in a position that affects the notification of the jackpot determination result (lottery result) or the progress of the game, Dirt accumulated on the moving path of the sphere and various mechanisms in the moving path may adversely affect the progress of the game. And, for this reason, the lack of game fairness between the player who used the game ball used for a long time and the player who used the game ball immediately after the exchange, and the reliability of the performance is reduced, so that the player There was a problem that the game could not be enjoyed.

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can entertain a player and give satisfaction to the player in order to eliminate the above-described problems caused by the prior art.

  In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, the present invention employs the following configuration. Reference numerals in parentheses indicate correspondence with the embodiments in order to facilitate understanding of the present invention, and do not limit the scope of the present invention. The gaming machine according to the present invention has a predetermined path (603) when there is a moving path (space configured in 310, 320, 330, 340) along which the predetermined moving member (F) moves and a start prize. ) Discharging means (280, 286, 604,) for discharging the predetermined moving member (F) accommodated in the moving path (space formed in 310, 320, 330, 340) at a predetermined timing. 605) and moving means (321, 321a, 332b, 341) for moving the predetermined moving member (F) discharged by the discharging means (280, 286, 604, 605) to a predetermined position based on the jackpot information. ) And after being moved by the moving means (321, 321a, 332b, 341), it is discharged from the moving path (space formed in 310, 320, 330, 340). The predetermined moving member (F) is moved to the predetermined space (603) via a circulation path (803, 804) connected to the moving path (space formed in the 310, 320, 330, 340). And a circulation mechanism (801).

  In addition, the gaming machine according to the present invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, the circulation path (803, 804) is independent of a path through which a game ball passes.

  In addition, the gaming machine according to the present invention includes a display screen (104a) for displaying a predetermined effect content in the above invention, and the moving means (321, 321a, 332b, 341) includes the display screen (104a). The predetermined moving member (F) is moved in synchronism with the contents of the production.

  Further, in the gaming machine according to the present invention, in the above invention, the discharging means (280, 286, 604, 605) is different in at least shape, size and color according to the contents of the display screen (104a). The predetermined moving member (F) is discharged.

  According to the above configuration, since dirt from the outside of the gaming machine does not adhere to the predetermined moving member, the predetermined moving member does not get dirty even when used for a long time, and the rolling resistance increases due to the dirt. Therefore, it is possible to prevent malfunction such as a predetermined moving member being stopped. As a result, while performing a presentation using a predetermined moving member that is an actual object (substance), a three-dimensional effect and a powerful presentation are performed, regardless of the operating time of the gaming machine. The movement can be matched with the jackpot determination result.

  Further, according to the above configuration, since the predetermined moving member does not come into contact with the game ball in the middle of movement and becomes dirty, the predetermined moving member becomes dirty and the rolling resistance is increased, thereby stopping the operation. Can be prevented. This makes it possible to match the movement of the predetermined moving member with the jackpot determination result while performing an effect using a predetermined moving member that is an actual object (entity) and performing a stereoscopic effect and powerful effect. .

  In addition, according to the above configuration, a virtual world in which an image can be realized in a stereoscopic effect that can be realized by an entity using a predetermined moving member that is an entity and an effect using a display screen. It is possible to produce an effect that superimposes a virtual space that looks as if it were real), so that the player's expectation and excitement can be enhanced.

  In addition, according to the above configuration, it is possible to reliably guide the fact that there is a change in the content of the effect, such as an effect of transitioning from the normal game state to the specific game state, and thereby the player's sense of expectation and Increase excitement.

  According to the gaming machine according to the present invention, it is possible to produce an effect with a three-dimensional effect and force by using the substance while ensuring the reliability of the effect regardless of the length of the operation time of the game machine. Play. As a result, the player can be entertained and the player can be satisfied.

  Exemplary embodiments of a gaming machine according to the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

(Basic configuration of gaming machine)
First, an example of the gaming machine of the present invention will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view showing an example of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. The gaming machine of the present invention includes a game board 101. A glass frame lamp (see reference numeral 262 in FIG. 2) is provided on the surface of the game board 101. The gaming machine drives and controls the glass frame lamp by a lamp control unit (see reference numeral 230 in FIG. 2) to turn on or blink the glass frame lamp. Thereby, the effect of the game can be enhanced.

  A launcher (not shown) is disposed at a lower position of the game board 101. The launcher launches a game ball into the game area 103. The game ball launched by the launching unit rises between the rails 102 a and 102 b and reaches the upper position of the game board 101, and then falls within the game area 103. The game area 103 is provided with a plurality of nails (not shown) that the game ball collides with when the game ball falls. In the game area 103, a windmill (not shown) rotated by a game ball is disposed. A plurality of nails, windmills, and the like change the falling direction of the game ball falling in the game area 103. In the central part of the game area 103, an effect section 104 is arranged.

  The production unit 104 includes a display device 104a such as a liquid crystal display (LCD), and an effect for an effect (hereinafter referred to as “production effect”) 104b provided on the front side (player side) of the display device 104a. It is configured. The player sees the display content on the display screen on the back side (back side) of the stage actor 104b through the stage actor 104b. The effect unit 104 executes an effect in which the image display operation on the display device 104a and the operation of the effect accessory 104b are linked.

  Accordingly, the player can simultaneously view the effect by the effect agent 104b and the effect by the display device 104a without shifting the line of sight, and therefore, the display operation of the image on the display device 104a and the operation of the effect agent 104b. It is possible to enhance the production effect by interlocking the two. Hereinafter, an area where an image is displayed on the display device 104a and the effect actor 104b is arranged will be described as an effect area. The director character 104b will be described later.

  The periphery of the effect area is surrounded by a frame member (not shown). The frame member supports the display device 104 a and the production role 104 b and is attached to the game board 101. In a state where the frame member is attached to the game board 101, the frame member and the game board 101 separate the inside of the effect area (the front of the display screen in the display device 104a) and the outside of the effect area. The space defined as the inside of the effect area is provided at a position that is closer to the back side of the gaming machine than the game area 103 where a game ball used for a normal game falls.

  The game board 101 may include a director in a position other than the display area of the director 104. And this production | presentation thing may be equipped with LED for decoration. In this case, the gaming machine can enhance the effect by controlling the light emission timing of the decorative LED included in the effect agent. In addition, the directing agent may be a movable directing agent that operates by receiving a driving force such as a motor or a solenoid (see reference numerals 286 and 287 in FIG. 2).

  In the game area 103, a start winning port 105, a winning gate 106, a plurality of normal winning ports 107 and the like are arranged around the effect unit 104. The start winning port 105, the winning gate 106, and the plurality of ordinary winning ports 107 are provided with switches (see reference numeral 251 in FIG. 2) whose output changes depending on whether or not game balls are won in the winning ports 105 to 107. It has been. Below the game area 103, a special winning opening 109 is provided. The big prize opening 109 is closed by a big prize door 109a in a state other than the big hit state, and is opened only for a certain period when the big win state is reached.

  The big prize opening 109 and the big prize door 109a are a big prize opening / closing switch for detecting opening / closing of the big prize opening 109, a left count switch and a right count switch for detecting a game ball won in the big prize opening 109 (both shown) And so-called attackers. A recovery port 108 is provided at the bottom of the game area 103. The collection port 108 collects game balls that have not won any of the above-described winning ports.

  A frame member 110 is provided on the outer peripheral portion of the game area 103 of the game board 101. The frame member 110 has a shape that surrounds the periphery of the game area 103 on the four sides of the game board 101 in the vertical and horizontal directions. Further, the frame member 110 has a shape protruding from the board surface of the game board 101 toward the player side. Thereby, the gaming machine of this embodiment can be made more conspicuous than other types of gaming machines that do not include the frame member 110. By making the gaming machine conspicuous, it is possible to attract the interest of many players, thereby improving the operating rate of the gaming machine and strengthening the deterrence against illegal acts on the gaming machine.

