JP5356003B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To prompt the unlocking of a mobile performance accessory when locked. <P>SOLUTION: A performance role unit 130 of a Pachinko game machine has the mobile performance accessory 132, a drive system 200, a stopper 220, a photosensor 230 and a performance control part. The mobile performance accessory 132 is installed movably on the game board and conducts given performances. The drive system 200 carries out a rotative drive to move the mobile performance accessory 132. The stopper 220 locks the mobile performance accessory 132 at the given lock position (press-in position). The photosensor 230 detects whether or not the stopper 220 exists at the given lock position. The performance control part works to give a report to the effect that the mobile performance accessory 132 is locked when the stopper 220 is detected with the photosensor 230. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&amp;INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine, such as a pachinko gaming machine or a revolving type gaming machine, which is provided with a movable production character that moves on a board surface to perform a predetermined production.

  Conventionally, when a game ball launched into a game area of a game board enters a specific start port, three rows of symbols (for example, symbols of numbers 1 to 12) displayed on the image display unit move from top to bottom. When the same or related symbols are arranged on a certain line (effective line), a big win is opened, and a pachinko gaming machine capable of playing a big hit game is widely used.

  In such pachinko machines, in addition to effects from display from the image display unit, blinking and lighting using multiple lamps, etc., so-called movable effects actors called so-called gimmicks are turned on and operated. What produces an effect by a thing is known (for example, refer the following patent document 1).

  Here, the movable effect role is locked by a stopper such as a locking piece during transport of the pachinko gaming machine. As a result, the movable stage actor is prevented from moving during transport, and damage to the game board and movable stage bonus is suppressed, as well as failure of the drive motor that drives the movable stage bonus is suppressed. .

JP 2007-319374 A

  However, in the above-described conventional technology, there is a problem that the store clerk forgets to unlock the movable director at the start of business at an amusement store. If there is such a defect, when performing an effect to operate the movable effect actor in synchronization with the effect screen, the movable effect agent will not operate and will remain in a fixed state, In addition to being unable to produce effects, there was a problem that the drive motor was overloaded, leading to failure of the drive motor.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problems caused by the prior art, the present invention can promote the release of the lock on the movable effect role, can perform the original effect of the gaming machine, and can suppress the failure of the drive motor. The purpose is to provide a machine.

  In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, the present invention employs the following configuration. Reference numerals in parentheses indicate correspondence with the embodiments in order to facilitate understanding of the present invention, and do not limit the scope of the present invention. The gaming machine (100) according to the present invention is movably provided on the game board (101), and moves the movable effect actor (132) that performs a predetermined effect and the movable effect agent (132). And a driving means (200) for driving and rotating to a locking mechanism (220) for locking the movable effect agent (132) at a predetermined locking position; The detecting means (230) for detecting the presence or absence of the locking means (220) in the locked position, and when the locking means (220) is detected by the detecting means (230), the movable effect accessory (132) is locked Control means (502) for notifying that the movement has been performed, and the drive means (200) has a gear (203) for applying a rotational force to the movable effect accessory (132), and the lock The stage (220) includes a locking portion (301) that locks to the gear (203), and a slide mechanism that is attached to the board surface and is movable in a direction perpendicular to the board surface. ) And a draw-out position drawn out with respect to the board surface of the game board (101) are movably attached to the game board (101). The engaging portion (301) is locked to the gear (203) to lock the movable effect actor (132), and the locking portion (301) to the gear (203) is locked at the pull-out position. It is characterized in that the lock with respect to the movable effect accessory (132) is released by releasing the locking.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to prompt the user to release the lock when the movable effect accessory (132) is locked.

  According to this invention, the locking means (220) can be slid to lock or unlock the movable effect accessory (132).

  In the above-mentioned invention, it is further provided with a fixed effect combination (131) connected to the lock means (220) and movable in a direction perpendicular to the board surface, and the lock means (220) is provided with the fixed effect combination. (131) is pushed into the board surface of the game board (101), so that the engaging part (301) is engaged with the gear (203), and the movable effect item (132) is obtained. On the other hand, the locking part (301) releases the locking to the gear (203) when the fixed effect role (131) is pulled out with respect to the board surface of the gaming board (101). In connection with this, it is good also as releasing the lock | rock of the said movable production | presentation actor (132).

  According to this configuration, the fixed effect actor (131) and the lock means (220) can be integrated, and the movable effect agent (132) can be locked by pressing the fixed effect agent (131). On the other hand, the movable effect role (132) can be unlocked by pulling out the fixed effect character (131).

  In the above invention, the locking means (220) is a detected part (223) detected by the detecting means (230) at a position where the locking part (301) is locked to the gear (203). ).

  According to this configuration, a part of the locking means (220) is used as the detected part (223), and at the position where the movable effect actor (132) is locked by pressing the fixed effect agent (131). The detected part (223) can be detected.

  In the above invention, the control means (502) causes the detection means (230) to detect the lock means (220) when the power is turned on, and the detection means (230) causes the lock means (220) to be detected. When detected, it may be notified that the movable effect accessory (132) is locked.

  According to this configuration, when the movable effect accessory (132) is locked when the power is turned on, unlocking can be urged.

  In the above invention, when the lock means (220) is detected by the detection means (230), the control means (502) stops driving the drive means (200) in subsequent games. It is good.

  According to this configuration, when the movable effect actor (132) is locked, the drive of the drive means (200) can be stopped and an overload on the drive means (200) can be suppressed.

  In the above invention, when the lock means (220) is no longer detected by the detection means (230), the control means (502) can drive the drive means (200) in subsequent games. It is good to do.

  According to this structure, when the lock | rock of a movable production | presentation thing (132) is cancelled | released, the drive of a drive means (200) can be started.

  According to the present invention, forgetting to take the lock means can be suppressed by prompting the user to release the lock when the movable performance accessory is locked. Therefore, it is possible to produce the original effect of the gaming machine and to suppress the failure of the drive motor.

