JP5409734B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine.

Conventionally, a sensor (switch) provided downstream of a game ball storage tank that temporarily stores game balls and provided upstream of a payout driving unit for paying out game balls to an upper plate, a lower plate, etc. Pachinko machines that control the operation of the payout driving unit based on the detection result have been proposed.
For example, a pachinko gaming machine described in Patent Document 1 is configured as follows. That is, when the payout solenoid is in the ON state, when it is detected that there is no game ball at a predetermined position in the ball passage by the ball break switch for detecting the game ball in the ball passage, it is detected that there is no game ball. In the absence, the detection of the game ball is monitored for the ball break monitoring time. Then, when it is detected that there is no game ball and the ball breakage monitoring time has elapsed, the payout solenoid is changed from the on state to the off state. As a result, when it is detected that the game ball has not been detected at a predetermined position in the ball passage and the ball break monitoring time has elapsed in that state, the payout operation is interrupted as a ball break error. .

JP 2006-333894 A

If the game ball supply operation on the downstream side of the specific location is stopped when the time detected when there is no game ball in the specific location on the route where the game ball flows exceeds a predetermined time, the game to the specific location is stopped. If the supply of the sphere is intermittent and gradually decreases, the supply operation may not be stopped. In other words, when the supply of game balls to a specific location is intermittent, the time detected without a game ball by the sensor (switch) does not last long and does not exceed a predetermined time, so the supply operation may not be stopped. There is. Even in such a case, there is no problem as long as sufficient game balls can be secured between the sensor and the portion that performs the supply operation. However, if sufficient game balls cannot be secured, the supply operation is performed even when there is no game ball. May continue.
Therefore, it is preferable that the deterioration of the presence / absence of the game ball at a specific location can be recognized with higher accuracy.

The present invention that achieves the above object includes a first detection means 411 for detecting a state in which a game ball is not continuously supplied at a specific location on a path through which the game ball flows, and a game ball at the specific location. Based on the detection by the second detection means 412 and the detection by the first detection means 411 and / or the detection by the second detection means 412 to detect a state where the flow interval is worse than normal Recognizing means 415 for recognizing the deterioration of the supply state of the game ball to the downstream side from the specific location , and a sensor 531 for outputting signals of different levels according to the presence or absence of the game ball at the specific location, The second detection means 412 outputs a signal corresponding to the absence of the game ball after the signal corresponding to the presence of the game ball is output from the sensor 531 a plurality of times within a predetermined period. If it is determined that the game ball flow interval is worse than normal, the recognizing unit 415 detects that the second detection unit has a game ball flow interval normal. The gaming machine 100 is characterized by recognizing the deterioration of the supply state of the game ball to the downstream side from the specific location when it is detected that the state is getting worse .

The second detection means 412 periodically acquires a signal of a level corresponding to the presence / absence of a game ball from the sensor 531, and after acquiring a signal of a level corresponding to the presence / absence of a game ball, It is preferable to detect that a signal indicating the absence of the game ball is output when a signal having a level corresponding to the signal is acquired twice in succession.

  The sensor 531 further outputs signals having different levels according to the presence or absence of a game ball at the specific location, and the first detection means 411 responds to the absence of a game ball from the sensor 531 over a predetermined time. When a signal of a certain level is continuously output, it is preferable to detect that the game ball is not continuously supplied.

  In addition, it further includes supply means 540 for supplying the game ball further downstream from the specific location on the path through which the game ball flows, and the supply means 540 has the recognition means 415 for the downstream from the specific location. If it is recognized that the supply state of the game ball has deteriorated, the supply of the game ball may be stopped.

  In addition, the said code | symbol in this column is attached | subjected illustratively in the description of this invention, and this invention is not reduced by this code | symbol.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to recognize the deterioration of the presence or absence of a game ball at a specific location with higher accuracy.