  In the frame member 110, an effect light unit 111 is provided on the upper edge and the lower edge of the game area 103. Each effect light unit 111 includes a plurality of lights 112. Each light 112 includes a decoration LED (see reference numeral 261 in FIG. 2), and the light irradiation direction can be changed in the vertical direction. In addition, the effect light unit 111 can rotate the light irradiation direction. The gaming machine includes a motor (not shown) that changes the irradiation direction of the light emitted by each light 112.

  An operation handle 113 is disposed at a lower position of the frame member 110. The operation handle 113 is operated by the player when the game ball is fired by driving the launching unit. Similar to the frame member 110 described above, the operation handle 113 has a shape protruding from the board surface of the game board 101 to the player side. Further, the operation handle 113 includes a firing instruction member 114 that drives the above-described launching unit to launch a game ball. The firing instruction member 114 is provided on the outer peripheral portion of the operation handle 113 so as to rotate clockwise as viewed from the player.

  The launcher causes the game ball to be launched when the firing instruction member 114 is directly operated by the player. The operation handle 113 includes a sensor that detects that the player is directly operating the firing instruction member 114. Further, the frame member 110 incorporates a lower bus SP (see reference numeral 271 in FIG. 2) for outputting sound and an upper stereo speaker (see reference numeral 272 in FIG. 2). The gaming machine outputs, for example, sound corresponding to the display content of the rendering unit 104 from the upper stereo speaker or the lower bus SP. This can enhance the production effect.

  In the frame member 110, a chance button 117 that accepts an operation by the player is provided on the lower side of the game area 103. In this embodiment, the chance button 117 has a convex button shape. The chance button 117 may be an input pad that employs a touch panel system in addition to the convex button. The operation of the chance button 117 is effective while guidance for prompting the operation of the chance button 117 is displayed, for example, in the case of a specific reach effect during the game.

  On the frame member 110, a cross key 118 is provided next to the chance button 117. The cross key 118 includes a cursor key for changing a position indicating a character or a graphic displayed on the rendering unit 104, and an “ENTER” key (not shown) for confirming the character or the graphic selected by operating the cursor key. ) And. The chance button 117 and the cross key 118 are operated, for example, when a display screen that prompts the user to operate the chance button 117 or the cross key 118 is displayed on the effect unit 104 in a specific effect.

(Internal configuration of control unit of gaming machine)
Next, the internal configuration of the control unit of the gaming machine will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of the control unit of the gaming machine. The control unit of the gaming machine is composed of a plurality of control units. In FIG. 2, the control unit includes a main control unit 210, an effect control unit 220, a lamp control unit 230, an audio control unit 240, and an accessory control unit 280. The main control unit 210, the effect control unit 220, the lamp control unit 230, the voice control unit 240, and the accessory control unit 280 are provided on separate boards.

  The main control unit 210 controls basic operations related to gaming of the gaming machine. The main control unit 210 can realize its function by, for example, a main board. The main controller 210 includes a CPU 211, a ROM 212, a RAM 213, I / Os 214 to 216, and a ram clear switch 217.

  Based on the program stored in the ROM 212, the CPU 211 executes basic processing as the game content progresses. The ROM 212 stores various programs for executing basic processing associated with the progress of game content, a jackpot value used for jackpot determination, and the like. The RAM 213 functions as a data work area when the CPU 211 performs arithmetic processing. The CPU 211 counts, for example, a jackpot determination random number as a basic process accompanying the progress of game contents.

  Specifically, for example, in the case of a gaming machine in which the jackpot probability is set to 1/307, the CPU 211 counts up by +1 with a numerical value from 0 to 306 while the gaming machine is activated. . The CPU 211 starts counting up from the time of power supply to the main control unit 210, and after counting for one loop, counts for the next one loop. The RAM 213 functions as a counter for counting such jackpot determination random numbers.

  Then, when the game ball launched by the launching unit wins the start winning opening 105 (hereinafter referred to as “start winning”), the CPU 211 acquires the count value at the time of starting winning as a jackpot determination random number. The jackpot determination random number varies depending on the timing of winning the start. Specifically, for example, in the case of a gaming machine in which the jackpot probability is set, the CPU 211 uses a value counted at the time of starting winning from a group of numbers including integers from 0 to 306 for jackpot determination. Get as a random number. If it is said example, the numerical value in the numerical group comprised by the integer from 0-306 will be acquired as a random number for jackpot determination.

  Each time the CPU 211 acquires the jackpot determination random number, the CPU 211 compares the acquired jackpot determination random number with the jackpot value stored in the ROM 212 to perform a jackpot determination. Specifically, the CPU 211 determines, for example, whether or not the jackpot determination random number matches the jackpot value, and determines that the match is a jackpot. In the jackpot determination, when the jackpot determination random number for performing the jackpot determination is acquired, that is, when the effect corresponding to the previous start winning is being performed at the time of starting winning, the effect being performed is ended Then do it.

  The I / O 214 inputs the signal output from the start switch (start SW) 251 and the signal output from the gate switch (gate SW) 252 to the CPU 211. The start SW 251 and the gate SW 252 can be realized by a proximity sensor, for example. In this case, the start SW 251 and the gate SW 252 output a signal indicating an ON state at a timing when the game ball approaches the switches 251 and 252.

  The CPU 211 monitors the outputs of the start SW 251 and the gate SW 252 every certain time (for example, 4 msec). In the gaming machine, for example, when a game ball passes through the start winning opening 105, the output from the start SW 251 is continuously turned on twice or more. The CPU 211 determines that the game ball has passed the start winning opening 105 (there has been a start winning) when the output from the start SW 251 is continuously turned on twice or more.

  Further, the I / O 214 inputs an output signal from the big prize opening switch (large prize opening SW) 253 to the CPU 211. The special prize opening SW253 can be realized by a proximity sensor, for example. The CPU 211 detects that the game ball has won the big prize opening 109 based on the output signal from the big prize opening SW253. Further, when the CPU 211 receives that the game ball has won the grand prize opening 109, it outputs a prize ball control signal to the prize ball control unit (not shown).

  When the prize ball control unit receives the prize ball control signal from the main control unit 210, each prize port (starting prize port 105, ordinary prize port 107, big prize) is given to the payout unit connected to the prize ball control unit. Control is performed to pay out the number of prize balls corresponding to the game balls won in the mouth 109). The prize ball control unit outputs data to the CPU that executes the prize ball control process, the RAM that functions as a data work area during the calculation process of the CPU, and the main control unit 210 and a payout unit (not shown). It is configured with I / O and the like. The prize ball control unit is not shown.

  The payout unit communicates with a storage unit (not shown) that stores game balls, and includes a motor that is driven when the game balls are paid out. The payout unit pays out game balls for the number of winning balls corresponding to the winning game balls by adjusting the driving time (driving amount) of the motor. The prize ball control unit performs control to pay out the number of prize balls corresponding to the winning game ball by driving and controlling the motor.

  The CPU 211 outputs an open / close signal of the big prize opening solenoid 254 to the big prize opening solenoid 254 via the I / O 214 when a big hit occurs. Further, the CPU 211 controls the opening / closing of the big prize opening solenoid 254 so that the big prize opening 109 is opened for a certain period when a big hit occurs. Further, the CPU 211 controls the opening / closing of the big winning opening solenoid 254 so that the opening of the big winning opening 109 is repeated a predetermined round (for example, 15 rounds) when a big hit occurs.