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

(Basic configuration of pachinko machine)
First, the basic configuration of the pachinko gaming machine according to the embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view showing an example of a pachinko gaming machine according to an embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the embodiment includes a game board 101. A launcher (see reference numeral 592 in FIG. 5) is arranged at a lower position of the game board 101. The game ball launched by driving the launching unit rises between the rails 102 a and 102 b and reaches the upper position of the game board 101, and then falls within the game area 103.

  The game area 103 is provided with a plurality of nails (not shown), and the game balls fall in an unspecified direction by the nails. In the game area 103, a windmill and various winning openings (such as a start opening and a big winning opening) that change the falling direction of the gaming balls are arranged at positions in the middle of the falling of the gaming balls.

  An image display unit 104 is disposed at a substantially central portion of the game board 101. As the image display unit 104, a liquid crystal display (LCD) or the like is used. A first start port 105 and a second start port 106 are disposed below the image display unit 104. The first start port 105 and the second start port 106 are winning ports for starting and winning. The second start port 106 corresponds to the start port of the present invention.

  In the vicinity of the second start port 106, an electric tulip 107 as an electric accessory is provided. The electric tulip 107 has a closed state (a closed state) that makes it difficult to win the game ball to the second starting port 106 and an open state (opened state) that makes it easier to win a prize than the closed state. Control of these states is performed by a solenoid (see reference numeral 531 in FIG. 5) provided in the electric tulip 107.

  The electric tulip 107 is opened based on the lottery result of the normal symbol lottery performed when the game ball passes through the gate 108 arranged on the left side of the image display unit 104. Note that the gate 108 is not limited to the left side (the illustrated position) of the image display unit 104 and may be disposed at an arbitrary position in the game area 103.

  A big prize opening 109 is provided below the second start opening 106. The big winning opening 109 is a winning opening that is opened when a big hit state is reached and a predetermined number (for example, 15) of winning balls are paid out when a game ball wins.

  A normal winning opening 110 is provided on the side of the image display unit 104 or below. The normal winning opening 110 is a winning opening for paying out a predetermined number (for example, 10) of winning balls by winning a game ball. The normal winning opening 110 is not limited to the position shown in the figure, and may be arranged at an arbitrary position in the game area 103. At the bottom of the game area 103, there is provided a collection port 111 for collecting game balls that have not won any winning ports.

  In the lower right part of the game board 101, a special symbol display unit 112 for displaying special symbols is arranged. The special symbol display unit 112 includes a first special symbol display unit (see reference numeral 112a in FIG. 5) on which a first special symbol (hereinafter referred to as “special diagram 1”) is displayed, and a second special symbol (hereinafter referred to as “special diagram 2”). And a second special symbol display section (refer to reference numeral 112b in FIG. 5).

  Here, the special figure 1 is a symbol representing the lottery result of the first jackpot lottery performed when the game ball wins the first starting port 105. The special figure 2 is a symbol representing the lottery result of the second big hit lottery performed when the game ball wins the second starting port 106. The first jackpot lottery and the second jackpot lottery are lotteries for determining whether or not the gaming state is a jackpot state.

  In addition, a normal symbol display portion 113 for displaying normal symbols is arranged in the lower right portion of the game board 101. Here, the normal symbol represents the lottery result of the normal symbol lottery. The normal symbol lottery is a lottery for determining whether or not to open the electric tulip 107 (long open or short open) as described above. The normal symbol display unit 113 is composed of, for example, a 7-segment display.

  On the left side of the special symbol display unit 112 and the normal symbol display unit 113, a reserved ball display unit 114 that displays the number of reserved symbols for the special symbol or the normal symbol is arranged. For example, an LED is used as the reserved ball display unit 114. A plurality of LEDs serving as the holding ball display unit 114 are arranged, and the number of holdings is indicated by turning on / off. For example, when two upper LEDs among the LEDs constituting the holding ball display unit 114 are lit, it indicates that the number of holdings for the normal symbol is two.

  A frame member 115 is provided on the outer peripheral portion of the game area 103 of the game board 101. On the two sides which are the upper side and the lower side of the game area 103 in the frame member 115, an effect light part (frame lamp) 116 is provided. The effect light units 116 each have a plurality of lamps. Each lamp irradiates the player in front of the pachinko gaming machine 100, and the irradiation direction of the light can be changed in the vertical direction so that the irradiation position moves from the overhead of the player along the abdomen. Each lamp is driven by a motor (not shown) provided in the effect light unit 116 so as to change the light irradiation direction in the vertical direction.

  An operation handle 117 is disposed at a lower position of the frame member 115. The operation handle 117 includes a firing instruction member 118 that drives the above-described launching unit to launch a game ball. The firing instruction member 118 is provided on the outer peripheral portion of the operation handle 117 so as to be rotated clockwise as viewed from the player. The launching unit launches a game ball when the firing instruction member 118 is directly operated by a player.

  In the frame member 115, an effect button (chance button) 119 for receiving an operation by the player is provided on the lower side of the game area 103. In the frame member 115, a cross key 120 is provided next to the effect button 119. The effect buttons 119 and the cross key 120 constitute an operation unit that receives an operation from the player in the pachinko gaming machine 100. Further, the frame member 115 incorporates a speaker (see reference numeral 554 in FIG. 5) for outputting sound.

  On the side of the image display unit 104, a stage effect 130 is disposed. The director 130 includes a fixed director 130 and a movable director 132. The fixed effect actor 131 is provided on the game board 101 with fixed movement in the direction parallel to the board surface. In addition, although mentioned later for details, the fixed production | presentation actor 131 can be operated in the orthogonal | vertical direction with respect to a board surface, and, specifically, it can lock the movable production | presentation actor 132 in the pushed position. It has become.

  The movable effect actor 132 has a drive motor, is movable along the board surface on the game board 101, and produces an effect by emitting light and moving. Although illustration is omitted, another accessory for effect is provided at a predetermined position in the game area 103 (for example, around the image display unit 104).

(Composition of director)
Next, the configuration of the director 130 of the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 2A is an exploded perspective view of the production character 130. In FIG. 2A, the effect actor 130 includes a drive system 200, an effect system 210, a stopper 220, and a photo sensor 230.