It is a schematic front view of the pachinko gaming machine according to the present embodiment. It is the elements on larger scale of the pachinko game machine of this embodiment. It is a figure which shows the internal structure of the control unit of the pachinko gaming machine of this embodiment. It is a schematic rear view of the pachinko gaming machine according to the present embodiment. It is a schematic block diagram of a payout unit. It is a figure explaining schematic structure of a ball presence detection part, and it is the figure seen from the back side of a pachinko game machine. It is a figure explaining schematic structure of a payout drive part. It is a block diagram which shows schematic structure of a payout control part. It is a figure which illustrates the output signal from the detection part with a sphere used as the basis which judges that it is the 1st state-the 3rd state. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the 1st payout stop control processing which a payout control part performs. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the 2nd payout stop control process which a payout control part performs. It is a figure which shows schematic structure of a bulb | ball supply apparatus.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[Basic configuration of gaming machine]
FIG. 1 is a schematic front view of a pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment.
A pachinko gaming machine 100 as an example of the gaming machine shown in the figure is configured to pay out a prize ball when a game ball launched by an instruction operation by a player wins. The pachinko gaming machine 100 includes a game board 110 on which game balls are launched, a frame member 150 surrounding the game board 110, and a payout device 500 that pays out game balls. The game board 110 is detachably attached to the frame member 150.

The game board 110 has a game area 111 for playing with a game ball on the front surface, a rail member 112 that forms a passage where a game ball launched from below rises toward the upper position of the game area 111, and a game A guide member 113 for guiding the game ball is provided on the right side of the region 111.
In the present embodiment, an image display unit 114 that displays various images for production is provided at a position of the game area 111 that is easily visible to the player. The image display unit 114 includes a display screen such as a liquid crystal display, and displays a decorative symbol for notifying the player of a symbol lottery result (symbol variation result) as the game progresses by the player, An effect image by the appearance of a character or an item is displayed.
In addition, a movable accessory 115 and a board lamp 116 used for various effects are provided on the front surface of the game board 110. The movable accessory 115 performs various effects by operating on the game board 110, and the board lamp 116 performs various effects by emitting light.

  The game area 111 is provided with a game nail and a windmill (not shown) for changing the direction in which the game ball falls. Further, in the game area 111, various bonuses relating to winning and lottery are arranged at predetermined positions. In addition, the game area 111 is provided with a discharge port 117 through which game balls launched into the game area 111 that have not been won in the winning area are discharged out of the game area 111.

In the present embodiment, as various functions related to winning and lottery, the first starting port 121 and the second starting port 122 that win when a game ball enters and a special symbol lottery (big hit lottery) starts, The game board 110 is provided with a gate 124 that starts a normal symbol lottery (open / close lottery) when it passes. Here, the first start port 121 and the second start port 122 refer to a winning port related to winning a game ball that activates one predetermined special symbol display.
The second start port 122 includes an electric tulip 123 as a normal electric accessory that is turned on and off by a pair of blades in the shape of tulip flowers opened and closed by an electric solenoid. In the electric tulip 123, when the blade is closed, it is difficult for the game ball to enter the second start port 122, but when the blade is opened, the entrance of the second start port 122 is expanded and the game ball is moved to the second start port 122. It is configured to be easy to enter. When the electric tulip 123 wins the normal symbol lottery, the blade opens for a specified time (for example, 6 seconds) and a specified number of times (for example, 3 times) while lighting or flashing.

  In the case of the pachinko gaming machine 100, when the jackpot probability of winning the jackpot in the special symbol lottery varies under a predetermined condition (from a low probability state (for example, 1/300) to a high probability state (for example, 1/30)) Variation). In addition, the pachinko gaming machine 100 can reduce the special symbol variation time during the special symbol lottery under a predetermined condition, increase the probability of winning during the normal symbol lottery, or the normal symbol variation time during the normal symbol lottery. It may be shortened, the opening time of the blades of the electric tulips 123 may be extended, or the number of times the blades of the electric tulips 123 may be opened.