  The I / O 214 inputs an output signal from the normal winning opening switch (normal winning opening SW) 255 and 256 to the CPU 211. The normal winning openings SW255, 256 can be realized by a proximity sensor, for example. The CPU 211 detects that the game ball has won the normal winning port 107 based on the output signals from the normal winning ports SW 255 and 256. Further, when the CPU 211 receives that the game ball has won the normal winning slot 107, it outputs a prize ball control signal to the above-described prize ball control unit.

  The I / O 215 inputs an output signal from the ram clear switch 217 to the CPU 211. The ram clear switch 217 outputs a signal indicating an ON state when being pressed. The ram clear switch 217 outputs a signal indicating an off state (or stops outputting the signal) when the pressing operation is released. The ram clear switch 217 is provided, for example, on the main board, and the operation signal by operating the ram clear switch 217 is directly input to the main control unit 210 so that the ram clear signal cannot be input from the outside of the gaming machine. be able to.

  For example, when power is supplied by operating a power switch (not shown) or the like, the CPU 211 initializes game information of the game when a signal indicating an on state is output from the ram clear switch 217. (Lamb clear). At the time of ram clear, the CPU 211 sets, for example, an initial value random number or initial value data stored in the RWM area to 0 (zero).

  The CPU 211 generates control signals according to various output signals received from the start SW 251, the gate SW 252, the big prize opening SW 253, and the normal prize opening SW 255, 256, and the produced control signal is output via the I / O 216. To 220. Further, the CPU 211 generates a control signal corresponding to the power supply state and the output signal from the ram clear switch 217, and outputs the generated control signal to the effect control unit 220 via the I / O 216.

  The effect control unit 220 controls the effect of the gaming machine based on the control signal output from the main control unit 210. The effect control unit 220 can be realized by, for example, an effect control board. The effect control unit 220 includes a CPU 221, a ROM 222, a RAM 223, and I / Os 224 to 226.

  The CPU 221 executes an effect process for producing game contents based on a control signal from the main control unit 210 and a program stored in the ROM 222 via the I / O 224. The ROM 222 stores various programs related to the execution of the effect process and various image data to be displayed on the display device 104a in the effect unit 104. Various image data includes a background image, a design image, a character image, and the like. The RAM 223 functions as a data work area when the CPU 221 performs arithmetic processing.

  CPU221 reads the program memorize | stored in ROM222, for example, and performs various image processes, such as a background image display process, a design image display / variation process, and a character image display process. In addition, when executing various image processing, the CPU 221 reads out necessary image data from the ROM 222 as appropriate, and outputs the read image data to the display device 104a via the I / O 225. Here, the CPU 221 specifically, for example, a design that produces a game content until winning a prize, a reach (a state in which two of the three symbols are arranged), a design that produces a game content at the time of a big hit, etc. The image data representing is output.

  The rendering unit 104 writes image data for displaying a predetermined image on the display device 104a in a VRAM or the like included in the rendering control unit 220. When the image data is written into the VRAM included in the effect control unit 220, the effect unit 104 processes the image data so that the pattern image and the character image can be seen in front of the background image. Specifically, for example, when the display position of the background image and the pattern image displayed by the rendering unit 104 overlaps the same position in the display screen, the Z value of the Z buffer of each image data by a known hidden surface removal method such as the Z buffer method The symbol image is preferentially stored in a VRAM (not shown) or the like. Based on the image data written in the VRAM, the display device 104a displays an image in which the design image and the character image can be seen in front of the background image.

  The I / O 225 inputs the chance button operation signal from the above-described chance button 117 to the CPU 221. Further, the I / O 225 may input an operation signal from another button other than the chance button 117 such as the cross key 118 and the “ENTER” button to the CPU 221. The I / O 226 is controlled by the CPU 221 to control the light emission operation of various light sources included in the gaming machine such as the decoration LED 261, the glass frame lamp 262, and the side lamp 263 among various signals for performing the rendering process. The signal is output to the lamp control unit 230. The lamp control unit 230 performs light emission control of light emitters such as the decoration LED 261, the glass frame lamp 262, and the side lamp 263 in the effect processing performed by the effect control unit 220. The lamp control unit 230 includes a CPU 231, a ROM 232, a RAM 233, and I / Os 234 and 235.

  Also, the I / O 226 outputs a control signal related to audio output control from the lower bus SP 271 and the upper stereo speaker 272 to the audio control unit 240 among various signals for performing the effect processing. In addition, the I / O 226 outputs a control signal related to the control of an accessory such as the effect agent 104b among the various signals for performing the effect process to the accessory control unit 280. The accessory control unit 280 will be described later.

  The CPU 231 reads a program stored in the ROM 232 based on the control signal from the effect control unit 220 input by the I / O 234. The CPU 231 executes the read program to control light emission / extinction of light emitters such as the decoration LED 261, the glass frame lamp 262, and the side lamp 263 by the control signal output from the I / O 235. The RAM 233 functions as a data work area when the CPU 231 performs arithmetic processing, and necessary data is written when the CPU 231 turns on / off the light emitter.

  The sound control unit 240 performs sound output processing related to sound output among the effect processing performed by the effect control unit 220. The voice control unit 240 includes a CPU 241, a ROM 242, a RAM 243, and I / Os 244 and 245. The CPU 241 reads a program stored in the ROM 242 based on a control signal from the effect control unit 220 input by the I / O 244, and performs a sound output process according to the read program to generate a sound signal. The RAM 243 functions as a data work area during the calculation process of the CPU 241 during the voice output process, and necessary data is written in the voice output process by the CPU 241 as appropriate.

  In the audio output process, the CPU 241 generates an audio signal including BGM used for production, character dialogue, sound effects, and the like. The CPU 241 outputs the generated audio signal to the lower bus SP 271 and the upper stereo speaker 272 via the I / O 245. The lower bus SP 271 and the upper stereo speaker 272 include a voice coil (not shown), and outputs a sound by applying an electric signal according to the sound signal output from the sound control unit 240 to the voice coil. .

  Of the effect processing performed by the effect control unit 220, the accessory control unit 280 performs drive control processing related to various effect characters including the effect character 104b. The accessory control unit 280 includes a CPU 281, a ROM 282, a RAM 283, and I / Os 284 and 285. The CPU 281 reads the program stored in the ROM 282 based on the control signal from the effect control unit 220 input by the I / O 284, performs drive control processing according to the read program, and performs various effects including the effect agent 104b. The motor 286 and the solenoid 287 for operating the accessory are driven and controlled.

  Further, the CPU 281 reads a program stored in the ROM 282 based on a control signal from the effect control unit 220 input by the I / O 284, performs drive control processing according to the read program, and performs a circulation mechanism unit (in FIG. 8). The motor 290 for operating the control is controlled. The RAM 283 functions as a data work area during the arithmetic processing of the CPU 241 during the audio output process, and necessary data is written appropriately during the audio output process by the CPU 281. The circulation mechanism will be described later.

  The I / O 284 inputs an output signal from the pseudosphere detection sensor 288 to the CPU 281. The pseudo sphere detection sensor 288 is on the path along which the pseudo sphere thrown into the effect area moves, and in the moving direction of the pseudo sphere F, the effect agent (reference numeral in FIG. 3) provided on the most upstream side in the effect area. 3) (see FIG. 8 for example), and the output changes depending on whether or not the pseudo sphere thrown into the effect area has passed.

  The pseudo sphere detection sensor 288 is preferably provided, for example, in the immediate vicinity of the stage effect in the moving direction of the pseudo sphere F, thereby detecting that the pseudo sphere has been reliably inserted into the stage effect. it can. Based on the output signal from the pseudo sphere detection sensor 288, the CPU 281 detects that a pseudo sphere has been inserted into the effect area. Whether or not a pseudo sphere is inserted into the effect area by the pseudo sphere detection sensor 288 is the same as the method of determining whether or not the game ball is started and won by the start SW 251, and thus the description thereof is omitted. The pseudo sphere will be described later.

