JP5358762B2 - Amusement stand - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine that is capable of normally operating a presentation device after power is supplied and preventing security from being deteriorated. <P>SOLUTION: The game machine is equipped with: a main control unit that carries out game progress processing concerning progress of a game; a presentation unit that carries out presentation concerning a game; and a sub control section that carries out control of the presentation unit on the basis of a command from the main control section. Also, the main control section includes: a time measuring section which starts measuring time subject to power supply to the game machine; a determination section which determines a lapse of prescribed time based on the time measuring result of the time measuring section; a delay section which delays start of the game processing until determination of the lapse of the prescribed time by the determination section; and an abnormality detection unit which detects abnormality concerning the game machine during the delayed period of the start of the game progress processing by the delay section. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2012,JPO&amp;INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a game machine represented by a slot machine or a pachinko machine.

  Conventionally, for example, a slot machine is known as one of the game tables. This slot machine is mainly composed of a main control board that controls the progress of a game, a plurality of effect devices that produce effects based on commands transmitted from the main control board, and a sub-control board that controls the plurality of effect devices. ing. In addition, the plurality of effect devices are mainly configured by a speaker, a lamp, a display device, and the like.

  Generally, the time required for the start-up process executed after turning on the power in the rendering device takes a long time compared to the time required for the start-up process of the main control board. If a command is immediately transmitted from the main control board that has risen first to the effect device that is slow to rise, there is a problem that the effect device cannot perform an effect based on the transmitted command.

  In order to solve such a problem, for example, the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1 has a function of delaying processing of the main control board for a predetermined time after the power is turned on.

JP 2001-46706 A

  However, the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1 simply delays processing of the main control board for a predetermined time after power-on, and does not perform fraud monitoring during this delay period. Further, in recent years, performance devices have been improved in performance, and the difference between the rise time of such production devices and the main control board has increased, and it is remarkable for game machines not to perform fraud monitoring during this delay period. This will cause a decrease in security.

  The present invention has been made to solve such a conventional problem, and is capable of operating the rendering device normally after the power is turned on, and can prevent a decrease in security. The purpose is to provide.

  The present invention comprises: main control means for performing a game progress process relating to progress of a game; effect means for effecting a game; and sub-control means for controlling the effect means based on a command from the main control means. The main control means includes a clocking means for starting timing on condition that power is supplied to the gaming machine, and whether or not a predetermined time has passed based on a timing result of the clocking means. A determination unit for determining, a delay unit for delaying the start of the game process until the determination unit determines that the predetermined time has elapsed, and a delay period in which the start of the game progress process is delayed by the delay unit And an anomaly detecting means for detecting an anomaly related to the game table.

  According to the gaming machine according to the present invention, it is possible to normally operate the effect device after the power is turned on, and to prevent a decrease in security.

FIG. 3 is an external perspective view of the slot machine according to the present embodiment. (A) It is a front view which shows the slot machine of the state which opened the front door. (B) It is the elements on larger scale of the site | part shown by the code | symbol A of (a). The circuit block diagram of a control part is shown. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the power supply and control information flow of the slot machine. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the power-on process in a main control part. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of an initial state game start process. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of a return process. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of a standby process at the time of power activation. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of an error process. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of a main control part main process. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of a main control part timer interruption process. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the process according to interruption status. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of an electrical disconnection process. (A) It is a flowchart of the main process which CPU of a 1st sub control part performs. (B) It is a flowchart of the command reception interruption process of a 1st sub control part. (C) It is a flowchart of the timer interruption process of a 1st sub control part. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of command processing. It is the figure which showed an example of the production instruction information table. (A) It is a flowchart of the main process which CPU of a 2nd sub control part performs. (B) It is a flowchart of the command reception interruption process of a 2nd sub control part. (C) It is a flowchart of the timer interruption process of a 2nd sub control part. (D) It is a flowchart of the image control process of a 2nd sub control part. (A) It is an example of the time chart when an error is not detected between power-on and game control start. (B) It is an example of a time chart when an error is detected between power-on and the start of game control. (C) It is another example of a time chart when an error is detected after power is turned on until game control is started. It is an example of the front view of a pachinko machine.

  Hereinafter, with reference to the drawings, the gaming machine (a spinning machine such as the slot machine 100) according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail.

<Overall configuration>
FIG. 1 is an external perspective view of the slot machine 100 according to the present embodiment. The slot machine 100 includes a main body 101 and a front door 102 that is attached to the front surface of the main body 101 and that can be opened and closed with respect to the main body 101. Inside the center of the main body 101 (not shown), three reels (left reel 110, middle reel 111, right reel 112) having a plurality of types of symbols arranged on the outer peripheral surface are stored and rotated inside the slot machine 100. It is configured to be able to. These reels 110 to 112 are rotationally driven by a driving device such as a stepping motor.

  In the present embodiment, an appropriate number of symbols are printed on the belt-like member at equal intervals, and the reels 110 to 112 are configured by affixing the belt-like member to a predetermined circular cylindrical frame member. When viewed from the player, the symbols on the reels 110 to 112 are generally displayed three in the vertical direction from the symbol display window 113 so that a total of nine symbols can be seen. Then, by rotating the reels 110 to 112, the combination of symbols that can be seen by the player varies. That is, each of the reels 110 to 112 functions as a display device that displays a plurality of combinations of symbols in a variable manner. In addition to the reel, an electronic image display device such as a liquid crystal display device can also be used as such a display device. In this embodiment, three reels are provided in the center of the slot machine 100. However, the number of reels and the installation position of the reels are not limited to this.

  A backlight (not shown) for illuminating the individual symbols displayed on the symbol display window 113 is disposed on the back of each of the reels 110 to 112. It is desirable that the backlight is shielded for each symbol so that the individual symbols can be illuminated evenly. In the slot machine 100, an optical sensor (not shown) including a light projecting unit and a light receiving unit is provided in the vicinity of each of the reels 110 to 112. The light projecting unit and the light receiving unit of the optical sensor are provided. A light shielding piece of a certain length provided on the reel passes between the two. Based on the detection result of the sensor, the position of the symbol on the reel in the rotation direction is determined, and the reels 110 to 112 are stopped so that the target symbol is displayed on the winning line.

  The winning line display lamp 120 is a lamp indicating the winning line 114 that is valid. The effective pay line is determined in advance by the number of medals bet as a game medium. There are five pay lines 114. For example, when one medal is bet, the middle horizontal pay line is valid, and when two medals are betted, the upper horizontal win line and the lower horizontal pay line are added. If three are valid and three medals are bet, five lines including a right-down winning line and an upper-right winning line are valid as winning lines. The number of winning lines 114 is not limited to five. For example, when one medal is bet, the middle horizontal winning line, the upper horizontal winning line, the lower horizontal winning line, the right The down line and the upper right line may be set as valid pay lines, and the same number of pay lines may be set as valid pay lines regardless of the number of bets.

  The notification lamp 123 is, for example, a lamp that informs the player that a specific winning combination (specifically, a bonus) has been won internally in an internal lottery to be described later or that a bonus game is in progress. The game medal insertable lamp 124 is a lamp for notifying that the player can insert a game medal. The replay lamp 122 informs the player that the current game can be replayed (the medal need not be inserted) when winning a replay which is one of the winning combinations in the previous game. It is a lamp. The reel panel lamp 128 is an effect lamp.

  The bet buttons 130 to 132 are buttons for inserting a predetermined number of medals (referred to as credits) stored electronically in the slot machine 100. In this embodiment, each time the bet button 130 is pressed, a maximum of 3 cards are inserted, 2 when the bet button 131 is pressed, and 3 when the bet button 132 is pressed. It has become so. Hereinafter, the bet button 132 is also referred to as a MAX bet button. The game medal insertion lamp 129 lights up the number of lamps corresponding to the number of inserted medals, and when a prescribed number of medals are inserted, the game start is informed that the game can be started. The lamp 121 is turned on.

  The medal slot 141 is an slot for a player to insert a medal when starting a game. That is, the medal can be inserted electronically by the bet buttons 130 to 132, or an actual medal can be inserted (insertion operation) from the medal insertion slot 141. is there. The stored number display 125 is a display for displaying the number of medals stored electronically in the slot machine 100. The game information display 126 is a display for displaying various types of internal information (for example, the number of medals paid out during a bonus game) as numerical values. The payout number display 127 is a display for displaying the number of medals to be paid out to the player as a result of winning a winning combination. The stored number display 125, the game information display 126, and the payout number display 127 are 7-segment (SEG) displays.

  The start lever 135 is a lever type switch for starting the rotation of the reels 110 to 112. That is, when a desired medal number is inserted into the medal insertion slot 141 or when the bet buttons 130 to 132 are operated and the start lever 135 is operated, the reels 110 to 112 start to rotate. The operation on the start lever 135 is referred to as a game start operation.