  The drive system 200 includes a drive motor 201, a transmission shaft 202, a drive gear 203, and a driven gear 204. The drive motor 201 converts electrical energy into mechanical energy and rotates the transmission shaft 202. The drive gear 203 is driven to rotate by the rotational force transmitted from the drive motor 201 via the transmission shaft 202. The driven gear 204 is meshed with the drive gear 203 and rotated by the rotational force of the drive gear 203. The drive gear 203 is joined to the cylindrical portion 205. The cylindrical portion 205 is provided with a slit 206 as an origin position, and the slit 206 is detected by the photosensor 230. The drive system 200 corresponds to the drive means of the present invention.

  The production system 210 includes a fixed production actor 131 and a movable production actor 132. The fixed performance actor 131 is joined to the stopper 220 and is slid and moved together with the stopper 220 in a direction perpendicular to the game board 101 (A direction in FIG. 2-2) together with the stopper 220. It is possible. Further, the fixed effect combination 131 includes a lamp and emits light during a predetermined effect.

  The movable effect accessory 132 is configured by connecting three large, medium, and small lamps, and the upper lamp is provided with a connecting portion 211 that is connected to the driven gear 204. The movable effect actor 132 is rotated about the connecting portion 211 as a fulcrum by the rotation of the driven gear 204. The movable effect actor 132 is rotated at the time of a predetermined effect, and each lamp emits light.

  The stopper 220 is provided with a protrusion 221 that joins to the fixed effect actor 131 at one end. The stopper 220 includes a sliding groove 222 that slides on the guide rail 302 (see FIGS. 3A and 3B) and is slidable along the guide rail 302. The guide rail 302 and the sliding groove 222 constitute a sliding mechanism. Further, the stopper 220 includes a locking portion 301 (see FIGS. 3A and 3B) on the opposite side of the guide rail 302, and the locking portion 301 is located at the pressing position where the fixed effect accessory 131 is pressed. By engaging with the drive gear 203, the movable effect accessory 132 is locked.

  Furthermore, at the other end of the stopper 220, a detected portion 223 that enters the detection area of the photosensor 230 at the position where the fixed effect actor 131 is inserted is provided. The stopper 220 is configured such that the detected part 223 is retracted from the detection area by the photosensor 230 at the drawing position where the fixed effect actor 131 is drawn. The drawing position is not a position where the fixed effect actor 131 is most drawn out, but a position where the fixed effect agent 131 is not locked. The stopper 220 is not limited to this type as long as the movable effect actor 132 can be locked at a predetermined locking position.

  The stopper 220 corresponds to the locking means of the present invention. In the present embodiment, the stopper 220 is connected to the fixed effect actor 131. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the stopper 220 and the fixed effect actor 131 are provided separately, and the game board 101 is provided. The stopper 220 provided on the top may be slidable to the pushing position or the drawing position alone. The stopper 220 only needs to be capable of locking at least the movable effect actor 132, and may be, for example, one that locks the movable effect agent 132 itself or being locked to the driven gear 204. Thus, the movable effect combination 132 may be locked.

  The photo sensor 230 includes a light emitting element and a light receiving element, and detects the origin position of the drive gear 203. The photosensor 230 detects the slit 206 corresponding to the origin position of the drive gear 203 and detects the wall surface of the cylindrical portion 205 as a shield. In particular, in this embodiment, when the stopper 220 is pushed, the photosensor 230 detects the detected portion 223 as a shielding object when the detected portion 223 enters the photosensor 230.

  In this embodiment, the photosensor 230 detects not only the origin position of the drive gear 203 but also the stopper 220. However, the photosensor 230 is not limited to this, and only detects the stopper 220. It may be provided separately. The photosensor 230 corresponds to the detection means of the present invention. In the present embodiment, the photosensor 230 is used as the detection means of the present invention. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Any sensor can be used as long as it can detect the presence or absence of the stopper 220 at a predetermined lock position. These sensors can be used.

  FIG. 2-2 is an assembly perspective view of the production character 130. In FIG. 2B, the effect actor 130 shows a state where the fixed effect agent 131 is pushed in, that is, a state where the movable effect agent 132 is locked. For example, when the pachinko gaming machine 100 is delivered to the amusement store, the movable effect accessory 132 is locked in this way. Details of the state in which the movable effect accessory 132 is locked will be described with reference to FIGS. 3A and 3B.

  FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional view showing a state where the movable effect actor 132 is locked. FIG. 3B is a front view of the drive gear 203 viewed from the B direction in FIG. In FIG. 3A, the fixed effect actor 131 and the stopper 220 are pushed in. More specifically, when an operator such as a store clerk or a worker on the manufacturing site applies a force in the C direction to the fixed director 130 from the state in which the fixed director 130 is pulled out, the stopper 220 is moved to the guide rail. By sliding along 302, the fixed effect combination 131 is shown pushed.

  At this time, the locking portion 301 provided below the stopper 220 is locked to the drive gear 203 (see FIG. 3-2). As a result, the movable effect actor 132 is locked. At this time, the detected portion 223 enters the photo sensor 230 and is located within the detection area of the photo sensor 230.

  FIG. 3-3 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state in which the movable effect actor 132 is not locked. In FIG. 3C, the fixed effect actor 131 is in a pulled out state. Specifically, from the state shown in FIG. 3A, when the operator applies a force in the D direction to the fixed effect actor 131, the stopper 220 slides along the guide rail 302. At this time, the locking portion 301 provided on the stopper 220 is detached from the drive gear 203. Thereby, the lock | rock of the movable production | presentation actor 132 is cancelled | released. Further, the detected part 223 is retracted from the detection area of the photosensor 230.

  In order to prevent the pulled-out fixed effect role 131 from being pushed into the lock position again due to vibration of the pachinko gaming machine 100 or the like, for example, the fixed effect role 131 is inserted into the game board 101 at the drawn-out position. You may make it latch on. Specifically, for example, a locking hole is provided in the fixed effect role 131, and the lock that locks in the locking hole by rotating the fixed effect role 131 by a predetermined angle by an operator's operation at the drawing position. A protrusion may be provided on the game board 101. In this case, the locking hole and the locking projection are respectively positioned so that the apex of the lamp indicating the star shape of the fixed effect role 131 is positioned at the position where the fixed effect character 131 is locked. By doing so, it is possible to fix the fixed effect role 131 without a sense of incongruity.

