JP5109016B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine, a sparrow ball gaming machine, a ball ball gaming machine such as an arrangement ball, and a revolving type gaming machine such as a slot machine installed in a gaming shop such as a pachinko shop.

Main control that controls basic actions associated with the progress of a game, among illegal acts that are performed on a gaming machine and forcibly pays out medals, game balls, etc. (hereinafter referred to as “game media”) regardless of the game content. For example, the following is related to a peripheral board on which a peripheral part that executes a rendering process or the like based on control command information from the main control part (hereinafter referred to as “control command”) is mounted. There is something to show.
(1) Replacing an authorized main control board with an unauthorized main control board (2) A ROM storing a legitimate program executed by the CPU mounted on the main control board and an unauthorized program obtained by falsifying the above program are stored. (3) An illegal board (impersonated board) is provided between the main control board and the peripheral board, and the ROM of (2) above is replaced.

In order to prevent such illegal acts, the conventional gaming machines include the following.
For example, in the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, the main control device (main control unit) includes control data (control) for controlling the operation of the first storage unit that stores the first key data and the symbol control unit. Encryption means for performing encryption corresponding to the first key data with respect to the command), and first key changing means for changing the first key data at a predetermined timing. The symbol control unit (peripheral unit) performs the processing corresponding to the second key data on the second storage means for storing the second key data and the encrypted data received from the main control unit, thereby receiving the received encryption The authenticating means for determining the legitimacy of the data and authenticating the encrypted data when it is legitimate, and the second key data at the predetermined timing so as to coincide with the change timing of the first key data. Second key changing means for changing to correspond to the data. In this gaming machine, the fraudulent act is prevented by performing sophisticated and complex encryption processing and authentication processing in both the main control section and the peripheral section.

JP 2002-210194 A

  However, in the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, when the CPU configuring the main control unit and the peripheral unit performs the authentication process in addition to the process related to the existing game, the processing speed of the CPU increases, so the processing speed is increased. There is a problem of lowering. In addition, when an authentication function is added to a program code that describes a program to be executed by the main control unit or the peripheral CPU, there is a problem that the code size increases, and a new program design and verification requires a great deal of time. However, there is a problem that the number of work man-hours increases because it requires labor. In addition, in order to suppress an increase in CPU processing load and code size, when an authentication function is added to the program code, a relatively simple authentication function must be employed, and the authentication function code itself is designed. The degree of freedom is low.

  Also, if the authentication function is not added to the program code but is implemented in hardware, even if the decrease in processing speed and the increase in code size can be suppressed, the specific authentication function added due to the characteristics of the hardware. The processing contents are fixed and easily analyzed illegally, but if illegally analyzed, all gaming machines to which the authentication function is added cannot prevent illegal acts. In addition, when the processing content is fixed, the processing content cannot be made different for each gaming machine manufacturer or for each model, and the added authentication function is poor in diversity. On the other hand, manufacturing different processing contents for each gaming machine maker or model is not realistic because it causes enormous burden. Therefore, it is not possible to meet the demand for adding a diverse and effective authentication function relatively easily.

  In this way, in the conventional gaming machine, an authentication function is added to prevent the above-mentioned fraudulent action, thereby improving the security strength and reducing the processing load on the CPU of the main control unit and improving the processing speed. It was difficult to achieve both. Further, in the conventional gaming machine, it is difficult to suppress an increase in work man-hours when adding the authentication function and to improve the degree of freedom in designing the authentication function program. Also, conventional gaming machines cannot add a variety of effective authentication functions in a relatively simple manner, and have failed to provide a highly versatile authentication function.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and provides a gaming machine capable of achieving both improvement of the security strength and processing speed of the gaming machine, and less work man-hour when adding an authentication function. It is an object of the present invention to provide a gaming machine with a high degree of design freedom and to provide a gaming machine with a highly versatile authentication function.

  In order to solve the above-described problems, the present invention has a game information storage area for storing predetermined game information, and initial setting information that is accessible when a gaming machine is activated and stores initial setting information of the gaming machine An information storage unit (main ROM 110b) having a storage area and a calculation for generating control information by performing a predetermined calculation according to the game information and outputting a control information transmission instruction for transmitting the generated control information A processing unit (main CPU 110a) and a generating unit capable of generating a plurality of different authentication information for authenticating information stored in the game information storage area, and for transmitting the generated authentication information An authentication information generation unit (authentication information generation unit 500) that outputs an authentication information transmission instruction, and the control information is transmitted in response to the control information transmission instruction. A main control unit (main control unit 110) including an information transmission unit (transmission unit 520) that transmits the authentication information in response to the authentication information transmission instruction, and a predetermined value based on the transmitted control information. A first sub-control unit (peripheral unit 300) that includes an information processing unit that performs the above-described processing, a relay transmission unit that relays and transmits the transmitted authentication information, and the relay information based on the authentication information that is relayed and transmitted. A gaming machine comprising: a second sub-control unit (second-stage control unit 180) including an information authentication unit that authenticates information stored in a game information storage area and generates information as a result of the authentication. The initial setting information includes selection information corresponding to each of the plurality of different authentication information, and the arithmetic processing unit outputs specific selection information of the selection information when the gaming machine is activated. Set in the authentication information generation unit, the authentication The information generation unit sets the generation unit to generate specific authentication information among the plurality of different authentication information based on the set specific selection information, and uses the set generation unit The authentication information is generated.

  According to the present invention, the authentication information generation unit configured by hardware includes a plurality of types of processing functions for generating authentication data necessary for individual authentication of the main control unit, and the selection of the processing function is performed during the game. This is done when initial values are set in boot processing that cannot be known. In addition, the authentication information generation unit performs a process of automatically generating authentication data regardless of an instruction from the main CPU, and automatically transmits it to a subsequent control unit that executes the authentication process. The key data necessary for decrypting the authentication data is transmitted to the subsequent control unit only by a read signal from the main CPU. Therefore, while having an authentication function for the main control unit, it is possible to suppress the CPU processing load and code size of the main control unit, which increase by having the authentication function, to the maximum, and to improve the security strength of the gaming machine. Both improvement in processing speed can be achieved. In addition, since the control of the processing related to the generation and transmission of authentication data may be defined by the algorithm of the authentication information generation unit itself, the additional work to the program code of the main CPU when adding the authentication function is minimal, An increase in work man-hours can be suppressed. In addition, the degree of freedom in program design of the authentication function can be improved. In addition, a variety of effective authentication functions can be added relatively easily, and a highly versatile authentication function can be provided.

It is a front view which shows the external appearance structure of the game machine which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a perspective view which shows the external appearance structure of the state which open | released the glass frame of the game machine which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a perspective view which shows the external appearance structure of the back surface side of the game machine which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the internal structure of the game machine which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure regarding the authentication process of the main control part which comprises the game machine which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is the schematic for demonstrating the memory map of the main ROM which comprises the main control part which comprises the game machine which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention, and boot ROM. It is a figure which shows the classification of the control command transmitted to the production | presentation control part from the main control part which comprises the game machine which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the flowchart in the main process by the main control part which comprises the game machine which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the flowchart in the interruption process by the main control part which comprises the game machine which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the flowchart in the special figure special electric control process by the main control part which comprises the game machine which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the flowchart in the special symbol memory | storage determination process by the main control part which comprises the game machine which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the flowchart in the boot process at the time of starting by the main control part which comprises the game machine which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the flowchart in the authentication process by the main control part which comprises the game machine which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the flowchart in the main process by the production | presentation control part which comprises the game machine which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the flowchart in the interruption process by the production | presentation control part which comprises the game machine which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the flowchart in the command analysis process 1 by the presentation control part which comprises the game machine which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the flowchart in the command analysis process 2 by the presentation control part which comprises the game machine which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the flowchart in the authentication result data analysis process by the presentation control part which comprises the game machine which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the flowchart in the main process by the back | latter stage control part which comprises the game machine which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the flowchart in the interruption process by the production | presentation control part which comprises the game machine which concerns on Embodiment 2 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the flowchart in the authentication data analysis process by the presentation control part which comprises the game machine which concerns on Embodiment 2 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the flowchart in the command analysis process 2 by the presentation control part which comprises the game machine which concerns on Embodiment 2 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the flowchart in the authentication result data analysis process by the presentation control part which comprises the game machine which concerns on Embodiment 2 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the flowchart in the main process by the back | latter stage control part which comprises the game machine which concerns on Embodiment 2 of this invention.

  Hereinafter, embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Specifically, a pachinko gaming machine 1 (hereinafter referred to as “gaming machine 1”), which is one of the gaming machines according to the embodiment of the present invention, will be described.

<Embodiment 1>
[Composition of gaming machine]
The configuration of the gaming machine 1 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention will be described below.
FIG. 1 is a front view showing an external configuration of the gaming machine 1 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an external configuration of the gaming machine 1 according to the first embodiment in a state where the glass frame is opened. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing an external configuration of the back side of the gaming machine 1 according to the first embodiment.

  The gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame 60 attached to an island facility of a game store, and a glass frame 50 that is rotatably supported by the outer frame 60 (see FIGS. 1 and 2). In addition, the outer frame 60 is provided with a game board 2 in which a game area 6 in which the game ball 200 flows down is formed. In the glass frame 50, an operation handle 3 for launching a game ball toward the game area 6 by being rotated, an audio output device 32 including a speaker, an effect lighting device 34 having a plurality of lamps, An effect button 35 for changing the effect mode by a pressing operation is provided.

  Further, the glass frame 50 is provided with a tray 40 for storing a plurality of game balls 200, and the tray 40 has a downward slope so that the game balls 200 flow down toward the operation handle 3. (See FIG. 2). A receiving opening (not shown) for receiving a game ball is provided at the end of the downward slope of the tray 40, and the game ball received in the receiving opening is driven by the ball feed solenoid 4b, so that the glass frame One by one is sent to a ball feed opening 41 provided on the back surface of 50. Then, the game ball sent out to the ball feed opening 41 is guided to the end of the downward slope of the launch rail 42 by the launch rail 42 having a downward slope toward the launching member 4c. A stopper 43 for stopping the game ball is provided above the downwardly inclined end portion of the launch rail 42, and the game ball 200 sent out from the ball feed opening 41 is the downwardly inclined end portion of the launch rail 42. Thus, one game ball is stopped (see FIG. 2).

  When the player rotates the operation handle 3, the launch volume 3b (see FIG. 4) directly connected to the operation handle 3 also rotates, and the launch volume of the game ball is adjusted and adjusted by the launch volume 3b. The launching member 4c directly connected to the firing solenoid 4a (see FIG. 4) rotates with the firing strength. By rotating the launch member 4 c, the game ball 200 stored at the end of the downward slope of the launch rail 42 is launched by the launch member 4 c, and the game ball is launched into the game area 6.

  When the game ball fired as described above rises between the rails 5a and 5b from the launch rail 42 and exceeds the ball return prevention piece 5c, the game ball reaches the game area 6 and then falls in the game area 6. At this time, the game ball falls unpredictably by a plurality of nails and windmills provided in the game area 6.

  The game area 6 is provided with a plurality of general winning awards 12. Each of these general winning awards 12 is provided with a general winning opening detecting switch 12a (see FIG. 4). When this general winning opening detecting switch 12a detects the winning of a game ball, a predetermined winning ball (for example, 10) Game balls).

  Further, in the area below the center of the game area 6, there are a first start port 14 and a second start port 15 that constitute a start area into which game balls can enter, and a second large area in which game balls can enter. A winning opening 17 is provided.

  The second starting port 15 has a pair of movable pieces 15b, a mode in which the pair of movable pieces 15b is maintained in a closed state (hereinafter referred to as “first mode”), and a pair of movable pieces. The movement control is performed so that 15b is in an open state (hereinafter referred to as “second aspect”). When the second starting port 15 is controlled in the first mode, the winning member of the second large winning port 17 located immediately above the second starting port 15 becomes an obstacle, and the game ball Is impossible to accept. On the other hand, when the second start port 15 is controlled to the second mode, the pair of movable pieces 15b function as a tray, and it is easy to win a game ball to the second start port 15. That is, when the second start port 15 is in the first mode, there is no game ball winning opportunity, and when it is in the second mode, the game ball winning opportunity is increased.

  Here, the first start port 14 is provided with a first start port detection switch 14a (see FIG. 4) for detecting the entrance of a game ball, and the second start port 15 is a first for detecting the entrance of a game ball. 2 A start port detection switch 15a (see FIG. 4) is provided. When the first start port detection switch 14a or the second start port detection switch 15a detects the entry of a game ball, a special symbol determination random number value is acquired, and a right acquisition lottery (to be described later) Hereinafter, “Lottery for jackpot” is performed. Also, when the first start port detection switch 14a or the second start port detection switch 15a detects the entry of a game ball, a predetermined prize ball (for example, three game balls) is paid out.

  In addition, the second grand prize winning port 17 is configured by an opening formed in the game board 2. Below the second grand prize opening 17, there is a second big prize opening / closing door 17b that can protrude from the game board surface side to the glass plate 52 side. It is controlled to move between an open state protruding to the side and a closed state buried in the game board surface. When the second grand prize opening opening / closing door 17b protrudes from the game board surface, it functions as a tray for guiding the game ball into the second big prize opening 17, and the game ball can enter the second big prize opening 17. Become. The second big prize opening 17 is provided with a second big prize opening detection switch 17a (see FIG. 4). When the second big prize opening detection switch 17a detects the entry of a game ball, it is set in advance. Award balls (for example, 15 game balls) are paid out.

Furthermore, in the area on the right side of the game area 6, there are provided a normal symbol gate 13 constituting a normal area through which game balls can pass and a first grand prize opening 16 through which game balls can enter.
For this reason, if the operation ball 3 is not a game ball which has been greatly rotated and launched with a strong force, the normal design gate 13 and the first big winning opening 16 are configured so that the game ball does not pass or win. Yes.

  The normal symbol gate 13 is provided with a gate detection switch 13a (see FIG. 4) for detecting the passage of the game ball. When the gate detection switch 13a detects the passage of the game ball, the normal symbol determination random number value. Is acquired, and a “normal symbol lottery” to be described later is performed.

  The first grand prize opening 16 is normally kept closed by the first big prize opening opening / closing door 16b, and it is impossible to enter a game ball. In contrast, when a special game, which will be described later, is started, the first grand prize opening opening / closing door 16b is opened, and the first big prize opening opening / closing door 16b puts the game ball in the first big winning opening 16; It functions as a receiving tray that guides the game ball and can enter the first grand prize opening 16. The first big prize opening 16 is provided with a first big prize opening detection switch 16a (see FIG. 4). When the first big prize opening detection switch 16a detects the entry of a game ball, it is set in advance. Prize balls (for example, 15 game balls) are paid out.

  Further, in the lowermost area of the game area 6 and the lowermost area of the game area 6, the general winning opening 12, the first starting opening 14, the second starting opening 15, the first major winning opening 16, and the second large winning opening. An out port 11 is provided for discharging game balls that have not entered any of the winning ports 17.

In addition, a decoration member 7 that affects the flow of the game ball is provided in the center of the game area 6. A liquid crystal display device 31 is provided at a substantially central portion of the decorative member 7, and an effect driving device 33 in the form of a belt is provided above the liquid crystal display device 31.
In the first embodiment, the liquid crystal display device 31 is used as a liquid crystal display. However, an organic EL display may be used, a projector, a reel made of an annular structure, a so-called 7-segment LED, a dot. A display device such as a matrix may be used.

The liquid crystal display device 31 displays an image during standby when no game is being performed, or displays an image according to the progress of the game. Among them, three effect symbols 36 for informing the jackpot lottery result, which will be described later, are displayed, and a combination of specific effect symbols 36 (for example, 777) is stopped and displayed as a jackpot lottery result. A big hit is announced.
More specifically, when a game ball enters the first start port 14 or the second start port 15, the three effect symbols 36 are scroll-displayed, and the scroll is stopped after a predetermined time, The effect design 36 is stopped and displayed. Further, by displaying various images, characters, and the like during the variation display of the effect symbol 36, a high expectation that the player may win a big hit is given to the player.

  The effect driving device 33 gives a player a sense of expectation according to the operation mode. The effect driving device 33 performs, for example, an operation in which the belt moves downward or a rotating member at the center of the belt rotates. Various operational feelings are given to the player depending on the operation mode of the effect driving device 33.

  Furthermore, in addition to the above-described various production devices, the audio output device 32 outputs background music, sound effects, and the like, and produces productions using sound. The production lighting device 34 uses the light irradiation direction of each lamp, The luminescent color is changed to produce lighting.

  The effect button 35 is effective only when, for example, a message for operating the effect button 35 is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 31. The effect button 35 is provided with an effect button detection switch 35a (see FIG. 4). When the effect button detection switch 35a detects the player's operation, a further effect is executed in accordance with this operation.

  In the lower right of the game area 6, a first special symbol display device 20, a second special symbol display device 21, a normal symbol display device 22, a first special symbol hold indicator 23, a second special symbol hold indicator 24, a normal A symbol hold indicator 25 is provided.

  The first special symbol display device 20 is for notifying a lottery result obtained when a game ball enters the first start port 14, and is composed of 7-segment LEDs. That is, a plurality of special symbols corresponding to the jackpot lottery result are provided, and the lottery result is notified to the player by displaying the special symbol corresponding to the jackpot lottery result on the first special symbol display device 20. I am doing so. For example, “7” is displayed when the jackpot is won, and “−” is displayed when the player wins. “7” and “−” displayed in this way are special symbols, but these special symbols are not displayed immediately, but are displayed in a stopped state after being displayed for a predetermined time. .

  Here, the “successful lottery” means that when a game ball enters the first starting port 14 or the second starting port 15, a special symbol determining random number value is acquired, and the acquired special symbol determining random value is acquired. Is a random number value corresponding to “big hit” or a random number value corresponding to “small hit”. The jackpot lottery result is not immediately notified to the player, and the first special symbol display device 20 displays a variation such as blinking of the special symbol, and when the predetermined variation time has passed, the jackpot lottery result The special symbol corresponding to is stopped and displayed so that the player is notified of the lottery result. The second special symbol display device 21 is for notifying a lottery result of a jackpot that is performed when a game ball enters the second start port 15, and the display mode is the above-described first display mode. This is the same as the special symbol display mode in the special symbol display device 20.

  In the first embodiment, “big hit” means the right to execute a big hit game in the big hit lottery performed on the condition that a game ball has entered the first start port 14 or the second start port 15. Say that you have won. In the “hit game”, a round game in which the first big prize opening 16 or the second big prize opening 17 is opened is performed 15 times in total. A predetermined time is set for the maximum opening time of the first grand prize port 16 or the second grand prize port 17 in each round game, and during this time, the first grand prize port 16 or the second grand prize port 17 is set. When a predetermined number of game balls (for example, nine) enter, one round game is completed. In other words, the “big hit game” is a game in which a game ball can enter the first grand prize winning opening 16 or the second big winning prize opening 17 and the player can acquire a winning ball according to the winning prize.

In the first embodiment, two game states are set according to the winning probability in the “hit lottery”. That is, the “low probability gaming state” in which the winning probability is set to 1 / 299.5 and the “high probability gaming state” in which the winning probability is set to 1 / 29.95. Also, in the “jackpot game”, a plurality of types of jackpot games are set. For example, in the case of “game per long”, the first grand prize opening 16 is released once (× 15 rounds) for 29.000 seconds for each round game. If it is “short win game”, the second big prize opening 17 is opened for 0.052 seconds × 1 time (× 15 rounds) for each round game. In the case of “game per development”, the second grand prize opening 17 is opened for 0.052 seconds × 3 times in the first round game, and after the second round, 29.000 seconds × 1 for each round game. Times (× 14 rounds).
In the case of “small hit”, one gaming state with a winning probability of 1 / 149.75 is set. In addition, if it is a “small hit game”, although it is not a round game, the second big prize opening 17 is opened for 0.052 seconds × 15 times. In the first embodiment, “big hit game” and “small hit game” are collectively referred to as “special game”.

  The normal symbol display device 22 is for notifying the lottery result of the normal symbol that is performed when the game ball passes through the normal symbol gate 13. As will be described in detail later, when the winning symbol is won by the normal symbol lottery, the normal symbol display device 22 is turned on, and then the second start port 15 is controlled to the second mode for a predetermined time.

  Here, “normal symbol lottery” means that when a game ball passes through the normal symbol gate 13, the normal symbol determination random number value is acquired, and the acquired normal symbol determination random value corresponds to “winning”. A process for determining whether or not the value is a random value. The lottery result of the normal symbol is not always notified immediately after the game ball passes through the normal symbol gate 13, but the normal symbol display device 22 displays a variation such as blinking of the normal symbol. When the fluctuation time elapses, the normal symbol corresponding to the lottery result of the normal symbol is stopped and displayed so that the player is notified of the lottery result.