  The stop button unit 136 is provided with stop buttons 137 to 139. The stop buttons 137 to 139 are button-type switches for individually stopping the reels 110 to 112 that have started rotating by operating the start lever 135, and are associated with the reels 110 to 112. Hereinafter, the operation on the stop buttons 137 to 139 is referred to as a stop operation, the first stop operation is referred to as a first stop operation, the next stop operation is referred to as a second stop operation, and the last stop operation is referred to as a third stop operation. Note that a light emitter may be provided inside each stop button 137 to 139, and when the stop button 137 to 139 can be operated, the light emitter may be turned on to notify the player.

  The medal return button 133 is a button that is pressed to remove a medal when the inserted medal is jammed. The payment button 134 is a button for adjusting the medals electronically stored in the slot machine 100 and the bet medals and discharging them from the medal payout exit 155. The door key hole 140 is a hole into which a key for unlocking the front door 102 of the slot machine 100 is inserted.

  Below the stop button unit 136 is provided a title panel 162 for displaying the model name and pasting various types of certificate. At the lower part of the title panel 162, a medal payout opening 155 and a medal tray 161 are provided.

  The sound hole 180 is a hole for outputting the sound of speakers 272 and 277 (see FIGS. 2 and 3) provided inside the slot machine 100 to the outside. The side lamps 144 provided on the left and right portions of the front door 102 are decorative lamps for exciting games. An effect device 160 is disposed above the front door 102, and a sound hole 143 is provided above the effect device 160. The effect device 160 includes a shutter (shielding device) 163 including two right shutters 163a and a left shutter 163b that can be opened and closed in a horizontal direction, and an effect image display device 157 (effect) disposed on the back side of the shutter 163. When the right shutter 163a and the left shutter 163b are opened outward in the horizontal direction in front of the effect image display device 157, the display screen of the effect image display device 157 is displayed on the front side (player side) of the slot machine 100. It has a structure that appears. It should be noted that the display device is not limited to a liquid crystal display device, but may be any display device capable of displaying various effect images and various game information. For example, a multi-segment display (7-segment display), dot matrix display, organic EL display, plasma display , A reel (drum), or a display device including a projector and a screen. Further, the display screen has a rectangular shape and is configured so that the player can visually recognize the entire display screen. In the case of this embodiment, the display screen is rectangular, but may be square. In addition, a decorative object (not shown) may be provided on the periphery of the display screen, and a part of the peripheral edge of the display screen may be hidden by the decorative object, so that the display screen looks irregular. In the present embodiment, the display screen is a flat surface, but may be a curved surface.

  2A is a front view showing the slot machine 100 in a state where the front door 102 is opened, and FIG. 2B is a partially enlarged view of a portion indicated by reference numeral A in FIG.

  The main body 101 is a box that is surrounded by the upper surface plate 261, the left side plate 260, the right side plate 260, the lower surface plate 264, and the back plate 242, and that opens to the front. Inside the main body 101, a main control board storage case 210 that stores the main control board is disposed at a position that does not overlap with the ventilation port 249 provided on the upper portion of the back plate 242. Below the three reels 110 to 112 are arranged. On the side plate 260 on the left side of the main control board storage case 210 and the reels 110 to 112, a sub control board storage case 220 containing a sub control board is disposed. Further, an external concentrated terminal plate 248 that is connected to the main control board and outputs the information of the slot machine 100 to an external device is attached to the side plate 260 on the right side.

  The lower surface plate 264 is provided with a medal payout device 180 (device for paying out medals accumulated in a bucket), and has a power supply board above the medal payout device 180, that is, below the reels 110 to 112. A power supply 252 (a power management unit 350 to be described later) is disposed, and a power switch 294 for switching on / off of power supply from the power supply 252 is disposed in front of the power supply 252.

  A medal auxiliary storage 240 is arranged on the right side of the medal payout device 180, and an overflow terminal is arranged behind this (not shown). The power supply device 252 is provided with a power cord connecting portion for connecting a power cord 264, and the power cord 264 connected thereto extends to the outside through a power cord hole 262 provided in the back plate 242 of the main body 101. Yes.

  The front door 102 is hinged to the left side plate 260 of the main body 101 via a hinge device 276, and an effect device 160 and an effect control board (which controls the effect device 160) are provided above the symbol display window 113. An upper speaker 272 is provided. Below the symbol display window 113, there are provided a medal selector 170 for selecting inserted medals, and a passage 266 through which medals pass when the medal selector 170 drops illegal medals etc. on the medal tray 161. Yes. Further, a bass speaker 277 is provided at a position corresponding to the sound hole 180.

  In addition, a reset button 290, a setting change button 291 and a setting value display 292 are provided below the symbol display window 113 as shown in FIG. The reset button 290 is a button for resetting (initializing) the slot machine 100, and the setting change button 291 is a button for switching the setting value of the slot machine 100 to any one of setting 1 to setting 6. The set value display 292 is a display for displaying the current set value.

  Further, on the right side of the reels 110 to 112, a setting change key 293 for enabling the setting value to be changed by the setting change button 291 is provided.

<Control unit>
Next, the circuit configuration of the control unit of the slot machine 100 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. This figure shows a circuit block diagram of the control unit.

  The control unit of the slot machine 100 can be broadly divided into main effects according to a main control unit 300 that controls the progress of the game and a command signal (hereinafter simply referred to as “command”) transmitted by the main control unit 300. And a second sub-control unit 500 that controls various devices based on a command transmitted from the first sub-control unit 400.

<Main control unit>
First, the main control unit 300 of the slot machine 100 will be described. The main control unit 300 includes a basic circuit 302 that controls the entire main control unit 300. The basic circuit 302 includes a CPU 304, control program data, lottery data used in the internal lottery of a winning combination, and reel stop. ROM 306 for storing position, RAM 308 for temporarily storing data, I / O 310 for controlling input / output of various devices, counter timer 312 for measuring time, number of times, and the like WDT (watchdog timer) 314 is mounted. Note that other storage devices may be used for the ROM 306 and the RAM 308, and this is the same for the first sub-control unit 400 and the second sub-control unit 500 described later. The CPU 304 of the basic circuit 302 operates by inputting a clock signal of a predetermined period output from the crystal oscillator 314 as a system clock. Further, when the power is turned on, the CPU 304 transmits the frequency division data stored in the predetermined area of the ROM 306 to the counter timer 312. The counter timer 312 sets the interrupt time based on the received frequency division data. An interrupt request is transmitted to the CPU 304 at every interrupt time. In response to this interrupt request, the CPU 304 monitors each sensor and transmits a drive pulse. For example, when the clock signal output from the crystal oscillator 314 is set to 8 MHz, the frequency division value of the counter timer 312 is set to 1/256, and the data for frequency division of the ROM 306 is set to 47, the interrupt reference time is 256 × 47 ÷ 8 MHz. = 1.504 ms.

  The main control unit 300 includes a random number generation circuit 316 that is used as a hardware random number counter that fluctuates a numerical value in the range of 0 to 65535, and a start signal output circuit that outputs a start signal (reset signal) when the power is turned on. When the activation signal is input from the activation signal output circuit 338, the CPU 304 starts game control (starts main processing main processing described later).

  In addition, the main control unit 300 includes a sensor circuit 320, and the CPU 304 is inserted from various sensors 318 (a bet button 130 sensor, a bet button 131 sensor, a bet button 132 sensor, and a medal slot 141 at every interruption time. Medal reception sensor, start lever 135 sensor, stop button 137 sensor, stop button 138 sensor, stop button 139 sensor, checkout button 134 sensor, medal payout sensor for medals paid out from the medal payout device 180, index sensor for reel 110 , The index sensor of the reel 111, the index sensor of the reel 112, the reset button sensor for detecting the pressing of the reset button 290, and the setting change button set for detecting the pressing of the setting change button 291. Sa, it monitors the status of the power switch sensor) for detecting the on / off operation of the setting change key sensors, a power switch 294 for detecting the operation of the setting change key 293.

  When the sensor circuit 320 detects the H level of the start lever sensor, a signal indicating this detection is output to the random number generation circuit 316. Receiving this signal, the random number generation circuit 316 latches the value at that timing and stores it in a register that stores the random value used for the lottery.

  Two medal acceptance sensors are installed in the internal passage of the medal insertion slot 141 and detect whether or not a medal has passed. Two start lever 135 sensors are installed inside the start lever 135 and detect a start operation by the player. The stop button 137 sensor, the stop button 138 sensor, and the stop button 139 are installed in each of the stop buttons 137 to 139, and detect the operation of the stop button by the player.

  The bet button 130 sensor, the bet button 131 sensor, and the bet button 132 sensor are installed in each of the medal insertion buttons 130 to 132, and the medals stored electronically in the RAM 308 are inserted as inserted medals into the game. Detecting the input operation when The settlement button 134 sensor is provided on the settlement button 134. When the settlement button 134 is pressed once, the medals stored electronically are settled. The medal payout sensor is a sensor for detecting a medal paid out by the medal payout device 180. Each of the above sensors may be a non-contact type sensor or a contact type sensor.