In the present embodiment, the other prize-winning and lottery items include the special prize opening 125 that opens according to the result of the special symbol lottery, and the lottery starts even if the game ball wins. A normal winning opening 126 that is not to be played is provided on the game board 110.
In the present embodiment, the first start port 121 and the second start port 122 are disposed in the game area 111, but a configuration example in which only one of them is disposed or another start port is disposed. A configuration example is also conceivable. In the present embodiment, one big prize opening 125 is arranged in the game area 111, but a configuration example in which a plurality of big prize openings 125 are arranged is also conceivable.
In the present embodiment, a display 130 for displaying a lottery result and the number of holds is arranged at the lower right position of the game board 110.

  Also, on the back side of the game board 110, there are a game control board that performs internal lottery and determination of winning, an effect control board that comprehensively controls effects, an image control board that controls effects by images and sounds, various lamps, Various substrates (not shown) such as a lamp control substrate for controlling the effect by the movable accessory 115 are attached. In addition, a switching power supply (not shown) that converts the supplied 24V AC power source into a DC power source and outputs it to various boards and the like is disposed on the back surface of the game board 110.

When the player touches the handle 151 and rotates the lever 152 in the clockwise direction, the frame member 150 moves the game ball at a predetermined time interval (for example, 100 per minute) with a hitting force according to the operation angle. And a launching device (not shown) for electrically firing. In addition, the frame member 150 includes a supply device (not shown) that sequentially supplies game balls to the launching device one by one at a timing in conjunction with the operation of the player's lever 152, and a game ball that the supply device supplies to the launching device. A plate 153 (see FIG. 2) for temporarily storing. For example, a payout ball is paid out to the plate 153 by a payout unit 520 described later.
In the present embodiment, the plate 153 is configured as an integrated upper and lower plate, but a configuration example in which the upper plate and the lower plate are separated is also conceivable. A configuration example in which the handle 151 of the launching device emits light under a predetermined condition is also conceivable.

The frame member 150 also includes a stop button 154 for temporarily stopping the launch of the game ball even when the player is touching the handle 151 of the launch device, and a game ball stored in the tray 153. A take-out button 155 for dropping and taking out the box (not shown).
Further, the frame member 150 includes a speaker 156 and a frame lamp 157 for notifying the gaming state and situation of the pachinko gaming machine 100 and performing various effects. The speaker 156 performs various effects based on music, voice, and sound effects, and the frame lamp 157 performs various effects based on light depending on a pattern or light emission color caused by lighting and blinking. In addition, about the frame lamp | ramp 157, the structural example which enables it to perform the effect which changes the irradiation direction of light can be considered.
The frame member 150 also includes a transparent plate (not shown) for separating the game board 110 from the player.

FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 2A is an enlarged view showing an example of a display 130 arranged at the lower right of the game board 110. b) is a partial plan view of the pachinko gaming machine 100. FIG.
As shown in FIG. 2A, the display 130 of the pachinko gaming machine 100 includes a first special symbol display 221 that operates in response to winning of the first starting port 121 and a winning of the second starting port 122. The second special symbol display 222 that operates in response to the above and the normal symbol display 223 that operates in response to the passage of the gate 124 are provided. The first special symbol display 221 variably displays the special symbol resulting from winning of the first start port 121 and displays the lottery result. The second special symbol display 222 variably displays special symbols resulting from winning at the second start port 122 and displays the lottery results. The normal symbol display unit 223 displays the normal symbol variably and displays the lottery result when the game ball passes through the gate 124. Each of the first special symbol display 221, the second special symbol display 222, and the normal symbol display 223 is composed of an LED display device, and a symbol representing each lottery result is displayed according to its lighting mode.