Furthermore, if a game ball enters the first start port 14 or the second start port 15 during special symbol fluctuation display or a special game to be described later, and if a big win lottery cannot be performed immediately, a certain condition The right to win a jackpot will be withheld. More specifically, the random number value for special symbol determination acquired when the game ball enters the first start port 14 is stored as the first hold, and when the game ball enters the second start port 15 The acquired special symbol determination random number value is stored as the second hold.
For both of these holds, the upper limit hold number is set to 4, and the hold number is displayed on the first special symbol hold indicator 23 and the second special symbol hold indicator 24, respectively. When there is one first hold, the LED on the left side of the first special symbol hold indicator 23 lights up, and when there are two first holds, two LEDs on the first special symbol hold indicator 23 Lights up. In addition, when there are three first holds, the LED on the left side of the first special symbol hold indicator 23 blinks and the right LED is lit, and when there are four first holds, the first special symbol hold. Two LEDs on the display 23 blink. The second special symbol hold indicator 24 also displays the number of second hold on hold in the same manner as described above.
The upper limit reserved number of normal symbols is also set to four, and the reserved number of normal symbols is displayed in the same manner as the first special symbol hold indicator 23 and the second special symbol hold indicator 24. Displayed on the instrument 25.

  The glass frame 50 supports a glass plate 52 that covers the game area 6 in a visible manner in front of the game board 2 (player side). The glass plate 52 is detachably fixed to the glass frame 50.

  The glass frame 50 is connected to the outer frame 60 via a hinge mechanism 51 on one end side in the left-right direction (for example, the left side facing the gaming machine 1). The end side (for example, the right side facing the gaming machine 1) can be rotated in a direction to release from the outer frame 60. The glass frame 50 covers the game board 2 together with the glass plate 52, and can be opened like a door with the hinge mechanism 51 as a fulcrum to open the inner part of the outer frame 60 including the game board 2. On the other end side of the glass frame 50, a lock mechanism for fixing the other end side of the glass frame 50 to the outer frame 60 is provided. The fixing by the lock mechanism can be released by a dedicated key. The glass frame 50 is also provided with a door opening switch 133 (see FIG. 4) for detecting whether or not the glass frame 50 is opened from the outer frame 60.

  On the back surface of the gaming machine 1, a main control board on which the main control unit 110 is mounted, an effect control board on which the effect control unit 120 is mounted, a rear control board on which the rear control unit 180 is mounted, and a payout control unit 130 are mounted. The payout control board, the power supply board on which the power supply unit 170 is mounted, the game information output terminal board 30 and the like are provided. Further, the power supply unit 170 is provided with a power plug 171 for supplying power to the gaming machine 1 and a power switch (not shown).

[Internal configuration of gaming machine]
Hereinafter, control means for controlling processing related to the game progress of the gaming machine 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the gaming machine 1 according to the first embodiment.

  The main control unit 110 is a main control means for controlling the basic operation of the game, and receives various detection signals from the first start port detection switch 14a, etc., and opens and closes the first special symbol display device 20 and the first grand prize opening. The game is controlled by driving the solenoid 16c and the like.

  The main control unit 110 includes a one-chip microcomputer 110m including at least a main CPU 110a, a main ROM 110b, a main RAM 110c, a boot ROM 110d, and an authentication information generation unit 500, an input port and an output port (not shown) for main control. At least.

  The main control input port includes a payout control unit 130, a general winning port detecting switch 12a for detecting that a gaming ball has entered the general winning port 12, and a game ball having been inserted into the normal symbol gate 13. Gate detection switch 13a to detect, first start port detection switch 14a to detect that a game ball has entered the first start port 14, and second start to detect that a game ball has entered the second start port 15 The mouth detection switch 15a, the first grand prize opening detection switch 16a that detects that a game ball has entered the first grand prize opening 16, and the second that detects that a game ball has entered the second grand prize opening 17 A big prize opening detection switch 17a is connected. Various signals are input to the main control unit 110 through the input port for main control.

  The main control output port includes a payout control unit 130, a start opening / closing solenoid 15c for opening / closing the pair of movable pieces 15b of the second start opening 15, and a first large winning opening opening / closing door 16b. A special winning opening / closing solenoid 16c, a second large winning opening / closing solenoid 17c for operating the second winning opening / closing door 17b, a first special symbol display device 20 and a second special symbol display device 21 for displaying special symbols, and a normal symbol. A normal symbol display device 22 for displaying a symbol, a first special symbol hold indicator 23 and a second special symbol hold indicator 24 for displaying the number of reserved balls for a special symbol, and a normal symbol hold indicator for displaying the number of reserved balls for a normal symbol 25. A game information output terminal board 30 for outputting an external information signal is connected. Various signals are output from the main control output port.

  The main CPU 110a of the main control unit 110 reads out a program stored in the main ROM 110b based on input signals from the detection switches and timers, performs arithmetic processing, and according to the result of the arithmetic processing, the main control unit 110 A control instruction (hereinafter referred to as “control signal”) for each of the constituent parts constituting the control and a control command for other control parts other than the main control part 110 are output.

The main ROM 110b of the main control unit 110 stores in advance a game processing program that describes the content and procedure of processing related to game progress, and fixed data and tables necessary for determining various games.
As an example of the table stored in the main ROM 110b, a jackpot determination table referred to in the jackpot lottery, a hit determination table referred to in the normal symbol lottery, a symbol determination table for determining the stop symbol of the special symbol, after the jackpot ends End of jackpot game setting data table for determining the gaming state of the game, special electric accessory operating mode determination table for determining the opening / closing conditions of the special winning opening opening door, determining the opening pattern table of the special winning opening, and the variation pattern of the special symbol There is a variation pattern determination table.

  The main ROM 110b also stores initial values set for the built-in circuit and peripheral circuits of the one-chip microcomputer 110m during the boot process of the main control unit 110 performed when the gaming machine 1 is reset such as when the power is turned on. So-called hardware parameters) are stored in advance. The main ROM 110b stores in advance an authentication processing program that describes the contents and procedure of authentication processing performed by the main CPU 110a after the boot processing, inspection values that are information unique to the main control unit 110, and the like.

  The boot ROM 110d of the main control unit 110 includes a boot executed by the main CPU 110a, including initialization of internal circuits and peripheral circuits of the one-chip microcomputer 110m and initial value setting processing (hereinafter referred to as “initial value setting processing”). A boot processing program describing the contents and procedure of processing, and fixed data used when executing the boot processing program are stored. This boot processing program is set to start immediately after the main CPU 110a is activated.

The main RAM 110c of the main control unit 110 functions as a data work area during the arithmetic processing of the main CPU 110a, and has a plurality of storage areas.
As an example of the storage area that the main RAM 110c has, a normal symbol holding number (G) storage area, a normal symbol holding storage area, a normal symbol data storage area, a first special symbol holding number (U1) storage area, a second special symbol Reservation count (U2) storage area, first special symbol random value storage area, second special symbol random value storage area, round game number (R) storage area, number of open times (K) storage area, number of big winning entrances ( C) Storage area, game state storage area (high probability game flag storage area, etc.), high probability game count (X) counter, game state buffer, stop symbol data storage region, transmission data storage region, special symbol time counter, special There are various timer counters such as game timer counters.

  The authentication information generation unit 500 of the main control unit 110 authenticates the authenticity (identity) of the main control unit 110 as an individual (hereinafter referred to as “individual authentication”), regardless of an instruction from the main CPU 110b. Is transmitted to a control unit (post-stage control unit 180) that is predetermined so as to have an individual authentication function for the main control unit 110. Specifically, the authentication information generation unit 500 operates according to its own algorithm independent of the program stored in the main ROM 110b when the power is turned on, and the test value that is information unique to the main control unit 110 from the main ROM 110b. Is obtained, and the obtained inspection value is subjected to encryption processing to generate authentication data. Then, the authentication information generation unit 500 transmits the generated authentication data to the subsequent control unit 180 via the effect control unit 120, the payout control unit 130, and the like.

  The game information output terminal board 30 is a board for outputting an external information signal generated by the main control unit 110 to a hall computer or the like of a game store. The game information output terminal board 30 is connected to the main controller 110 by wiring, and is provided with a connector for connecting external information to a hall computer or the like of a game store.

  The power supply unit 170 includes a backup power source composed of a capacitor, supplies a power supply voltage to the gaming machine 1, and monitors a power supply voltage supplied to the gaming machine 1, and when the power supply voltage becomes a predetermined value or less, An electric interruption detection signal is output to the main control unit 110. More specifically, when the power interruption detection signal becomes low level and a certain time elapses because the power supply voltage indicates a predetermined value or less, the reset signal becomes low level, and the main CPU 110a performs processing to stop the operation. Thereafter, when the power interruption detection signal becomes a high level because the power supply voltage indicates a predetermined value or more and a predetermined time elapses, the reset signal becomes a high level, and the main CPU 110a performs a process of starting an operation. The backup power source is not limited to a capacitor, and may be a battery, for example, or a capacitor and a battery may be used in combination.

  The effect control unit 120 mainly controls each effect such as during a game or standby. The effect control unit 120 includes a sub CPU 120a, a sub ROM 120b, and a sub RAM 120c, and is connected to the main control unit 110 so as to be communicable in one direction from the main control unit 110 to the effect control unit 120. . The sub CPU 120a reads out the program stored in the sub ROM 120b based on the control command transmitted from the main control unit 110 or the input signal from the effect button detection switch 35a and the timer, performs arithmetic processing, and Based on the processing, the corresponding data is transmitted to the lamp control unit 140 or the image control unit 150. The sub RAM 120c functions as a data work area during the arithmetic processing of the sub CPU 120a.

  For example, when the sub CPU 120a of the effect control unit 120 receives the variation pattern designation command indicating the variation pattern of the special symbol that is one of the control commands transmitted from the main control unit 110, the contents of the received variation pattern designation command are displayed. Analysis is performed to generate data for causing the liquid crystal display device 31, the audio output device 32, the effect driving device 33, and the effect illumination device 34 to execute a predetermined effect, and the data is used for the image control unit 150 and the lamp control unit. 140.

  As will be described later, when the rear control unit 180 is connected to the effect control unit 120, the sub CPU 120a follows the control command and various data transmitted from the main control unit 110. Relay transmission processing is performed for transmission to 180 as it is. When the latter control unit 180 is connected to the payout control unit 130, a payout CPU described later has a configuration related to the relay transmission process of the effect control unit 120.

The sub ROM 120b of the effect control unit 120 stores a program for effect control, data necessary for determining various games, and a table.
As an example of the table stored in the sub-ROM 120b, to determine the combination of the effect pattern determination table for determining the effect pattern based on the variation pattern designation command received from the main control unit and the effect symbol 36 to be stopped and displayed. There is a production design determination table.

The sub RAM 120c of the effect control unit 120 functions as a data work area during the arithmetic processing of the sub CPU 120a, and has a plurality of storage areas.
As an example of the storage area that the sub-RAM 120c has, there are a game state storage area, an effect mode storage area, an effect pattern storage area, an effect symbol storage area, and the like.

  The latter control unit 180 mainly controls processing related to individual authentication for the main control unit 110. The post-stage control unit 180 includes a CPU 180a, a ROM 180b, and a RAM 180c, and a control unit (the effect control unit 120, the payout control unit 130, etc.) to which the main control unit 110 transmits a control command related to the original game process. On the other hand, it is provided to follow the main control unit 110. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, when the rear stage control unit 180 is provided so as to follow the effect control unit 120, the rear stage control unit 180 is connected to the effect control unit 120 so as to be capable of bidirectional communication. Is done. Although not shown, when the rear stage control unit 180 is provided so as to follow the payout control unit 130, the rear stage control unit 180 is connected to the payout control unit 130 so as to be capable of bidirectional communication. Therefore, the post-stage control unit 180 does not transmit a control command directly from the main control unit 110, but transmits it via the effect control unit 120, the payout control unit 130, and the like.

  The CPU 180a reads out a program stored in the ROM 180b based on a control command transmitted from the main control unit 110 or an input signal from a timer, performs arithmetic processing, and based on the processing, outputs corresponding data. This is transmitted to the effect control unit 120 and the payout control unit 130. The RAM 180c functions as a data work area during the arithmetic processing of the CPU 180a.

  For example, the CPU 180a of the post-stage control unit 180 is a control command or various data relayed and transmitted from the effect control unit 120, the payout control unit 130, etc. as described above, and is not directly involved in the authentication process and is used for normal game processing. When a control command to be used (hereinafter referred to as “normal control command”) or various data is received, a relay transmission process for relaying again the control command or various data to the effect control unit 120, the payout control unit 130, or the like is performed. . On the other hand, when the CPU 180a of the latter control unit 180 receives a control command or data related to the authentication process transmitted from the main control unit 110, the CPU 180a performs a process related to individual authentication for the main control unit 110 based on the control command or data. At the same time, the authentication result information (hereinafter referred to as “authentication result data”) obtained by the processing is transmitted to the production control unit 120, the payout control unit 130, etc., to which the subsequent control unit 180 is connected. Perform processing based on data.

Further, the ROM 180b corresponds to an expected value corresponding to a test value that is information unique to the main control unit 110 stored in the main ROM 110b of the main control unit 110, and to the main control unit 110 performed by the CPU 180a using the expected value. An authentication processing program describing the contents and procedure of the individual authentication processing and relay transmission processing is stored in advance.
As described above, the post-stage control unit 180 includes an authentication function for performing individual authentication with respect to the main control unit 110, control commands and various data relayed from the main control unit 110 via the effect control unit 120, the payout control unit 130, and the like. At least a function for relay transmission to the effect control unit 120, the payout control unit 130, etc., and a function for transmitting the authentication result data obtained by the individual authentication to the effect control unit 120, the payout control unit 130, etc. is doing. In addition, the structure regarding these authentication processes is mentioned later.

  The payout control unit 130 controls payout of game balls. The payout control unit 130 includes a one-chip microcomputer including a payout CPU, a payout ROM, and a payout RAM (not shown), and is connected to the main control unit 110 so as to be capable of bidirectional communication. The payout CPU reads out a program stored in the payout ROM based on input signals from the payout ball count switch 132, the door opening switch 133, and the timer that detect whether or not the game ball has been paid out, and performs arithmetic processing. At the same time, the corresponding data is transmitted to the main control unit 110 based on the processing.

  Further, a payout motor 131 of a payout device for paying out a predetermined number of game balls from the game ball storage unit is connected to the output side of the payout control unit 130. The payout CPU reads out a predetermined program from the payout ROM based on a payout number designation command that is one of the control commands transmitted from the main control unit 110, performs arithmetic processing, and controls the payout motor 131 of the payout device. Then, a predetermined game ball is paid out. At this time, the payout RAM functions as a data work area at the time of calculation processing of the payout CPU.

  The lamp control unit 140 controls lighting of the effect lighting device 34 provided on the game board 2 and controls driving of the motor for changing the light irradiation direction. In addition, energization control is performed on a drive source such as a solenoid or a motor that operates the effect driving device 33. The lamp control unit 140 is connected to the effect control unit 120, and performs the above-described controls based on various commands transmitted from the effect control unit 120.

  The image control unit 150 stores a host CPU for performing image display control of the liquid crystal display device 31, a host RAM having a temporary storage area functioning as a work area for the host CPU 150a, a control processing program for the host CPU 150a, and the like. A host ROM, a CGROM storing image data, a VRAM having a frame buffer for drawing image data, a VDP (Video Display Processor) serving as an image processor, and a sound control circuit for controlling sound.

Based on the effect pattern designation command received from the effect control unit 120, the host CPU instructs the liquid crystal display device 31 to display the image data stored in the CGROM in the VDP.
The VDP draws image data stored in the CGROM in the frame buffer of the VRAM based on an instruction from the host CPU. Next, a video signal (RGB signal or the like) is generated based on the image data stored in the display frame buffer in the VRAM, and the generated video signal is output to the liquid crystal display device.

  The sound control circuit includes an audio ROM that stores a large number of audio data. The sound control circuit reads a predetermined program based on a command transmitted from the effect control unit 120 and also outputs the audio output device 32. Audio output control at.

  The launch control unit 160 performs launch control of the game ball. In the firing control unit 160, the touch sensor 3a and the firing volume 3b are connected to the input side, and the firing solenoid 4a and the ball feeding solenoid 4b are connected to the output side. The firing control unit 160 inputs a touch signal from the touch sensor 3a and performs control to energize the firing solenoid 4a and the ball feed solenoid 4b based on the voltage supplied from the firing volume 3b.

  The touch sensor 3a is provided in the inside of the operation handle 3, and is comprised from the electrostatic capacitance type proximity switch using the change of the electrostatic capacitance by the player touching the operation handle 3. When the touch sensor 3a detects that the player has touched the operation handle 3, the touch sensor 3a outputs a touch signal that permits energization of the firing solenoid 4a to the firing control unit 160 (see FIG. 4). The firing control unit 160 is configured so that the game ball 200 is not fired into the game area 6 unless a touch signal is input from the touch sensor 3a.

  The firing volume 3b is provided directly connected to a rotating portion around which the operation handle 3 rotates, and is composed of a variable resistor. The firing volume 3b divides a constant voltage (for example, 5V) applied to the firing volume 3b by a variable resistor, and supplies the divided voltage to the firing control unit 160 (the voltage to be supplied to the firing control unit 160). Variable). The launch controller 160 energizes the launch solenoid 4a based on the voltage divided by the launch volume 3b, and rotates the launch member 4c directly connected to the launch solenoid 4a, thereby playing the game ball 200 in the game. Fire into area 6.

  The launching solenoid 4a is composed of a rotary solenoid, and a launching member 4c is directly connected to the launching solenoid 4a, and the launching member 4c is rotated by rotating the launching solenoid 4a.

  Here, the rotational speed of the firing solenoid 4a is set to about 99.9 (times / minute) based on the frequency based on the output period of the crystal oscillator provided in the firing control unit 160. As a result, the number of games played per minute is about 99.9 (pieces / minute) because one shot is fired every time the firing solenoid rotates. That is, one game ball is fired about every 0.6 seconds.

  The ball feed solenoid 4b is composed of a linear solenoid, and sends out the game balls in the tray 40 one by one toward the launch member 4c directly connected to the launch solenoid 4a.

  Here, based on the control command from the main control unit 110 such as the effect control unit 120, the payout control unit 130, the lamp control unit 140, the image control unit 150, and the launch control unit 160 having the above-described configuration, or based on the control command. A control unit that performs control processing of the gaming machine 1 in accordance with a command generated based on the command, and the control units other than the rear-stage control unit 180 are collectively referred to as “peripheral unit 300”. Also, each control board on which each control unit of the peripheral unit 300 is mounted, such as an effect control board on which the effect control unit 120 is mounted and a payout control board on which the payout control unit 130 is mounted, is collectively referred to as “peripheral board” . Note that the rear stage control unit 180, the lamp control unit 140, and the image control unit 150 can be mounted on the same substrate as the effect control unit 120. Further, the payout control unit 130 and the firing control unit 160 can be mounted on the same substrate as the main control unit 110.

[Internal configuration related to authentication processing of gaming machines]
Hereinafter, control means for realizing the authentication function that the gaming machine 1 having the above configuration has for preventing fraud will be described.
The authentication function of the gaming machine 1 according to the first embodiment is realized by the post-stage control unit 180 performing individual authentication for the main control unit 110. Then, the authentication result obtained by the latter control unit 180 is transmitted to the peripheral unit 300, and processing according to the authentication result received by the peripheral unit 300 is performed. In the first embodiment, the rear stage control unit 180 is connected subsequent to the effect control unit 120, and the authentication result obtained by the rear stage control unit 180 is sent to the effect control unit 120 in the peripheral unit 300. The transmission control unit 120 will be described as performing processing according to the authentication result.

  Specifically, the unique information held by the main control unit 110 is used as an inspection value, and the information corresponding to the information unique to the main control unit 110 stored in advance in the subsequent control unit 180 is used as an expected value. If the values match, it is determined that the individual authentication for the main control unit 110 has succeeded. The subsequent control unit 180 transmits the obtained result of the individual authentication for the main control unit 110 to the effect control unit 120. The effect control unit 120 confirms the authentication result transmitted from the subsequent control unit 180, and performs a process according to the authentication result. Further, when executing the authentication process, the main control unit 110 acquires an inspection value and transmits it to the subsequent control unit 180 via the effect control unit 120. However, before the transmission, the main control unit 110 performs an encryption process on the inspection value using an encryption key. Apply. The post-stage control unit 180 performs a decryption process on the encrypted check value and extracts the check value. In the first embodiment, data obtained by performing the encryption process on the inspection value is referred to as “authentication data”. The encryption key used for the encryption process for the check value and the decryption key used for the decryption process for the authentication data are collectively referred to as “key data”. The process for determining key data is referred to as “key data determination process”, and the process for generating authentication data using the determined key data and the inspection value is referred to as “authentication data generation process”.

  FIG. 5 is a functional block diagram showing an internal configuration related to authentication processing of the main control unit 110 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram for explaining a memory map of (a) main ROM 110b and (b) boot ROM 110d according to the first embodiment. In FIG. 6, areas other than the characteristic area of the present invention are omitted. The address notation such as “xxxFH” is provided for convenience in order to indicate the division of each region, and the positional relationship between the regions is not limited to the positional relationship shown in FIG. .