  The index sensor of the reel 110, the index sensor of the reel 111, and the index sensor of the reel 112 are installed at predetermined positions on the mounting bases of the reels 110 to 112, and each time a light shielding piece provided on the reel frame passes. Becomes L level. When detecting this signal, the CPU 304 determines that the reel has made one rotation, and resets the rotational position information of the reel to zero.

  The main control unit 300 is provided in a drive circuit 322 for driving a stepping motor provided in the reel devices 110 to 112, a drive circuit 324 for driving a solenoid provided in a medal selector 170 for selecting inserted medals, and a medal payout device 180. A drive circuit 326 for driving the motor, various lamps 338 (a winning line display lamp 120, a notification lamp 123, a game medal insertion possible lamp 124, a re-game lamp 122, a game medal insertion lamp 129, a game start lamp 121, and a stored number display. A driving circuit 328 for driving the device 125, the game information display 126, and the payout number display 127).

  Further, an information output circuit 334 (external concentration terminal board 248) is connected to the basic circuit 302, and the main control unit 300 is connected to an external hall computer (not shown) or the like via the information output circuit 334. The game information (for example, game state) of the slot machine 100 is output to the information input circuit 652 provided.

  In addition, the main control unit 300 includes an output interface for transmitting a command to the first sub control unit 400 and enables communication with the first sub control unit 400. Note that information communication between the main control unit 300 and the first sub control unit 400 is one-way communication, and the main control unit 300 is configured to be able to transmit signals such as commands to the first sub control unit 400. However, the first sub-control unit 400 is configured not to transmit a signal such as a command to the main control unit 300.

<Sub control unit>
Next, the first sub control unit 400 of the slot machine 100 will be described. The first sub-control unit 400 includes a basic circuit 402 that receives a control command transmitted from the main control unit 300 via an input interface and controls the entire first sub-control unit 400 based on the control command. The basic circuit 402 includes a CPU 404, a RAM 408 for temporarily storing data, an I / O 410 for controlling input / output of various devices, and a counter timer 412 for measuring time and frequency. It is installed. The CPU 404 of the basic circuit 402 operates by inputting a clock signal of a predetermined period output from the crystal oscillator 414 as a system clock. The ROM 406 stores a control program and data for controlling the entire first sub-control unit 400, a backlight lighting pattern, data for controlling various displays, and the like.

  The CPU 404 transmits the frequency division data stored in the predetermined area of the ROM 406 to the counter timer 412 via the data bus at a predetermined timing. The counter timer 412 determines an interrupt time based on the received frequency dividing data, and transmits an interrupt request to the CPU 404 at each interrupt time. The CPU 404 controls each IC and each circuit based on the interrupt request timing.

  The first sub-control unit 400 is provided with a sound source IC 418, and the sound source IC 418 is provided with speakers 272 and 277 via an output interface. The sound source IC 418 controls sound output from the amplifiers and speakers 272 and 277 in accordance with a command from the CPU 404. The sound source IC 418 is connected to an S-ROM (sound ROM) in which audio data is stored. The audio data acquired from the ROM is amplified by an amplifier and output from the speakers 272 and 277.

  The first sub-control unit 400 is provided with a drive circuit 422, and various lamps 420 (upper lamp, lower lamp, side lamp 144, title panel 162 lamp, etc.) are provided to the drive circuit 422 via an input / output interface. It is connected.

  In addition, the CPU 404 transmits and receives signals to the second sub control unit 500 via the output interface. Second sub-control unit 500 performs various controls of effect device 160 including display control of effect image display device 157. The second sub-control unit 500 is, for example, a control unit that controls display of the effect image display device 157, a control unit that controls various drive devices for effect (for example, a control unit that controls motor driving of the shutter 163). ), And the like.

  The second sub-control unit 500 includes a basic circuit 502 that receives the control command transmitted from the first sub-control unit 400 via the input interface and controls the entire second sub-control unit 500 based on the control command. The basic circuit 502 includes a CPU 504, a RAM 508 for temporarily storing data, an I / O 510 for controlling input / output of various devices, and a counter timer for measuring time and frequency 512. The CPU 504 of the basic circuit 502 operates by inputting a clock signal of a predetermined period output from the crystal oscillator 514 as a system clock. The ROM 506 stores a control program and data for controlling the entire second sub control unit 500, data for image display, and the like.

  The CPU 504 transmits the frequency division data stored in the predetermined area of the ROM 506 to the counter timer 512 via the data bus at a predetermined timing. The counter timer 512 determines an interrupt time based on the received frequency division data, and transmits an interrupt request to the CPU 404 at each interrupt time. The CPU 504 controls each IC and each circuit based on the interrupt request timing.

  The second sub-control unit 500 is provided with a drive circuit 530 that drives a motor of the shutter 163, and the drive circuit 530 is provided with a shutter 163 via an output interface. The drive circuit 530 outputs a drive signal to a stepping motor (not shown) provided in the shutter 163 in response to a command from the CPU 504.

  The second sub-control unit 500 is provided with a sensor circuit 532, and a shutter sensor 538 is connected to the sensor circuit 532 via an input interface. The CPU 504 monitors the state of the shutter sensor 538 every interruption time.

  The second sub-control unit 500 is provided with a VDP 534 (video display processor), and a ROM 506 and a VRAM 536 are connected to the VDP 534 via a bus. The VDP 534 reads out image data and the like stored in the ROM 506 based on a signal from the CPU 504, generates a display image using the work area of the VRAM 536, and displays the image on the effect image display device 157.

<Power supply and control signal flow>
FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the power supply and control information flow of the slot machine 100.

  The power management unit 350 corresponding to the above-described power supply device 252 converts the AC power supplied from the external power source 352 provided outside the slot machine 100 into a direct current and converts it into a predetermined voltage by the power generation unit 350a. , The control unit such as the main control unit 300, the first sub control unit 400, and the second sub control unit 500, the speakers 272 and 277, the effect image display device 157, and the like. Furthermore, a power storage unit 350b for supplying power to a predetermined part (for example, the RAM 308 of the main control unit 300) for a predetermined period (for example, 10 days) even after the power from the external power source 352 is cut off is provided. Yes.

  Each control unit such as the main control unit 300, the first sub control unit 400, and the second sub control unit 500, the devices such as the speakers 272 and 277, and the effect image display device 157 include a transformer circuit 354 included in each control unit, Electric power is supplied via 356 or the like.

  Each control unit such as the main control unit 300 and the sub-control units 400 and 500 includes voltage monitoring circuits 330 and 430 that monitor the voltage value of the power supplied from the power management unit 350 to each control unit. These voltage monitoring circuits output a low voltage signal indicating that the voltage has dropped when the voltage value of the power supply is less than a predetermined value (9 v in this embodiment) to the basic circuits 302 and 402 of each control unit. , 502 and the like.

  Further, as described above, information communication between the main control unit 300 and the first sub control unit 400 is one-way communication, and the basic circuit 302 of the main control unit 300 is connected to the basic circuit 402 of the first sub control unit 400. A signal such as a command can be transmitted.

<Power-on processing>
Next, a power-on process executed by the CPU 310 of the main control unit 300 when the slot machine 100 is turned on will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing the flow of power-on processing in the main control unit 300.

  When the power switch 294 is turned on, the slot machine 100 is turned on, and when power is supplied from the power management unit 350 to the main control unit 300, the CPU 304 of the main control unit 300 supplies the power described below. The input process is executed first.

  That is, in step S101, various initialization processes (initial processes) are performed. In this initial setting, a wait timer, which will be described later, is initialized, a stack initial value is set in the stack pointer (SP) of the CPU 310, an interrupt is disabled, an I / O 310 is initialized, and various variables stored in the RAM 308 are initialized. , Initialization processing such as operation permission to WDT 314 and initial value setting is executed. After the process of step S101 is completed, the process proceeds to step S102.

  In step S102, it is monitored whether power-on is detected, that is, whether the low voltage signal output from the voltage monitoring circuit 330 is on or off. When the low voltage signal is on (when the voltage value of the power supply is less than a predetermined value (9v in the present embodiment)), the power-on monitoring is continued in step S102, and the low voltage signal is off. In the case (when the voltage value of the power supply is a predetermined value (9v in the present embodiment) or more), the process proceeds to step S103.

  In step S103, the setting key switch sensor determines whether the setting key switch 293 is ON or OFF. When it is determined that the setting key switch 293 is in the ON state, the process proceeds to step S104, and when it is determined that the setting key switch 293 is in the OFF state, the process proceeds to step S105.