  In addition, the indicator 130 operates in response to the hold in the first special symbol display 221 and the first special symbol hold indicator 218 that operates corresponding to the hold in the first special symbol display 221 and the second special symbol display 222. 2 a special symbol hold indicator 219 and a normal symbol hold indicator 220 that operates in response to the hold in the normal symbol indicator 223. Each of the first special symbol hold indicator 218, the second special symbol hold indicator 219, and the normal symbol hold indicator 220 is configured by an LED display device, and the number of holds is displayed by its lighting mode.

  Here, the hold will be described. If there is a prize with another game ball during the fluctuation display operation of special symbols or normal symbols (while the fluctuation display for one win is being performed), the symbol fluctuation display operation for the winning game ball will be A predetermined number (for example, four) is held until the variation display operation for the game ball won in is completed. The fact that such a hold is made and the number of the hold (the number of undrawn lots) are displayed on the first special symbol hold indicator 218, the second special symbol hold indicator 219, and the normal symbol hold indicator 220.

  The frame member 150 of the pachinko gaming machine 100 includes an input device for a player to input an effect. As shown in FIG. 2B, in the present embodiment, as an example of an input device, an effect button 161 and an effect key 162 composed of a plurality of keys adjacent to the effect button 161 and arranged in a substantially cross shape are provided. Are disposed on the frame member 150. The production key 162 is configured such that one central key is arranged at the center, and four peripheral keys having substantially the same shape are arranged around the central key. The player can select one of a plurality of images displayed on the image display unit 114 by operating the four peripheral keys, and can select the selected image by operating the center key. Can be entered as information.

[Configuration of control unit]
Next, a control unit that performs operation control and signal processing in the pachinko gaming machine 100 will be described.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the control unit. As shown in the figure, the control unit includes a game control unit 200 that performs various controls relating to the number of prize balls to be paid out, such as internal lottery and determination of winning, as main control means. Further, as sub-control means, an effect control unit 300 that comprehensively controls effects, an image / sound control unit 310 that controls effects using images and sound, and effects using various lamps and movable accessories 115 A ramp control unit 320 for controlling the payout, and a payout control unit 400 for performing payout control of the payout ball.

  As described above, the game control unit 200, the effect control unit 300, the image / sound control unit 310, the lamp control unit 320, and the payout control unit 400 are each a game as a main board disposed on the rear surface of the game board 110. The control board, the effect control board as the sub board, the image control board, the lamp control board, and the payout control board are individually configured.

[Configuration and function of game control unit]
The game control unit 200 includes a CPU 201 that performs arithmetic processing when performing various controls related to the number of paid-out prize balls, such as internal lottery and winning determination, and a ROM 202 that stores programs executed by the CPU 201, various data, and the like. And a RAM 203 used as a working memory for the CPU 201.
The game control unit 200 performs a special symbol lottery when a game ball wins the first start port 121 or the second start port 122, and sends a determination result as to whether or not it is a win in the special symbol lottery to the effect control unit 300. Also, fluctuation setting of winning probability at special symbol lottery (for example, fluctuation setting from 1/300 to 1/30), special symbol fluctuation time shortening at special symbol lottery, and normal symbol at normal symbol lottery The variable time is set to be shortened, and the setting content is sent to the effect control unit 300.
Further, the game control unit 200 controls the extension of the opening time of the blades of the electric tulip 123, the setting of the number of times the blades of the electric tulip 123 are opened, and the setting of the opening / closing operation interval when the blades are opened. In addition, when a game ball continuously wins the first start port 121 or the second start port 122, the game ball is suspended until the limit number (for example, four) for the undrawn lots, or the game ball continuously passes through the gate 124. The suspension is set up to the limit number (for example, 4) for the undrawn lots.
In addition, the game control unit 200 performs a predetermined number of rounds that maintain an open state until the special winning opening 125 satisfies a predetermined condition (for example, 30 seconds have passed or 10 game balls have been won) according to the result of the special symbol lottery. Control to repeat. Furthermore, the opening / closing operation interval when the special winning opening 125 is opened is controlled.