  The pseudo sphere detection sensor 288 may be provided at a position spaced a predetermined distance from the effect actor in the moving direction of the pseudo sphere. Thus, it is possible to secure a processing time from when the pseudo sphere is thrown into the effect area until a predetermined effect image is displayed on the display device 104a. Further, the pseudosphere detection sensor 288 may be connected to the CPU 211 provided in the main control unit 210 via the I / O 214.

  In this case, the CPU 211 detects that a pseudo sphere has been inserted into the effect area based on the output signal from the pseudo sphere detection sensor 288, and sends the detection result to the accessory control unit 280 via the effect control unit 220. Output. Further, the pseudo sphere detection sensor 288 may be connected to the CPU 221 included in the effect control unit 220 via the I / O 225. In this case, the CPU 221 detects that a pseudo sphere has been inserted into the effect area based on the output signal from the pseudo sphere detection sensor 288, and outputs the detection result to the accessory control unit 280.

  The I / O 284 inputs output signals from the recovery port passage sensor 289 and the V zone passage sensor 291 to the CPU 281. The collection port passage sensor 289 is provided on a path along which the pseudo sphere discharged outside the effect area moves (see FIG. 8). The recovery port passage sensor 289 moves the pseudo sphere discharged to the outside of the effect area through the V zone (refer to reference numeral 343 in FIG. 3) or the pseudo sphere recovery slit (refer to reference numeral 1001 in FIG. 10). It is provided on the path, and is provided downstream of the V zone and the pseudo sphere collection slit in the moving direction of the pseudo sphere.

  The output of the recovery port passage sensor 289 changes depending on whether or not the pseudo sphere discharged outside the effect area has passed. Based on the output signal from the collection port passage sensor 289, the CPU 281 detects that the pseudo sphere has been discharged outside the effect area. Whether or not a pseudo ball is inserted into the effect area by the collection port passage sensor 289 is the same as the method for determining whether or not the game ball is started and won by the start SW 251, and the description thereof is omitted.

  The V zone passage sensor 291 is provided in the vicinity of the V zone, and detects that the pseudosphere F has passed the V zone 343 (see FIG. 8). An output signal from the V zone passage sensor 291 is input to the CPU 281 via the I / O 284. Thereby, it is possible to detect whether or not the pseudo sphere discharged into the effect area has passed through the V zone, and it is possible to determine whether or not the pseudo sphere has passed the correct position according to the jackpot determination result. it can.

  As shown in FIG. 2, in this embodiment, the main control unit 210, the production control unit 220, the lamp control unit 230, the voice control unit 240, and the accessory control unit 280 having the above-described configuration are different printed boards. (Main board, sub board, lamp control board, voice control board, and accessory control board). The main control unit 210, the effect control unit 220, the lamp control unit 230, the voice control unit 240, and the accessory control unit 280 are not limited to being provided on different boards. For example, some or all of the control units may be provided on the same printed circuit board, such as providing the effect control unit 220, the lamp control unit 230, the voice control unit 240, and the accessory control unit 280. Is possible.

(Basic operation of gaming machines)
The gaming machine having the above-described configuration performs a predetermined operation depending on whether the game ball fired by the launching unit wins the start winning port 105, the winning gate 106, or the normal winning port 107. When the game ball launched by the launching unit wins the winning gate 106, for example, the gaming machine opens the start winning opening 105 for a predetermined time. In addition, in the gaming machine, when the game ball fired by the launching unit wins, for example, one of the plurality of normal winning holes 107, the number of winning balls (for example, 10) at the time of the normal winning Pay out the game balls.

  In addition, the gaming machine acquires a jackpot determination random number as a numerical value for jackpot determination when the game ball launched by the launch unit wins the start winning opening 105, for example. Then, the gaming machine determines whether or not the acquired jackpot determination random number matches a predetermined numerical value (jackpot value). The gaming machine sets the lost state when the acquired jackpot determination random number does not match the jackpot value, and executes the lost effect in the effect unit 104.

  On the other hand, the gaming machine sets the jackpot state when the acquired jackpot determination random number matches the jackpot value, and executes the jackpot effect in the rendering unit 104. In addition, when the gaming machine is in a big hit state, the big winning opening 109 is opened for a certain period. The gaming machine repeats the opening of the special winning opening 109 for a predetermined round (for example, 15 rounds), and pays out the number of prize balls corresponding to the game balls won in the meantime.

  The gaming machine uses a predetermined spherical moving member for various effects (losing effect or jackpot effect) in the effect unit 104. The moving member having a predetermined spherical shape is not a virtual object displayed on the display screen of the display device 104a, but may be an object that exists in space with a mass or a specific shape. That is, the gaming machine performs an effect using a virtual object or space displayed on the display screen of the display device 104a and an object existing in the space with a mass or a specific shape.

  The moving member having a predetermined sphere shape is not particularly limited as long as it is an object that can move along the moving path constituted by the director 104b, but from the upper side to the lower side by its own weight in the moving path. It is preferably a movable spherical object. In this embodiment, a pseudo sphere is used as the predetermined spherical moving member.

  The pseudo ball is the same real ball as the game ball used for the game in the gaming machine, but is not involved in the progress of the game (decision of winning or losing). Specifically, the pseudo ball is, for example, a game ball used for a game such that a game ball before the game is confirmed and collected at the collection port 108 or a route different from the game ball used for the game is used. The same so-called real ball as the game ball that circulates in the isolated path can be used. The pseudo sphere is guided only in a predetermined route provided on the front side (player side) of the display device 104a by the effect actor 104b provided in the effect unit 104 during various effects.

  The gaming machine includes a pseudo sphere holding mechanism that holds the pseudo sphere and discharges the pseudo sphere into the effect area. The pseudo sphere holding mechanism is driven by a motor 286 that is driven and controlled by the accessory control unit 280 to discharge the pseudo spheres one by one into the effect area. The pseudo sphere discharged into the effect area by the pseudo sphere holding mechanism is discharged from the effect area and then transported by the circulation mechanism unit, and is again input into the effect area by the pseudo sphere holding mechanism. That is, in a gaming machine, a predetermined pseudo sphere is repeatedly used for production.

(Structure of the director 104b)
Next, the configuration of the production actor 104b in the production unit 104 will be described. The production actor 104b is involved in production using a pseudo sphere. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of the production actor 104b in the production unit 104. In FIG. 3, the effect area in the effect part 104 is divided into a change start area 310, a first notice section area 320, a second notice section area 330, and a result confirmation area 340. The director 104b is provided in each of the change start area 310, the first notice section area 320, the second notice section area 330, and the result confirmation area 340, and each of the areas 310, 320, 330, and 340 is provided. Are connected so that the pseudo spheres can be successively moved.

  In this embodiment, the moving path is realized by a path that is constituted by the production role 104b and that allows the pseudo sphere to sequentially move in each of the areas 310, 320, 330, and 340. A movement path | route can be implement | achieved by the space comprised in each area | region 310,320,330,340 by the production | presentation actor 104b.

  Among the effect actors 104b, the effect actor 311 provided in the change start area 310 has a route for inserting a pseudo sphere into the effect area. The effect actor 321 provided in the first notice section area 320 is a bridge inclined so that a pseudo sphere rolls from the change start area 310 side to the second notice section area 330 side. A route connecting the two notice section areas 330 is configured.

  The director 311 and the director (bridge) 321 may be formed using a transparent plastic material or the like. Accordingly, the pseudosphere can be moved in the effect area without greatly impairing the visibility of the image displayed by the display device 104a provided on the back side.