  In addition to the main CPU 110a, main ROM 110b, and boot ROM 110d as described above, the main control unit 110 includes an authentication information generation unit 500 that performs key data determination processing, authentication data generation processing, and transmission processing, and the main CPU 110a and authentication information generation unit. At least a transmission unit 520 that transmits various data and signals to the effect control unit 120 based on a transmission instruction from 500. Each component of the main control unit 110 is connected by an internal bus 550 so that various data and signals output from the main control unit 110 can be exchanged. The internal bus 550 has at least functions of an address bus, a data bus, and a control bus, assigns data passing through the internal bus 550 based on control signals output from each component of the main control unit 110, and causes data collision. It is controlled not to occur. In FIG. 5, for the sake of convenience, the internal bus 550 is not clearly shown, and is represented as a signal line that connects each component of the main control unit 110.

The main CPU 110a executes the process accompanying the progress of the authentication process in the gaming machine 1 in addition to executing the process accompanying the progress of the game as described above. The main CPU 110a executes various arithmetic processes based on a boot processing program and an authentication processing program stored in the boot ROM 110d and the main ROM 110b, and outputs control signals and control commands according to the results of the various arithmetic processes. .
For example, when performing the initial value setting process during the boot process based on the boot process program, the main CPU 110a reads a control signal (hereinafter referred to as “read signal”) for reading various initial values stored in the main ROM 110b. To obtain various initial values, and outputs the obtained initial values to the configuration circuit corresponding to each of the obtained various initial values.
Further, the main CPU 110a causes the transmission unit 520 to transmit a control command (a key command to be described later) to the effect control unit 120 for starting the authentication process in the subsequent control unit 180 based on the authentication processing program. When performing the transmission process, a control signal (hereinafter referred to as “write signal”) for writing to the transmission unit 520 is output and the control command is transmitted by the transmission unit 520.

  In addition to the game processing program and data as described above, the main ROM 110b stores in advance an authentication processing program for the main CPU 110a to execute the authentication processing in the gaming machine 1 (FIG. 6A). (Region of “xxx0H” to “xxxzFH”). The main ROM 110b stores test values used for performing individual authentication for the main control unit 110 (regions “xyz0H” to “xzzFH” in FIG. 6A). Further, the main ROM 110b outputs an authentication processing program code, an inspection value, and the like in response to a read signal from the main CPU 110a or the authentication information generation unit 500.

  The inspection value is not particularly limited as long as it is unique information held by the main control unit 110. In FIG. 6A, the inspection value is data (for example, control command data) of a specific address (area “xyz0H” to “xzzFH” in FIG. 6A) in the area where the fixed data of the main ROM 110b is stored. For example, a checksum value at a specific address in the area where the program code of the main ROM 110b is stored, an identification number (ID) uniquely assigned to the main CPU 110a, and the like are conceivable.

  The main ROM 110b stores in advance an authentication parameter, which is one of the initial values of the built-in circuit and peripheral circuit of the one-chip microcomputer 110m as described above, and is an initial value set in the authentication information generation unit 500. (Regions “yyy0H” to “yyzFH” in FIG. 6A). The authentication parameter is an authentication value that is selected from a plurality of types of processing functions (hereinafter referred to as “authentication data generation function”) that the authentication information generation unit 500 has to generate authentication data during the initial value setting process during the boot process. This is a parameter for determining whether to select a data generation function. Specifically, the authentication parameter of the first embodiment is a value associated with each of a plurality of types of encryption circuits 502 (encryption circuits A, B, and C in FIG. 5) constituting the authentication information generation unit 500. . For example, the authentication parameter is an identification number assigned to each corresponding encryption circuit 502 or a value indicating address data. In the first embodiment, even in the initial value setting process during the boot process, the process of setting the authentication parameter in the authentication information generation unit 500 is particularly referred to as “authentication parameter setting process”. In addition, processing for effectively operating a specific encryption circuit 502 included in the authentication information generation unit 500 corresponding to the set authentication parameter is referred to as “encryption circuit operation processing”.

  Note that the area for storing the initial value and the authentication parameter is the area in the main ROM 110b in FIG. 6, but the present invention is not limited to this. The area is stored in a memory cell separate from the main ROM 110b, or the boot ROM 110d. It can also be configured to be stored inside. That is, in the present invention, the storage area for the initial value and the authentication parameter and the storage area for the game processing program, fixed data, etc. may be mounted on the same storage means (memory cell, ROM, etc.). It may be mounted on different storage means.

  The boot ROM 110d stores in advance boot processing programs and fixed data used when the boot processing programs are executed (regions “zxx0H” to “zyzFH” in FIG. 6B). The boot processing program is set in advance to be read from the boot ROM 110d into a boot processing dedicated RAM (not shown) immediately after the main CPU 110a is started, and to be executed by the main CPU 110a. It controls diagnosis processing, initialization of a built-in circuit and peripheral circuits of the one-chip microcomputer 110m on which the main CPU 110a is mounted, and initial value setting processing (that is, initial value setting processing). In the first embodiment, a program other than the boot processing program such as a game processing program and an authentication processing program executed after the boot processing is referred to as a “user program”.

The boot processing program is a program developed and implemented by the CPU manufacturer, and access to the boot ROM 110d in which these programs are stored is limited to access from the main CPU 110a during boot processing after the gaming machine 1 is shipped. . On the other hand, the user program is a program developed and implemented by a gaming machine manufacturer, and access to the main ROM 110b in which these are stored is accessed from the main CPU 110a every time a game process or an authentication process is executed. However, even in the address area of the main ROM 110b, user programs, fixed data (including inspection values), such as areas in which initial values (including authentication parameters) of built-in circuits and peripheral circuits of the one-chip microcomputer 110m, etc. are stored are stored. The address area other than the designated area (for example, the area of “yxx0H” to “yyzFH” in FIG. 6A) is an area defined only in the boot process program, and is not included in the user program related to the game process. Then, it is considered as an area that never appears. That is, after the boot process is completed, the above-mentioned area ("xxx0H" to "yyzFH" in FIG. 6A) is an area that is substantially restricted so that it cannot be accessed from the user program. ing.
However, in consideration of a case where unauthorized access is attempted, by applying further restrictions as described below, it is possible to further improve the confidentiality of the authentication parameter obtained only during the boot process.

  To restrict access to the boot ROM 110d and the main ROM 110b, for example, an execution address monitoring unit (not shown) is provided in the main control unit 110, and the execution address monitoring unit is activated after the boot process is completed. When the process is executed beyond the area (for example, the area from “0000H” to “xzyFH” in FIG. 6A), a reset signal is output to the main CPU 110a to stop the operation of the main CPU 110a. Good. Further, a notification signal indicating that an abnormality has been detected may be output before the reset signal is output.

  The authentication information generation unit 500 is a circuit (hardware) previously incorporated in the one-chip microcomputer 110m that constitutes the main control unit 110, and includes a control unit 501, an encryption circuit 502, a data input unit 503, and a data output. Part 504 at least.

  The control unit 501 performs processing of the main control unit 110 related to the realization of the authentication function of the gaming machine 1, such as cryptographic circuit operation processing during boot processing, authentication data generation processing and transmission processing after boot processing, according to an algorithm held by itself. This circuit controls the whole.

  In the cryptographic circuit operation process, the control unit 501 confirms the authentication parameter set by the main CPU 110a and sets the cryptographic circuit 502 corresponding to the set authentication parameter so as to operate effectively. For example, the control unit 501 includes a data table in which a plurality of types of encryption circuits 502 provided in the authentication information generation unit 500 in advance and a correspondence between a plurality of types of authentication parameters prepared in advance are stored. In the operation process, it can be confirmed to which encryption circuit 502 the authentication parameter set by the main CPU 110a corresponds. The control unit 501 is connected to each of a plurality of types of encryption circuits 502, and a control signal (hereinafter referred to as an “operation permission signal”) for effectively operating the encryption circuit 502 is set as a set authentication parameter. Is output only to the encryption circuit 502 corresponding to, and only the encryption circuit 502 is operated. In addition, the control unit 501 outputs a control signal (hereinafter referred to as “connection switching signal”) for switching the connection of the data output unit 504 with the encryption circuit 502 to the data output unit 504, and effectively operates as described above. Only the connection with the encryption circuit 502 is set to be effectively connected.

  In addition, the control unit 501 includes key determining means (not shown) that determines key data. It is conceivable that the key determination means is composed of random number generation means such as a random number generation circuit or a random number generation algorithm. Further, the key determination means may be configured in such a manner that a data table in which a plurality of types of key data is stored is held in advance and the key data is determined according to a predetermined rule. In addition, the control unit 501 may generate one key data at a time and determine it uniquely, or generate a plurality of types of key data at a time and select one key data from a plurality of types of key data. The key data used in the current authentication process may be determined. The determined key data is transferred from the control unit 501 to the encryption circuit 502 and is output from the control unit 501 to the main CPU 110a in response to a read signal from the main CPU 110a.

  Further, in the authentication data generation process, the control unit 501 outputs a read signal for reading the inspection value stored in the main ROM 110b, and takes the inspection value into the data input unit 503 constituting the authentication information generation unit 500. Then, the authentication data is generated by the encryption circuit 502 validated by the encryption circuit operation processing.

  Further, the control unit 501 performs transmission processing of the generated authentication data based on transmission processing of the control command performed by the main CPU 110a. Specifically, the control unit 501 includes detection means (not shown) that detects a write signal of a control command output from the main CPU 110a to the transmission unit 520 through the internal bus 550, and detects the write signal. Thus, the timing at which the main CPU 110a outputs the control command to the transmission unit 520 can be known. Then, the control unit 501 triggers the detection of the write signal, outputs the generated authentication data write signal, and causes the transmission unit 520 to transmit the authentication data.

  The encryption circuit 502 is a circuit that calculates and outputs the input data using a predetermined encryption method (hereinafter referred to as “encryption method”). Specifically, the test value taken in from the main ROM 110b is calculated by the encryption method of the encryption circuit set in the encryption circuit operation process to generate authentication data. The encryption method is not particularly limited as long as it is determined in advance between the main control unit 10 and the effect control unit 203. The encryption method is obtained by, for example, a processing method for obtaining arithmetic data having a predetermined data size by performing four arithmetic operations or logical operations using inspection values and key data, and these four arithmetic operations or logical operations. A processing method for rearranging the bit array of operation data, a processing method for shifting or rotating the bits of the operation data, a processing method for extracting a plurality of bits constituting a test value and arranging them according to a predetermined rule to generate one data is there.

  The encryption circuit 502 includes a plurality of types of encryption circuits 502 (in FIG. 5, encryption circuits A, B, and C). For the encryption circuit 502, a plurality of types of encryption systems are used by a plurality of types of encryption circuits 502. For example, if the desired encryption method differs for each gaming machine manufacturer, the encryption circuit 502 is desired in the circuit formation process of the one-chip microcomputer 110m. Each encryption circuit showing the encryption method is formed. Each encryption circuit 502 is controlled by the operation permission signal output from the control unit 501 to be operated effectively. Then, the encryption circuit 502 outputs the generated authentication data to the data output unit 504.

  A plurality of methods are conceivable for mounting the authentication parameter in the main ROM 110b. For example, a plurality of types of authentication parameters are prepared in advance in association with each of a plurality of types of encryption circuits 502 and mounted in the main ROM 110b. In the authentication parameter setting process, a program for determining which authentication parameter to select is installed in the boot ROM 110d, and it is possible to arbitrarily select which encryption circuit 502 is activated each time the boot process is performed. It can be constituted as follows. When implemented in this manner, the authentication data encryption method is changed each time the boot process is performed, the confidentiality of the authentication data can be improved, and the security strength of the gaming machine 1 can be improved.

On the other hand, although a plurality of types of encryption circuit 502 and authentication parameters are prepared in advance, only a specific authentication parameter can be mounted on the main ROM 110b and only the specific encryption circuit 502 can be operated. When implemented in this way, it is not necessary to newly provide a program for the authentication parameter selection process in the boot process, and the code size of the program is not increased.
Also, when implemented in this way, even if a gaming machine manufacturer wants to adopt only a specific encryption method, an authentication corresponding to a cryptographic circuit indicating a desired encryption method in the program implementation process performed by the gaming machine manufacturer. Only the parameters need be mounted on the main ROM 110b, and the usage and preference of the gaming machine manufacturer can be flexibly dealt with. Even in this case, since the authentication parameter is stored in a storage area that is not accessed except when the initial value is set during the boot process of the main control unit 110, the contents of the encryption method can be known from the outside. This is not possible, and the confidentiality of the authentication data is ensured. In addition, by changing the authentication parameters used for design / verification work etc. during the development stage of the gaming machine 1 and the authentication parameters that are actually mounted thereafter, it is possible to know which authentication parameters are finally mounted. The person who obtains it is limited, and the confidentiality of the authentication data is further improved.

  In the first embodiment, a description will be given assuming that only the authentication parameter corresponding to a specific encryption circuit 502 (encryption circuit A in FIG. 5) is mounted in the main ROM 110b. That is, in the encryption circuit operation process, only the encryption circuit A is set to operate effectively, and the encryption circuit B and the encryption circuit C are set not to operate. Also, the authentication parameter corresponding to the encryption circuit A is authenticated by the authentication parameter A, the encryption method represented by the encryption circuit A is encrypted by the encryption method A, and the authentication data obtained by calculating the inspection value by the encryption method A is authenticated. Let it be data A.

  The data input unit 503 and the data output unit 504 are input / output circuits for the authentication information generation unit 500 to exchange data with the outside via the internal bus 550. Specifically, the data input unit 503 and the data output unit 504 are output from the main ROM 110b. The inspection value is input and the authentication data generated by the encryption circuit 502 is output to the transmission unit 520. Each of the data input unit 503 and the data output unit 504 has a buffer function, and temporarily stores test values and authentication data when the authentication information generation unit 500 exchanges with other components. Can do. At this time, the data input / output timing of the data input unit 503 and the data output unit 504 is set by a control signal output from the control unit 501.

  A plurality of types of encryption circuits 502 are arranged between the data input unit 503 and the data output unit 504, and the data input unit 503 and the data output unit 504 are connected to each of the plurality of types of encryption circuits 502. ing. In addition, the data output unit 504 has a connection switching function that allows selective connection to a specific cryptographic circuit 502 among a plurality of types of cryptographic circuits 50, and according to a connection switching signal from the control unit 501. Then, the connection with the encryption circuit 502 can be switched so that only the connection with the encryption circuit 502 that is set to be valid in the encryption circuit operation processing is effectively connected. The data input to the data input unit 503 is delivered to each of a plurality of types of encryption circuits 502. If data is output from each of the plurality of types of encryption circuits 502, each data is transferred to the data output unit 504. However, in the cryptographic circuit operation processing, only a specific cryptographic circuit 502 is set to operate among a plurality of types of cryptographic circuits 502, and only the connection of the data output unit 504 with the cryptographic circuit 502 is set to be valid. Therefore, the data transferred to the data output unit 504 is only the data output from the encryption circuit 502 corresponding to the authentication parameter.

  The transmission unit 520 functions as an output port for transmitting data output from the main CPU 110 a or the authentication information generation unit 500 to the effect control unit 120, and includes at least a data input unit 521 and a transmission circuit 522. In the data input unit 521, when a control signal or authentication data is transmitted by the main CPU 110a or the authentication information generation unit 500, a write signal for writing the data to be transmitted to the data input unit 521 is input. Data corresponding to the signal is taken in via the internal bus 550. Then, the data input unit 521 immediately transfers the fetched data to the transmission circuit 522.

  The transmission circuit 522 has a function for converting to a data format corresponding to a data transmission method (serial transmission method or parallel transmission method) between the main control unit 110, the production control unit 120, and the subsequent control unit 180, an error detection code, and an error. A function of adding a correction code is provided. The types of error detection codes and the like are not particularly limited as long as they are determined in advance between the main control unit 110, the effect control unit 120, and the subsequent control unit 180. For example, a parity check code, a BCC (Block Check Character), a CRC (Cyclic Redundancy Check), a hash value, etc. can be considered. Then, the transmission circuit 522 performs the above-described conversion processing on the data delivered from the data input unit 521 to obtain transmission data, and immediately transmits it to the effect control unit 120.

  Note that the transmission unit 520 may be configured to provide a buffer function in the data input unit 521 and temporarily store data written to the data input unit 521. At this time, the data input unit 521 can be provided with a configuration in which the data input unit 521 itself sets the transmission timing, such as starting delivery to the transmission circuit 522 after a predetermined time has elapsed. Further, the data input unit 521 waits until a transmission permission signal is input from the main CPU 110a or the authentication information generation unit 500, and transfers the captured data to the transmission circuit 522 only after the transmission permission signal is input. Also good. In any case, when a write signal or the like output from the main CPU 110a or the authentication information generation unit 500 is input, the transmission unit 520 transmits data to be transmitted to the effect control unit 120. Since the data to be transmitted and the write signal of the data are output as a pair, and the output destination of the write signal and the like is the transmission unit 520, the write signal and the like are stored in the main CPU 110a. Or the data to be transmitted output from the authentication information generation unit 500 is information that bears a transmission instruction to the transmission unit 520 for causing the presentation control unit 120 to transmit the data to be transmitted.

Next, an operation related to authentication processing of each component of the main control unit 110 will be described.
When the gaming machine 1 is powered on, a system reset occurs in the main control unit 110, and the main CPU 110a performs a boot process of the main control unit 110 based on a boot processing program stored in advance in the boot ROM 110d. . During the boot process, the main CPU 110a sets an initial value for the authentication information generation unit 500 stored in advance in the main ROM 110b in the authentication information generation unit 500 as one of the hardware setting items of the main control unit 110. At this time, the main CPU 110a performs an authentication parameter setting process for setting an authentication parameter, which is one of initial values related to the authentication information generation unit 500, in the authentication information generation unit 500.

  Specifically, the main CPU 110a executes a boot processing program that is set to start up immediately after the main CPU 110a starts up, and performs authentication parameter setting processing. First, the main CPU 110a outputs a read signal for reading the authentication parameter of the authentication information generation unit 500 to the main ROM 110b. In the main ROM 110b, when a read signal is input from the main CPU 110a, among various initial values (regions “xyz0H” to “xzzFH” in FIG. 6) stored in a predetermined specific address of the main ROM 110b. Authentication parameters (regions “xzy0H” to “xzzFH” in FIG. 6) are output. Then, the main CPU 110a takes in the authentication parameter output from the main ROM 110b by the read signal via the internal bus 550.

  Subsequently, the main CPU 110 a sets the acquired authentication parameter in the authentication information generation unit 500. Specifically, the main CPU 110a outputs a write signal for writing the acquired authentication parameter to the control unit 501 of the authentication information generation unit 500. Then, the main CPU 110a sets the authentication parameter output from the main CPU 110a in response to the write signal to the authentication parameter storage area of the control unit 501 via the internal bus 550.

  Next, the authentication information generation unit 500 performs cryptographic circuit operation processing. Specifically, the control unit 501 configuring the authentication information generation unit 500 uses a plurality of types of encryptions that configure the authentication information generation unit 500 according to the authentication parameters set in the authentication parameter storage area according to the algorithm held by the control unit 501. It is confirmed which of the circuits 502 corresponds to which encryption circuit 502. Then, the control unit 501 outputs an operation permission signal for validating the encryption circuit 502 (encryption circuit A) to the encryption circuit 502 (encryption circuit A) indicated by the authentication parameter, and the encryption of the data output unit 504 A connection switching signal for validating only the connection with the circuit 502 (encryption circuit A) is output. Therefore, valid data is output only from the encryption circuit A.

  Thereafter, when the boot process of the main control unit 110 ends, the authentication information generation unit 500 performs a key data determination process. Specifically, the control unit 501 constituting the authentication information generation unit 500 starts key data determination processing for determining key data according to an algorithm held by the control unit 501 without depending on an instruction from the main CPU 110a. The control unit 501 sets the determined key data in its own key data storage area, and also sets it in the key data storage area of the encryption circuit 502 (encryption circuit A) that has been validated by the encryption circuit operation processing. Regarding the setting of the key data determined by the control unit 501 in the encryption circuit 502, in addition to such a configuration, the key data storage area of the encryption circuit 502 is configured by a flip-flop circuit or the like, and the control unit A signal indicating the key data output from 501 may be constantly input to the circuit.

  Next, the authentication information generation unit 500 performs authentication data generation processing. First, the authentication information generation unit 500 takes in a test value used for performing individual authentication for the main control unit 110 from the main ROM 110b. Specifically, the control unit 501 constituting the authentication information generation unit 500 outputs a read signal for reading the inspection value stored in the main ROM 110b. In the main ROM 110b, when a test value read signal is input from the control unit 501, a test value stored in a predetermined specific address of the main ROM 110b is output. Then, the control unit 501 takes the inspection value output from the main ROM 110b by the read signal into the data input unit 503 via the internal bus 550. The fetched inspection value is directly transferred to the encryption circuit 502 and set in the inspection value storage area of the encryption circuit 502. Regarding the setting of the inspection value captured by the data input unit 503 in the encryption circuit 502, in addition to such a configuration, the inspection value captured in a predetermined storage area of the data input unit 503 is stored. In addition, the test value storage area of the encryption circuit 502 may be configured by a flip-flop circuit or the like, and a signal indicating the test value output from the data input unit 503 may be constantly input to the circuit. .