  In step 104, a setting change process is performed. In this setting change process, the currently set value (game mode) is displayed on the set value display 292, and it is determined whether or not the setting change button 291 has been pressed by the setting change button sensor. When the setting change button 291 is pressed, each time the setting change button 291 is pressed once, the setting values 1 to 6 that are currently set are added and updated one by one. When the value exceeds 6, the process returns to 1 repeatedly. In addition, a signal input from the start lever sensor 321 is detected to determine whether or not the start lever 135 has been operated. When the start lever 135 has been operated, it is currently displayed on the set value display 292. The set value is stored in the set value storage area of the RAM 308, and the set value is determined. Also, it is determined whether or not the setting key switch 293 has been changed from the ON state to the OFF state. If the setting key switch 293 has been changed to the OFF state, the setting change process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S109.

  In step S105, it is determined whether or not at least a part of the RAM (RWM) 308 is abnormal. If there is an abnormality in the RAM (RWM) 308, the process proceeds to step S106, and if there is no abnormality, the process proceeds to step S107. Various methods for detecting an abnormality in the RAM (RWM) 308 are conceivable. For example, the same information is stored in two first storage areas and second recording areas, and after the power is turned on, the first information is stored. As an example, a method of comparing the information stored in the storage area and the information stored in the second storage area and determining that the two are different from each other is determined as an example.

  In step S106, RWM error processing is performed. In this RWM error processing, after making preparations for clearing the storage areas of all the RAMs (RWM) 308 excluding the used stack area, the process shifts to an infinite loop state.

  In step S107, it is determined whether forced RWM clear is in an ON state. Specifically, the forced RWM clear is set to the ON state when the power is turned on and the above-described reset button 290 is pressed for a long time (for example, pressed for 5 seconds or more). If the forced RWM clear is in the ON state, the process proceeds to step S109. If the forced RWM clear is in the OFF state, the process proceeds to step S108.

  In step S108, a return process is performed. Although details will be described later, in this return processing, processing for returning the slot machine 100 to a state before the power is shut off is performed.

  In step S109, an initial state game start process is performed. Although details will be described later, in this initial state game start processing, RWM clear, power-on standby processing, and the like are performed.

<Initial state game start processing>
Next, the initial state game start process (step S109) in the above-described power-on process will be described with reference to FIG. This figure is a flowchart showing the flow of the initial state game start process.

  In step S201, the storage areas of all RAMs (RWM) 308 are cleared (initialized), and then the process proceeds to step S202. In step S202, a power-on standby process (details will be described later) is performed. In step S203, the process proceeds to a main control unit main process described later.

<Return processing>
Next, the return process (step S108) in the above-described power-on process will be described with reference to FIG. This figure is a flowchart showing the flow of return processing.

  In step S301, standby processing at power-on (details will be described later) is performed, and in step S302, a stack pointer, a register, and the like saved at the time of the previous power interruption (previous detection of low voltage signal on). Perform processing to restore the value of to the original stack pointer or register.

<Power-on standby process>
Next, the power-on standby process (steps S202 and S301) in the above-described initial state game start process and return process will be described with reference to FIG. This figure is a flowchart showing the flow of standby processing at power-on.

  In step S401, in order to monitor an error, the interrupt status stored in the RAM 308 is set to no special processing, and interrupts such as timer interruption are permitted. In step S402, it is determined whether or not there is error-related information in the error information stored in the RAM 308. If there is error information, the process proceeds to step S403 to perform error processing (details will be described later). If not, the process proceeds to step S404.

  In step S404, it is determined whether or not the standby timer stored in the RAM 308 matches the specified value. If they match, the process ends. If they do not match, the process returns to step S402 to return the error information. Continue monitoring. Here, the “specified value” may be a value set in advance (a numerical value corresponding to a predetermined time), and is not particularly limited. For example, the rendering is performed after power is supplied to the rendering image display device 157. An example is a numerical value corresponding to the time until the display of the image display device 157 becomes possible (the time until the initialization of the effect image display device 157 is completed). The standby timer is a timer for measuring the time from power-on. Specifically, after being initialized to 0 in the above-described initial process (S101) of the power-on process, a main control unit timer described later In the interrupt timer update process (S710), the timer is periodically counted up.

<Error handling>
Next, the error process (step S403) in the power-on standby process described above will be described with reference to FIG. This figure is a flowchart showing the flow of error processing.

  In step S501, the above error information is acquired from the RAM 308, and in step S502, the above interrupt status is saved (copied) in the save area of the RAM 308.

  In step S503, the above interrupt status is set to no special processing. In step S <b> 504, preparation for transmitting the error occurrence command 1 to the first sub control unit 400 is performed. In step S505, other error processing is performed.

  In step S506, it is determined whether or not the above-described standby timer matches the specified value. If they match, the process proceeds to step S507, and if they do not match, the process proceeds to step S508. In step S507, preparation is made for transmitting the error occurrence command 2 to the first sub-control unit 400.

  In step S508, it is determined whether or not an error canceling operation (for example, a pressing operation of the reset button 290) has been performed. If applicable, the process proceeds to step S509, and if not, the process returns to step S506.

  In step S509, preparation is made for transmitting an error cancel command to the first sub-control unit 400. In step S510, the error information is cleared. In step S511, the value saved in the save area of the RAM 308 in step S502 is restored (copied) to the interrupt status.

<Main control unit main processing>
Next, main control unit main processing executed by the CPU 304 of the main control unit 300 will be described with reference to FIG. This figure is a flowchart showing the flow of main processing of the main control unit.
In step S601, medal insertion / start operation acceptance processing is executed. Here, it is checked whether or not a medal has been inserted, and the winning line display lamp 120 is turned on in response to the insertion of the medal. Note that when a re-win is won in the previous game, a process of inserting the same number of medals as the number of medals inserted in the previous game is performed, so that it is not necessary for the player to insert medals. Also, it is checked whether or not the start lever 135 has been operated. If there is an operation of the start lever 135, the process proceeds to step S602.

  In step S602, the number of inserted medals is determined, and an effective winning line is determined. In step S603, the random number generated by the random value generation circuit 316 is acquired. In step S604, a winning combination lottery table stored in the ROM 306 is read according to the current gaming state, and an internal lottery is performed using this and the random value acquired in step S603. As a result of the internal lottery, when any winning combination (including an operating combination) is won internally, the flag of the winning combination is set to ON. In step S605, reel stop data is selected based on the internal lottery result.

  In step S606, rotation of all reels 110 to 112 is started. In step S607, the stop buttons 137 to 139 can be received. When any one of the stop buttons is pressed, the reel stop control in which one of the reels 110 to 112 corresponding to the pressed stop button is selected in step S605. Stop based on data. When all the reels 110 to 112 are stopped, the process proceeds to step S608. In step S608, a winning determination is performed. Here, when a picture combination corresponding to some winning combination is displayed on the activated winning line 114, it is determined that the winning combination is won. For example, if “bell-bell-bell” is aligned on the activated winning line, it is determined that the player has won the bell.

  In step S609, if any winning combination with a payout is won, the number of medals corresponding to the winning combination is paid out according to the number of winning lines. In step S610, game state control processing is performed. In the game state control process, a process related to transition of each game state of normal game, BB game, RB game, and internal winning game is performed, and the game state is shifted when those start conditions and end conditions are satisfied. Thus, one game is completed. Thereafter, returning to step S601, the game proceeds by repeating the processing of steps S601 to S610.

<Main controller 300 timer interrupt processing>
Next, a main control unit timer interrupt process executed by the CPU 304 of the main control unit 300 will be described with reference to FIG. This figure is a flowchart showing the flow of the main control unit timer interrupt process.

  The main control unit 300 includes a counter timer 312 that generates a timer interrupt signal at a predetermined cycle (in this embodiment, about once every 2 ms), and the main control unit timer interrupt is triggered by this timer interrupt signal. The process is started at a predetermined cycle.

  In step S701, a timer interrupt start process is performed. In this timer interrupt start process, a process of temporarily saving each register value of the CPU 304 to the stack area is performed. In step S702, the WDT 314 is periodically changed to the initial value (32.8 ms in the present embodiment) so that no WDT interruption occurs (so as not to detect a processing abnormality). In the embodiment, the restart is performed once every about 2 ms, which is the period of the main control unit timer interrupt.

  In step S703, input port state update processing is performed. In this input port status update process, the detection signals of the sensor circuits 320 of the various sensors 318 are input via the input ports of the I / O 310 to monitor the presence or absence of the detection signals, and each of the various sensors 318 is partitioned in the RAM 308. Store in the provided signal state storage area.

  In step S704, it is determined whether or not the above-described interrupt status is an interrupt disabled state. If applicable, the process proceeds to step S710 without performing steps S705 to S709. If not, the process proceeds to step S705. move on.

  In step S705, the above-described interrupt status is acquired. In step S706, processing according to the acquired interrupt status (details will be described later) is performed.