  The bridge 321 is provided with claws 322 and 323 that protrude to a position where the rolling of the pseudo sphere is stopped. The claws 322 and 323 are provided to be displaceable between a projecting position where the rolling of the pseudo sphere is stopped and a retracted position where the pseudo sphere is retracted from the bridge 321. In addition, the claws 322 and 323 are selectively positioned at either the protruding position or the retracted position in response to the driving force of the motor 286 that is driven and controlled by the accessory control unit 280.

  The claws 322 and 323 are provided at two locations on the moving path formed by the bridge 321 and are independently displaced to the protruding position or the retracted position. The claws 322 and 323 positioned at the protruding positions stop the pseudo spheres that have rolled on the bridge 321 and stop the rolling of the pseudo spheres. When the claws 322 and 323 that stop rolling of the pseudo sphere are displaced to the retracted position, the pseudo sphere rolls again on the bridge 321 from the fluctuation start area 310 side to the second notice section area 330 side.

  The bridge 321 is provided with guard members 322a and 323a that cover the claws 322 and 323 from the player side. The guard members 322a and 323a are made of an opaque material, and make it difficult to visually recognize the movement of the claws 322 and 323 from the player side. The guard members 322a and 323a may be formed using the same transparent plastic material as the bridge 321. In this case, it is preferable that the movement of the claws 322 and 323 is not visually recognized from the player side by painting the bridge or sticking a seal.

  Protrusions 324 and 325 are provided above the claws 322 and 323. The protrusions 324 and 325 do not contact the pseudo sphere rolling on the bridge 321, and are provided at positions where the distance between the tips of the claws 322 and 323 positioned at the protruding position is less than the diameter of the pseudo sphere. Yes. This prevents the pseudo sphere rolling on the bridge 321 from continuing to roll over the claws 322 and 323 positioned at the protruding position, and when the claws 322 and 323 are positioned at the protruding position. The pseudo sphere can be reliably stopped at the positions of the claws 322 and 323.

  If the pseudo sphere cannot be reliably stopped at the positions of the claws 322 and 323, for example, the display device 104a performs an effect of displaying an image for stopping the pseudo sphere, but the motion of the pseudo sphere is the content of the effect. The production itself is spoiled. If the pseudo sphere cannot be reliably stopped at the positions of the claws 322 and 323, it will not be formed as an effect, but in this embodiment, the pseudo ball is simulated when the claws 322 and 323 are positioned at the protruding positions. By reliably stopping the sphere at the positions of the claws 322 and 323, the effect image displayed by the display device 104a and the movement of the pseudo sphere can be linked, and the effect can be effectively performed.

  The bridge 321 includes a branch bridge 321a. The branch bridge 321a is provided on the second notice section area 330 side than the claw 323 provided on the second notice section area 330 side, and guide position for guiding the pseudosphere to the second notice section area 330 is provided. And the pseudo sphere are provided so as to be displaceable between a discharge position where the pseudosphere is discharged from the first notice zone area 320. The branch bridge 321a may be formed using a transparent plastic material or the like.

  The branch bridge 321a is provided in a rotatable state so that a free end portion located on the claw 323 side is displaced around a rotation shaft fixed to the gaming machine. The branch bridge 321 a rotates to form an opening in the bridge 321, and a pseudo sphere is dropped from the opening to prevent the rolled pseudo sphere from moving to the second notice section area 330.

  The branch bridge 321a is biased so as to be always positioned at the guide position in a state where the weight of the pseudo sphere is not applied, for example, by adjusting the position of the center of gravity. The position of the center of gravity is adjusted so that an urging force that rotates the branch bridge 321a is applied to the free end of the branch bridge 321a when a force greater than the weight of the pseudosphere is applied.

  A branch claw (not shown) that supports the free end of the branch bridge 321a is engaged with the free end of the branch bridge 321a. The branch claw is provided on the main body side of the bridge 321, and the branch claw is engaged with the free end of the branch bridge 321a so that the branch bridge 321a does not rotate, and the rotation of the branch bridge 321a. It is provided so as to be displaceable at a rotation allowable position that allows movement. In a state where the branch claw is positioned at the rotation stop position, the pseudo sphere rolls on the branch bridge 321a and reaches the second notice section area 330.

  When the pseudo sphere rolls in a state where the branch claw is positioned at the rotation allowable position, the branch bridge 321a rotates around the fixed one end by the dead weight of the pseudo sphere. As a result, the pseudo sphere is discharged from the first notice section area 320 and reaches the result confirmation area 340 without passing through the second notice section area 330. The pseudo sphere that has reached the result determination area 340 without passing through the second notice section area 330 is discharged from the pseudo sphere collection port (not shown) to the outside of the rendering unit 104.

  The branch bridge 321a is preferably provided so that the upstream side is opened in the side where the pseudo sphere rolls, that is, in the traveling direction of the pseudo sphere. As a result, the branch bridge 321a starts to rotate from the time when the pseudo sphere rides on the branch bridge 321a, and has an inclination opposite to the direction in which the pseudo sphere rolls. The sphere can be reliably discharged from the bridge 321.

  The effect actor 331 provided in the second notice section area 330 constitutes a route in which the pseudo sphere that has rolled through the branch bridge 321a rolls (drops) from the upper side to the lower side. The director 331 forms a spiral path (hereinafter referred to as “spiral path”) so that the pseudosphere rolls (falls) while drawing a spiral trajectory. The pseudo sphere that has entered the second advance notice section area 330 falls in the director role 331 by its own weight, and reaches the branch box 332.

  The branch box 332 distributes the pseudo spheres that have fallen down the spiral path to the tray 333 or the others. The branch box 332 includes a pendulum 332b that is provided below the stage character 331 and is rotatable about a fulcrum 332a. The pendulum 332b rotates in a predetermined direction in response to a driving force of a motor 286 or a solenoid 287 that is driven and controlled by the accessory control unit 280.

  4A and 4B are explanatory diagrams illustrating the structure of the branch box 332. 4A shows a state in which each part constituting the branch box 332 is seen from an oblique direction, and FIG. 4B shows a state in which a part of the branch box 332 is seen from an oblique direction. In FIGS. 4A and 4B, the branch box 332 includes a cover 410 for blocking the visual recognition of the pendulum 332b from the player side.

  The cover 410 is provided at a position that does not contact the pendulum 332b. The cover 410 is formed using an opaque plastic material or the like. By providing the cover 410, it is possible to make it difficult for the player to visually recognize the movement of the pendulum 332b in the branch box 332 and to make it difficult to predict the development of the effect in advance. The cover 410 may be formed using the same transparent plastic material as the bridge 321. In this case, it is difficult to visually recognize the movement of the pendulum 332b from the player side by painting or sticking a seal on the bridge. It is preferable to do.

  5A, 5B, and 5C are explanatory diagrams illustrating the operation of the pendulum 332b. 5A shows a state in which the pendulum 332b is at the reference position, FIG. 5B shows a state in which the pendulum 332b is operated during the loss effect, and FIG. 5-3 shows a state in which the pendulum 332b is operated during the jackpot effect. Is shown.

  5-1, FIG. 5-2, and FIG. 5-3, the pendulum 332b is positioned at the reference position in a state of waiting for a game or during a non-production, depending on the determination result at the time of starting winning. Rotate clockwise or counterclockwise. Specifically, the pendulum 332b rotates counterclockwise around the fulcrum 332a in the case of a loss effect, and rotates clockwise around the fulcrum 332a in the case of a big hit effect.

  In this embodiment, when the pendulum 332b rotates in the clockwise direction, the pseudo spheres F that have fallen down the spiral path can be distributed to the receiving tray 333. Further, in this embodiment, when the pendulum 332b rotates counterclockwise, the pseudo spheres F that have fallen down the spiral path are distributed outside the tray 333. The pseudo spheres F distributed to the outside of the tray 333 are discharged from the pseudo sphere collection port to the outside of the rendering unit 104. The tray 333 is inclined so as to become higher toward the pendulum 332b, and the pseudosphere F discharged to the tray 333 stops at the lower end of the tray 333.