  Subsequently, the encryption circuit 502 performs an encryption process on the acquired inspection value using key data set in advance from the control unit 501 to generate authentication data. Specifically, only the encryption circuit A of the encryption circuit 502 operates, reads the inspection value from the inspection value storage area, reads out the key data from the key data storage area, and is represented by the encryption circuit A. In the encryption method A, the inspection value and the key data are calculated, and authentication data A is generated. The generated authentication data A is transferred to the data output unit 504 as it is and set in the authentication data storage area of the data output unit 504. The authentication data A is held in the data output unit 504 until the authentication data transmission timing comes.

  Next, the authentication information generation unit 500 performs authentication data transmission processing. Specifically, the control unit 501 constituting the authentication information generation unit 500, when its detection unit detects a write signal of a control command from the main CPU 110a, triggers the detection of the write signal to trigger the data output unit 504. A write signal for writing the authentication data A held in the authentication data storage area to the transmission unit 520 is output. Then, the control unit 501 sets the authentication data A output from the data output unit 504 according to the write signal in the storage area of the data input unit 521 constituting the transmission unit 520. The authentication data transmission timing will be described later.

  Subsequently, the data input unit 521 constituting the transmission unit 520 immediately transmits the received authentication data A to the effect control unit 120. Specifically, when the authentication data A output from the data output unit 504 of the authentication information generation unit 500 is written and set in the storage area of the data input unit 521, the data input unit 521 sets the set authentication data. A is immediately transferred to the transmission circuit 522. The transmission circuit 522 performs the conversion process and the like on the authentication data A delivered from the data input unit 521 to obtain transmission data, and immediately transmits it to the effect control unit 120.

  On the other hand, when the main CPU 110a finishes the boot process of the main controller 110 and completes the initialization process, the main CPU 110a performs a process related to the game progress based on the game process program stored in the main ROM 110b. When it is time to start the authentication process, an authentication process program code stored in advance in the main ROM 110b is read, and a key command transmission process is performed based on the authentication process program.

  First, the main CPU 110a obtains key data necessary for constructing a key command from the authentication information generation unit 500. Specifically, the main CPU 110a outputs a read signal for reading key data from the control unit 501 constituting the authentication information generating unit 500. In the control unit 501, the key data set in the key data storage area in advance is output via the data output unit 504 in response to the input of the key data read signal from the main CPU 110a. Then, the main CPU 110a takes in the key data output from the control unit 501 by the read signal via the internal bus 550. Then, the main CPU 110a similarly reads information for identifying the classification of the control commands stored in the main ROM 110b, combines them to form a key command, and sets it in the transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c.

  Subsequently, the main CPU 110a causes the transmission unit 520 to immediately transmit the key command set in the transmission data storage area to the effect control unit 120. Specifically, the main CPU 110a outputs a write signal for writing the key command set in the transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c to the transmission unit 520. Then, the main CPU 110 a sets the key command output from the transmission data storage area by the write signal in the storage area of the data input unit 521 constituting the transmission unit 520.

  Subsequently, the data input unit 521 constituting the transmission unit 520 immediately transmits the received key command to the effect control unit 120. Specifically, when the key command output from the transmission data storage area is written and set in the storage area of the data input unit 521, the data input unit 521 immediately sends the set key command to the transmission circuit 522. Deliver. The transmission circuit 522 performs the conversion process on the key command received from the data input unit 521 to obtain transmission data, and immediately transmits it to the effect control unit 120. Details of the key command and its transmission timing will be described later.

Thereafter, the data transmitted from the transmission unit 520 constituting the main control unit 110 is received by the reception unit 660 constituting the effect control unit 120. Specifically, data transmitted from the transmission circuit 522 constituting the transmission unit 520 is received by the reception circuit 662 constituting the reception unit 660. When receiving the transmission data of the main control unit 110, the reception circuit 662 immediately transfers the received data to the data output unit 661. The data output unit 661 writes and holds the transferred data in its own storage area.
At the same time, the receiving unit 660 outputs a signal indicating that there has been a reception interrupt request for the transmission data of the main control unit 110 or sets a flag indicating that reception of the transmission data of the main control unit 110 has been completed. Thus, the sub CPU 120a of the effect control unit 120 can detect that the reception of the transmission data of the main control unit 110 is completed. Then, the data held in the receiving unit 660 is fetched and set in the reception data storage area of the sub RAM 120c of the effect control unit 120, and processing corresponding to each is performed on the effect control unit 120 side.

  Here, in the reception data storage area of the sub-RAM 120c, the reception data storage area for storing the data fetched from the reception unit 660 that receives the transmission data from the main control unit 110 is referred to as “first reception data storage area”, A reception data storage area for storing data fetched from a reception section (not shown) that receives transmission data from the subsequent control section 180 is referred to as a “second reception data storage area”. In addition, the authentication process in the production | presentation control part 120 and the back | latter stage control part 180 is mentioned later.

[Explanation of control commands]
Hereinafter, types of control commands transmitted from the main control unit 110 of the gaming machine 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention to the effect control unit 120 and the subsequent control unit 180 will be described.
FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating types of control commands transmitted from the main control unit 110 to the effect control unit 120 that constitute the gaming machine 1 according to the first embodiment. The control command shown in FIG. 7 is an example, and the control command according to the present invention is not limited to this.

  The control command transmitted from the main control unit 110 to the effect control unit 120 and the subsequent control unit 180 is composed of 1-byte data, and 1-byte “MODE” for identifying the control command classification. And 1-byte “DATA” information indicating the detailed control contents of each control command.

  Information on “MODE” and information on “DATA” are stored in advance in the main ROM 110b for control commands (normal control commands) used for normal game processing other than key commands. In the case of a key command, the information of “MODE” is the same as that of a normal control command (for example, assigned to “EDH” in FIG. 7). On the other hand, the “DATA” information is 1-byte key data (for example, “XX” in FIG. 7) determined before the key data output to the main CPU 110a from the control unit 501 constituting the authentication information generation unit 500. H ") is used. Note that the key data is appropriately updated at a timing preset in the control unit 501. Therefore, at least the amount of information that can be taken by the key data at the time of updating the key data is prepared as the type of information of “DATA” constituting the key command. For example, “○ × It is appropriately changed such as “H” → “ΔH” → “□ × H”.

The “designation designating command” indicates the type of the special symbol that is stopped and displayed. The “MODE” information is set as “E0H”, and the “DATA” information is set according to the special symbol type. ing. Since the special symbol type eventually determines the jackpot type and gaming state, the effect symbol designation command can also be said to indicate the jackpot type and gaming state.
In the effect symbol designation command, when various special symbols are determined and the variation display of the special symbol is started, an effect symbol designation command corresponding to the determined special symbol is transmitted to the effect control unit 120. Specifically, when the lottery result of the jackpot is determined, various special symbols are determined, and the variation display of the special symbols is started, an effect designating command corresponding to the determined special symbol is transmitted to the main RAM 110c. Set in the data storage area. Thereafter, the effect designating command set in the transmission data storage area is immediately transmitted to the effect control unit 120.
The process related to the jackpot lottery related to the production symbol designation command will be described later.

The “first special symbol memory designation command” indicates the number of reserved memories stored in the first special symbol reservation number (U1) storage area, and the information of “MODE” is set to “E1H”, “DATA” information is set according to the number of memories.
This first special symbol memory designation command is effect-controlled by the first special symbol memory designation command corresponding to the number of reserved memories when the number of reserved memories stored in the first special symbol reservation number (U1) storage area is switched. Is transmitted to the unit 120. Specifically, when the value stored in the first special symbol hold number (U1) storage area is increased or decreased when determining the result of entering the first start port 14 or the big win lottery result, the reserved memory after the increase or decrease is stored. The first special symbol storage designation command corresponding to the number is set in the transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Thereafter, the first special symbol storage designation command set in the transmission data storage area is immediately transmitted to the effect control unit 120.

The “second special symbol memory designation command” indicates the number of reserved memories stored in the second special symbol reservation number (U2) storage area, and the information of “MODE” is set to “E2H”, “DATA” information is set according to the number of memories.
This second special symbol memory designation command is directed by the second special symbol memory designation command corresponding to the number of reserved memories when the number of reserved memories stored in the second special symbol reservation number (U2) storage area is switched. Is transmitted to the unit 120. Specifically, when the value stored in the second special symbol holding number (U2) storage area is increased or decreased in determining the result of entering the second starting port 15 or the jackpot lottery result, the holding storage after the increase / decrease is performed. The second special symbol storage designation command corresponding to the number is set in the transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Thereafter, the second special symbol storage designation command set in the transmission data storage area is immediately transmitted to the effect control unit 120.
In the first embodiment, the “first special symbol memory designation command” and the “second special symbol memory designation command” are collectively referred to as “special symbol memory designation command”.

The “symbol confirmation command” indicates that the special symbol is stopped and displayed, and “MODE” information is set to “E3H” and “DATA” information is set to “00H”.
This symbol confirmation command is transmitted to the effect control unit 120 when the special symbol is stopped and displayed. Specifically, after determining the jackpot lottery result and the special symbol change time has elapsed, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21, the symbol confirmation command Is set in the transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Thereafter, the symbol confirmation command set in the transmission data storage area is immediately transmitted to the effect control unit 120.

The “power-on designation command” indicates that the gaming machine 1 is powered on, the “MODE” information is set to “E4H”, and the “DATA” information is set to “00H”. ing.
This power-on specification command is transmitted to the effect control unit 120 and the subsequent control unit 180 when the gaming machine 1 is powered on. When the gaming machine 1 is powered on and the initialization process of the main control unit 110 is performed, if the backup information of the main RAM 110c generated when the power is turned off (hereinafter referred to as “power interruption”) is not valid, The work area in the RAM 110c is cleared and a new work area is set. Thereafter, a power-on designation command is set in the transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Thereafter, the power-on designation command set in the transmission data storage area is immediately transmitted to the subsequent control unit 180 via the effect control unit 120 and the effect control unit 120.
The initialization process related to the power-on designation command and the like will be described later.

The “RAM clear designation command” indicates that the information stored in the main RAM 110c has been cleared. The “MODE” information is set to “E4H” and the “DATA” information is set to “01H”. Has been.
A RAM clear button (not shown) is provided on the back side of the gaming machine 1. When the gaming machine 1 is turned on while pressing the RAM clear button, a system reset occurs in the main control unit 110 and initialization processing is performed. . After the work area of the main RAM 110c is cleared and a new work area is set and a power-on designation command is transmitted, the RAM clear designation command is set in the transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Thereafter, the RAM clear designation command set in the transmission data storage area is immediately transmitted to the subsequent control unit 180 via the effect control unit 120 and the effect control unit 120.

The “power restoration designation command” indicates that the gaming machine 1 is turned on and has been restored normally. The “MODE” information is set to “E4H” and is matched according to the gaming state at the time of power interruption. "DATA" information is set.
This power supply restoration designation command is transmitted to the effect control unit 120 when the gaming machine 1 is turned on and normally restored. Specifically, when the gaming machine 1 is turned on and the initialization process is performed, if the backup information of the main RAM 110c generated at the time of power interruption is valid, the power is restored according to the gaming state indicated by the backup information. A designated command is generated, and the generated power supply restoration designation command is set in the transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Thereafter, the power restoration designation command set in the transmission data storage area is immediately transmitted to the subsequent control unit 180 via the effect control unit 120 and the effect control unit 120.

The “demonstration designation command” indicates that the first special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21 is not operating, the information of “MODE” is set to “E5H”, and “DATA” Is set to “00H”.
This demonstration designation command is transmitted to the effect control unit 120 when there is no special symbol holding storage of the first special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21. Specifically, when the jackpot lottery, the special electric accessory, and the gaming state are controlled, either the first special symbol hold number (U1) storage area or the second special symbol hold number (U2) storage area When one or more data is not set, the demo designation command is set in the transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Thereafter, the demonstration designation command set in the transmission data storage area is immediately transmitted to the effect control unit 120.

The “variation pattern designation command for the first special symbol” indicates the variation time (variation mode) of the special symbol in the first special symbol display device 20, the information of “MODE” is set as “E6H”, and various “DATA” information is set in accordance with the fluctuation pattern.
The first special symbol variation pattern designation command is a first special symbol variation pattern corresponding to the variation pattern of the special symbol determined when the special symbol variation display of the first special symbol display device 20 is started. A designation command is transmitted to the effect control unit 120. Specifically, the variation pattern for the first special symbol corresponding to the determined variation pattern of the special symbol when the variation pattern of the special symbol is determined and the variation display of the special symbol is started by judging the lottery result of the jackpot The designated command is set in the transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Thereafter, the first special symbol variation pattern designation command set in the transmission data storage area is immediately transmitted to the effect control unit 120.

The “variable pattern designation command for the second special symbol” indicates the variation time (variation mode) of the special symbol in the second special symbol display device 21, and the information of “MODE” is set to “E7H”. “DATA” information is set in accordance with the fluctuation pattern.
The second special symbol variation pattern designation command is a second special symbol variation pattern corresponding to the variation pattern of the special symbol determined when the special symbol variation display of the second special symbol display device 21 is started. A designation command is transmitted to the effect control unit 120. Specifically, the variation pattern for the second special symbol corresponding to the determined variation pattern of the special symbol when the variation pattern of the special symbol is determined and the variation display of the special symbol is started by judging the lottery lottery result The designated command is set in the transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Thereafter, the second special symbol variation pattern designation command set in the transmission data storage area is immediately transmitted to the effect control unit 120.
In the first embodiment, the “first special symbol variation pattern designation command” and the “second special symbol variation pattern designation command” are collectively referred to as a “variation pattern designation command”.

The “big prize opening opening designation command” indicates the number of rounds of jackpots according to various types of jackpots, and “MODE” information is set as “EAH”, and “DATA” is set according to the number of rounds of jackpots. Information is set.
With respect to the special winning opening opening designation command, when the big hit round is started, the big winning opening opening designation command corresponding to the started round number is transmitted to the effect control unit 120. Specifically, when the first big prize opening / closing door 16b (or the second big prize opening / closing door 17b) is opened in the big hit game process, the big winning opening opening designation command corresponding to the number of rounds to be opened is It is set in the transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Thereafter, the special winning opening opening designation command set in the transmission data storage area is immediately transmitted to the effect control unit 120.

The “opening designation command” indicates that various jackpots start, “MODE” information is set as “EBH”, and “DATA” information is set according to the jackpot type.
As for this opening designation command, when various jackpots start, an opening designation command corresponding to the type of jackpot is transmitted to the effect control unit 120. Specifically, at the start of the jackpot game process, an opening designation command corresponding to the jackpot type is set in the transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Thereafter, the opening designation command set in the transmission data storage area is immediately transmitted to the effect control unit 120.

“Ending designation command” indicates that various jackpots have ended, “MODE” information is set as “ECH”, and “DATA” information is set according to the jackpot type.
As for the ending designation command, when various jackpots are completed, the ending designation command corresponding to the jackpot type is transmitted to the effect control unit 120. Specifically, at the start of the jackpot game end process, an ending designation command corresponding to the jackpot type is set in the transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Thereafter, the ending designation command set in the transmission data storage area is immediately transmitted to the effect control unit 120.

The “gaming state designation command” indicates the contents of the gaming state, the information of “MODE” is set as “EDH”, and the information of “DATA” is set according to the contents of the gaming state.
As for the gaming state designation command, the gaming state designation command is transmitted to the effect control unit 120 at the start and end of the variation of the special symbol. Specifically, when the value of various storage areas storing data indicating the current gaming state, such as the gaming state storage area and the high probability game number counter, changes due to the start and end of the change of the special symbol A gaming state designation command corresponding to the current gaming state is set in the transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Thereafter, the gaming state designation command set in the transmission data storage area is immediately transmitted to the effect control unit 120.

The “key command” indicates that the authentication data is decrypted in order to execute the authentication process in the gaming machine 1, and the information of “MODE” is set as “EEH”, and “key command” is set according to various key data. DATA "information is set.
This key command is transmitted to the subsequent control unit 180 via the effect control unit 120 when the gaming machine 1 executes the authentication process. When receiving the key command from the main control unit 110 via the effect control unit 120, the latter stage control unit 180 decrypts the authentication data using the key command and starts the authentication process, and performs processing according to the obtained authentication result. I do. The timing for executing the authentication process in the gaming machine 1 can basically be set arbitrarily. However, since the effect control unit 120 needs to execute the effect process as the normal game progresses in addition to the authentication process, it is desirable to suppress the processing load of the authentication process in the effect control unit 120 as much as possible. Therefore, for example, it is conceivable that the gaming machine 1 executes an authentication process at the time of resetting or starting a demonstration.

  For example, when the transmission timing of the key command is set to be reset, the key command is transmitted to the subsequent control unit 180 via the effect control unit 120 when the RAM clear designation command or the power supply restoration designation command is transmitted. Specifically, the key command is generated after a predetermined time has elapsed after the RAM clear designation command or the power recovery designation command is set in the transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c and the command transmission processing is performed. The key data acquired from 500 is configured and set in the transmission data storage area. Thereafter, the key command set in the transmission data storage area is immediately transmitted to the subsequent control unit 180 via the effect control unit 120.

  Further, for example, when the transmission timing of the key command is set to the time of starting the demonstration, the key command is transmitted to the subsequent control unit 180 via the effect control unit 120 in response to the transmission of the demonstration designation command. Specifically, the key command is a key acquired from the authentication information generating unit 500 after a predetermined time has elapsed since the demonstration designation command is set in the transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c and the command transmission process is performed. It is configured using data, and is transmitted to the subsequent control unit 180 via the effect control unit 120. In the first embodiment, a description will be given assuming that a key command is transmitted to the subsequent control unit 180 via the effect control unit 120 at the time of reset, that is, triggered by transmission of a RAM clear designation command or a power recovery designation command.

[Control processing of main control unit]
Hereinafter, the control process of the main control unit 110 of the gaming machine 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described. First, main processing of the main control unit 110 will be described.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing main processing by the main control unit 110 according to the first embodiment.

  When the gaming machine 1 is powered on and powered by the power supply unit 170, a system reset occurs in the main control unit 110, and the main CPU 110a performs initialization processing (processing from step S1 to step S19 in FIG. 8). ) And random number value update processing (steps S20 and S30 in FIG. 8).

In step S1, the main CPU 110a performs a boot process as a premise of the initialization process of the main control unit 110. In this boot process, the main CPU 110a performs its own self-diagnosis process, initializes built-in circuits and peripheral circuits, and sets initial values. Details of the boot process will be described later.
In step S2, the main CPU 110a sets permission to access the main RAM 110c.
In step S3, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not the RAM clear switch is on. If it is determined that the RAM clear switch is on, the main CPU 110a shifts the processing to step S10 to perform RAM clear. On the other hand, if the RAM clear switch is not determined to be on, the process proceeds to step S4.

In step S4, the main CPU 110a generates a checksum in a predetermined storage area of the main RAM 110c when the power is turned on.
In step S5, the main CPU 110a compares the generated checksum with the checksum in the predetermined storage area of the main RAM 110c generated at the time of power interruption. If they match, it is determined to be normal, and the process proceeds to step S6. If they do not match, it is determined to be an error, and the process proceeds to step S10.
In step S <b> 6, the main CPU 110 a adjusts the start timing of the operation after activation between the peripheral unit 300 including the effect control unit 120 and the subsequent control unit 180. Specifically, after all of the peripheral unit 300 and the subsequent stage control unit 180 are activated and become stable, the apparatus waits for a certain period of time so that the rendering process can be started at substantially the same timing.

In step S7, the main CPU 110a sets an initial value in the work area of the main RAM 110c that requires an initial value upon recovery from power interruption, and performs a RAM setting process when backup is valid.
In step S8, the main CPU 110a reads the backup information of the main RAM 110c generated at the time of power interruption in order to restore the gaming state at the time of power interruption. Specifically, the game state information is read from the game state storage area of the main RAM 110c that is backed up.
In step S9, the main CPU 110a determines a power restoration designation command based on the read gaming state information, and sets the decided power restoration designation command in the transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c.

In step S <b> 10, the main CPU 110 a performs timing adjustment between the peripheral unit 300 and the rear control unit 180 in the same manner as in step S <b> 6.
In step S11, the main CPU 110a clears the used area of the main RAM 110c.
In step S12, the main CPU 110a sets initial values in the work area of the main RAM 110c that requires initial values when initializing the gaming machine 1, including setting initial values of various random numbers, and backup is not valid. In this case, the main RAM 110c is set.

In step S13, the main CPU 110a generates a power-on designation command, and sets the generated power-on designation command in the transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c.
In step S <b> 14, the main CPU 110 a performs a command transmission process for transmitting the control command set in the transmission data storage area to the effect control unit 120 and the subsequent control unit 180. That is, the power-on designation command is transmitted to the subsequent control unit 180 via the effect control unit 120 and the effect control unit 120.