  In step S707, an error monitoring process is performed. In this error monitoring process, a process for monitoring an abnormality of the slot machine 100 is performed. Here, as an abnormality of the slot machine 100, for example, an abnormality related to the insertion of a game medium (medal insertion abnormality indicating that the inserted medal is retained (clogged) in the medal selector 170, and the inserted medal is normal in the insertion sensor. A medal insertion abnormality indicating that the token has not been passed through), a medal payout abnormality indicating that the medal payout device 180 has not been paid out for a certain period of time, or an abnormality relating to a game medium payout (when the medal payout device 180 is driven). A medal payout abnormality indicating that the medal is retained (clogged), a medal payout error indicating that the medal payout device 180 has been removed at a timing other than the medal payout), an abnormality related to the operation means (no abnormality has occurred) The reset button 290 has been pressed and the reset operation is abnormal) Normal (RAM (such as abnormal RWM indicating the malfunction of the RWM)) can be mentioned. In step 707, when these abnormalities occur, information indicating that an error has occurred and information indicating the type of error are stored in the error information described above.

  In step S708, external output signal setting processing is performed. In this external output signal setting process, game information stored in the RAM 308 is output to an information input circuit 652 separate from the slot machine 100 via the information output circuit 334.

  In step S709, command setting transmission processing is performed, and various commands are transmitted to the first sub-control unit 400. Note that the output schedule information transmitted to the first sub-control unit 400 is composed of 16 bits in the present embodiment, bit 15 is strobe information (indicating that data is set when ON), bit 11 -14 are command types (in this embodiment, basic command, start lever reception command, production command accompanying production lottery processing, rotation start command accompanying the start of rotation of reels 110 to 112, and operation of stop buttons 137 to 139. Stop button reception command accompanying, stop position information command accompanying reel 110 to 112 stop processing, payout number command and payout end command accompanying medal payout processing, game status command, error occurrence command 1, error occurrence command 2, Error cancel command, etc.), bits 0 to 10 are command data (frame Is composed of predetermined information) corresponding to de type.

  In the first sub-control unit 400, it is possible to determine the production control according to the change of the game control in the main control unit 300 by the command type included in the received output schedule information, and it is included in the output schedule information. Based on the information of the command data, the contents of effect control can be determined.

  In step S710, timer update processing is performed. In this timer update process, various timers are updated (count up or count down), and for example, the timer is initialized when the above-described initial process is initialized (for example, set to 0). The standby timer is counted up, and the time after the slot machine 100 is turned on is measured.

  In step S711, it is monitored whether or not the low voltage signal is on. Then, if the low voltage signal is on (when power supply shutoff is detected), the process proceeds to step S713. If the low voltage signal is off (power supply shutoff is not detected), the process proceeds to step S712.

  In step S712, various processes for ending the timer interrupt end process are performed. In this timer interrupt termination process, a process of setting the value of each register temporarily saved in step S701 to each original register is performed. Thereafter, the process returns to the main control unit main process. On the other hand, in step S713, a specific variable or stack pointer for returning to the power-off state at the time of power recovery is saved as a return data in a predetermined area of the RAM 308, and power-off processing such as initialization of input / output ports is performed. Then, the process returns to the main process of the main control unit described above.

<Processing according to interrupt status>
Next, a process (step S706) according to the interrupt status in the main control unit timer interrupt process described above will be described with reference to FIG. This figure is a flowchart showing the flow of processing according to the interrupt status.

  In step S801, it is determined whether or not the interrupt status indicates that there is no special processing. If applicable, the process proceeds to step S802 to perform processing without special processing, and if not, the process proceeds to step S803. In the processing without special processing in step S802, for example, processing for clearing (initializing) information on the medal acceptance sensor of the medal selector 170, information on the medal payout sensor of the medal payout device 180, and the like are performed.

  In step S803, it is determined whether or not the interrupt status is a setting change process. If applicable, the process proceeds to step S804 to perform a display set value update process. If not, the process proceeds to step S805. In the display setting value update process in step S804, for example, a process of displaying the setting value updated based on the pressing operation of the setting change button 291 on the setting value display 292 is performed.

  In step S805, it is determined whether or not the interrupt status is in the medal insertion process. If applicable, the process proceeds to step S806 to perform a medal insertion acceptance process. If not, the process proceeds to step S807. In the medal insertion acceptance process in step S806, for example, a process for enabling acceptance of the settlement button 134, a process based on operations of the bet buttons 130 to 132, and the like are performed.

  In step S807, it is determined whether or not the interrupt status is in the medal payout process. If applicable, the process proceeds to step S808 to perform the medal payout acceptance process. If not, the process proceeds to step S809. In the medal payout acceptance process in step S808, for example, a medal payout process or a medal detection process by the medal payout device 180 is performed.

  In step S809, a spinning cylinder control process is performed. In this spinning cylinder control process, a process for enabling reception of the stop buttons 137 to 139, a monitoring process for the index sensors of the reels 110 to 112, and the like are performed, and the process ends.

<Power interruption processing of the main control unit>
Next, the power interruption process (step S713) in the above-described main control unit timer interrupt process will be described with reference to FIG. In addition, the same figure is a flowchart which shows the flow of a power interruption process.

  In step S901, a specific variable or stack pointer for returning to the power-off state at the time of power recovery is saved in a predetermined area of the RAM 308 as return data.

  In step S902, information indicating suspend is set in the power status stored in the RAM 308. In step S903, a checksum is calculated by adding all 1-byte data stored in a predetermined area (for example, all areas) of the RAM 308 to a 1-byte register having an initial value of 0. In step S904, after setting to prohibit access to the RAM (RWM) 308, the process is terminated.

<Processing of First Sub-Control Unit 400>
Next, processing of the first sub-control unit 400 will be described using FIG. FIG. 5A is a flowchart of main processing executed by the CPU 404 of the first sub control unit 400. FIG. 5B is a flowchart of command reception interrupt processing of the first sub control unit 400. FIG. 5C is a flowchart of the timer interrupt process of the first sub control unit 400.

  When the power switch 294 is turned on, the slot machine 100 is powered on, and when power is supplied from the power management unit 350 to the first sub control unit 400, the CPU 404 of the first sub control unit 400 performs the same operation. The main process shown in FIG.

  In step S1001, various initial settings are performed. In this initial setting, initial setting of the input / output port, initialization processing of the storage area in the RAM 408, and the like are performed. In step 1002, it is determined whether or not the timer variable is 10 or more. This process is repeated until the timer variable becomes 10, and when the timer variable becomes 10 or more, the process proceeds to step S1003. In step S1003, 0 is assigned to the timer variable.

  In step S1004, command processing is performed. Although details will be described later, in this command processing, processing according to the command received from the main control unit 300 is performed.

  In step S1005, an effect control process is performed. In this effect control process, for example, when there is a new command in step S1004, a process corresponding to this command is performed. This processing includes, for example, performing processing such as reading out the production instruction information from the RAM 408 and performing production data update processing when the production data needs to be updated.

  In step S1006, sound control processing is performed based on the processing result of step S1005. In this sound control process, for example, when there is a command to the sound source IC 418 in the effect instruction information read in step S1005, this command is output to the sound source IC 418.

  In step S1007, lamp control processing is performed based on the processing result of step S1005. In this lamp control process, for example, if there is a command to the various lamps 420 in the effect instruction information read in step S1005, this command is output to the drive circuit 422.

  In step S1008, information output processing is performed to perform setting for transmitting a control command to the second sub-control unit 500 based on the processing result of step S1005. For example, when there is a control command to be transmitted to the second sub-control unit 500 in the effect instruction information read out in step S1005 (when there is information on the effect image display device 157, etc.), a setting for outputting this control command is made. And return to step S1002.

  Next, the command reception interrupt process of the first sub-control unit 400 will be described using FIG. This command reception interrupt process is a process executed when the first sub-control unit 400 detects a strobe signal output from the main control unit 300. In step S1101 of the command reception interrupt process, the command output from the main control unit 300 is stored in the command storage area provided in the RAM 408 as an unprocessed command.

  Next, the first sub control unit timer interrupt process executed by the CPU 404 of the first sub control unit 400 will be described with reference to FIG. The first sub-control unit 400 includes a hardware timer that generates a timer interrupt at a predetermined cycle (in this embodiment, once every 2 ms), and the timer interrupt process is performed by using the timer interrupt as a trigger. Execute in the cycle.

  In step S1201, 1 is added to the value of the timer variable storage area of the RAM 408 described in step S1002 in the first sub-control unit main process shown in FIG. Therefore, in step S1002, the value of the timer variable is determined to be 10 or more every 20 ms (2 ms × 10). In step 1202, transmission of a control command to the second sub-control unit 500 set in step S1008, an effect random number update process, and the like are performed.

<Command processing>
Next, the command process (step S1004) in the main process of the first sub control unit 400 will be described with reference to FIG. This figure is a flowchart showing the flow of command processing.