Further, when the game ball is won in the first start port 121, the second start port 122, the big winning port 125, and the normal winning port 126, the game control unit 200 per game ball according to the place where the game ball has won. The payout control unit 400 is instructed to pay out a predetermined number of prize balls. For example, when a game ball wins at the first start port 121, three prize balls, when a game ball wins at the second start port 122, four prize balls, and when a game ball wins the big prize port 125, thirteen prizes. When a game ball wins the ball, the normal winning opening 126, an instruction command (command) is sent to the payout control unit 400 so as to pay out 10 prize balls. Even if it is detected that the game ball has passed through the gate 124, the payout control unit 400 is not instructed to pay out the prize ball in conjunction therewith.
When the payout control unit 400 pays out a prize ball in accordance with an instruction from the game control unit 200, the game control unit 200 acquires information on the number of prize balls paid out from the payout control unit 400. As a result, the number of prize balls paid out is managed.

As shown in FIG. 2, the game control unit 200 includes a first start port detection unit (first start port switch (SW)) 211 that detects a winning of a game ball to the first start port 121, and a second start. A second start port detection unit (second start port switch (SW)) 212 that detects a winning of a game ball to the mouth 122, an electric tulip opening / closing unit 213 that opens and closes the electric tulip 123, and a game ball to the gate 124 A gate detection unit (gate switch (SW)) 214 that detects passage is connected.
Further, the game control unit 200 has a large winning port detecting unit (large winning port switch (SW)) 215 for detecting a winning of a game ball to the large winning port 125, and the large winning port 125 is inclined to be in a closed state. A large winning opening / closing unit 216 set to the open state and a normal winning opening detecting unit (normal winning opening switch (SW)) 217 for detecting the winning of a game ball to the normal winning opening 126 are connected.

In addition, the game control unit 200 displays the reserved number for the undrawn special symbol lottery (big win lottery) started by winning the game ball at the first start port 121 within the limit number (for example, four). A special symbol hold indicator 218, a second special symbol hold indicator 219 for displaying the number of unsold lots in the special symbol lottery started by winning a game ball in the second start port 122 within the limit number, A normal symbol hold indicator 220 is connected to the normal symbol lottery display (open / close lottery) started by the passage of the game ball to the gate 124 and displays the number of unsettled hold numbers within the limit number.
Further, the game control unit 200 includes a first special symbol display 221 for displaying a result of a special symbol lottery started by winning a game ball at the first start port 121, and a game ball to the second start port 122. A second special symbol display 222 for displaying the result of the special symbol lottery started by winning, a normal symbol display 223 for displaying the result of the normal symbol lottery, and a status indicator 224 for displaying the state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 , Is connected.

  Then, detection signals detected by the first start port switch 211, the second start port switch 212, the gate switch 214, the big winning port switch 215 and the normal winning port switch 217 are sent to the game control unit 200. In addition, the control signal from the game control unit 200 includes an electric tulip opening / closing unit 213, a prize winning opening / closing unit 216, a first special symbol hold indicator 218, a second special symbol hold indicator 219, a normal symbol hold indicator 220, It is sent to the first special symbol display 221, the second special symbol display 222, the normal symbol display 223, and the status display 224. Thereby, the game control unit 200 performs various controls related to the number of payout prize balls.

  Further, a board external information terminal board 250 that transmits various kinds of information to a host computer (not shown) installed in the hall is connected to the game control unit 200. Then, the game control unit 200 transmits information regarding the number of paid-out winning balls acquired from the payout control unit 400, information indicating the state of the game control unit 200, and the like to the host computer via the board external information terminal board 250. .