(Operation of the director)
Next, the operation of the director 130 of the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 4A is an explanatory diagram illustrating a state of the effect actor 130 in a normal state. In FIG. 4A, the effect character 130 is in a position retracted from the image display unit 104, and the movable effect character 132 is stationary.

  4-2 is explanatory drawing which showed the state of the production | presentation actor 130 when the movable production | presentation actor 132 moved at the time of production. In FIG. 4B, the stage effect 130 is driven and rotated clockwise by the drive gear 203, and the driven gear 204 is driven and rotated counterclockwise. It is in a state of rotating clockwise. At this time, for example, the lamps of the fixed effect combination 131 and the movable effect combination 132 are turned on as effects. In addition, only the lowermost lamp of the movable effect actor 132 may be connected to a separately provided drive unit, so that only the lowermost lamp is rotated alone.

(Internal configuration of control unit of pachinko machine)
Next, the internal configuration of the control unit of the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating an internal configuration of a control unit of the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 5, the control unit 500 of the pachinko gaming machine 100 includes a main control unit 501 that controls the progress of the game, an effect control unit 502 that controls the contents of the effect, and a prize ball control that controls the payout of the prize ball. Part 503. The configuration of each control unit will be described in detail below.

(1. Main control unit)
The main control unit 501 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 511, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 512, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 513, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like. The

  The main control unit 501 functions to control the progress of the game of the pachinko gaming machine 100 by executing various programs stored in the ROM 512 while the CPU 511 uses the RAM 513 as a work area. Specifically, the main control unit 501 performs a jackpot lottery (first jackpot lottery, second jackpot lottery), normal symbol lottery, game state control, and the like to control the progress of the game. For example, the main control unit 501 is realized by a main control board.

  The CPU 511 executes basic processing as the game content progresses based on various programs stored in the ROM 512 in advance. The ROM 512 stores a jackpot lottery program, a normal symbol lottery program, an electric tulip control program, a big prize opening control program, and the like.

  The jackpot lottery program is a program for performing a jackpot lottery when a game ball is detected by the first start port SW521 or the second start port SW522. The normal symbol lottery program is a program for performing a normal symbol lottery that makes the electric tulip 107 hit (open) or lose (hold closed) when the passage of the game ball to the gate 108 is detected. The electric tulip control program is a program that keeps the electric tulip 107 in a closed state in a normal state and opens the electric tulip 107 for a predetermined period based on the lottery result of the normal symbol lottery. The big prize opening control program is a program for opening the big prize opening 109 for a predetermined number of rounds when the big hit.

  The main control unit 501 includes various switches (SW) for detecting a game ball, a solenoid for opening and closing an electric accessory such as the electric tulip 107 and the prize winning port 109, the first special symbol display unit 112a, The second special symbol display unit 112b, the normal symbol display unit 113, the reserved ball display unit 114, and the like are connected.

  Specifically, the various SWs include a first start port SW521 that detects a game ball won in the first start port 105, and a second start port SW522 that detects a game ball won in the second start port 106. , A gate SW 523 that detects a game ball that has passed through the gate 108, a big winning opening SW 524 that detects a gaming ball that has won a prize winning opening 109, and a normal winning opening SW 525 that detects a gaming ball that has won a winning prize 110 Is connected to the main control unit 501.

  The detection results by the respective SWs (521 to 525) are input to the main control unit 501. A proximity switch or the like can be used for these SWs. It should be noted that a plurality of the normal winning opening SW525 may be provided for each arrangement position of the normal winning opening 110.

  As the solenoid, an electric tulip solenoid 531 that opens and closes the electric tulip 107 and a big prize opening solenoid 532 that opens and closes the big prize opening 109 are connected to the main controller 501. The main control unit 501 controls the driving for each solenoid (531, 532). For example, the main control unit 501 controls the driving of the electric tulip solenoid 531 based on the lottery result of the normal symbol lottery. Further, the main control unit 501 controls the driving of the special winning opening solenoid 532 based on the lottery result of the big hit lottery.

  Based on the lottery results of the jackpot lottery (the first jackpot lottery, the second jackpot lottery), the normal symbol lottery, the main control unit 501 is a first special symbol display unit 112a, a second special symbol display unit 112b, a normal symbol display unit The display content of 113 is controlled. For example, when the first big hit lottery is performed, the main control unit 501 variably displays the special figure 1 of the first special symbol display part 112a. Then, after a predetermined period, the special figure 1 is stopped and displayed with a symbol indicating the lottery result of the first jackpot lottery.

  Similarly, the main control unit 501 changes / stops display of the special symbol 2 of the second special symbol display unit 112b when the second big hit lottery is performed, and displays the normal symbol of the normal symbol display unit 113 when the normal symbol lottery is performed. Is changed / stopped.

  Furthermore, the main control unit 501 is also connected to the effect control unit 502 and the prize ball control unit 503, and outputs various commands to the respective control units. For example, the main control unit 501 outputs a change start command, a jackpot start command, and the like to the effect control unit 502. Here, the change start command includes information indicating a gaming state, information indicating a time for variably displaying a special symbol (hereinafter referred to as “change time”), and the like. The main control unit 501 outputs a prize ball command to the prize ball control unit 503. Here, the prize ball command includes information indicating the number of prize balls to be paid out.

  The main control unit 501 outputs information indicating the game state being executed to the effect control unit 502 as a command. In this case, the effect control unit 502 performs an effect according to the game state being executed (for example, control of symbol variation or movable accessory). Further, when there is a single winning for the first starting port 105 or the second starting port 106, the main control unit 501 outputs information indicating the variation time required for one symbol variation to the effect control unit 502. To do.