  In step S1301, it is determined whether or not the command stored in the command storage area is the error occurrence command 1, and if applicable, the process proceeds to step S1302, and if not, the process proceeds to step S1303. In step S1302, effect instruction information (details will be described later) corresponding to the error occurrence command 1 is stored in the effect reservation queue provided for each effect means in the RAM 408.

  In step S1303, it is determined whether or not the command stored in the command storage area is the error occurrence command 2, and if applicable, the process proceeds to step S1304, and if not, the process proceeds to step S1305. In step S1304, the production instruction information corresponding to the error occurrence command 2 is stored in the production reservation queue described above.

  In step S1305, after performing processing according to other commands, the processing ends. For example, in step S1305, if the command stored in the command storage area is an error cancel command, the effect instruction information corresponding to the error cancel command is stored in the effect reservation queue.

<Direction instruction information table>
Next, an example of the effect instruction information table will be described with reference to FIG. The production instruction information table is information stored in advance in a predetermined storage area of the ROM 406 of the first sub-control unit 400, and commands received from the main control unit 300 and production means (in this example, speakers, side lamps, productions). This is a table in which production instruction information for an image display device or the like is associated and stored.

  For example, if the first sub-control unit 400 determines that the error occurrence command 1 has been received in step S1301, the first sub control unit 400 refers to the error occurrence command 1 in the command items of the effect instruction information table. In this example, speaker = sound data 1 and side lamp = lamp data 1 are acquired as effect instruction information corresponding to the error occurrence command 1, and the sound data 1 is stored in the effect reservation queue corresponding to the speakers 272, 277. The side lamp data 1 is stored in the effect reservation queue corresponding to the side lamp in the various lamps 420. Note that the error occurrence command 1 is the main control at the timing when the above-described standby timer has not reached the specified value (before the effect image display device 157 can display the effect image display device 157 after power is supplied). Since the command is transmitted from the unit 300 to the sub-control unit 400, image data is not stored in the effect reservation queue corresponding to the effect image display device 157 (effect image display device 157 before initialization is completed). To prevent control data from being sent).

  If it is determined in step S1303 that the error occurrence command 2 has been received, the error occurrence command 2 is referred to among the command items in the effect instruction information table. In this example, speaker = sound data 1, side lamp = lamp data 1, and display device = image data 1 are acquired as effect instruction information corresponding to the error occurrence command 2, and effects corresponding to the speakers 272, 277 are obtained. Audio data 1 is stored in the reservation queue, side lamp data 1 is stored in the effect reservation queue corresponding to the side lamps in the various lamps 420, and image data 1 is stored in the effect reservation queue corresponding to the effect image display device 157. The error occurrence command 2 is sent to the main control unit at the timing when the above-described standby timer reaches a specified value (after the power of the effect image display device 157 is supplied to the effect image display device 157). Since the command is transmitted from 300 to the sub-control unit 400, the image data is stored in the effect reservation queue corresponding to the effect image display device 157 (for the effect image display device 157 that has been initialized). Set to send control data). In this example, in the error occurrence commands 1 and 2, the audio data and the ramp data are the same (audio data 1 and ramp data 1), but they may be different data.

  If it is determined in step S1305 that an error cancel command has been received, the error cancel command is referred to in the command items of the effect instruction information table. In this example, speaker = audio data 2, side lamp = lamp data 2, and display device = image data 2 are acquired as effect instruction information corresponding to the error cancellation command, and effect reservations corresponding to the speakers 272, 277 are obtained. Audio data 2 is stored in the queue, side lamp data 2 is stored in the effect reservation queue corresponding to the side lamps in the various lamps 420, and image data 2 is stored in the effect reservation queue corresponding to the effect image display device 157.

<Processing of Second Sub-Control Unit 500>
Next, processing of the second sub control unit 500 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 6A is a flowchart of main processing executed by the CPU 504 of the second sub-control unit 500. FIG. 7B is a flowchart of command reception interrupt processing of the second sub control unit 500. FIG. 8C is a flowchart of the timer interrupt process of the second sub control unit 500. FIG. 4D is a flowchart of the image control process of the second sub control unit 500.

  When the power switch 294 is turned on, the slot machine 100 is powered on, and when power is supplied from the power management unit 350 to the second sub control unit 500, the CPU 504 of the second sub control unit 500 performs the same operation. The main process shown in FIG.

  In step S1401, various initial settings are performed. When power is turned on, initial setting is first executed in step S1401. In this initial setting, input / output port initial setting, storage area initialization processing in the RAM 508, and the like are performed.

  In step S1402, it is determined whether or not the timer variable is 10 or more. This process is repeated until the timer variable becomes 10. When the timer variable becomes 10 or more, the process proceeds to step SF05.

  In step S1403, 0 is assigned to the timer variable. In step S1404, command processing is performed. In this command processing, it is determined whether or not a command has been received from the CPU 404 of the first sub-control unit 400.

  In step S1405, effect control processing is performed. In this effect control process, for example, when there is a new command in step S1403, a process corresponding to this command is performed. This process includes, for example, performing a process such as reading effect data from the ROM 506 and performing an effect data update process when the effect data needs to be updated.

  In step S1406, shutter control processing is performed based on the processing result in step S1405. For example, if there is a shutter control command in the effect data read in step S1405, shutter control corresponding to this command is performed.

  In step S1407, image control processing is performed based on the processing result in step S1405. For example, if there is an image control command in the effect data read in step S1405, image control corresponding to this command is performed (details will be described later), and the process returns to step S1402.

  Next, the command reception interrupt process of the second sub control unit 500 will be described with reference to FIG. This command reception interrupt process is a process executed when the second sub control unit 500 detects the strobe signal output from the first sub control unit 400. In step S1501 of the command reception interrupt process, the command output from the first sub control unit 400 is stored as an unprocessed command in a command storage area provided in the RAM 508.

  Next, the second sub control unit timer interrupt process executed by the CPU 504 of the second sub control unit 500 will be described with reference to FIG. The second sub-control unit 500 includes a hardware timer that generates a timer interrupt at a predetermined cycle (in this embodiment, once every 2 ms), and the timer interrupt process is predetermined by using the timer interrupt as a trigger. Execute in the cycle.

  In step S1601, 1 is added to the value of the timer variable storage area of the RAM 508 described in step S1402 in the second sub-control unit main process, and the result is stored in the original timer variable storage area. Therefore, in step S1402, the value of the timer variable is determined to be 10 or more every 20 ms (2 ms × 10). In step S1602, an effect random number update process is performed.

  Next, the image control process in step S1407 in the main process of the second sub control unit 500 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the flow of image control processing.

  In step S1701, an instruction to transfer image data is issued. Here, the CPU 504 first swaps the designation of the display areas A and B in the VRAM 536. As a result, an image of one frame stored in the display area not designated as the drawing area is displayed on the effect image display device 157. Next, the CPU 504 sets ROM coordinates (transfer source address of the ROM 506), VRAM coordinates (transfer destination address of the VRAM 536), and the like in the attribute register of the VDP 534 based on the position information table and the like, and then the image from the ROM 506 to the VRAM 536. Set an instruction to start data transfer. The VDP 534 transfers the image data from the ROM 506 to the VRAM 536 based on the command set in the attribute register. Thereafter, the VDP 534 outputs a transfer end interrupt signal to the CPU 504.

  In step S1702, it is determined whether or not a transfer end interrupt signal from VDP 534 is input. If a transfer end interrupt signal is input, the process proceeds to step S1703. If not, a transfer end interrupt signal is input. Wait for it. In step S1703, parameters are set based on the production scenario configuration table and attribute data. Here, in order to form a display image in the display area A or B of the VRAM 536 based on the image data transferred to the VRAM 536 in step S1701, the CPU 504 sets information on image data (coordinate axes and image sizes of the VRAM 536). , VRAM coordinates (arrangement coordinates, etc.) are instructed to the VDP 534. The VDP 534 performs parameter setting in accordance with the attribute based on the instruction stored in the attribute register.

  In step S1704, a drawing instruction is performed. In this drawing instruction, the CPU 504 instructs the VDP 534 to start drawing an image. The VDP 534 starts drawing an image in the frame buffer in accordance with an instruction from the CPU 504.

  In step S1705, it is determined whether or not a generation end interrupt signal from the VDP 534 is input based on the end of image drawing. If the generation end interrupt signal is input, the process proceeds to step S1706. If not, the generation end interrupt signal is determined. Wait for input. In step S1706, a scene display counter that is set in a predetermined area of the RAM 508 and counts how many scene images have been generated is incremented (+1), and the process ends.

<Flow from power on to game control start>
Next, the flow from power-on to the start of game control in the slot machine 100 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. FIG. 5A is an example of a time chart in the case where no error is detected after the power is turned on until the game control is started.