In step S15, the main CPU 110a generates a RAM clear designation command, and sets the generated RAM clear designation command in the transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c.
In step S <b> 16, the main CPU 110 a performs a command transmission process for transmitting a control command set in the transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110 c to the effect control unit 120 and the subsequent control unit 180. That is, the control command of either the power supply restoration designation command or the RAM clear designation command is transmitted to the rear stage control unit 180 via the production control unit 120 and the production control unit 120.
In step S <b> 17, the main CPU 110 a sets the interrupt permission and sets the execution period (α, for example, 4 milliseconds) of the timer interrupt program.

In step S18, the main CPU 110a generates a key command, and sets the generated key command in the transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Specifically, the main CPU 110a sends the key data to the control unit 501 constituting the authentication information generating unit 500 after the timer interrupt program execution cycle (α) has elapsed since the setting of the interrupt permission in step S17. A read signal is output, and key data generated in advance by the control unit 501 is acquired. Thereafter, a key command is constructed using the acquired key data and set in the transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c.
In step S19, the main CPU 110a performs a command transmission process for transmitting a control command set in the transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c to the effect control unit 120 and the subsequent control unit 180. That is, the key command is transmitted to the subsequent control unit 180 via the effect control unit 120 and the effect control unit 120. Note that the command transmission processing in step S14 and step S16 may be performed in the timer interrupt processing, similarly to the command transmission processing in step S19. At this time, it is determined in advance that the transmission order of each control command is not changed. Details of authentication processing including generation and transmission of key commands will be described later.

In step S20, the main CPU 110a performs an effect random number update process for updating the reach determination random number value and the special figure variation random value for determining the variation mode (variation time) of the special symbol.
In step S30, the main CPU 110a performs an initial random number value updating process for updating the special symbol determining initial random number value, the big hit symbol initial random number value, the small hit symbol initial random number value, and the normal symbol determining initial random number value. Thereafter, the processes in steps S20 and S30 are repeated until a predetermined interrupt process is performed.

Next, interrupt processing of the main control unit 110 will be described.
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing interrupt processing by the main control unit 110 according to the first embodiment.
The main CPU 110a performs timer interruption processing of the main control unit 110 at predetermined intervals (α) based on a clock signal output from a clock pulse generation circuit (not shown) provided in the main control unit 110. Run.

  First, in step S100, the main CPU 110a saves the information stored in the register of the main CPU 110a to the stack area.

  In step S110, the main CPU 110a updates the special symbol time counter, updates the special game timer counter such as the opening time of the special electric accessory, updates the normal symbol time counter, and updates the normal power release time counter. A time control process for updating various timer counters is performed. Specifically, a process of subtracting 1 from a special symbol time counter, a special game timer counter, a normal symbol time counter, and a general electricity open time counter is performed.

In step S120, the main CPU 110a performs a random number update process for the special symbol determination random number value, the big hit symbol random number value, the small hit symbol random number value, and the normal symbol determination random number value.
Specifically, 1 is added to each random number value and random number counter to be updated. When the added random number counter exceeds the maximum value in the random number range (when the random number counter makes one revolution), the random number counter is returned to 0, and each random number value is newly updated from the initial random number value at that time. .

  In step S130, as in step S30, the main CPU 110a updates the initial random number value for special symbol determination, the initial random number value for jackpot symbol, the initial random number value for small bonus symbol, and the initial random number value for normal symbol determination. Perform numerical value update processing.

  In step S200, the main CPU 110a performs input control processing. In this process, the main CPU 110a includes a general winning opening detection switch 12a, a first large winning opening detection switch 16a, a second large winning opening detection switch 17a, a first starting opening detection switch 14a, a second starting opening detection switch 15a, a gate. An input process for determining whether or not there is an input to each switch of the detection switch 13a is performed.

  Specifically, various detection signals from the general winning opening detecting switch 12a, the first big winning opening detecting switch 16a, the second large winning opening detecting switch 17a, the first starting opening detecting switch 14a, and the second starting opening detecting switch 15a. Is inputted, predetermined data is added to the prize ball counter used for the prize ball provided for each prize opening and updated.

  Furthermore, when a detection signal is input from the first start port detection switch 14a, if the data set in the first special symbol hold number (U1) storage area is less than 4, the first special symbol hold number ( U1) Add 1 to the storage area to obtain special symbol determination random number value, jackpot symbol random number value, small hit symbol random number value, reach determination random value, and special symbol variation random value The random number value is stored in a predetermined storage unit (0th storage unit to 4th storage unit) in the first special symbol random value storage area.

  Similarly, when a detection signal is input from the second start port detection switch 15a, if the data set in the second special symbol hold number (U2) storage area is less than 4, the second special symbol hold number (U2) 1 is added to the storage area, and a special symbol determination random number value, a big hit symbol random number value, a small hit symbol random number value, a reach determination random number value, and a special symbol variation random value are acquired. Various random numbers are stored in a predetermined storage unit (0th storage unit to 4th storage unit) in the second special symbol random number value storage area.

  When a detection signal is input from the gate detection switch 13a, if the data set in the normal symbol hold number (G) storage area is less than 4, the normal symbol hold number (G) storage area is set to 1. It adds, acquires the random number value for normal symbol determination, and memorize | stores the acquired random number value for normal symbol determination in the predetermined memory | storage part (0th memory | storage part-4th memory | storage part) in a normal symbol holding | maintenance storage area.

  Further, when a detection signal is input from the first grand prize opening detection switch 16a or the second big prize opening detection switch 17a, the number of game balls won in the first big prize opening 16 or the second big prize opening 17 is counted. 1 is added to the number of entries (C) storage area for the big winning opening to update.

  In step S300, the main CPU 110a, based on the input control process in step S200, performs a special symbol / special electric accessory control process (hereinafter referred to as “a special jackpot lottery, a special electric accessory, and a gaming state control”. Special figure special electricity control process ”). Details of the special figure special electric control process will be described later with reference to FIG.

In step S400, the main CPU 110a performs a normal symbol / ordinary electric accessory control process (hereinafter referred to as a “general-purpose electric power control process”) for performing the normal symbol lottery and the control of the ordinary electric accessory.
Specifically, it is first determined whether or not 1 or more data is set in the normal symbol hold count (G) storage area, and 1 or more data must be set in the normal symbol hold count (G) storage area. If this is the case, the current ordinary power transmission control process is terminated.

If 1 or more data is set in the normal symbol holding number (G) storage area, after subtracting 1 from the value stored in the normal symbol holding number (G) storage area, the data is in the normal symbol holding storage area. The normal symbol determination random numbers stored in the first storage unit to the fourth storage unit are shifted to the previous storage unit. At this time, the normal symbol determination random value already written in the 0th storage unit is overwritten and erased.
Then, referring to the hit determination table, a process is performed to determine whether or not the normal symbol determination random number value stored in the 0th storage unit of the normal symbol hold storage area is a random value corresponding to “win”. Thereafter, the normal symbol display device 22 displays the fluctuation of the normal symbol. When the fluctuation time of the normal symbol elapses, the normal symbol corresponding to the result of the normal symbol lottery is stopped and displayed. If the random number for normal symbol determination referred to is “winning”, the start opening / closing solenoid 15c is driven to control the second start opening 15 to the second mode for a predetermined opening time.

  In step S500, the main CPU 110a performs a payout control process. In this payout control process, the main CPU 110 a refers to each prize ball counter, generates payout number designation commands corresponding to various winning ports, and transmits the generated payout number designation commands to the payout control unit 130. To do.

  In step S600, the main CPU 110a, external information data, start opening / closing solenoid data, first big prize opening opening / closing solenoid data, second big prize opening opening / closing solenoid data, special symbol display device data, normal symbol display device data, number of stored Performs data creation for the specified command.

In step S700, the main CPU 110a performs output control processing. In this process, port output processing is performed for outputting signals of the external information data, the start opening / closing solenoid data, the first big prize opening / closing solenoid data, and the second big prize opening / closing solenoid data created in step S600.
Further, the special symbol display device data and the normal symbol display device data created in S600 are used to turn on the LEDs of the first special symbol display device 20, the second special symbol display device 21 and the normal symbol display device 22. Display device output processing is performed.
Further, command transmission processing is also performed for transmitting the control command set in the transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110 c to the subsequent control unit 180 via the effect control unit 120 or the effect control unit 120.

  In step S800, the main CPU 110a restores the information saved in step S100 to the register of the main CPU 110a.

Next, the special figure special electric control process of the main control unit 110 will be described.
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a special figure special power control process by the main control unit 110 according to the first embodiment.

  In step S301, the main CPU 110a reads the value of the special figure special electricity processing data. This “Special Figure Special Electric Processing Data” is a value assigned to the address of the storage area in which each subroutine of the special figure special electric control process is stored, and which subroutine is processed by referring to the special figure special electric processing data. You can identify what to do. The special figure special electricity processing data is set as necessary in each subroutine of the special figure special electricity control processing as will be described later, and the subroutine necessary for the game is appropriately processed.

  In step S302, the main CPU 110a refers to the branch address from the read special figure special processing data, and if special figure special electric treatment data = 0, the main CPU 110a moves the processing to the special symbol storage determination process (step S310). If data = 1, the process moves to the special symbol variation process (step S320), and if the special figure special electricity process data = 2, the process moves to the special symbol stop process (step S330), and the special figure special electricity process data = 3. If there is, the process moves to the jackpot game process (step S340). If the special figure special electric processing data = 4, the process moves to the big hit game end process (step S350), and if the special figure special electric process data = 5, the small hit game. The process moves to an end process (step S360).

  In the special symbol memory determination process in step S310, the main CPU 110a performs a jackpot determination process, a special symbol determination process for determining a special symbol to be stopped and displayed, a variation time determination process for determining a variation time of the special symbol, and the like. Here, the specific content of the special symbol memory determination process will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart of the special symbol memory determination process performed by the main control unit 110 according to the first embodiment.

In step S311, the main CPU 110a determines whether one or more data is set in the first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area or the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area.
If one or more data is not set in any storage area of the first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area or the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area, the special figure special electricity processing data = 0. The special symbol variation process of this time is terminated while holding.
On the other hand, if one or more data is set in the first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area or the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area, the process proceeds to step S312.

In step S312, the main CPU 110a performs a jackpot determination process.
Specifically, when one or more data is set in the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area, 1 is calculated from the value stored in the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area. After subtraction, various random numbers stored in the first to fourth storage units in the second special symbol random number storage area are shifted to the previous storage unit. At this time, various random values already written in the 0th storage unit are overwritten and deleted. Then, referring to the jackpot determination table, whether the special symbol determination random number value stored in the 0th storage unit of the second special symbol random value storage area is a random value corresponding to “big hit” or “small hit” It is determined whether it is a random value corresponding to.

  In addition, when one or more data is not set in the second special symbol hold number (U2) storage area and one or more data is set in the first special symbol hold number (U1) storage area, Various random numbers stored in the first to fourth storage units in the first special symbol random number storage area after subtracting 1 from the value stored in the first special symbol hold number (U1) storage area Is shifted to the previous storage unit. Also at this time, various random numbers already written in the 0th storage unit are overwritten and deleted. Then, referring to the jackpot determination table, whether the special symbol determination random number value stored in the 0th storage unit of the first special symbol random number storage area is a random value corresponding to “big hit” or “small hit” It is determined whether it is a random value corresponding to.

  In the first embodiment, the random number value stored in the second special symbol random value storage area is shifted (digested) with priority over the first special symbol random value storage area. However, the first special symbol storage area or the second special symbol storage area may be shifted in the order of winning in the starting opening, and the first special symbol storage area is given priority over the second special symbol storage area. You may let them.

In step S313, the main CPU 110a performs a special symbol determination process for determining the type of special symbol to be stopped and displayed.
In this special symbol determination process, when it is determined as “big hit” in the jackpot determination process (step S312), the symbol determination table is referred to and stored in the 0th storage unit of the first special symbol random value storage area. The jackpot symbol (special symbol 1 to special symbol 6) is determined based on the random number value for the jackpot symbol. In addition, when it is determined as “small hit” in the big hit determination process (step S312), the small hit stored in the 0th storage unit of the first special symbol random value storage area with reference to the symbol determination table. Based on the symbol random number value, the small hit symbol (special symbol A, special symbol B) is determined. If it is determined that the game has been “lost” in the jackpot determination process (step S312), the lost symbol (special symbol 0) is determined with reference to the symbol determination table.
Then, stop symbol data corresponding to the determined special symbol is stored in the stop symbol data storage area.

In step S314, the main CPU 110a performs special symbol variation time determination processing.
Specifically, referring to the variation pattern determination table, based on the reach determination random number value and the special diagram variation random value stored in the 0th storage unit of the first special symbol random value storage area, the special symbol Determine the variation pattern. Thereafter, the variation time of the special symbol corresponding to the determined variation pattern of the special symbol is determined. Then, a process of setting a counter corresponding to the determined variation time of the special symbol in the special symbol time counter is performed.

In step S315, the main CPU 110a sets, in a predetermined processing area, variation display data for causing the first special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21 to perform special symbol variation display (LED blinking). . As a result, when the variable display data is set in the predetermined processing area, the LED lighting / extinguishing data is appropriately created in step S600, and the created data is output in step S700. Variation display of the special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21 is performed.
Further, the main CPU 110a, when the special symbol variation display is started, the special symbol variation pattern designation command (the first special symbol variation pattern designation command) corresponding to the variation pattern of the special symbol determined in step S314. Alternatively, the second special symbol variation pattern designation command) is set in the transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c.

  In step S316, the main CPU 110a sets the special symbol special electricity processing data = 0 to the special symbol special electric treatment data = 1, prepares to move to the special symbol variation processing subroutine, and ends the special symbol memory determination processing.

The description of the special figure special electric control process shown in FIG. 10 will be returned.
In the special symbol variation process of step S320, the main CPU 110a performs a process of determining whether or not the special symbol variation time has elapsed.
Specifically, it is determined whether or not the variation time of the special symbol determined in step S314 has elapsed (special symbol time counter = 0), and if it is determined that the variation time of the special symbol has not elapsed The special symbol variation process is terminated while the special symbol special electricity processing data = 1 is held. Note that the special symbol variation time counter set in step S314 is subtracted in step S110.

If it is determined that the variation time of the special symbol has elapsed, the special symbol determined in step S313 is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21. Thereby, the special symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21, and the player is notified of the jackpot determination result.
When the number of high probability games (X)> 0, 1 is subtracted from the high probability game number (X) counter and updated. When the number of high probability games (X) = 0, the high probability game flag is cleared. .
Finally, the special symbol special power processing data = 1 is set to the special symbol special power processing data = 2, preparation is made to move to a special symbol stop processing subroutine, and the special symbol variation processing is terminated.

In the special symbol stop process in step S330, the main CPU 110a performs a process of determining whether the special symbol that is stopped and displayed is a “big hit symbol”, a “small bonus symbol”, or a “losing symbol”. Do.
When it is determined that the game is a jackpot symbol, the data stored in the gaming state storage area is referred to and data indicating the current gaming state is set in the gaming state buffer. Thereafter, the data (high probability game flag) and high probability game count (X) counter stored in the game state storage area (high probability game flag storage area or the like) are cleared. Further, the special figure special power processing data = 2 is set to the special figure special electric processing data = 3, preparation is made to move to the jackpot game processing subroutine, and the special symbol stop processing is ended.

In addition, when it is determined that the small winning symbol, the data stored in the game state storage area is not cleared, and the special figure special electric processing data = 2 to the special figure special electric treatment data = 5 is set. The special symbol stop process is completed by making preparations for transferring to a winning game process subroutine.
On the other hand, if it is determined that the symbol is a lost symbol, the special symbol special electric processing data = 2 is set to special special electric symbol processing data = 0, and the special symbol memory determination processing subroutine is prepared for the special symbol stop processing. finish.

In the jackpot game process of step S340, the main CPU 110a determines which jackpot of the long hit or short hit is executed, and performs a process of controlling the determined jackpot.
Specifically, first, with reference to the special electric accessory operating mode determination table, the jackpot release mode is determined based on the type of jackpot symbol (stop symbol data) determined in step S313.

Next, in order to execute the determined jackpot opening mode, the bonus game opening mode table is referred to, the opening time corresponding to the type of jackpot is set in the special game timer counter, and the first jackpot opening / closing solenoid The drive data of 16c (or the second big prize opening / closing solenoid 17c) is output to open the first big prize opening / closing door 16b (or the second big prize opening / closing door 17b). At this time, 1 is added to the round game count (R) storage area.
When a predetermined number of game balls enter during the opening or when the opening time of the big prize opening has elapsed (the number of the big prize opening (C) = 9 or the special game timer counter = 0), The output of the drive data of the big prize opening / closing solenoid 16c (or the second big prize opening / closing solenoid 17c) is stopped, and the first big prize opening / closing door 16b (or the second big prize opening / closing door 17b) is closed. Thereby, one round game is completed. This round game control is repeated 15 times.

  When the 15 round games are completed (round game count (R) = 15), the data stored in the round game count (R) storage area and the number of winning prize entrance (C) storage areas are cleared, The special figure special electric processing data = 3 is set to the special figure special electric treatment data = 4, preparation is made to move to the big hit game end processing subroutine, and the big hit game processing is ended.

In the big hit game ending process in step S350, the main CPU 110a performs a process of determining a probability game state of either a high probability game state or a low probability game state.
Specifically, with reference to the jackpot game end setting data table, based on the data stored in the game state buffer and the type of jackpot symbol (stop symbol data) determined in step S313, the high probability game Set a flag and set the number of high probability games (X). For example, in the case of the special symbol 1, the high probability game flag is set in the high probability game flag storage area, and the high probability game number (X) counter is set to 10,000 times.
After that, the special symbol special power processing data = 4 is set to the special symbol special power processing data = 0, and preparation for moving to the special symbol memory determination processing subroutine is made, and the big hit game end processing is ended.

In the small hit game process of step S360, the main CPU 110a first refers to the special electric accessory operation mode determination table, and based on the type of small hit symbol (stop symbol data) determined in step S313 above, Determine the opening mode.
Next, in order to execute the determined small winning opening mode, the large winning opening opening mode table is referred to, and the small winning opening time is set in the special game timer counter, and the second large winning port opening / closing solenoid 17c is set. The drive data is output to open the second big prize opening / closing door 17b. At this time, 1 is added to the number-of-releases (K) storage area.
When the small winning opening time elapses (special game timer counter = 0), the drive data output of the second big prize opening / closing solenoid 17c is stopped and the second big prize opening / closing door 17b is closed. The opening / closing control of the second big prize opening opening / closing door 17b is repeated 15 times.

  Then, the opening / closing control of the second grand prize opening / closing door 17b is performed 15 times, or a predetermined number of game balls enter the second big prize opening 17 (the number of times of opening (K) = 15 or the grand prize opening entrance) Number (C) = 9), in order to end the small hit game, the output of the drive data of the second large winning opening / closing solenoid 17c is stopped, the number of times of opening (K) storage area and the number of winning winning holes (C) Clear the data stored in the storage area, set special figure special electricity processing data = 5 to special figure special electricity treatment data = 0, and prepare to move to a special symbol memory judgment processing subroutine. The winning game process is terminated.

[Control processing related to authentication processing of the main control unit]
Hereinafter, the control process regarding the authentication process of the main control unit 110 of the gaming machine 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described. First, the boot process of the main control unit 110 will be described.
When the gaming machine 1 is powered on, a system reset occurs in the main control unit 110, and the main CPU 110a performs a boot process of the main control unit 110 based on a boot processing program stored in advance in the boot ROM 110d. .
FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a boot process performed by the main control unit 110 according to the first embodiment.

In step S51, the main CPU 110a sets the internal state to interrupt prohibition.
In step S52, the main CPU 110a performs a self-diagnosis process for checking whether or not the main CPU 110a itself can operate normally after initialization. As a result of the self-diagnosis process, if it can operate normally, the process proceeds to step S53, and if it cannot operate normally, the subsequent process is not performed.

  In step S53, the main CPU 110a performs an initial value setting process for a built-in circuit or the like. Specifically, the main CPU 110a sets the stack point designation address in the stack pointer, initializes the internal register, initializes the internal circuit and peripheral circuits of the one-chip microcomputer 110m, and initializes the input / output ports. I do. Then, the main CPU 110a sets various initial values to these built-in circuits that require initial values. At this time, the main CPU 110a performs the same process for each component of the authentication information generation unit 500, and performs an initial value setting process for the authentication information generation unit 500.

  In step S54, the main CPU 110a performs an authentication parameter setting process on the authentication information generation unit 500. Specifically, the main CPU 110a outputs a read signal for reading an authentication parameter for the authentication information generation unit 500 to the main ROM 110b. Then, the main CPU 110a takes in the authentication parameter output from the main ROM 110b by the read signal via the internal bus 550. Subsequently, the main CPU 110a outputs a write signal for writing the acquired authentication parameter to the control unit 501 of the authentication information generation unit 500. Then, the main CPU 110a sets the authentication parameter output from the main CPU 110a in response to the write signal to the authentication parameter storage area of the control unit 501 via the internal bus 550. Note that the authentication parameter setting process in step S54 is a special feature among the initial value setting processes performed by the main CPU 110a that sets the authentication parameters in the authentication information generation unit 500. Therefore, as part of the initial value setting process. It is also possible to configure so as to be performed in step S53.