  The stage effect (lift mechanism) 341 provided in the result determination area 340 moves the pseudo sphere F discharged to the tray 333 to the V zone 343, and the direction effect 342 provided in the result determination area 340 is the pseudo sphere F. To the V zone 343. The lift mechanism 341 and the production actor 342 are formed using a transparent plastic material or the like. Accordingly, the pseudosphere can be moved in the effect area without greatly impairing the visibility of the image displayed by the display device 104a provided on the back side.

  Specifically, the lift mechanism 341 includes, for example, a gripping part 341a that grips the pseudosphere F discharged to the tray 333, a solenoid 287 that opens and closes the gripping part 341a, an arm 341b connected to the gripping part 341a, an arm And a motor 286 coupled to 341b. The lift mechanism 341 grips the pseudo sphere F by opening and closing the grip 341a at the position of the tray 333 by driving the solenoid 287, and drives the motor 286 to move the arm 341b while gripping the pseudo sphere F. By doing so, the pseudosphere F moves from the receiving tray 333 to above the V zone 343.

  While the lift mechanism 341 moves from the tray 333 to above the V zone 343, the pseudo sphere F is dropped by opening the grip 341 a by driving the solenoid 287. When the grip portion 341 a is opened above the V zone 343, the pseudosphere F falls to the V zone 343. When the gripping part 341a is opened outside the V zone 343, the pseudo sphere F dropped from the gripping part 341a is discharged to the outside of the effecting part 104 through the pseudo sphere recovery port.

  The V zone 343 is provided with a V zone passage sensor 291 that detects that the pseudosphere F has passed through the V zone 343. The V zone passage sensor 291 is turned on continuously for a predetermined time (or a predetermined number of pulses) when the pseudosphere F passes the V zone 343. The number of times the ON state continues is appropriately determined within a predetermined range depending on the size of the pseudosphere F.

  The V zone passage sensor provided in the V zone 343 can also be used for detecting an abnormality that has occurred in the rendering unit 104. Specifically, the pseudo sphere F is clogged in the V zone 343 when the output of the V zone passage sensor provided in the V zone 343 is continuously turned on for a predetermined time (or a predetermined number of pulses). For example, it is possible to detect that an abnormality has occurred in the rendering unit 104.

  Next, the pseudo sphere holding mechanism will be described. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of the pseudosphere holding mechanism. In FIG. 6, the pseudo sphere holding mechanism 600 is a mechanism that puts the pseudo sphere F into the effect area via the effect actor 311, and is provided on the back side of the game board 101. The pseudo sphere holding mechanism 600 includes a guide portion 602. The guide unit 602 communicates the circulation mechanism unit (see FIGS. 8, 9, and 10) and the movement path 601 formed by the effect accessory 311. The guide portion 602 includes a guide path 603 that has a cylindrical shape or a tube shape, and includes an opening 602a that communicates with the circulation mechanism portion. The inner diameter of the guide path 603 is equal to or slightly larger than the diameters of the pseudo spheres F1 and F2.

  The guide path 603 is provided in an inclined state so that the stage actor 311 side is lower than the opening 602a side. Thereby, the pseudo sphere F introduced into the guiding portion 602 from the opening 602a moves from the opening 602a side to the stage effect 311 side while rolling on the guiding path 603 by its own weight.

  The pseudo sphere holding mechanism 600 includes a regulating member 604 provided on the side of the effect accessory 311 in the guidance path 603. The restricting member 604 protrudes inside the guide path 603 so as to stop the pseudospheres F1 and F2 moving in the guide path 603. The pseudo spheres F1 and F2 that win the start winning opening 105 and move in the guide path 603 stop at a position regulated by the regulating member 604. In the guide route 603, a predetermined number of game balls according to the length of the guide route 603 can be put on hold. In this embodiment, a function as a predetermined space can be realized by the guide path 603.

  The restricting member 604 is rotatable about a rotation shaft 605. The rotation shaft 605 is provided at a position that does not hinder the movement of the game balls F1 and F2 moving in the guide path 603. The regulating member 604 is displaced between a position protruding inside the guiding path 603 and a position retracted from the guiding path 603 by rotating about the rotating shaft 605. A plurality of regulating members 604 are provided, and all of the regulating members 604 protrude in a radial direction of a circle having the rotation shaft 605 as the center.

  In this embodiment, four restricting members 604 are provided, and the rotation shaft 605 rotates 90 degrees by one rotation. The distance between the regulating member 604 and the regulating member 604 is about one game ball. A motor 286 is connected to the rotation shaft 605, and the rotation shaft 605 rotates when the rotational driving force of the motor 286 is transmitted. Each of the plurality of regulating members 604 rotates as the rotating shaft rotates. The motor 286 connected to the rotation shaft 605 is driven and controlled by the accessory control unit 280, and is driven to rotate when the presentation is finished in a state where the number of reservations is 1 or more. In this embodiment, the discharge means is realized by the plurality of regulating members 604, the rotation shaft 605, the motor 286 coupled to the rotation shaft 605 and the accessory control unit 280.

  Next, the operation of the pseudo sphere holding mechanism 600 will be described. FIGS. 7A, 7B, and 7C are explanatory diagrams illustrating the operation of the pseudosphere holding mechanism 600. FIG. 7-1, 7-2, and 7-3, the regulating member 604a is guided in a state where the pseudosphere F (F1, F2) is held in the guidance route 603 (see FIG. 7-1). When displaced to the position retracted from the path 603 (see FIGS. 7-2 and 7-3), the pseudosphere F1 whose movement is restricted by the restriction member 604a is in the movement path 601 formed by the effect agent 311. (See FIG. 7-3).

  When the regulating member 604a is rotated so as to eject the pseudo sphere F1, the regulating member 604b protrudes into the guide path 603 and regulates the movement of another pseudo sphere F2. In other words, a certain regulating member 604a is rotated so as to discharge the pseudosphere F1 that is retained most on the stage actor 311 side, and at the same time, another regulating member 604b located on the upstream side in the rotating direction of the rotating shaft 605. Protrudes into the guide path 603 and restricts the movement of the pseudo sphere F2 arranged immediately after the discharged pseudo sphere F1. Thereby, the pseudo spheres F1 and F2 can be discharged into the effect area one by one.

  In the gaming machine, the pseudo sphere F discharged into the movement path by the operation of the pseudo sphere holding mechanism 600 that realizes the discharging means is made to pass through the V zone 343 or the V zone 343 based on the jackpot information. Move outside the production area without going through. Specifically, for example, in the big hit state, the pseudosphere F is moved so that the pseudosphere F reaches the V zone 343 after sequentially moving through the respective areas 310, 320, 330, and 340. Specifically, for example, in a state other than the big hit state, the pseudo sphere F is moved so that the pseudo sphere F moving on the moving path moves outside the effect area before reaching the V zone 343.

  In this embodiment, the moving means can be realized by the branch bridge 321a, the pendulum 332b, and the lift mechanism 341. In this embodiment, the branch claw for restricting the operation of the branch bridge 321a, the accessory control unit 280 for driving and controlling the motor 286 or the solenoid 287 for applying the driving force to the pendulum 332b, and the gripping portion 341a for the lift mechanism 341. The moving means may be realized by a solenoid 287 that opens and closes.

(Configuration of circulation mechanism)
Next, the configuration of the circulation mechanism unit will be described. 8, 9 and 10 are explanatory views showing the configuration of the circulation mechanism. In FIG. 8, the whole structure of a circulation mechanism part is shown. In FIG. 9, the state which looked at a part in a circulation mechanism part from diagonally upward is shown. In FIG. 10, the state which looked at a part in a circulation mechanism part from the side is shown.