(2. Production control unit)
The effect control unit 502 includes an effect control unit 502a, an image / sound control unit 502b, and a lamp control unit 502c, and has a function of controlling the effect contents of the pachinko gaming machine 100. Here, the production control unit 502a has a function of supervising the entire production control unit 502 based on various commands (for example, change start commands) received from the main control unit 501. The image / sound control unit 502b has a function of controlling the image and sound based on the instruction content from the production supervising unit 502a. In addition, the lamp control unit 502c has a function of controlling the lighting of the lamps of the production role 130 provided in the game board 101, the lighting of the lamps provided in the frame member 115, the operation of the movable production character 132, and the like. doing.

(2-1. Director of Production)
First, the configuration of the production control unit 502a will be described. The production control unit 502a includes a CPU 541, a ROM 542, a RAM 543, a real-time clock (hereinafter referred to as “RTC”) 544, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like. The production control unit 502a corresponds to the control means of the present invention.

  The CPU 541 executes an effect pattern selection process for selecting an effect to be executed. The ROM 542 stores various programs necessary for the CPU 541 to execute the above processing. The RAM 543 functions as a work area for the CPU 541. Data set in the RAM 543 by the CPU 541 executing various programs is output to the image / sound controller 502b and the lamp controller 502c at a predetermined timing.

  The CPU 541 executes processing related to the contents of effects based on various programs stored in the ROM 542 in advance. The ROM 542 stores a production supervision program, an abnormality notification program, and the like. Based on the change start command, the production control program determines the content of the effect to be executed in accordance with the change display of the special symbol, and outputs an instruction to the image / sound control unit 502b and the lamp control unit 502c to execute a predetermined process. Thus, the program controls the entire production control unit 502.

  The abnormality notification program causes the lamp control unit 502c to drive the drive motor 201 and detect the photo sensor 230 when the power is turned on. When the stopper 220 is detected by the photo sensor 230, the movable effect actor 132 is displayed. This is a program for notifying that the motor is locked and for stopping driving of the drive motor 201 in subsequent games when the lock is not released. The abnormality notification program includes a program that enables the drive motor 201 to be driven in subsequent games when the stopper 220 is no longer detected by the photosensor 230.

  The RTC 544 counts and outputs the actual time. The RTC 544 continues timing operation by a backup power source (not shown) even when the power of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is cut off. Note that the RTC 544 is not limited to the example in which the RTC 544 is arranged in the production control unit 502 such as the production control unit 502a, but may be arranged in the main control unit 501. Moreover, you may arrange | position RTC544 alone.

  In addition, an effect button 119 is connected to the effect control unit 502a. For example, when the production button 119 receives an operation from the player, the production button 119 inputs corresponding data to the production control unit 502a. Although not shown in FIG. 5, the cross key 120 is also connected to the production control unit 502a. The cross key 120 inputs data corresponding to the key selected by the player to the production control unit 502a.

(2-2. Image / Audio Control Unit)
Next, the configuration of the image / sound controller 502b will be described. The image / sound controller 502b includes a CPU 551, a ROM 552, a RAM 553, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like.

  The CPU 551 executes image and sound generation and output processing. The ROM 552 stores a program for generating and outputting images and sounds, various image data such as background images, design images, and character images necessary for the processing, various sound data, and the like. The RAM 553 functions as a work area for the CPU 551 and temporarily stores image data to be displayed on the image display unit 104 and audio data to be output from the speaker 554.

  That is, the image / sound control unit 502b controls the image and sound based on instructions from the production control unit 502a by executing various programs stored in the ROM 552 while the CPU 551 uses the RAM 553 as a work area. Works like doing.

  For example, the CPU 551 executes various image processing and audio processing such as background image display processing, effect design variation / stop display processing, and character image display processing based on the instruction content instructed from the effect supervising unit 502a. At this time, the CPU 551 reads image data and audio data necessary for processing from the ROM 552 and writes them in the RAM 553.

  Image data such as a background image and effect design image written in the RAM 553 is output to the image display unit 104 connected to the image / sound control unit 502b, and is superimposed on the display screen of the image display unit 104. . That is, the effect design image is displayed so as to be seen in front of the background image. When the background image and the design image overlap at the same position, the design image is preferentially stored in the RAM 553 by referring to the Z value of the Z buffer of each image data by a known hidden surface removal method such as the Z buffer method. Remember.

  The audio data written in the RAM 553 is output to the speaker 554 connected to the image / audio control unit 502b, and audio based on the audio data is output from the speaker 554.

(2-3. Lamp control unit)
Next, the configuration of the lamp control unit 502c will be described. The lamp control unit 502c includes a CPU 561, a ROM 562, a RAM 563, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like. The CPU 561 executes processing for lighting the lamp and the like. The ROM 562 stores various programs necessary for executing the above processing, control data used for lamp lighting necessary for the processing, and the like. The RAM 563 functions as a work area for the CPU 561.

  The lamp controller 502c is connected to the effect light unit (frame lamp) 116, the panel lamp 564, and the effect agent lamp 565, and outputs data for lighting control. Thereby, the lamp control unit 502c functions to control lighting of the lamps provided on the game board 101, the frame member 115, and the like, and lighting and operation of the stage effect lamp 565.

  The lamp control unit 502c is connected to the drive motor 201 and the photo sensor 230, and starts detection of the stopper 220 by the photo sensor 230 at the time of activation, and operates the drive motor 201 based on the detection result of the photo sensor 230. Output the data to be controlled.

  In the present embodiment, the production control unit 502 is provided with a production control unit 502a, an image / sound control unit 502b, and a lamp control unit 502c as different board functions, but these are incorporated on the same printed board. May be. However, each function is independent even when they are incorporated on the same printed circuit board.

(3. Prize ball control unit)
Next, the configuration of the prize ball control unit 503 will be described. The prize ball controller 503 includes a CPU 581, a ROM 582, a RAM 583, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like. The CPU 581 executes a prize ball control process for controlling a prize ball to be paid out. The ROM 582 stores a prize ball program and the like necessary for the processing. The RAM 583 functions as a work area for the CPU 581.

  The prize ball control unit 503 is connected to a payout unit (payout drive motor) 591, a launch unit 592, a fixed position detection SW 593, a payout ball detection SW 594, a ball presence detection SW 595, and a full tank detection SW 596. .