  In step S55, the authentication information generation unit 500 performs cryptographic circuit operation processing. Specifically, the control unit 501 configuring the authentication information generation unit 500 uses a plurality of types of encryptions that configure the authentication information generation unit 500 according to the authentication parameters set in the authentication parameter storage area according to the algorithm held by the control unit 501. It is confirmed which of the circuits 502 corresponds to which encryption circuit 502. Then, the control unit 501 outputs an operation permission signal that validates the encryption circuit 502 to the encryption circuit 502 indicated by the authentication parameter, and validates only the connection of the data output unit 504 with the encryption circuit 502. Outputs a connection switching signal. In the first embodiment, the control unit 501 outputs an operation permission signal that enables only the encryption circuit A of the plurality of types of encryption circuits 502, and sets only the encryption circuit A to operate effectively. Is done. In addition, the control unit 501 outputs a connection switching signal that enables only the connection between the data output unit 504 and the encryption circuit A. Therefore, valid data is output only from the encryption circuit A.

Next, an authentication process of the main control unit 110 including the authentication data generation / transmission process and the key command determination / transmission process will be described.
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an authentication process in the main control unit 110 according to the first embodiment.

  In step S71, after the boot process of the main control unit 110 is completed and the authentication information generation unit 500 is activated, the authentication information generation unit 500 performs the current authentication according to the algorithm held by itself, regardless of an instruction from the main CPU 110a. Starts determination of key data to be used for processing. The timing for determining the key data is not particularly limited as long as it is after the encryption circuit is activated in the boot process and before the authentication data generation process in step S73 described later. The control unit 501 constituting the authentication information generation unit 500 can use, for example, a random value generated by a key data random number generation unit or the like as key data. The control unit 501 sets the determined key data in its own key data storage area, and transfers it to the encryption circuit 502 that is enabled by the encryption circuit operation processing.

  In step S72, the authentication information generation unit 500 reads the inspection value stored in the main ROM 110b, performs encryption processing on the inspection value, and generates authentication data. Specifically, the control unit 501 constituting the authentication information generating unit 500 outputs a read signal for reading data stored at a specific address of the main ROM 110b that is predetermined for the test value. Then, the control unit 501 takes the inspection value output from the main ROM 110b by the read signal into the data input unit 503 constituting the authentication information generation unit 500 via the internal bus 550. The inspection value taken into the data input unit 503 is transferred to the encryption circuit 502 as it is.

  In step S <b> 73, the authentication information generation unit 500 performs an encryption process on the acquired inspection value to generate authentication data. Specifically, the encryption circuit 502 uses the key data received from the control unit 501 in step S71 and the inspection value fetched from the main ROM 110b in step S72, and is effective during the boot process of the main control unit 110. And is set in the authentication data storage area of the data output unit 504. In the first embodiment, only the encryption circuit A of the encryption circuit 502 operates, and the acquired inspection value and key data are calculated by the encryption method A represented by the encryption circuit A, and the authentication data A is obtained. Generate. The generated authentication data A is transferred to the data output unit 504 and held until the transmission timing of the authentication data.

  In step S74, the main CPU 110a performs an initialization process including a boot process, and then performs a command transmission process for transmitting a control command to the effect control unit 120 and the subsequent control unit 180 (step S16 in FIG. 8). At this time, the main CPU 110a outputs a control command set in the transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c to the transmission unit 520, and transmits the control command to the effect control unit 120 and the subsequent control unit 180. Specifically, the main CPU 110a outputs a write signal for writing a control command to be output to the data input unit 521 constituting the transmission unit 520. Then, the main CPU 110a writes and sets the control command set in the transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c to the data input unit 521 via the internal bus 550.

  In step S75, when the control command is written and set, the transmission unit 520 immediately transmits to the effect control unit 120. Specifically, the data input unit 521 configuring the transmission unit 520 transfers the control command written in step S74 to the transmission circuit 522. The transmission circuit 522 immediately transmits the delivered control command to the effect control unit 120.

In step S76, the authentication information generation unit 500 assumes that the authentication data is transmitted to the effect control unit 120 after a predetermined time (β) has elapsed since the main CPU 110a sets the control command to the data input unit 521. Set the transmission timing. The transmission timing of the authentication data is set in advance by an algorithm held by the authentication information generation unit 500 regardless of an instruction from the main CPU 110a.
This timing is such a timing that it is transmitted immediately after each control command transmitted every predetermined cycle (α) in the main CPU 110a.
Specifically, the control unit 501 constituting the authentication information generation unit 500 detects a write signal output when the main CPU 110a writes a control command to the data input unit 521 in step S74, and the detected write signal is detected. input. Then, the control unit 501 has elapsed time (= β << α) from the input of the detected write signal until the control command is set after the writing of the control command to the data input unit 521 is completed. The output timing of the authentication data write signal is set at a timing at which writing of the authentication data to the data input unit 521 is started later.

  In step S77, the authentication information generation unit 500 outputs an authentication data write signal to the internal bus 550 based on the authentication data transmission timing set in step S76, and writes and sets the authentication data to the transmission unit 520. . Specifically, the control unit 501 constituting the authentication information generation unit 500 sends a write signal for writing the authentication data to be output to the data input unit 521 constituting the transmission unit 520 to the internal bus 550 at the transmission timing. Output. Then, the control unit 501 writes and sets the authentication data A held by the data output unit 504 in step S73 to the data input unit 521 via the internal bus 550.

  In step S78, when the authentication data is written and set in step S78, the transmission unit 520 immediately transmits to the effect control unit 120. Specifically, the data input unit 521 constituting the transmission unit 520 delivers the authentication data A written in step S77 to the transmission circuit 522. The transmission circuit 522 immediately transmits the passed authentication data to the effect control unit 120.

In step S79, the main CPU 110a reads the key data from the authentication information generation unit 500 after a predetermined period (α) has elapsed from the process of step S74. Specifically, the main CPU 110a gives a read signal for reading the key data stored in the key data storage area of the control unit 501 constituting the authentication information generating unit 500.
In step S80, the authentication information generation unit 500 outputs key data to the main CPU 110a. Specifically, when the key data read signal from the main CPU 110a is input, the control unit 501 constituting the authentication information generation unit 500 receives the key data determined in step S71 from the key data storage area. The data is output to the main CPU 110a via the output unit 504 and the internal bus 550.
In step S81, the main CPU 110a composes a key command using the read key data, and writes and sets it in the data input unit 521 constituting the transmission unit 520 in the same manner as in step S74.

  In step S82, when the key command is written in the data input unit 521, the transmission unit 520 immediately transmits the key command to the effect control unit 120 as in step S75. The main CPU 110a outputs a write signal when writing the key command to the data input unit 521, as in step S74. Similar to step S76, the control unit 501 constituting the authentication information generation unit 500 detects the write signal output in step S81, and uses the detected write signal as a reference for authentication used for the next authentication process. Data transmission timing can be determined.

In step S83, the authentication information generation unit 500 updates the key data by the same method as in step S71. Note that the update timing of the key data is after step S80, that is, the authentication information generation unit 500 outputs the key data in step S80 in response to the key data read signal from the main CPU 110a in step S79. After that.
If the update timing of the key data is before the output of the key data in step S80, the key data used to generate the authentication data written in the data input unit 521 in step S77 and the data input in step S81 are input. There is a risk that the key data constituting the key command written to the unit 521 will not match. Then, the latter control unit 180 cannot decrypt the authentication data even if the key command is received and the authentication process is started.
Therefore, the update timing of the key data is after the time when the authentication information generation unit 500 outputs the key data in accordance with the key data read signal from the main CPU 110a as in step S83.

  By setting the authentication data transmission timing as described above, the positional relationship on the time axis between the authentication data transmission timing and the control command transmission timing is clarified, and the authentication data transmission is performed immediately after the control command transmission. It will always be done. As a result, the post-control unit 180 does not provide a new determination processing step or special analysis means, and the correspondence relationship between the key data constituting the received key command and the key data used to generate the received authentication data. Can be easily identified. Therefore, the possibility that the decryption process cannot be executed due to the mismatch between the authentication data and the key data can be reduced, and the accuracy of the authentication process can be improved. Accordingly, the post-control unit 180 determines whether or not the received data is the authentication data only in the reception order even if an identifier is not given to the data transmitted from the main control unit 110 or identification information is not separately transmitted. Can be easily identified. Therefore, the post-stage control unit 180 can suppress an increase in code size and an increase in work man-hours due to the addition of new analysis means.

  Further, this makes it possible to add a function related to the transmission of authentication data while maintaining a low degree of coupling of the code related to the transmission of the authentication data with respect to the existing program code related to the transmission of the control command in software development. Thus, for example, during debugging, only work related to transmission of existing control commands can be performed first, and work related to transmission of authentication data can be performed later. Can be implemented.

  In addition, by setting the update timing of the key data as described above, it is possible to further reduce the possibility that the decryption process cannot be executed due to a mismatch between the authentication data and the key data during the authentication process in the post-stage control unit 180. In addition, the accuracy of the authentication process can be improved.

In FIG. 13, after a control command that is a trigger for transmitting the key command (a control command subject to transmission processing in step S74) is executed, after a time period α has elapsed, the key command is Although an example of execution is shown, the predetermined cycle is not limited to time, and a predetermined number of clocks, a predetermined number of transmissions of control commands, or the like may be used.
Also, the control command that triggers the transmission of the key command need not be limited to one type of control command. For example, when triggered by two or more types of control commands, a RAM clear designation command and a demo designation command. You may comprise. Further, the control command that triggers the transmission of the key command may be configured to be changed according to a preset rule.
Further, it is not necessary to sequentially transmit authentication data every time a control command that triggers transmission of a key command is transmitted. For example, once a control command that triggers transmission of a key command is transmitted twice. The authentication data (and key command) may be sent.

  When setting the transmission timing of authentication data, the write signal of the control command that triggers the transmission of the key command is used as a reference, the output of the write signal is detected, and then the authentication data is delayed by a predetermined time (β). It is set to start writing data. However, the present invention is not limited to this, for example, after a control command that is transmitted after a control command is transmitted a predetermined number of times or a predetermined clock with reference to a write signal of a control command that triggers transmission of a key command. The transmission timing may be set after a control command transmitted after a lapse of several times.

  Further, when setting the update timing of the key data, the update timing of the key data is set so that the authentication data is generated with new key data every time the transmission of the authentication data and the transmission of the key command are completed once. Is set. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and after a predetermined time or a predetermined number of clocks have elapsed from the output time point of the key data of the authentication information generation unit 500 in response to the key data read signal from the main CPU 110a, Alternatively, the update timing may be set after a predetermined number of times the authentication data has been transmitted.

  When the update timing is set to be after the predetermined number of authentication data transmissions, the number of transmissions may be kept below the number of authentication data that can be held in the authentication data storage area of the RAM 180c of the post-control unit 180. In this case, when the authentication data and the key data are read from the authentication data storage area and the key data storage area of the RAM 180c in the decryption process in the post-stage control unit 180, the order written in both storage areas and both The order of reading from the storage area is determined to match (so-called first-in first-out). If the arrangement is made in this way, the authentication data received immediately before receiving the key command is not limited to being decrypted. For example, the authentication data received a predetermined number of times before the key command is received. Thus, decryption processing can be performed. Further, the information indicating the predetermined number of times and the information indicating the update status of the key data may be transmitted together with the key data.

[Control processing of production control unit]
Hereinafter, the control process of the effect control unit 120 of the gaming machine 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described. First, the main process of the production control unit 120 will be described.
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing main processing by the effect control unit 120 according to the first embodiment.

  In step S1000, the sub CPU 120a performs an initialization process. In this process, the sub CPU 120a reads the program code related to the main process from the sub ROM 120b in response to power-on. At the same time, the sub CPU 120a performs a process of initializing a flag stored in the sub RAM 120c and setting it to a predetermined value. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1200.

  In step S1100, the sub CPU 120a performs an effect random number update process. In this process, the sub CPU 120a performs a process of updating the effect random number value, effect design determining random number, effect mode determining random number and the like stored in the sub RAM 120c. Thereafter, the process of step S1100 is repeated until a predetermined interrupt process is performed.

Next, the interruption process of the production control unit 120 will be described.
FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an interrupt process by the effect control unit 120 according to the first embodiment.
Based on a clock signal output from a clock pulse generation circuit (not shown) provided in the effect control unit 120, the sub CPU 120a performs timer allocation of the effect control unit 120 at predetermined intervals (for example, 2 milliseconds). Execute the included process.

In step S1200, the sub CPU 120a saves the information stored in the register of the sub CPU 120a to the stack area.
In step S1300, the sub CPU 120a performs update processing of various timer counters used in the effect control unit 120.

In step S1350, the sub CPU 120a performs relay transmission processing. In this process, the sub CPU 120a once transmits the control command and various data (hereinafter referred to as “control command etc.”) stored in the first received data storage area of the sub RAM 120c to the subsequent control unit 180 as is, A relay transmission process for relaying a control command or the like transmitted from the main control unit 110 to the subsequent control unit 180 is performed.
When receiving the control command transmitted from the main control unit 110, the receiving unit 660 constituting the effect control unit 120 outputs a signal indicating that there has been a reception interrupt request for the control command or the like from the main control unit 110. Then, a reception interrupt process such as a control command is generated.
The sub CPU 120a takes the received control command and the like from the data output unit 661 of the receiving unit 660 and stores it in the first received data storage area.
In step S1350, the sub CPU 120a writes and sets the control command and the like stored in the first reception data storage area as they are in the transmission data storage area of the sub RAM 120c.

  Subsequently, the sub CPU 120a uses the control command set in the transmission data storage area of the sub RAM 120c as transmission data, and transmits it to the subsequent control unit 180 at a relay transmission unit (not shown) constituting the effect control unit 120. Send immediately. When a control command or the like written in the first reception data storage area of the sub RAM 120c is written in the transmission data storage area of the sub RAM 120c, the order in which these control areas are written and the storage areas are used. Arrange in advance so that the reading order matches. This also applies to the case where a control command or the like is relay-transmitted again from the downstream control unit 180 to the effect control unit 120.

  By doing in this way, the transmission timing set when the main control part 110 transmits a control command etc. with respect to the production control part 120 is reflected also in each transmission timing in the relay transmission process in this step S1350. This is also reflected in the processing procedure after the next step S1500. Also, the control command received by the production control unit 120 is once transmitted to the subsequent control unit 180 as it is, so that the key command that triggers the authentication process in the subsequent control unit 180 is mixed with other control commands. Is transmitted to the subsequent control unit 180. Therefore, a person who intends to act illegally steals transmission data between the production control unit 120 and the subsequent control unit 180 and illegally analyzes the transmission timing of the key command to the subsequent control unit 180. It becomes difficult and the security strength of the gaming machine 1 can be improved.

In step S1500, the sub CPU 120a performs command analysis processing. In this processing, the sub CPU 120a performs processing for analyzing the type of the control command written in the second received data storage area of the sub RAM 120c.
The control command or the like transmitted from the main control unit 110 is relay-transmitted from the effect control unit 120 to the subsequent control unit 180 in step S1350. Thereafter, the control command or the like is relay-transmitted again from the post-stage control unit 180 to the effect control unit 120 in the same transmission order as that relay-transmitted from the effect control unit 120 to the post-stage control unit 180.
When a control command or the like relayed from the post-stage control unit 180 is received by a not-shown reception unit (different from the reception unit 660) that configures the effect control unit 120, a reception interrupt request for a control command or the like is received from the post-stage control unit 180. A signal indicating that there has been received is output, and a reception interrupt process such as a control command is generated.
The sub CPU 120a writes and stores the received control command and the like in the second received data storage area in accordance with the transmission order from the subsequent control unit 180.
If the sub CPU 120a determines in step S1500 that the data stored in the second received data storage area is a control command, the sub CPU 120a further analyzes the type and performs processing according to the type of the control command. Do. Details of the command analysis process will be described later.

In step S <b> 1700, the sub CPU 120 a checks the signal of the effect button detection switch 35 a, and performs effect input control processing related to input from the effect button 35.
In step S1800, the sub CPU 120a performs an effect output control process that is a process for transmitting the control command and various data set in the transmission data storage area of the sub RAM 120c to the lamp control unit 140 and the image control unit 150. Do.
In step S1900, the sub CPU 120a restores the information saved in step S1200 to the register of the sub CPU 120a.

Next, command analysis processing of the effect control unit 120 will be described.
16 and 17 are flowcharts showing command analysis processing by the effect control unit 120 according to the first embodiment. Note that the command analysis processing 2 in FIG. 17 is performed subsequent to the command analysis processing 1 in FIG.

In step S1501, the sub CPU 120a checks whether or not a control command is stored in the second received data storage area, and determines whether or not the control command has been received.
If the control command is not stored in the second received data storage area, the sub CPU 120a ends the command analysis process, and if the control command is stored in the second received data storage area, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1510.

In step S1510, the sub CPU 120a confirms whether or not the control command stored in the second reception data storage area is a demonstration designation command.
If the control command stored in the second received data storage area is a demo designation command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1511, and if not, moves the process to step S1520.

In step S1511, the sub CPU 120a performs a demonstration effect pattern determination process for determining a demonstration effect pattern.
Specifically, the demonstration effect pattern is determined, the determined demonstration effect pattern is set in the effect pattern storage area, and information on the determined demonstration effect pattern is transmitted to the image control unit 150 and the lamp control unit 140. An effect pattern designation command based on the demo effect pattern is set in the transmission data storage area of the sub-RAM 120c.

In step S1520, sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the control command stored in the second received data storage area is a special symbol storage designation command.
If the control command stored in the second received data storage area is a special symbol storage designation command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1521, and moves to step S1530 if it is not a special symbol storage designation command.

  In step S1521, the sub CPU 120a analyzes the special symbol storage designation command to determine the number of display images of special symbols to be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 31 (hereinafter referred to as “special diagram reserved images”). The special symbol display number designation command corresponding to the display number of the special figure reserved images is transmitted to the image control unit 150 and the lamp control unit 140, and a special symbol storage number determination process is performed.

In step S1530, sub CPU120a confirms whether the control command memorize | stored in the 2nd receiving data storage area is an effect designating command.
If the control command stored in the second received data storage area is an effect designating command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1531, and if not the effect designating command, moves the process to step S1540.

In step S1531, the sub CPU 120a performs an effect symbol determination process for determining an effect symbol 36 to be stopped and displayed on the liquid crystal display device 31 based on the content of the received effect symbol designation command.
Specifically, the effect designating command is analyzed, the effect symbol data constituting the combination of the effect symbols 36 is determined according to the presence / absence of jackpot and the type of jackpot, and the determined effect symbol data is stored in the effect symbol storage area In addition, in order to transmit the effect symbol data to the image control unit 150 and the lamp control unit 140, a stop symbol designation command indicating the effect symbol data is set in the transmission data storage area of the sub RAM 120c.

  In step S1532, the sub CPU 120a acquires one random value from the effect mode determination random value updated in step 1100, and based on the acquired effect mode determination random value and the received effect designating command, An effect mode determination process for determining one effect mode from a plurality of effect modes (for example, a normal effect mode and a chance effect mode) is performed. Further, the determined effect mode is set in the effect mode storage area.

In step S1540, the sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the control command stored in the second received data storage area is a variation pattern designation command.
If the control command stored in the second received data storage area is the variation pattern designation command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1541 and moves the process to step S1550 if it is not the variation pattern designation command.

In step S1541, the sub CPU 120a acquires one random number value from the effect random number value updated in step 1100, and sets the acquired effect random number value, the received variation pattern designation command, and the effect mode storage area. Based on the effect mode being performed, a variation effect pattern determination process for determining one variation effect pattern from a plurality of variation effect patterns is performed.
Specifically, in the normal effect mode, the variation effect pattern determination table is referred to, one change effect pattern is determined based on the acquired effect random number value, and the determined change effect pattern is stored in the effect pattern storage area. At the same time, in order to transmit the determined variation effect pattern information to the image control unit 150 and the lamp control unit 140, an effect pattern designation command based on the determined variation effect pattern is set in the transmission data storage area of the sub RAM 120c.
Thereafter, based on the effect pattern, the liquid crystal display device 31, the audio output device 32, the effect drive device 33, and the effect illumination device 34 are controlled. Note that the variation mode of the effect symbol 36 is determined based on the variation effect pattern determined here.

In step S1550, the sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the control command stored in the second received data storage area is a symbol determination command.
If the control command stored in the second received data storage area is the symbol confirmation command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1551, and moves to step S1560 if it is not the symbol confirmation command.

  In step S1551, the sub CPU 120a performs an effect symbol stop display process for setting a stop designation command for stopping the effect symbol in the transmission data storage area of the sub RAM 120c in order to stop the effect symbol 36.