  8, 9, and 10, the circulation mechanism unit 801 includes a recovery unit 802 and a moving unit 803. The collection unit 802 includes an inclined surface portion 804 that collects the pseudosphere F that has passed through the effect area and guides it to the moving unit 803. The inclined surface portion 804 forms the bottom surface of the pseudo-sphere collecting slit 1001 and is inclined so that the right side is lower than the left side in the left-right direction in FIG.

  The pseudo sphere F passing through the effect area is introduced into the pseudo sphere collecting slit 1001 via the effect actor 342 or the receiving surface 805 according to the jackpot determination result. The pseudo sphere F passing through the effect area is introduced into the pseudo sphere collecting slit 1001 via the V zone 343 in the case of the jackpot effect, and rolls toward the moving part 803 side according to the inclination of the inclined surface part 804.

  The stage effect 342 is connected to a plate-like member 901 that constitutes the receiving surface 805. The plate member 901 and the wall member 902 that supports the plate member 901 and constitutes a part of the pseudo-sphere collecting slit 1001 are continuous with the path formed by the director 342, and the path is inclined. A through path 806 communicating with the space on the surface portion 804 is provided. The pseudo sphere F guided to the V zone 343 is introduced onto the inclined surface portion 804 via the through path 806.

  Further, the pseudo sphere F passing through the production area is introduced into the pseudo sphere collection slit 1001 through the receiving surface 805 without passing through the V zone 343 in the case of a loss production, and moves according to the inclination of the inclined surface portion 804. Roll to 803 side. The receiving surface 805 is inclined so as to be lower toward the inclined surface portion 804 side (so as to be lower toward the front side in FIG. 8) (see FIG. 10). In the case of a loss effect, the ball may be introduced directly from the branch box 332 or the grip portion 341a into the pseudo-sphere collecting slit 1001 without passing through the receiving surface 805 and without passing through the V zone 343.

  A guide plate 807 for guiding the moving position of the pseudo sphere F on the inclined surface portion 804 is provided on the inclined surface portion 804 on the moving portion 803 side. The guide plate 807 is provided in an inclined state with respect to the moving direction of the pseudo sphere F so that the moving range of the pseudo sphere F on the inclined surface portion 804 becomes smaller toward the moving portion 803 side. Thereby, the pseudo sphere F introduced into the inclined surface portion 804 can be smoothly introduced into the moving portion 803.

  The pseudo-sphere collecting slit 1001 communicates with the moving unit 803 via the communication port 808 at the end on the moving unit 803 side. The output of the recovery port passage sensor 289 provided on the downstream side of the V zone 343 and the pseudo sphere recovery slit 1001 changes when the pseudo sphere F passes through the communication port 808, and the pseudo sphere F is in the effect area. It detects that it has been discharged to the outside.

  The moving unit 803 moves the pseudo sphere F collected by the collecting unit 802 to the pseudo sphere holding mechanism 600. The moving unit 803 includes a guide member 810 that constitutes a moving slit 809 that communicates the communication port 808 with the opening 602 a in the pseudosphere holding mechanism 600. The guide member 810 is provided along the end of the display device 104a so that the movement slit 809 extends linearly in the vertical direction in FIG.

  The cross section when the guide member 810 is cut along a plane orthogonal to the direction in which the moving slit 809 extends is substantially U-shaped. The moving slit 809 is realized by a recessed portion of a guide member 810 having a substantially U shape. The dimension of the moving slit 809 in the width direction is approximately the same as the diameter of the pseudosphere F.

  A screw member 811 is provided in the vicinity of the guide member 810 so as to face the movement slit 809. The screw member 811 includes a shaft member 812 extending in parallel with the longitudinal direction of the guide member 810 and a blade member 813 having a spiral shape with the shaft member 812 as the center. In the longitudinal direction of the shaft member 812, the distance between the blade member 813 and the blade member 813 is approximately the same as the diameter of the pseudosphere F.

  A space (hereinafter referred to as “moving space”) formed by the moving slit 809, the shaft member 812, and the blade member 813 in the guide member 810 is approximately the same size as one pseudosphere F1. In the opposing direction of the guide member 810 and the screw member 811, the distance from the end of the guide member 810 to the shaft member 812 is smaller than the diameter of the pseudosphere F. In this embodiment, a circulation path can be realized by the space on the inclined surface portion 804 in the collection unit 802 and the space for movement in the moving unit 803.

  The effect area is connected to the collection unit 802 via a path formed by the effect actor 342 or the pseudosphere collection slit 1001. The collection unit 802 is connected to a moving space in the moving unit 803 via a communication port 808. The movement space is connected to the guide path 603 through the opening 602a. The guide route 603 is connected to the effect region by a route formed by the effect agent 311.

  The effect area, the collection unit 802, the movement space, and the guide path 603 are each closed to the outside other than the members connected to each other. In a state in which the frame member is attached to the game board 101, the space defined as the inside of the effect area is a position that enters the back side of the gaming machine rather than the game area 103. Make a closed path to the outside.

  By making the circulation path a closed path with respect to the outside, the game ball falling in the game area 103 does not enter the circulation path. Further, since the pseudo sphere F moving along the circulation path is blocked by the game board 101, it does not go outside the circulation path. This prevents the game ball and the pseudo ball F from being mixed.

  A motor 290 is connected to one end of the shaft member 812 via a gear train 814. The gear train 814 includes a gear 814a and a gear 814b. The gear 814 a is attached to the shaft member 812 and rotates integrally with the shaft member 812. The gear 814b is meshed with the gear 814a, is attached to the drive shaft of the motor 290, and rotates integrally with the drive shaft of the motor 290.

  The motor 290 is driven and controlled by the CPU 281 to rotate the shaft member 812 when driven. The motor 290 rotates the shaft member 812 so that the screw member 811 rotates in the direction indicated by the arrow 800 in FIG. When the screw member 811 rotates in the direction indicated by the arrow 800 in FIG. 8, the moving space moves from the communication port 808 side toward the opening 602a.

  In the screw member 811, a stopper 815 is provided at the end of the opening 602a. The stopper 815 is provided in the blade member 813 at a position equivalent to the bottom surface of the opening 602a. The stopper 815 has a curved shape so as to protrude toward the upstream side in the rotation direction of the shaft member 812.

  In the circulation mechanism unit 801, the output of the recovery port passage sensor 289 provided on the downstream side of the V zone 343 and the pseudo ball recovery slit 1001 changes as the pseudosphere F passes through the communication port 808. The pseudo sphere F (see symbol Fa in FIG. 8) that has passed through the communication port 808 fits in the movement space. When the circulation mechanism 801 detects that the pseudo sphere F has passed through the communication port 808, the circulation mechanism 801 drives the motor 290, and rotates the screw member 811 in a state where the pseudo sphere F that has passed through the communication port 808 is accommodated in the movement space. . As a result, the movement space moves from the communication port 808 side toward the opening 602a.

  The size of the moving space is about one pseudosphere F, and the distance from the end of the guide member 810 to the shaft member 812 in the opposing direction of the guide member 810 and the screw member 811 is the diameter of the pseudosphere F. Therefore, even when the screw member 811 rotates, the pseudo sphere F moves along the movement slit 809 from the communication port 808 toward the opening 602a without departing from the movement slit 809.

  When the pseudo sphere F moves to the height of the opening 602a, the movement upward from the height of the opening 602a is regulated by the stopper 815, guided by the stopper 815, and introduced into the guide path 603 from the opening 602a (in FIG. 8). (See symbol Fb). The pseudo sphere F introduced into the guide path 603 is discharged again into the effect area by the operation of the pseudo sphere holding mechanism 600 and used for the effect.