  As described above, when the power switch 294 is turned on, the slot machine 100 is powered on, and power is supplied from the power management unit 350 to the main control unit 300, the first sub control unit 400, and the second sub control unit 500. Then, the power-on process is executed by the CPU 304 of the main control unit 300, the first sub-control unit main process is executed by the CPU 404 of the first sub-control unit 400, and the CPU 504 of the second sub-control unit 500. The second sub-control unit main process is executed. Since the first sub-control unit 400 is configured to operate according to a command transmitted from the main control unit 300, the effect control is started after the game control of the main control unit 300 is started. . Similarly, since the second sub-control unit 500 is configured to operate according to a command transmitted from the first sub-control unit 400, the effect control is performed after the effect control of the first sub-control unit 400 is started. Will start.

  At the same time, the power from the power management unit 350 is also supplied to various devices connected to the main control unit 300, the first sub control unit 400, and the second sub control unit 500. For example, the main control unit 300 The medal selector 170, the medal payout device 180, the various lamps 338, the speakers 272, 277 connected to the first sub-control unit 400, the various lamps 420, and the effect image connected to the second sub-control unit 500 The display device 157 and the like are activated, and processing such as initialization is executed in each device.

  When the power-on process of the main control unit 300 is started, it is determined whether or not the power-on is detected in step S102, the power-on is detected, and the reset button 290 is pressed for a long time (in the initial state) ), The initial state game start process in step S109 is executed, the power-on is detected, and if the reset button 290 is not pressed for a long time (in the return state from the power interruption), the return process in step S108 is performed. Run.

  Subsequently, a power-on standby process is executed in both the initial state game start process and the return process. In this power-on standby process, it is determined in step S402 whether or not there is error information, and in step S404, it is determined whether or not the standby timer matches a specified value. The example shown in FIG. Since there is no error detection, that is, there is no error information, the process is terminated only when it is determined in step S404 that the standby timer matches the specified value. When the initial state game start process is being executed, the process proceeds to the next step S203 to start the main control unit main process to advance the game in the initial state, and when the return process is being executed. The process proceeds to the next step S302, and the game control is started in the state before the power interruption by performing the return processing of each register.

  In any case, since the main control unit main process is executed after the lapse of the specified time after the power is turned on, activation of various devices connected to the main control unit 300, the first sub control unit 400, and the second sub control unit 500 is started. After the completion of the game, the control of various devices can be started, and there is no possibility that the player is uncomfortable or disadvantageous due to the abnormal operation of the various devices.

  FIG. 18B is an example of a time chart when an error is detected after the power is turned on until the game control is started. In this example, when it is determined that there is error information in step S402 of the power-on standby process, the error process of step S403 is executed. In this error processing, preparation is made to transmit the error occurrence command 1 to the first sub control unit 400 in step S503. Then, when the command is transmitted to the first sub-control unit 400 in the main control unit timer interrupt process, in step 1302 of the command process of the first sub-control unit 400, as the effect instruction information corresponding to the error occurrence command 1 , Speaker = audio data 1 and side lamp = lamp data 1 are acquired, respectively, and audio data 1 is stored in the effect reservation queue corresponding to the speakers 272, 277, in the effect reservation queue corresponding to the side lamp 144 in the various lamps 420. Each side lamp data 1 is stored. As a result, an error notification using the speakers 272 and 277 and the side lamp 144 (for example, a sound such as “Illegal input” or “Illegal payout” is output from the speakers 272 and 277, or the side lamp 144 is turned on more than usual. Etc.).

  Subsequently, the main control unit 300 determines whether or not there has been an error canceling operation in step S508. The example shown in FIG. 5B is an example in the case of an error canceling operation. In step S509, preparation is made for transmitting an error release command to the first sub-control unit 400 in step S509. Then, when the command is transmitted to the first sub-control unit 400 in the main control unit timer interrupt process, in step 1305 of the command process of the first sub-control unit 400, as the effect instruction information corresponding to the error release command, Speaker = sound data 2, side lamp = lamp data 2, display device = image data 2 are acquired, and the sound data 2 is stored in the effect reservation queue corresponding to the speakers 272, 277, and the side lamp 144 in the various lamps 420. The side lamp data 2 is stored in the corresponding effect reservation queue, and the image data 2 is stored in the effect reservation queue corresponding to the effect image display device 157. As a result, using the speakers 272 and 277, the side lamp 144, and the effect image display device 157, a notification indicating that the error has been released (for example, a sound such as “error has been released” is output from the speakers 272 and 277). Or the side lamp 144 is turned off, or a character such as “error has been canceled” is displayed on the effect image display device 157).

  Subsequently, the main control unit 300 finishes the error processing and proceeds to the next step S404. In step S404, the main control unit 300 determines whether or not the standby timer matches the specified value, and determines that the standby timer matches the specified value. In this case, the power-on standby process is terminated. When the initial state game start process is being executed, the process proceeds to the next step S203 to start the main control unit main process to advance the game in the initial state, and when the return process is being executed. The process proceeds to the next step S302, and the game proceeds in the state before power interruption by performing restoration processing of each register and the like.

  In any case, since the main control unit main process is executed after the lapse of the specified time after the power is turned on, activation of various devices connected to the main control unit 300, the first sub control unit 400, and the second sub control unit 500 is started. After the completion of the game, the control of various devices can be started, and there is no possibility that the player is uncomfortable or disadvantageous due to the abnormal operation of the various devices. In addition, since abnormalities in various devices can be detected after the power is turned on and before the lapse of the specified time, it is possible to prevent an illegal act or the like performed after the power is turned on and before the lapse of the specified time.

  FIG. 18C is another example of a time chart when an error is detected after the power is turned on until the game control is started. In this example, the process until the main control unit 300 transmits the error occurrence command 1 is the same as the example shown in FIG. Thereafter, the main control unit 300 determines whether or not the standby timer matches the specified value in step S506 of the error processing, and determines whether or not there is an error canceling operation in step S508. An example in which the standby timer matches the specified value without any release operation is shown. When the standby timer matches the specified value, the error occurrence command 2 is transmitted to the first sub-control unit 400 in step S507. Make preparations. Then, when the command is transmitted to the first sub-control unit 400 in the main control unit timer interrupt process, in step 1303 of the command process of the first sub-control unit 400, as the effect instruction information corresponding to the error occurrence command 2 , Speaker = audio data 1, side lamp = lamp data 1, and display device = image data 1 are acquired, audio data 1 is stored in the effect reservation queue corresponding to the speakers 272, 277, and the side lamp 144 in the various lamps 420. Side lamp data 1 is stored in the effect reservation queue corresponding to, and image data 1 is stored in the effect reservation queue corresponding to the effect image display device 157. As a result, using the speakers 272 and 277, the side lamp 144, and the effect image display device 157, notifications indicating that an error has occurred (for example, voices such as “Illegal input” and “Illegal payout” from the speakers 272 and 277). , The side lamp 144 is turned on at a higher speed than usual, and characters such as “illegal input abnormality” and “illegal payout abnormality” are displayed on the effect image display device 157.

  In this example, the main control unit 300 is configured to transmit the error occurrence command 1 not accompanied by the display of the effect image display device 157 to the first sub control unit 400 before the lapse of the specified time after the power is turned on. On the other hand, the error occurrence command 2 accompanied by the display on the effect image display device 157 is transmitted to the first sub-control unit 400 after the lapse of the specified time after the power is turned on. For this reason, after the start of the effect image display device 157 is completed, the control of the effect image display device 157 can be started, and the player is uncomfortable or disadvantageous due to the abnormal operation of the effect image display device 157. There is no such thing.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 300 determines whether or not there is an error canceling operation in step S508. If there is an error canceling operation, the main control unit 300 proceeds to the next step S509, and in this step S509, the first sub control unit 400 determines. Prepare to send an error clear command to it. Then, when the command is transmitted to the first sub-control unit 400 in the main control unit timer interrupt process, in step 1305 of the command process of the first sub-control unit 400, as the effect instruction information corresponding to the error release command, Speaker = sound data 2, side lamp = lamp data 2, display device = image data 2 are acquired, and the sound data 2 is stored in the effect reservation queue corresponding to the speakers 272, 277, and the side lamp 144 in the various lamps 420. The side lamp data 2 is stored in the corresponding effect reservation queue, and the image data 2 is stored in the effect reservation queue corresponding to the effect image display device 157. As a result, using the speakers 272 and 277, the side lamp 144, and the effect image display device 157, a notification indicating that the error has been released (for example, a sound such as “error has been released” is output from the speakers 272 and 277). Or the side lamp 144 is turned off, or a character such as “error has been canceled” is displayed on the effect image display device 157).