In step S1560, the sub CPU 120a determines whether or not the control command stored in the second reception data storage area is a gaming state designation command.
If the control command stored in the second received data storage area is a gaming state designation command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1561, and if not the gaming command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1570.

  In step S1561, the sub CPU 120a sets data indicating the gaming state based on the received gaming state designation command in the gaming state storage area in the sub RAM 120c.

In step S1570, the sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the control command stored in the second reception data storage area is an opening designation command.
If the control command stored in the second received data storage area is an opening designation command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1571, and if not the opening command, moves the process to step S1580.

In step S1571, the sub CPU 120a performs a hit start effect pattern determination process for determining a hit start effect pattern.
Specifically, the hit start effect pattern is determined based on the opening designation command, the determined hit start effect pattern is set in the effect pattern storage area, and information on the determined hit start effect pattern is transmitted to the image controller 150 and the lamp. In order to transmit to the control unit 140, an effect pattern designation command based on the determined hit start effect pattern is set in the transmission data storage area of the sub RAM 120c.

In step S1580, the sub CPU 120a confirms whether or not the control command stored in the second reception data storage area is a special winning opening opening designation command.
If the control command stored in the second received data storage area is a big prize opening release designation command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1581, and if it is not a big prize opening opening designation command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1590. .

In step S1581, the sub CPU 120a performs a jackpot effect pattern determination process for determining a jackpot effect pattern.
Specifically, the jackpot effect pattern is determined based on the big prize opening opening designation command, the determined jackpot effect pattern is set in the effect pattern storage area, and information on the determined jackpot effect pattern is transmitted to the image controller 150 and the lamp. In order to transmit to the control unit 140, an effect pattern designation command based on the determined jackpot effect pattern is set in the transmission data storage area of the sub RAM 120c.

In step S1590, the sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the control command stored in the second received data storage area is an ending designation command.
If the control command stored in the second received data storage area is an ending designation command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1591, and if not the ending designation command, moves the process to step S1600.

In step S1591, the sub CPU 120a performs a hit end effect pattern determination process for determining a hit end effect pattern.
Specifically, the winning end effect pattern is determined based on the ending designation command, the determined hit end effect pattern is set in the effect pattern storage area, and information on the determined hit end effect pattern is stored in the image control unit 150 and the lamp. In order to transmit to the control unit 140, an effect pattern designation command based on the determined winning end effect pattern is set in the transmission data storage area of the sub RAM 120c.

In step S1600, the sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the control command stored in the second reception data storage area is a key command.
If the control command stored in the second received data storage area is a key command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1650, and if it is not a key command, ends the command analysis process.
In step S1650, the sub CPU 120a performs an authentication result data analysis process. As will be described later, an authentication result (authentication result data) generated by performing authentication processing in the post-stage control unit 180 is added to the key command transmitted from the post-stage control unit 180, but the sub CPU 120a performs this step. In S1650, authentication result data added to the key command is extracted, and processing is performed according to the content of the extracted authentication result data. The authentication process and authentication result data analysis process in the post-stage control unit 180 will be described later. When this process ends, the command analysis process ends.

Next, the authentication result data analysis process of the production control unit 120 will be described.
FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing authentication result data analysis processing by the effect control unit 120 according to the first embodiment.

  In step S1661, the sub CPU 120a determines whether or not authentication result data is added to the key command written in the second received data storage area. If the authentication result data is not added to the key command, the sub CPU 120a terminates the authentication result data analysis process. If the authentication result data is added, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1662.

In step S1662, the sub CPU 120a extracts the authentication result data added to the key command, and moves the process to step S1663.
In step S1663, the sub CPU 120a determines whether or not the extracted authentication result data is a result indicating a successful authentication. Then, if the authentication result data is a result indicating that the authentication is successful, the sub CPU 120a succeeds in the individual authentication for the main control unit 110 in the authentication process in the subsequent control unit 180 and authenticates the legitimacy of the gaming machine 1. The authentication result data analysis process is terminated. On the other hand, if the authentication result data indicates a result of unsuccessful authentication, the sub CPU 120a has not succeeded in the individual authentication for the main control unit 110 in the authentication process of the latter stage control unit 180 this time, and the gaming machine 1 performs the fraudulent act. Is determined to have occurred, and the process proceeds to step S1664.

  In step S1664, when it is determined that there is a possibility that an illegal act has occurred in the gaming machine 1, the sub CPU 120a outputs a notification signal to notify that effect.

  The sub CPU 120a transmits the generated notification signal to, for example, the lamp control unit 140, the image control unit 150, or a hall computer that manages the gaming machine 1. Based on the received notification signal, the lamp control unit 140, the image control unit 150, and the like perform an effect that notifies that there is a possibility that an illegal act has occurred in the gaming machine 1. This effect is, for example, causing a character that does not normally appear on the liquid crystal display device 31 to appear, or causing a character that normally appears to appear by a method different from normal. In addition, the brightness of the liquid crystal display device 31 may be changed, the color may be changed, or the lamp controller 140 may be controlled to display a predetermined lamp. In any case, when the employee of the game shop passes in front of the gaming machine 1, it is only necessary to notice the state. This effect may be an effect that the customer does not notice the state or an effect that the customer can easily notice. If the production is easily noticed by the customer, fraud can be efficiently suppressed.

  Moreover, you may include the information regarding the gaming state or jackpot type of the gaming machine 1 in the notification signal. Based on these pieces of information, it may be determined whether a fraudulent act is being performed by a hall computer or the like that manages the gaming machine 1. For example, the “high probability gaming state” may be normal even if prize balls are concentrated. Therefore, during the high-probability gaming state, it is preferable to determine whether or not there is a risk of cheating under different conditions from the other states. Moreover, you may make it output the information regarding a gaming state or jackpot type as a separate signal without including it in a notification signal. In this case, the employee determines whether or not there is a risk of fraud based on both the notification signal and the information regarding the gaming state and the jackpot type.

[Control processing of rear-stage control unit]
Hereinafter, the control process of the rear stage control unit 180 of the gaming machine 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described.
FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing main processing by the post-stage control unit 180 according to the first embodiment.

  In step S4010, the CPU 180a performs initialization processing. In this process, the CPU 180a reads a program code related to the main process from the ROM 180b in response to power-on. At the same time, the CPU 180a performs processing for initializing a flag stored in the RAM 180c and setting it to a predetermined value. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S4020.

In step S4020, CPU 180a determines whether or not a control command or the like relayed by effect control unit 120 has been received.
When a receiving unit (not shown) constituting the latter control unit 180 receives a control command or the like relayed from the effect control unit 120, it indicates that a reception interrupt request for the control command or the like has been received from the effect control unit 120. A signal indicating the above is output to generate a reception interrupt process such as a control command.
In step S4020, the CPU 180a waits until the reception interrupt request signal from the reception unit is input. When the signal from the reception unit is input, the CPU 180a transmits the received control command and the like to the received data in the RAM 180c. Capture to the storage area for storage.

Thereafter, the CPU 180a analyzes the content of the data stored in the received data storage area of the RAM 180c, and performs a received data analysis process for performing processing according to the content. Specifically, it is the processing from the next step S4030 to step S4080.
In step S4030, CPU 180a determines whether or not the data stored in the received data storage area is a key command. If the data stored in the received data storage area is not a key command, the CPU 180a moves the process to step S4050, and if the data stored in the received data storage area is a key command, the process proceeds to step S4040. Transfer.
In step S4040, the CPU 180a writes and stores the key data constituting the key command stored in the received data storage area in the key data storage area of the RAM 180c, and the process proceeds to step S4090.

In step S4050, CPU 180a determines whether or not the data stored in the received data storage area is authentication data. In this determination process, the CPU 180a stores the received data only in the reception order of the data transmitted from the main control unit 110 via the effect control unit 120 by setting the transmission timing of the authentication data as described above. It can be easily determined whether or not the data stored in the area is authentication data.
If the data stored in the reception data storage area is not authentication data, the CPU 180a moves the process to step S4070, and if the data stored in the reception data storage area is the authentication data, the process proceeds to step S4060. Move.
In step S4060, CPU 180a writes and stores the authentication data stored in the reception data storage area in the authentication data storage area of RAM 180c, and repeats the processing from step S4020 onward.

In step S4070, the CPU 180a performs relay transmission processing. In this processing, the CPU 180a transmits the data (data other than the key command and the authentication data) stored in the reception data storage area to the effect control unit 120 as it is, and relays the data transmitted from the effect control unit 120, Relay transmission is again performed to the effect control unit 120. Specifically, CPU 180a writes and sets the data stored in the reception data storage area as it is in the transmission data storage area of RAM 180c, and proceeds to step S4080.
In step S4080, the CPU 180a immediately transmits the data set in the transmission data storage area as transmission data to the effect control unit 120 by a transmission unit (not shown) included in the subsequent control unit 180. The processes after S4020 are repeated.

Thereafter, the CPU 180a extracts the inspection value from the authentication data stored in the authentication data storage area of the RAM 180c, and collates it with the expected value stored in advance in the ROM 180b. Specifically, it is the processing from the next step S4090 to step S4150.
In step S4090, CPU 180a checks whether authentication data received in advance is stored in the authentication data storage area of RAM 180c. If the authentication data is not stored in the authentication data storage area, the CPU 180a repeats the processes in and after step S4020, assuming that the authentication process is not yet possible. On the other hand, if authentication data is stored in the authentication data storage area, CPU 180a moves the process to step S4100.

  In step S4100, the CPU 180a reads the key data and authentication data from the key data storage area and the authentication data storage area, and moves the process to step S4110. When the key data and the authentication data are read from the key data storage area and the authentication data storage area, it is determined that the order of writing to both the storage areas matches the order of reading from both the storage areas. As a result, the key data used for generating the authentication data and the key data constituting the key command more reliably match, and it is prevented that the decryption process cannot be executed due to a mismatch between the key data and the authentication data. The accuracy of processing can be improved.

In step S4110, the CPU 180a extracts a test value using the read key data and authentication data. Specifically, the CPU 180a calculates key data with respect to the authentication data by a predetermined decryption method. The decoding method is negotiated with the main control unit 110 in advance. The CPU 180a recognizes that the calculation result corresponds to the inspection value, writes and stores it in the inspection value storage area of the RAM 180c, and moves the process to step S4120.
In step S4120, the CPU 180a reads an expected value stored in advance in a predetermined storage area of the ROM 180b, and moves the process to step S4130.

  In step S4130, the CPU 180a reads the inspection value extracted from the inspection value storage area, and determines whether or not the inspection value matches the expected value. If the test value matches the expected value, the CPU 180a determines that the individual authentication for the main control unit 110 has succeeded in the current authentication process, and the validity of the gaming machine 1 has been authenticated, and step S4140. Move processing to. On the other hand, if the test value and the expected value do not match, the CPU 180a determines that the individual authentication for the main control unit 110 is unsuccessful in the current authentication process, and there is a possibility that the gaming machine 1 may have been cheated or malfunctioned. Then, the process proceeds to step S4150.

In step S4140, the CPU 180a generates authentication result data indicating success, and the process proceeds to step S4160.
In step S4150, the CPU 180a generates authentication result data indicating unsuccessfulness, and the process proceeds to step S4160.

Thereafter, the CPU 180a generates the key command by adding the authentication result data obtained in the current authentication process to the key data constituting the key command that is the trigger for starting the current authentication process, and produces the effect control unit 120. Send to. Specifically, it is the processing from the next step S4160 to step S4190.
In step S4160, the CPU 180a reads the key data stored in the key data storage area, and moves the process to step S4170.
In step S4170, the CPU 180a adds the authentication result data obtained in step S4140 or step S4150 to the key data read in step S4170 to generate a key command with authentication result data, and the process in step S4180. Transfer.

In step S4180, the CPU 180a writes and sets a key command with authentication result data in the transmission data storage area of the RAM 180c, and the process proceeds to step S4190.
In step S4190, the CPU 180a causes the transmission control unit 120 to immediately transmit the key command with the authentication result data set in the transmission data storage area as transmission data to the effect control unit 120. Then, it waits until there exists a predetermined | prescribed interruption process, and repeats the process after step S4020.

  When the subsequent control unit 180 transmits the authentication result data to the effect control unit 120, the authentication result data is transmitted to the effect control unit 120 by adding the authentication result data to the control command (the key command in the above) and transmitting it to the effect control unit 120. The data is transmitted to the effect control unit 120 by being mixed with other control commands. Therefore, a person who intends to perform an illegal act steals transmission data between the production control unit 120 and the subsequent control unit 180 and illegally analyzes the transmission timing of the authentication result data to the production control unit 120. And the security strength of the gaming machine 1 can be improved.

  The authentication process when the latter control unit 180 is connected to the payout control unit 130 is substantially the same procedure as the authentication process when the latter control unit 180 is connected to the effect control unit 120. Since it is performed, the description is omitted.

  As described above, in the first embodiment, the authentication information generation unit 500 independently holds the authentication data necessary for the individual authentication of the main control unit 110 regardless of the instruction from the main CPU 110a described in the program code. And is automatically transmitted to the subsequent control unit 180 via the effect control unit 120. Further, the key data necessary for decrypting the authentication data is output from the authentication information generation unit 500 only by a read signal from the main CPU 110 a and is immediately transmitted to the subsequent control unit 180 via the effect control unit 120. Therefore, while having an authentication function for the main control unit 110, the processing load and code size of the CPU of the main control unit 110 that are increased by having the authentication function can be suppressed to the maximum, and the security strength of the gaming machine 1 It is possible to achieve both improvement of the processing speed and improvement of the processing speed.

  In the first embodiment, the authentication information generation unit 500 includes a plurality of types of encryption circuits 502, so that a plurality of types of authentication data generation functions of the authentication information generation unit 500 are prepared in advance. Which authentication data generation function is used to generate the authentication data depends on the value of the authentication parameter stored in a specific storage area of the main ROM 110b that is not accessed except when the initial value is set during the boot process of the main control unit 110. Has been determined based on. Therefore, even if a person who intends to engage in fraud steals the transmission data between the main control unit 110 and the production control unit 120 or the subsequent control unit 180, it is analyzed with which generation function the authentication data is generated. Can not do it. Therefore, the confidentiality of the authentication data can be ensured, and the security strength of the gaming machine 1 can be improved.

  In the first embodiment, although an authentication data generation function and a plurality of types of authentication parameters as selection information are prepared in advance, only specific authentication parameters are implemented. Therefore, it is not necessary to newly provide a program accompanying the authentication parameter selection process in the boot process, and the code size of the program is not increased. Even if a gaming machine manufacturer wants to adopt only a specific authentication data generation function, it is only necessary to implement an authentication parameter corresponding to the desired authentication data generation function, which is flexible to the gaming machine manufacturer's preference and application. It can correspond to. Therefore, even a variety of authentication functions can be added relatively easily, and a highly versatile authentication function can be provided. In addition, by changing the authentication parameters used for design / verification work etc. during the development stage of the gaming machine 1 and the authentication parameters that are actually mounted before the gaming machine 1 is shipped, which authentication parameter is finally adopted. It is possible to limit the persons who can know whether the authentication has been performed, and to further improve the confidentiality of the authentication data.

In the first embodiment, control of processing related to generation and transmission of authentication data may be defined by an algorithm of the authentication information generation unit 500 itself. In addition, for the control of the process related to the execution of the key command, it is only necessary to add a code corresponding to one type of control command (key command) to the game processing program code executed by the main CPU 110a. Specifically, it is only necessary to add a code relating to a read signal for key data and a code relating to writing of a key command, and it is sufficient to add only one instruction each in terms of the number of code steps. Therefore, it is possible to design the timing for sending authentication data and key commands, the timing for updating key data, etc. freely after a specific time or after a specific number of clocks, and the expandability and flexibility of software control are also possible. The provided authentication function can be provided. In particular, the timing of key command transmission and the update timing of key data are finally customized by the gaming machine manufacturer, so that the security strength of the gaming machine 1 is further improved and a variety of authentication functions are provided. be able to.
In addition to this, the code relating to the key command need only be added to the program code executed by the main CPU 110a. Therefore, since it is not necessary to design a new timing over the entire program code executed by the main CPU 110a, the mounting and verification work when adding the authentication function can be performed more easily and with less work man-hours. This also increases the degree of freedom in design when adding an authentication function.

  Further, in the first embodiment, most of the processes related to the individual authentication of the main control unit 110 such as the authentication data decryption process and the inspection value / expected value matching process are executed by the post-stage control unit 180. Therefore, the production control unit 120 executes the authentication process only when relaying a control command or the like to the subsequent control unit 180 and when receiving authentication result data from the subsequent control unit 180. That is, the processing load on the CPU of the effect control unit 120 increases only when the control command is relayed and when the authentication result data is received. The rate at which the processing load increases can be suppressed. In addition, the program code executed by the effect control unit 120 only needs to add a code related to the relay transmission process and a code related to the authentication result data analysis process. Therefore, since it is not necessary to perform new timing design over the entire program code executed by the production control unit 120, the mounting and verification work when adding the authentication function can be performed more easily with less work man-hours. . This also increases the degree of freedom in design when adding an authentication function.

  In the first embodiment, the key command transmission timing is set based on the RAM clear designation command and the power supply restoration designation command, and the authentication process of the gaming machine 1 is executed at the time of reset. In this case, the RAM clear designation command and the power supply restoration designation command are transmitted when the gaming machine 1 is initialized. The initialization process of the gaming machine 1 is classified into a process classification different from the process related to the game which is the main process of the gaming machine 1. Therefore, if the authentication process is incorporated during the initialization process of the gaming machine 1 as in the present invention, the man-hours required for program design, implementation, and verification work can be reduced compared to the case where the authentication process is incorporated during the game process. can do. In other words, by incorporating the authentication process during the initialization process of the gaming machine 1, it is possible to obtain development merit and quality control merit. Further, if the authentication process is incorporated during the initialization process of the gaming machine 1, the authentication process is performed immediately after the gaming machine 1 is activated. Fraud can be detected before entering the store. Therefore, the risk of damage caused by fraud can be reduced.

  In addition, when the transmission timing of the key command is set based on the demonstration designation command and the authentication process of the gaming machine 1 is executed at the start of the demonstration, the demonstration designation command indicates that the gaming machine 1 is in a non-game state, that is, the gaming machine 1 This is transmitted when the process related to the game, which is the main process, is not performed, so that an increase in the processing load due to the authentication process does not affect the game process. For this reason, even when the main control unit 110 and the effect control unit 120 do not have a high processing capacity, or even in the gaming machine 1 with a large processing load of game processing, an authentication processing function can be added. Further, since the demonstration designation command is a command issued before the customer operates the gaming machine 1, it is possible to detect fraud before the customer operates the gaming machine 1.

  Further, in the first embodiment, in order to provide a plurality of types of authentication data generation functions, a plurality of types of encryption circuits 502 are provided in the authentication information generation unit 500. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and Instead, a plurality of initial values of key data can be provided. For example, the control unit 501 constituting the authentication information generation unit 500 prepares in advance a plurality of types of random number types of random number generation means used for key data determination processing as initial values of key data, and sets authentication parameters corresponding thereto. Multiple types should be prepared. It is also conceivable to prepare a plurality of key data update conditions in addition to the initial value of the key data. For example, in these cases, the control unit 501 does not need to provide a plurality of types of encryption circuits 502, and thus can have a relatively simple circuit configuration.

  In the first embodiment, the write signal used when the main CPU 110a writes a control command to the data input unit 521 constituting the transmission unit 520 is detected by the authentication information generation unit 500 as a reference for the transmission timing of the authentication data. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the control command itself may be output or a write flag may be set in the data input unit 521. The detection of the output of the control command itself and the fact that the write flag is set in the data input unit 521 means that the main CPU 110a starts outputting the control command to the data input unit 521 and the timing when the output is completed. This is detection, and can be regarded as information that bears a transmission instruction to the transmission unit 520 for transmitting the control command to the effect control unit 120. In this case, the authentication information generation unit 500 detects the output of the control command itself by the main CPU 110a or that the write flag is set in the data input unit 521, and uses the input of this detection signal as a reference for a predetermined time (β). After the elapse of time, the authentication data is written to the data input unit 521.

  In the first embodiment, the main control unit 110 transmits the key command after transmitting the authentication data first. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the authentication is performed after the key command is transmitted first. Data may be transmitted. At this time, the authentication data that is subject to decryption processing at the time of receiving the key command in the latter-stage control unit 180 is authentication data received immediately after reception of the key command, but is not first-in first-out at the time of decryption processing. Set up a last-in first-out arrangement. Further, the trigger of the authentication process in the post-stage control unit 180 may be configured to receive authentication data instead of receiving a key command.