  As described above, the gaming machine of this embodiment includes a moving path through which the pseudo sphere F as a predetermined moving member moves, and the pseudo sphere accommodated in the guide path 603 when there is a start prize. F is discharged into the movement path at a predetermined timing, and the discharged pseudosphere F is moved to the V zone 343 or other position based on the jackpot information, and is discharged from the movement path after the movement. And a circulation mechanism unit 801 that moves the pseudosphere F to the guide path 603 via a circulation path connected to the movement path.

  According to the above configuration, since dirt from the outside of the gaming machine does not adhere to the pseudo sphere F, the pseudo sphere F does not get dirty even when used for a long time, and the rolling resistance increases due to the dirt. It is possible to prevent malfunction such as stopping the pseudosphere F. As a result, the movement of the pseudo sphere F can be performed regardless of the length of the operating time of the gaming machine, while performing the production using the pseudo sphere F which is an actual object (substance), while producing a stereoscopic effect and powerful effect. It is possible to match the jackpot determination result.

  In this way, by making the movement of the pseudo sphere F coincide with the jackpot determination result regardless of the operating time of the gaming machine, while ensuring the reliability of the performance regardless of the operating time of the gaming machine, By using the entity, it is possible to produce a stereoscopic effect and a powerful effect, so that the player can be entertained and the player can be satisfied.

  Further, according to the gaming machine of this embodiment, since the circulation path is independent of the path through which the game ball passes, the pseudo ball F comes into contact with the game ball in the middle of movement and becomes dirty. Therefore, it is possible to prevent malfunction such as stoppage due to contamination of the pseudosphere F and increase in rolling resistance. This makes it possible to match the movement of the pseudo sphere F with the jackpot determination result while performing an effect with a stereoscopic effect and a powerful effect by performing an effect using the pseudo sphere F that is an actual object (entity).

  In this way, while making a stereoscopic effect and powerful production, by matching the movement of the pseudo sphere F with the jackpot determination result, while ensuring the reliability of the production regardless of the operating time of the gaming machine, The contents of the production can be enhanced, which can entertain the player and give the player a sense of satisfaction.

  Further, according to the gaming machine of this embodiment, it is a substance because it has a display screen that displays predetermined contents of the effect and moves the pseudosphere F in synchronization with the contents of the effect on the display screen. A virtual world (a virtual space that looks like reality) can be superimposed on a three-dimensional effect that can be realized by coordinating the effect using the pseudosphere F and the effect using the display screen. You can make a production.

  And, by performing such an effect, it is possible to increase the player's expectation and excitement, so by matching the movement of the pseudo sphere F with the jackpot determination result, regardless of the length of operating time of the gaming machine While ensuring the reliability of the performance, the player can be entertained and the player can be satisfied.

  In the gaming machine of this embodiment, the pseudo sphere F having at least a different shape, size, and color may be discharged by the pseudo sphere holding mechanism 600 in accordance with the contents of the display screen. Specifically, for example, a silver sphere that usually has the same appearance as a game sphere is used for production, and a sphere of a different color, such as a gold sphere or red sphere, is used for the production of a specific sphere. 600 may be discharged to the effect area. Specifically, for example, a silver sphere having the same appearance as that of a game ball is usually used for production, and a sphere larger than usual is discharged to the production area by the pseudo sphere holding mechanism 600 for a specific production. Also good.

  More specifically, for example, a silver sphere having the same appearance as that of a game ball is usually used for the production. For a specific production, a sphere other than a predetermined character, fish, car, animal, star, heart, etc. The object (figure) may be discharged to the effect area by the pseudo sphere holding mechanism 600. The figure used in this case may include wheels that rotate and move on the moving path, or may include a slider at a position in contact with the bridge 321 or the like. As a result, even when another entity is used instead of the pseudosphere F, it is possible to produce an effect without hindering the progress of the effect.

  The specific effect in this case can be an effect that is performed when a specific numerical value is acquired as a jackpot determination random number, for example, according to the jackpot determination random number acquired at the time of starting winning. In this way, by discharging spheres (objects) that are different from normal during the game to the production area, the production performed in the production area is a production with high expectation for the big hit (super hot). Guidance can be provided, or the degree of expectation of the performance (degree of intense heat) can be guided.

  In this case, the pseudo sphere holding mechanism 600 includes a holding mechanism that holds various types of spheres (figures) different from normal in addition to the pseudo sphere F, and each holding mechanism and the guide path 603 communicate with each other. Then, the pseudo sphere F held by the corresponding holding mechanism or an unusual sphere (figure) is thrown into the effect area via the guide path 603 and the effect accessory 311.

  In this way, by changing at least the shape, size, and color of the sphere used for the production, it is possible to increase the player's expectation and play a game with exciting excitement. Specifically, it is certain that there is a change in the content of the production, such as a change to a reach production that has a high probability of shifting from a normal reach production to a jackpot production with a probability change (a fierce aarchi production). Can improve the player's expectation and excitement. Thus, the player can be entertained and the player can be satisfied.

  In addition, by guiding the degree of expectation using the entity in this way, instead of or in addition to the telop displayed on the display screen, the telop etc. It is easier to understand than the case of using it to guide the degree of expectation. Furthermore, by changing the shape and color of the holding sphere in a plurality of patterns, the expectation degree of the on-hold effect guided by the image of the holding sphere (degree of intense heat) may be guided.

It is a front view which shows an example of the game machine of embodiment concerning this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the internal structure of the control part of a game machine. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structure of the production | presentation actor in a production | presentation part. It is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows the structure of a branch box. It is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows the structure of a branch box. It is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows operation | movement of a pendulum. It is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows operation | movement of a pendulum. It is explanatory drawing (the 3) which shows operation | movement of a pendulum. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structure of a pseudo-sphere holding mechanism. It is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows operation | movement of a pseudo-sphere holding mechanism. It is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows operation | movement of a pseudo-sphere holding mechanism. It is explanatory drawing (the 3) which shows operation | movement of a pseudo-sphere holding mechanism. It is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows the structure of a circulation mechanism part. It is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows the structure of a circulation mechanism part. It is explanatory drawing (the 3) which shows the structure of a circulation mechanism part.

Explanation of symbols

104a Display device (display screen)
104b Director (moving route)
280 Accessory control unit (discharge means)
286 motor (discharge means)
310 Fluctuation start area (movement route)
320 First notice section area (movement route)
321 bridge (moving means)
321a Branch bridge (moving means)
330 Second notice section area (movement route)
332b Pendulum (moving means)
340 Result confirmation area (movement route)
341 Lift mechanism (moving means)
603 Guide route (predetermined space)
604 Restriction member (discharge means)
605 Rotating shaft (discharge means)
801 Circulation mechanism part F Pseudosphere (predetermined moving member)

Claims (3)

A predetermined movement member that is formed with an appearance equivalent to the appearance of the game ball and that does not participate in the progress of the game moves from the upper side to the lower side by its own weight, and a movement path that is independent from the path through which the game ball passes ;
Discharging means for discharging the predetermined moving member accommodated in a predetermined space into the moving path at a predetermined timing when there is a start prize;
A moving means for directing the jackpot notice by based on the jackpot information, moving the predetermined movement member discharged by said discharge means to a predetermined position through the movement path,
Moving the said predetermined movement member discharged from the moving path after the movement by the moving means, connected to said movement path, to the predetermined space is raised through the circulation path that is independent of the route of the game ball passes A circulation mechanism part to be
A gaming machine characterized by comprising: It has a display screen that displays the contents
The gaming machine according to claim 1 , wherein the moving unit moves the predetermined moving member in synchronization with the contents of the effect on the display screen. 3. The jackpot notice is produced by discharging the predetermined moving member having at least a different shape, size and color according to the contents of the jackpot notice on the display screen. The gaming machine described in 1.

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