  The prize ball control unit 503 controls the payout unit 591 to pay out the number of prize balls at the time of winning. The payout unit 591 is composed of a motor for paying out a predetermined number from the game ball storage unit. Specifically, the prize ball control unit 503 receives the game balls that have won a prize at each of the winning ports (the first starting port 105, the second starting port 106, the big winning port 109, and the normal winning port 110) with respect to the payout unit 591. Control to pay out the corresponding number of prize balls.

  The award ball control unit 503 detects the operation of launching a game ball with respect to the launch unit 592 and controls the launch of the game ball. The launcher 592 launches a game ball for a game, and includes a sensor that detects a game operation by the player, a solenoid that launches the game ball, and the like. When the prize ball control unit 503 detects a game operation by the sensor of the launch unit 592, the game ball 103 is intermittently fired by driving a solenoid or the like in response to the detected game operation, and the game area 103 of the game board 101. A game ball is sent out.

  The prize ball control unit 503 is connected to various detection units for detecting the state of the game ball to be paid out, and detects the payout state for the prize ball. These detection units include a fixed position detection SW 593, a payout ball detection SW 594, a ball presence detection SW 595, a full tank detection SW 596, and the like. For example, the prize ball control unit 503 realizes its function by a prize ball control board.

  In addition, a board external information terminal board 597 is connected to the main control section 501, and various information executed by the main control section 501 can be output to the outside. The prize ball control unit 503 is also connected to the frame external information terminal board 598, and can output various information executed by the prize ball control unit 503 to the outside.

  The main control unit 501, the effect control unit 502, and the prize ball control unit 503 having the above-described configuration are provided on different printed boards (main control board, effect control board, and prize ball control board). For example, the prize ball control unit 503 can be provided on the same printed circuit board as the main control unit 501.

(Basic operation of pachinko machines)
An example of the basic operation of the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment will be described. Control during the game is performed by the CPU 511 of the main control unit 501, and the winning situation of the game ball for each winning port is output to the winning ball control unit 503. Then, the winning ball control unit 503 pays out the number of winning balls corresponding to the winning situation.

  Each time a game ball wins at the start openings 105 and 106, a corresponding control signal is output to the effect control unit 502, and the effect control unit 502 displays the symbols on the image display unit 104 in a variable manner and stops them. repeat. When the big hit occurrence has been determined, the corresponding control signal is output to the effect control unit 502, and the effect control unit 502 stops with a predetermined pattern. At this time, control for opening the special winning opening 109 is further performed.

  The effect control unit 502 performs various effects corresponding to the selected event. Here, the events include, for example, jackpots (15 rounds probable jackpots (so-called, probable jackpots), 15 rounds regular jackpots, 2 rounds probable jackpots (so-called, suddenly), 2 rounds regular jackpots (so-called, suddenly)), Includes small hits. Here, the small hit is an event that causes the same behavior (effect) as the two-round probability variation big hit, although it is one of the losers.

  For example, the effect control unit 502 displays various effect displays in addition to the symbol variation display on the image display unit 104 during the reach of the jackpot occurrence period and during the reach until the jackpot occurrence, or at the time of reach notice. To do. In addition, a specific drive is performed with respect to the movable effect role 132, and an effect is performed such as changing the lighting state of the effect light unit 116, the panel lamp 564, the fixed effect character 131, and the movable effect character 132.

  For example, when a big hit (15 round probability change / normal big hit) occurs, the big winning opening 109 is opened a plurality of times. Fifteen rounds are repeatedly executed with one release as one round. The period of one round is set, for example, when nine game balls are won or for a predetermined period (for example, 30 seconds).

  At this time, the winning ball control unit 503 pays out, for example, 15 winning balls per winning game ball to the big winning opening 109. After the jackpot is over, the jackpot state is released, and if it is a 15-round probable jackpot, the game state returns to a high probability state, and if it is a 15-round normal jackpot, the game state returns to a low probability state. .

(Main processing executed by the main control unit)
Next, the main process executed by the main control unit 501 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the contents of the main process executed by the main control unit 501. For example, this main process is started when the main control unit 501 is powered on, and is continuously executed while the main control unit 501 is activated.

  As shown in FIG. 6, in the main process, the main control unit 501 first waits for 1000 ms (step S601), and then permits access to the RAM 513 (step S602). When permitting access to the RAM 513, the main control unit 501 determines whether or not the RAM clear switch is ON (step S603).

  If the RAM clear switch is ON (step S603: Yes), the main control unit 501 clears the RAM (step S604). Here, the RAM clear is a known technique, and detailed description thereof is omitted, but various information (for example, information indicating a gaming state) stored in the RAM 513 is set to a predetermined initial state.

  When the RAM is cleared, the main control unit 501 sets a work area at the time of clearing (step S605) and performs initial setting of the peripheral part (step S606). Here, the peripheral portions are the effect control unit 502, the prize ball control unit 503, and the like. Initial setting of the peripheral part is performed by transmitting an initial setting command for instructing execution of the initial setting to each control unit.

  On the other hand, if the RAM clear switch is not ON (step S603: No), the main control unit 501 determines whether the backup flag is ON (step S607). If the backup flag is ON (step S607: Yes), the main control unit 501 determines whether the checksum is normal (step S608).

  If the checksum is normal (step S608: Yes), the main control unit 501 executes a recovery process (step S609). If the backup flag is not ON (step S607: No), or the checksum is not normal (step S608: No), the main control unit 501 proceeds to step S604 and clears the RAM.

  Next, the main control unit 501 sets a period (for example, 4 ms) of a built-in CTC (timer counter) (step S610). The main control unit 501 executes the timer interrupt process using the period set here. When the CTC cycle is set in step S610, the main control unit 501 executes power-off monitoring processing for monitoring power-off (step S611).

  When the power-off monitoring process is executed, the main control unit 501 updates the fluctuation pattern random number (step S612), and sets an interrupt prohibition setting for the timer interrupt process (step S613). Then, the main control unit 501 updates the initial value random number (step S614), performs the interrupt permission setting of the timer interrupt process (step S615), and proceeds to step S611. Thereafter, the main control unit 501 repeatedly executes the processing from step S611 to step S615.