  Further, in the first embodiment, the main control unit 110 encrypts the inspection value to generate authentication data, transmits the authentication data to the subsequent control unit 180 via the effect control unit 120, and the subsequent control unit 180 converts the authentication data into authentication data. Decryption is performed to extract the inspection value and authentication processing is performed. Then, the latter-stage control unit 180 transmits the obtained authentication result to the effect control unit 120 as authentication result data without particularly performing encryption processing. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the authentication result data obtained by performing encryption processing on the obtained authentication result may be transmitted to the effect control unit 120 as authentication result data. When both the authentication data and the authentication result data are encrypted, the latter control unit 180 uses the key data used for the decryption process of the received authentication data and the authentication result data to be generated. What is necessary is just to use the same key data used for encryption processing. In other words, the post-stage control unit 180 decrypts the authentication data using the key data constituting the key command transmitted from the main control unit 110, and then performs an encryption process on the obtained authentication result with the key data. And authentication result data may be generated.

  In such a case, in the first embodiment, since the post-stage control unit 180 is connected to the effect control unit 120, the main CPU 110 a configuring the main control unit 110 and the sub CPU 120 a configuring the effect control unit 203. In the subsequent control unit 180, the difference in processing capacity between the main ROM 110b and the main RAM 110c constituting the main control unit 110 and the storage capacity difference between the sub ROM 120b and the sub RAM 120c constituting the effect control unit 120 Can be absorbed. Thereby, even when there is a difference in processing capacity and storage capacity between the main control unit 110 and the effect control unit 120, the security strength between the main control unit 110 and the effect control unit 120 can be maintained.

  That is, for example, when the processing capacity of the main CPU 110a and the storage capacity of the main ROM 110b and the main RAM 110c are larger than the processing capacity of the sub CPU 120a and the storage capacity of the sub ROM 120b and RAM 120c, the main control unit 110 Are subjected to complicated encryption processing to generate authentication data and transmit it to the subsequent control unit 180 via the effect control unit 120. The post-stage control unit 180 performs authentication processing using the received authentication data, performs relatively simple encryption processing on the obtained authentication result (or uses the authentication result itself), and generates authentication result data. It transmits to the control part 120. The effect control unit 120 can perform the authentication process by performing a relatively simple decryption process on the received authentication result data (or the authentication result data itself). By configuring in this way, high security strength can be maintained as the gaming machine 1 without adopting a complicated decoding method in the effect control unit 120.

  Further, for example, when the processing capacity of the sub CPU 120a and the storage capacity of the sub ROM 120b and the sub RAM 120c are larger than the processing capacity of the main CPU 110a and the storage capacity of the main ROM 110b and the main RAM 110c, the main control unit 110 performs the inspection. A relatively simple encryption process is performed on the value (or the inspection value itself) to generate authentication data and transmit it to the subsequent control unit 180 via the effect control unit 120. The subsequent control unit 180 performs authentication processing using the received authentication data, performs complex encryption processing on the obtained authentication result, generates authentication result data, and transmits the authentication result data to the effect control unit 120. The effect control unit 120 performs authentication processing by performing complex decryption processing on the received authentication result data. By configuring in this way, high security strength can be maintained as the gaming machine 1 without adopting a complicated encryption method in the main control unit 110.

<Embodiment 2>
Hereinafter, the gaming machine 1 according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention will be described.
The second embodiment is different from the first embodiment in the content of relay transmission processing such as a control command to the subsequent control unit 180 in the effect control unit 120. Specifically, in the first embodiment, the effect control unit 120 once relays and transmits the control command and the like transmitted from the main control unit 110 to the subsequent control unit 180 once. Further, the post-stage control unit 180 relays and transmits a control command other than the key command and the authentication data to the effect control unit 120 as it is, executes the authentication process using the key command and the authentication data, and then transmits the authentication result data. It is generated, added to the key command, and transmitted to the effect control unit 120. On the other hand, in the second embodiment, the effect control unit 120 relays and transmits only the key command and the authentication data to the subsequent control unit 180 out of the control commands transmitted from the main control unit 10, and the subsequent control unit 180 authenticates the authentication. After executing the process, only the authentication result data is transmitted to the effect control unit 120.

  In the second embodiment, since the points other than the above are basically the same as those of the first embodiment, the same members and processing steps as those of the gaming machine 1 of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof. Will be omitted, and only the differences will be described.

Hereinafter, the control process of the effect control unit 120 of the gaming machine 1 according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described. First, the interruption process of the production control unit 120 will be described.
FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing an interrupt process by the effect control unit 120 according to the second embodiment.

In step S1200, the sub CPU 120a saves the information stored in the register of the sub CPU 120a to the stack area.
In step S1300, the sub CPU 120a performs update processing of various timer counters used in the effect control unit 120.

  After step S1300, the sub CPU 120a does not perform the relay transmission process (step S1350 in FIG. 15) to the subsequent control unit 180, and proceeds to step S1400. When the production control unit 120 receives a control command or the like transmitted from the main control unit 110, a reception interrupt process for the control command or the like occurs, and the sub CPU 120a transmits the received control command or the like to the first received data in the sub RAM 120c. Write to the storage area for storage. When the control command transmitted from the main control unit 110 is stored in the first received data storage area, in the first embodiment, the sub CPU 120a displays the control command stored in the first received data storage area. Then, it is written and set as it is in the transmission data storage area of the sub RAM 120c, and is transmitted to the subsequent control unit 180 as transmission data.

  On the other hand, in the second embodiment, the sub CPU 120a does not write the control command or the like written in the first reception data storage area to the transmission data storage area and transmit it to the subsequent control unit 180, and step S1400 or step S1500. The authentication data analysis process and the command analysis process are performed. That is, in the first embodiment, the control command to be subjected to the command analysis processing in step S1500 is relay-transmitted from the rear-stage control unit 180 to the effect control unit 120 after being relay-transmitted to the rear-stage control unit 180 in step S1350 in FIG. In contrast, in the second embodiment, the data is directly transmitted from the main control unit 110 to the effect control unit 120.

In step S1400, the sub CPU 120a performs an authentication data analysis process. In this process, the sub CPU 120a performs an analysis process for determining whether or not the data written in the first received data storage area is authentication data. The details of the authentication data analysis process will be described later.
In step S1500, the sub CPU 120a performs command analysis processing. The contents of the command analysis process in the second embodiment are basically the same as the contents of the command analysis process in the first embodiment shown in FIGS. However, as will be described later, the processing content after receiving the key command is different.

  In step S1650, the sub CPU 120a performs an authentication result data analysis process. In this process, the sub CPU 120a performs a process of analyzing the contents of the authentication result data written in the second received data storage area. When the production control unit 120 receives the authentication result data transmitted from the subsequent control unit 180, a reception interrupt process for the authentication result data occurs, and the sub CPU 120a stores the received authentication result data in the second received data storage area. Write to and store. Thereafter, in step S1650, the contents of the authentication result data stored in the second reception data storage area are analyzed, and processing corresponding to the contents indicated by the authentication result is executed. The details of the authentication result data analysis process will be described later.

In step S <b> 1700, the sub CPU 120 a checks the signal of the effect button detection switch 35 a, and performs effect input control processing related to input from the effect button 35.
In step S1800, the sub CPU 120a performs an effect output control process that is a process for transmitting the control command and various data set in the transmission data storage area of the sub RAM 120c to the lamp control unit 140 and the image control unit 150. Do.
In step S1900, the sub CPU 120a restores the information saved in step S1200 to the register of the sub CPU 120a.

Next, the authentication data analysis process of the production control unit 120 will be described.
FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing an authentication data analysis process performed by the effect control unit 120 according to the second embodiment.

In step S1401, the sub CPU 120a checks whether or not a control command or the like is stored in the first received data storage area, and determines whether or not a control command or the like has been received.
If the control command or the like is not stored in the first reception data storage area, the sub CPU 120a terminates the authentication data analysis process. If the control command or the like is stored in the first reception data storage area, the sub CPU 120a performs processing in step S1410. Move.

In step S1410, the sub CPU 120a analyzes the content of the data written in the first received data storage area. Specifically, the sub CPU 120a determines whether or not the data stored in the first reception data storage area is authentication data. In this determination process, the sub CPU 120a sets the authentication data transmission timing as shown in the first embodiment, so that only the reception order of the data transmitted from the main control unit 110 is used. It can be easily determined whether or not the data stored in the area is authentication data.
Then, if the data stored in the first received data storage area is not the authentication data, the sub CPU 120a ends the authentication data analysis process, and the data stored in the first received data storage area is the authentication data. If so, the process moves to step S1450.
In step S1450, the sub CPU 120a writes and sets the data stored in the first reception data storage area as it is in the transmission data storage area of the sub RAM 120c, and moves the process to step S1460.
In step S1460, the sub CPU 120a immediately transmits the data set in the transmission data storage area as transmission data to the subsequent control unit 180 in the relay transmission unit that configures the effect control unit 120, and performs authentication data analysis processing. Exit.

Next, command analysis processing of the effect control unit 120 will be described.
The processing content of the command analysis processing in the second embodiment is the same as the processing content from step S1501 in FIG. 16 to step S1591 in FIG.
FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the command analysis process 2 by the effect control unit 120 according to the second embodiment.

In step S1600, the sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the control command stored in the first received data storage area is a key command.
If the control command stored in the first received data storage area is a key command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1601, and ends the command analysis process if it is not a key command.
In step S1601, the sub CPU 120a performs a key command relay transmission process in which the key command transmitted from the main control unit 110 is relay-transmitted to the subsequent control unit 180 as it is, and ends the command analysis process. Specifically, the sub CPU 120a writes the key command written in the first reception data storage area as it is to the transmission data storage area of the sub RAM 120c as transmission data, and the relay transmission unit constituting the effect control unit 120 Then, the data is immediately transmitted to the subsequent control unit 180. That is, in the second embodiment, the control command is transmitted to the subsequent control unit 180 only when the control command transmitted from the main control unit 110 is a key command.

Next, the authentication result data analysis process of the production control unit 120 will be described.
FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing an authentication result data analysis process performed by the effect control unit 120 according to the second embodiment.

  In step S1651, the sub CPU 120a determines whether authentication result data has been received. Specifically, the sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the data stored in the second received data storage area of the sub RAM 120c is authentication result data, and determines whether or not the authentication result data has been received. . Then, if the authentication result data is not stored in the second reception data storage area, the sub CPU 120a ends the authentication result data analysis process, and if the authentication result data is stored in the second reception data storage area, The process moves to step S1652.

  In step S1652, the sub CPU 120a determines whether or not the received authentication result data is a result indicating a successful authentication. If the authentication result data indicates a result of successful authentication, the sub CPU 120a can successfully authenticate the gaming machine 1 by succeeding the individual authentication with respect to the main control unit 110 in the authentication process performed by the subsequent control unit 180. It is determined that the authentication result data analysis processing is completed. On the other hand, if the authentication result data indicates that the authentication result data is unsuccessful, the sub CPU 120a has not succeeded in individual authentication for the main control unit 10 in the authentication process of the subsequent control unit 180, and the gaming machine 1 Is determined to have occurred, and the process proceeds to step S1653.

  In step S1653, when it is determined that there is a possibility that an illegal act has occurred in the gaming machine 1, the sub CPU 120a outputs a notification signal to notify that effect. Since the notification process is the same as that in the first embodiment, the description thereof is omitted.

Hereinafter, the control process of the rear stage control unit 180 of the gaming machine 1 according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described.
FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing main processing by the post-stage control unit 180 according to the second embodiment.

In step S4310, the CPU 180a performs initialization processing, and proceeds to step S4320. Since the initialization process is the same as that of the first embodiment, the description thereof is omitted.
In step S4320, CPU 180a determines whether or not a key command or authentication data relayed and transmitted by effect control unit 120 has been received.
When receiving the key command or the authentication data relay-transmitted from the effect control unit 120, the receiving unit constituting the latter-stage control unit 180 generates these reception interrupt processes.
In step S4320, the CPU 180a waits until the reception interrupt request signal from the reception unit is input. When the signal from the reception unit is input, the CPU 180a stores the received key command or authentication data in the RAM 180c. Capture and store in the reception data storage area.

Thereafter, the CPU 180a analyzes the content of the data stored in the received data storage area of the RAM 180c, and performs a received data analysis process for performing processing according to the content. Specifically, the processing from the next step S4330 to step S4350 is performed.
In step S4330, CPU 180a determines whether or not the data stored in the received data storage area is a key command. If the data stored in the reception data storage area is not a key command, the CPU 180a recognizes that the data stored in the reception data storage area is authentication data, and moves the process to step S4350. On the other hand, if the data stored in the received data storage area is a key command, the CPU 180a moves the process to step S4340.

In step S4340, CPU 180a writes and stores key data constituting the key command stored in the reception data storage area in the key data storage area of RAM 180c, and the process proceeds to step S4360.
In step S4350, CPU 180a writes and stores the authentication data stored in the reception data storage area in the authentication data storage area of RAM 180c, and repeats the processes in and after step S4320.

Thereafter, the CPU 180a extracts the inspection value from the authentication data stored in the authentication data storage area of the RAM 180c, and collates it with the expected value stored in advance in the ROM 180b. Specifically, it is the process of the next step S4360 to step S4420.
In step S4360, CPU 180a checks whether authentication data received in advance is stored in the authentication data storage area of RAM 180c. Then, if authentication data is not stored in the authentication data storage area, CPU 180a repeats the processing from step S4320 onward, assuming that the authentication processing is not yet possible. On the other hand, if authentication data is stored in the authentication data storage area, CPU 180a moves the process to step S4370.

In step S4370, CPU 180a reads the key data and authentication data from the key data storage area and the authentication data storage area, and moves the process to step S4380.
In step S4380, CPU 180a extracts the inspection value using the read key data and authentication data. Specifically, the CPU 180a calculates key data for the authentication data using a decryption method determined in advance with the main control unit 110, and writes and stores the calculation result in the test value storage area of the RAM 180c. Then, the process proceeds to step S4390.
In step S4390, CPU 180a reads an expected value stored in advance in a predetermined storage area of ROM 180b, and the process proceeds to step S4400.

  In step S4400, the CPU 180a reads the inspection value extracted from the inspection value storage area, and determines whether or not the inspection value matches the expected value. If the test value matches the expected value, the CPU 180a determines that the individual authentication for the main control unit 110 has succeeded in the current authentication process, and that the legitimacy of the gaming machine 1 has been authenticated, and step S4410. Move processing to. On the other hand, if the test value and the expected value do not match, the CPU 180a determines that the individual authentication for the main control unit 110 is unsuccessful in the current authentication process, and there is a possibility that the gaming machine 1 may have been cheated or malfunctioned. Then, the process proceeds to step S4420.

In step S4410, the CPU 180a generates authentication result data indicating success, and the process proceeds to step S4430.
In step S4420, CPU 180a generates authentication result data indicating unsuccess, and the process proceeds to step S4430.

Thereafter, the CPU 180a transmits the authentication result data obtained by the current authentication process to the effect control unit 120. Specifically, the processing from the next step S4430 to step S4440 is performed.
In step S4430, CPU 180a writes and sets the authentication result data obtained in step S4410 or step S4420 in the transmission data storage area of RAM 180c, and the process proceeds to step S4440.
In step S4440, CPU 180a causes authentication result data set in the transmission data storage area to be transmitted as transmission data to transmission control unit 120 immediately at the transmission unit constituting rear stage control unit 180. Then, it waits until there exists a predetermined | prescribed interruption process, and repeats the process after step S4320.

  In the second embodiment, the production control unit 120 relays the received data to the subsequent control unit 180 only when the key command and the authentication data are received from the main control unit 110. Therefore, the production control unit 120 considers that at least the gaming machine 1 has not detected an illegal act until the authentication result data is transmitted from the post-stage control unit 180, and based on the control command transmitted from the main control unit 110. Thus, a normal game process is executed, and even if an unexpected situation such as a failure occurs in the subsequent control unit 180, the game process is not directly affected. Further, in the second embodiment, the post-stage control unit 180 does not always have to send the authentication result data to the effect control unit 120 regardless of the authentication result. For example, the authentication result data is generated only when authentication is unsuccessful. It can also be configured to transmit to the control unit 120. In this case, if the production control unit 120 only confirms whether or not the authentication result data indicating unsuccessfulness from the latter-stage control unit 180 has been received, the production control unit 120 detects the occurrence of fraud and the like, and notifies that effect. be able to.

  In the second embodiment, the post-stage control unit 180 transmits the authentication result data itself when transmitting the authentication result data to the effect control unit 120. However, the effect control unit 120 adds it to the received key command. May be sent to. Similarly, in the first embodiment, when the latter control unit 180 transmits the authentication result data to the effect control unit 120, the latter control unit 180 transmits the authentication result data in addition to the received key command. It can also be configured to transmit to 120.

In the second embodiment, the effects obtained by the first embodiment can be naturally obtained in addition to the effects by the configuration unique to the second embodiment.
Further, in the gaming machine 1 according to each of the above embodiments, the post-stage control unit 180 includes a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, and the like, but is configured to realize the same function as an integrated circuit such as an LSI. Also good.
In each of the above embodiments, an example in which the present invention is applied to a pachinko gaming machine has been described. The present invention can also be applied to other game machines such as a spinning machine such as a machine or a slot machine. Even in these gaming machines, the same effects as in the present embodiment can be obtained by configuring in the same manner as in the present embodiment. Moreover, this embodiment can divert each other's technology as long as there is no particular contradiction or problem in its purpose and configuration.

1 gaming machine 110 main control unit 110a main CPU
110b Main ROM
110c Main RAM
110d Boot ROM
110m One-chip microcomputer 120 Production control unit 120a Sub CPU
120b Sub ROM
120c sub RAM
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 130 Discharge control part 140 Lamp control part 150 Image control part 160 Launch control part 170 Power supply part 180 Back | latter stage control part 180a CPU
180b ROM
180c RAM
500 Authentication Information Generating Unit 501 Control Unit 502 Cryptographic Circuit 503 Data Input Unit 504 Data Output Unit 520 Transmitting Unit 521 Data Input Unit 522 Transmitting Circuit 550 Internal Bus 660 Receiving Unit 661 Data Output Unit 662 Receiving Circuit

Claims (12)

An information storage unit having a game information storage area for storing predetermined game information and having an initial setting information storage area that is accessible when the gaming machine is activated and stores initial setting information of the gaming machine;
A calculation processing unit that performs predetermined calculation according to the game information to generate control information, and outputs a control information transmission instruction for transmitting the generated control information;
Authentication having generation means capable of generating a plurality of different authentication information for authenticating information stored in the game information storage area and outputting an authentication information transmission instruction for transmitting the generated authentication information An information generator,
An information transmission unit that transmits the control information in response to the control information transmission instruction and transmits the authentication information in response to the authentication information transmission instruction;
A main control unit with
An information processing unit for performing predetermined processing based on the transmitted control information;
A relay transmitter that relays and transmits the transmitted authentication information;
A first sub-control unit comprising:
A second sub-control unit comprising an information authentication unit that authenticates information stored in the game information storage area based on the authentication information relayed and generates the authentication result information;
A gaming machine equipped with
The initial setting information includes selection information corresponding to each of the plurality of different authentication information,
The arithmetic processing unit sets specific selection information of the selection information in the authentication information generation unit when the gaming machine is activated,
The authentication information generation unit sets the generation means to generate specific authentication information among the plurality of different authentication information based on the set specific selection information, and sets the set generation means A gaming machine characterized in that the authentication information is generated. The second sub-control unit further includes a transmission unit that transmits the result information to the first sub-control unit,
The said information processing part is further provided with the determination means to determine the content of the transmitted said result information, and the alerting | reporting means to alert | report failure when it determines with authentication unsuccessful. Game machines.   The said information storage part is provided with the 1st memory | storage means which bears the said game information storage area, and the 2nd memory | storage means which bears the said initial setting information storage area unlike this 1st memory | storage means, It is characterized by the above-mentioned. The gaming machine according to 1 or 2.   The selection information included in the initial setting information is the specific selection information that the arithmetic processing unit sets in the authentication information generation unit when the gaming machine is activated. A gaming machine according to any one of the above.   The authentication information generation unit further includes detection means for detecting that the control information transmission instruction is output, and outputs the authentication information transmission instruction in response to detection of the output of the control information transmission instruction. A gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4. The authentication information generation unit further includes encryption key determination means for determining predetermined encryption key information,
The generation unit generates the plurality of different authentication information using specific information stored in the game information storage area and the encryption key information. The gaming machine described in 1. The first sub-control unit relay-transmits the encryption key information;
The gaming machine according to claim 6, wherein the second sub-control unit adds the result information to the encryption key information relayed and transmits the result information to the first sub-control unit.   The gaming machine according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the arithmetic processing unit generates the control information using encryption key information determined by the encryption key determination means.   The gaming machine according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the encryption key determination means newly determines encryption key information when a predetermined update condition is satisfied. The generating means generates the plurality of different authentication information by a plurality of different encryption methods,
The gaming machine according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein the selection information is information corresponding to each of the plurality of different encryption methods. The encryption key determination means determines a plurality of different encryption key information,
The generating means generates the plurality of different authentication information by the plurality of different encryption key information,
The gaming machine according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein the selection information is information corresponding to each of the plurality of different encryption key information. The encryption key determination means has a plurality of different update conditions,
The generating means generates the plurality of different authentication information according to the plurality of different update conditions,
The gaming machine according to claim 9, wherein the selection information is information corresponding to each of the plurality of different update conditions.

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