  Subsequently, the main control unit 300 finishes the error process and proceeds to the next step S404. In step S404, the main control unit 300 determines that the standby timer matches the specified value, and ends the power-on standby process. When the initial state game start process is being executed, the process proceeds to the next step S203 to start the main control unit main process to advance the game in the initial state, and when the return process is being executed. The process proceeds to the next step S302, and the game proceeds in the state before power interruption by performing restoration processing of each register and the like.

  In either case, the main control unit main process is executed after the specified time has elapsed after the power is turned on and after the error is canceled, so the main control unit 300, the first sub control unit 400, the second sub control After the start of the various devices connected to the unit 500 is completed and the errors of the various devices are resolved, the control of the various devices can be started. The abnormal operation of the various devices causes the player to feel uncomfortable or uncomfortable. There will be no profit. In addition, since abnormalities in various devices can be detected after the power is turned on and before the lapse of the specified time, it is possible to prevent an illegal act or the like performed after the power is turned on and before the lapse of the specified time.

  As described above, the slot machine 100 according to the present embodiment has a main control unit (main control unit 300) that performs a game progress process (for example, a main control unit main process or a main control unit timer interrupt process) related to the progress of the game. ), Production means (for example, speakers 272 and 277, various lamps 420, production image display device) for producing an effect relating to the game, and control of the production means based on a command (for example, command) from the main control means. And a sub-control means (for example, a first sub-control unit 400 and a second sub-control unit 500), wherein the main control means measures time on condition that power is supplied to the game table. Time measuring means to start (for example, timer update processing in step S710 of the main control unit main process) and determination means for determining whether or not a predetermined time has passed based on the time measurement result of the time measuring means ( For example, in step S404 of the power-on standby process, and delay means for delaying the start of the game process until the determination unit determines that the predetermined time has elapsed (for example, in step S404 of the power-on standby process). A process of determining No and returning to step S402), and an abnormality detection means (for example, main control unit main process of the main control unit main process) for detecting an abnormality relating to the gaming table during the delay period in which the start of the game progress process is delayed by the delay means. An error monitoring process in step S707).

  According to the slot machine 100 according to the present embodiment, the start of the game control can be delayed until the start-up preparation of the effect means such as the liquid crystal display device is completed, so that the game control is performed before the start-up preparation of the effect means is completed. It is possible to prevent a situation in which the player is uncomfortable or disadvantaged when started. Further, since errors and fraudulent acts can be monitored during a period (delay time) until game control is started, adverse effects caused by delaying the start of game control can be eliminated.

  Further, the main control means outputs abnormality detection information output means (for example, error occurrence commands 1 and 2) to the sub-control means based on detection of the abnormality by the abnormality detection means. For example, an error process or a command setting transmission process) is further provided, and the sub-control unit is configured to notify the fact that the abnormality is detected by the abnormality detection unit based on the input of the abnormality detection information. You may provide the abnormality notification control means (for example, 1st sub control part main process, 2nd sub control part main process) to control.

  With such a configuration, when an abnormality is detected during the delay period, it is possible to immediately notify that fact, and before the start of the production means is ready, the game is in a state where the production means is abnormal. It is possible to prevent a situation in which control is started to cause discomfort or disadvantage to the player.

  Further, the main control means, based on the fact that the abnormality has been detected by the abnormality detection means, abnormal processing means for performing an abnormal stop to stop the start of the game progress process regardless of the timing result of the time measuring means (For example, error processing step S504), a release operation detecting means for detecting an operation of the release operation means for releasing the abnormal stop (for example, step S508 of error processing), and the release operation detecting means by the release operation detecting means. An abnormal stop canceling means (for example, error processing step S509) for canceling the abnormal stop based on the detection of the operation may be further provided.

  With such a configuration, a situation in which the game control is started before the start-up of the production means is completed and the production means is in an abnormal state, causing discomfort and disadvantage to the player. Can be prevented.

  Further, the abnormality detection information output means further outputs the abnormality detection information (for example, the error occurrence command 2) based on the determination that the predetermined time has elapsed during the abnormality stop. You may comprise so that it may output to a control means again (for example, refer FIG.18 (c)).

  With such a configuration, it is also notified about the rendering means (for example, the rendering image display device 157) that is not ready for activation when the first abnormality detection information is transmitted (for example, when the error occurrence command 1 is transmitted). Can be performed.

  The configuration of the gaming machine according to the present invention is not limited to the configuration of the slot machine 100 according to the above embodiment. For example, in the effect instruction information table, the effect data set in the effect means for each command is different. Although an example is shown, a command may be provided for each error type, and the effect data set in the effect means may be varied according to the error type. With such a configuration, the content of the error can be easily known from the content of the production (notification) by the production means, and convenience may be improved.

  Moreover, although the example which controls an effect means by two control parts (the 1st sub control part 400, the 2nd sub control part 500) was shown, it controls by one control part or three or more control parts. Also good.

In the above embodiment, an example of a slot machine using medals (coins) as a game medium has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, a game ball (for example, a pachinko ball) is used as a game medium. The present invention can also be applied to the slot machines and pachinko machines described above.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 19, the gaming table according to the present invention can enter “a launching device 1010 for launching a game ball in a predetermined game area 1002 and a game ball launched from the launching device 1010. A winning opening 1006 configured in the above, a detecting means for detecting a game ball that has entered the winning opening 1006, a payout means 1012 for paying out a gaming ball (prize ball) when the detecting means detects a gaming ball, The variable display device 1004 that variably displays the symbol (identification information) is displayed, and when the game ball enters the winning opening 1006 and wins, the variable display device 1004 stops the display after changing the symbol, and the game It is also suitable for a pachinko machine 1000 "that notifies the state transition.

  In such a pachinko machine 1000, based on a command from the main control means for performing a game progress process related to the progress of the game, an effect means for performing an effect related to the game (for example, a variable display device 1004), and the main control means. Sub-control means for controlling the effect means, wherein the main control means is a timing means for starting timing on condition that power is supplied to the game machine, and a predetermined time based on the timing result of the timing means. A determination unit that determines whether or not the time has elapsed; a delay unit that delays the start of the game process until the determination unit determines that the predetermined time has elapsed; and the delay unit starts the game progress process. Anomaly detection means for detecting anomalies related to the gaming table during the delayed delay period (for example, a magnetic sensor for detecting whether an illegal game ball is used, an illegal The vibration control for detecting whether or not the game is being performed, etc.), the start of the game control can be delayed until the start-up preparation of the production means such as the variable display device 1004 is completed. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the game control is started before preparation for starting the rendering means is completed and the player is uncomfortable or disadvantageous. Further, since errors and fraudulent acts can be monitored during a period (delay time) until game control is started, adverse effects caused by delaying the start of game control can be eliminated.

Furthermore, even if the present invention is applied to an arrangement ball game machine, a ball ball game machine, a smart ball, and a casino machine, the same effect can be obtained.

  In addition, the actions and effects described in the embodiments of the present invention are only the most preferable actions and effects resulting from the present invention, and the actions and effects according to the present invention are described in the embodiments of the present invention. It is not limited to things.

  The game machine of the present invention can be used particularly in the field of game machines represented by a spinning machine (slot machine) and a ball game machine (such as a pachinko machine).

100 slot machine 135 start lever 137 to 139 stop button 290 reset button 291 setting change button 292 setting change key 294 power switch 300 main control unit 330, 430 power monitoring circuit 350 power management unit 352 external power source 400 first sub control unit 500 first 2 sub-control unit

Claims (4)

Main control means for performing a game progress process related to the progress of the game;
Directing means for performing games,
Sub-control means for controlling the effect means based on a command from the main control means,
The main control means includes
Timing means for starting timing on condition of power-on to the game table;
Determining means for determining whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed based on a time measurement result of the time measuring means;
Delay means for delaying the start of the game process until it is determined by the determination means that the predetermined time has elapsed;
An anomaly detecting means for detecting an anomaly related to the gaming table during a delay period in which the start of the game progress process is delayed by the delay means. The game stand according to claim 1,
The main control means includes
Further comprising abnormality detection information output means for outputting abnormality detection information to the sub-control means based on the abnormality being detected by the abnormality detection means;
The sub-control means is
A gaming table comprising abnormality notification control means for controlling the effect means so as to notify that the abnormality is detected by the abnormality detection means based on the input of the abnormality detection information. The game stand according to claim 2,
The main control means includes
An abnormality processing means for performing an abnormal stop for stopping the start of the game progress process, regardless of the timing result of the time measuring means, based on the fact that the abnormality is detected by the abnormality detecting means;
Release operation detecting means for detecting the operation of the release operation means for releasing the abnormal stop; and
A gaming table, further comprising: an abnormal stop canceling unit that cancels the abnormal stop based on the operation of the canceling operation unit being detected by the canceling operation detecting unit. The game stand according to claim 2 or 3,
The abnormality detection information output means further includes:
A gaming machine characterized by outputting the abnormality detection information to the sub-control means again based on the determination that the predetermined time has elapsed during the abnormal stop.