(Processing procedure at the time of initial setting of production control unit and lamp control unit)
Next, the contents of the processing procedure at the time of initial setting of the production control unit 502a and the lamp control unit 502c will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the processing contents of the abnormality detection start processing performed by the production control unit 502a.

  In FIG. 7, the CPU 541 of the production control unit 502a determines whether or not an initial setting command has been received from the main control unit 501 (step S701). The initial setting command is a command output from the main control unit 501 in the initial setting of the peripheral portion in step S606 (see FIG. 6). When the initial setting command is not received (step S701: No), the process is terminated as it is.

  When the initial setting command is received (step S701: Yes), an abnormality detection start command for causing the lamp control unit 502c to detect an abnormality is set (step S702), and the process ends.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the processing contents of the abnormality detection processing performed by the lamp control unit 502c. In FIG. 8, the CPU 561 of the lamp controller 502c determines whether or not it is during the abnormality detection period (step S801). The abnormality detection period is a predetermined period set in advance after the CPU 561 of the lamp control unit 502c receives the abnormality detection start command from the effect control unit 502a, and is set to, for example, about several seconds to several tens of seconds. Has been.

  If it is determined that it is not during the abnormality detection period (step S801: No), the process is terminated as it is. If it is determined that the abnormality detection period is in progress (step S801: Yes), the drive motor 201 is rotated by a predetermined amount, and detection of the origin position of the drive motor 201 by the photosensor 230 is started (step S802). Then, it is determined whether or not a shielding object is detected by the photosensor 230 (step S803). The shielding object is the wall surface of the stopper 220 or the cylindrical portion 205.

  When the shielding object is detected (step S803: Yes), the drive motor use flag is turned OFF (step S804). Note that turning off the drive motor use flag means stopping the use of the drive motor 201. Thereafter, an abnormal command indicating that the stopper 220 has been detected is set (step S805), and the process ends.

  In step S803, when the shielding object is not detected (step S803: No), that is, when the drive motor 201 is normally located at the origin position without the stopper 220, the drive motor use flag is turned ON (step S806). ). Note that turning on the drive motor use flag means that the drive motor 201 is used. Thereafter, a normal command indicating that the stopper 220 has not been detected is set (step S807), and the process ends.

  According to the above-described processing, while the shielding object is detected, that is, while the stopper 220 is locked or when there is an abnormality in the driving motor 201, the use of the driving motor 201 is stopped and the abnormality is notified. Can be made.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the processing contents of the notification processing performed by the production control unit 502a. In FIG. 9, the CPU 541 of the production control unit 502a determines whether an abnormal command has been received from the lamp control unit 502c (step S901). When an abnormal command is received (step S901: Yes), an abnormality notification screen that prompts cancellation using the image display unit 104 and the speaker 554 is set (step S902). Then, the use flag of the effect content using the effect agent 130 is turned off (step S903), and the process proceeds to step S907.

  To turn off the use flag in step S903 is to prevent the use of the contents of the effect accompanying the movement of the movable effect agent 132 of the effect agent 130. In the lamp control unit 502c, the drive motor use flag is set to OFF (see step S804 in FIG. 8), so that the drive motor 201 is not overloaded during the game, but the process of step S903 is not performed. Thus, it is possible to produce a feeling of incongruity by not performing an effect using the production character 130.

  In step S901, when an abnormal command is not received (step S901: No), it is determined whether a normal command is received (step S904). When a normal command is received (step S904: Yes), a normal screen is set (step S905). Then, the use flag of the effect content combined with the effect agent 130 is turned on (step S906), and it is determined whether or not the abnormality detection period has ended (step S907). If no normal command is received in step S904 (step S904: No), for example, the process proceeds to step S907 while the currently displayed screen is held.

  If it is determined in step S907 that the abnormality detection period has not ended (step S907: No), the process ends. When it is determined that the abnormality detection period has ended (step S907: Yes), a notification end command is set (step S908), and the process ends. The image / sound control unit 502b receives the notification end command and ends the abnormality notification screen or the normal screen using the image display unit 104 and the speaker 554.

  8 and 9, the abnormality notification screen is output from the image display unit 104 and the speaker 554. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the effect accessory lamp 565, the effect light unit 116, the panel It is also possible to turn on or blink a lamp such as the lamp 564 in a color indicating a predetermined warning. In this case, when the stopper 220 is detected by the photosensor 230, the lamp control unit 502c is transmitted without transmitting an abnormal command indicating that fact from the lamp control unit 502c to the effect control unit 502a (see step S805 in FIG. 8). With this control, the lamp may be lit in a predetermined lighting format. In addition, you may use together the alerting | reporting of the abnormal condition by the lighting or blinking of such a production | presentation actor lamp 565, and the alerting | reporting of the abnormal condition by the image display part 104 and the speaker 554.

(Example of screen displayed on the image display)
Next, an example of a display screen displayed on the image display unit 104 will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the abnormality notification screen. Note that the screen shown in FIG. 10 shows the abnormality notification screen output by the control of the image / sound control unit 502b based on the abnormality notification screen output command set in step S902 of FIG.

  In FIG. 10, the image display unit 104 displays a message that prompts the user to unlock the stopper 220 of the gimmick (the effect accessory 130). At this time, the speaker 554 also notifies the user that the stopper 220 is to be unlocked. In this display screen, if the lock is not released or if there is an abnormality in the drive motor 201, a message indicating that the drive motor 201 is to be stopped is displayed, or that an effect using a gimmick is not performed. You may do it. On the display screen shown in FIG. 10, when the fixed effect actor 131 is pulled out by an operator such as a store clerk, the lock is released, and the origin position is detected without any abnormality in the drive motor 201, the screen shifts to the screen shown in FIG. 11. To do.

  FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a normal screen. The screen shown in FIG. 11 shows the normal screen output by the control of the image / sound controller 502b based on the normal screen output command set in step S905 of FIG. In FIG. 11, the image display unit 104 displays that the stopper of the gimmick (production effect 130) is unlocked and there is no abnormality. If there is no abnormality from the beginning, the screen shown in FIG. 11 is displayed without displaying the screen shown in FIG.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, the presence or absence of the stopper 220 is detected, and when the stopper 220 is detected, the fact that the movable effect accessory 132 is locked is notified. , The store clerk can be prompted to unlock. Therefore, forgetting to remove the stopper 220 can be suppressed, the original production of the pachinko gaming machine 100 can be performed, and a failure of the drive motor can be suppressed.

  In addition, according to the present embodiment, the stopper 220 attached to the board surface is slid to lock or unlock the movable effect actor 132, so that the stopper 220 can be prevented from being lost, and again. Can be easily locked. Furthermore, according to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the surface of the game board 101 from being damaged due to the contact of the stopper 220 when the stopper 220 is mounted or removed.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the fixed effect actor 131 and the stopper 220 are integrated, and the movable effect agent 132 can be locked by pressing the fixed effect agent 131, while the fixed effect agent 131. The lock of the movable effect actor 132 is released by performing a drawing operation. Therefore, it is possible to easily lock or unlock the movable effect actor 132 with a simple operation.

  In the present embodiment, it is possible to lock the movable effect actor 132 by locking the locking portion 301 to the driven gear 204. However, as in this embodiment, the locking portion 301 is locked. Is locked to the drive gear 203, so that the movable effect actor 132 can be locked more reliably.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, a part of the stopper 220 is used as the detected part 223, and the detected part 223 is placed at the position where the movable effect actor 132 is locked by pressing the fixed effect actor 131. Can be detected. Further, since the photo sensor 230 for detecting the origin position of the drive motor 201 is also used for detecting the stopper 220, it is not necessary to provide a separate sensor for detecting the stopper 220, thereby saving space. As well as low cost.

  In addition, according to the present embodiment, when the movable effect actor 132 is locked when the power is turned on, unlocking can be urged in an inspection before starting. Note that the timing for detecting the lock is not limited to when the power is turned on, but may be set when the opening / closing door on the front surface of the game board 101 is opened or every predetermined time such as 4 hours. In this case, the above-described abnormality detection process (see FIG. 8) and notification process (see FIG. 9) may be performed when the door is opened or every predetermined time.

  However, the timing at which the above-described processing is performed when the door is opened is in a non-game state in which no symbol variation is performed. In addition, when the above-described processing is performed every predetermined time, when the stopper 220 is detected to be locked, it may be notified only by a lamp so as not to hinder the game, or by voice when the door is opened. For example, it may be notified that the lock has been detected, and for example, the image display unit 104 may notify when the customer waiting screen is displayed for a predetermined time or longer. As described above, if the abnormality detection process and the notification process are performed when the door is opened or every predetermined time, the stopper 220 may be locked due to the opening / closing operation of the door or vibration during the game. However, it is possible to notify the store clerk to that effect.

  In addition, according to the present embodiment, when the lock on the movable effect actor 132 is detected, the drive motor 201 is stopped in the subsequent games. Even if it is not done, overloading to the drive motor 201 during the game can be suppressed.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, since the drive motor 201 can be driven when the movable effect actor 132 is unlocked, the original pachinko machine 100 using the movable effect actor 132 is used. Directing can be performed.

  In the present embodiment, the case where the gaming machine of the present invention is realized by the pachinko gaming machine 100 has been described. However, it may be provided with a movable effect actor 132 that moves on the board surface and performs a predetermined effect. For example, the gaming machine of the present invention can be realized by a rotating gaming machine. In addition, the pachinko gaming machine 100 may be of any type such as a first type and a second type as long as it includes the movable effect actor 132.

It is a front view showing an example of a pachinko gaming machine according to an embodiment. FIG. It is an assembly perspective view of a director. It is sectional drawing which showed the state in which the movable production | presentation actor is locked. It is a front view of the drive gear seen from the B direction of FIGS. It is sectional drawing which showed the state where the movable production | presentation actor is not locked. It is explanatory drawing which showed the state of the production | presentation actor in the normal time. It is explanatory drawing which showed the state of the production | presentation actor when the movable production | presentation actor moved at the time of production. It is a block diagram which shows the internal structure of the control part of the pachinko game machine concerning embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of the main process which a main control part performs. It is the flowchart which showed the processing content of the abnormality detection start process which a production control part performs. It is the flowchart which showed the processing content of the abnormality detection process which a lamp control part performs. It is the flowchart which showed the processing content of the alerting | reporting process which a production control part performs. It is explanatory drawing which showed an example of the abnormality alert | report screen. It is explanatory drawing which showed an example of the normal screen.

Explanation of symbols

100 Pachinko machines (game machines)
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 104 Image display part 130 Production | presentation character 131 Fixed production | presentation character 132 Movable production | presentation character 200 Drive system (drive means)
201 driving motor 203 driving gear 204 driven gear 220 stopper (locking means)
221 Protruding part 222 Sliding groove 223 Detected part 230 Photosensor (detection means)
301 Locking section 302 Guide rail 502 Production control section (control means)
502a Production Supervision Department (control means)
502b Image / sound controller (control means)
502c Lamp control unit (control means)
554 Speaker

Claims (1)

A movable director that is movably provided on the game board and performs a predetermined presentation,
Drive means for driving and rotating in order to move the movable effect actor;
A gaming machine equipped with
A lock means for locking the movable effect character at a predetermined lock position;
Detecting means for detecting the presence or absence of the locking means at the predetermined locking position;
Control means for notifying that the movable effect accessory is locked when the detecting means detects the locking means;
With
The drive means has a gear for applying a rotational force to the movable effect actor,
The locking means includes a locking portion that is locked to the gear, and a slide mechanism that is attached to the board surface and is movable in a direction perpendicular to the board surface, and is pressed into the board surface of the game board. A position and a drawing position drawn with respect to the board surface of the game board are movably attached to the game board, and the movable effect is obtained when the locking portion is locked to the gear at the pushing position. A game machine that locks an accessory and releases the lock on the movable effect accessory by releasing the locking of the locking portion to the gear at the drawing position.

Images