[Configuration and function of production control unit]
Next, the effect control unit 300 includes a CPU 301 that performs arithmetic processing when controlling the effect, a ROM 302 that stores programs executed by the CPU 301, various data, and the like, and a RAM 303 that is used as a work memory for the CPU 301 and the like. And a real-time clock (RTC) 304 for measuring the date and time.
The production control unit 300 sets the production content based on, for example, the determination result of whether or not the winning is a special symbol lottery sent from the game control unit 200. At that time, in response to an operation input from the user using an effect button or the like (the effect button 161 and the effect key 162), the contents of the effect corresponding to the operation input may be set. In this case, for example, a signal (operation signal) corresponding to an operation is received from a controller (not shown) such as an effect button, and the operation content identified by the operation signal is reflected in the setting of the effect. In addition, when the game is interrupted for a predetermined period, an instruction to set a screen display for waiting for a customer is given as one of the effects.
Furthermore, when the game control unit 200 changes the winning probability at the time of the special symbol lottery, shortens the special symbol fluctuation time at the time of the special symbol lottery, and shortens the normal symbol fluctuation time at the time of the normal symbol lottery. In this case, the production control unit 300 sets the production content corresponding to the set content.
In addition, the effect control unit 300 sends a command for instructing execution of the set effect contents to the image / sound control unit 310 and the lamp control unit 320.

[Configuration / Function of Image / Sound Control Unit]
The image / sound control unit 310 is a CPU 311 that performs arithmetic processing for controlling the image and sound representing the content of the effect, a ROM 312 that stores programs executed by the CPU 311, various data, and the like. And a RAM 313 used as a memory or the like.
Then, the image / sound control unit 310 controls the image displayed on the image display unit 114 and the sound output from the speaker 156 based on the command sent from the effect control unit 300.
Specifically, in the ROM 312 of the image / sound control unit 310, a symbol image or background image displayed during the game on the image display unit 114, a decorative symbol for notifying the player of the lottery result, and a notice effect for the player Image data such as a character or item for displaying is stored. Furthermore, various kinds of acoustic data such as music and sound output from the speaker 156 in synchronization with the image data or independently of the image data, and sound effects such as jingles are stored. The CPU 311 selects and reads out the data corresponding to the command sent from the effect control unit 300 from the image data and the sound data stored in the ROM 312. Furthermore, image processing for background image display, symbol image display, symbol image variation, character / item display, etc., and voice processing using the read acoustic data are performed using the read image data.
Then, the image / sound control unit 310 controls screen display on the image display unit 114 based on the image data subjected to image processing. Further, the sound output from the speaker 156 is controlled by the sound data subjected to the sound processing.

[Configuration and function of lamp control unit]
The lamp control unit 320 stores a CPU 321 that performs arithmetic processing when controlling the light emission of the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157 and the operation of the movable accessory 115, and programs executed by the CPU 321 and various data. A ROM 322 and a RAM 323 used as a working memory for the CPU 321 are provided.
The lamp control unit 320 controls lighting / flashing of the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157, the emission color, and the like based on the command sent from the effect control unit 300. Further, the operation of the movable accessory 115 is controlled.
Specifically, the ROM 322 of the lamp control unit 320 stores lighting / flashing pattern data and emission color pattern data (emission pattern) for the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157 according to the production contents set by the production control unit 300. Data) is stored. The CPU 321 selects and reads out the light emission pattern data stored in the ROM 322 corresponding to the command sent from the effect control unit 300. The lamp controller 320 controls the light emission of the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157 based on the read light emission pattern data.
The ROM 322 of the lamp control unit 320 stores operation pattern data of the movable accessory 115 corresponding to the production content set by the production control unit 300. The CPU 321 controls the operation of the movable accessory 115 based on the read operation pattern data.

[Configuration and function of payout control unit]
The payout control unit 400 includes a CPU 401 that performs arithmetic processing for controlling payout of payout balls, a ROM 402 that stores programs executed by the CPU 401, various data, and the like, and a RAM 403 that is used as a work memory for the CPU 401 and the like. And.
The payout control unit 400 controls payout of the payout ball based on the command sent from the game control unit 200.
Specifically, the payout control unit 400 acquires from the game control unit 200 a command for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls according to the place where the game ball has won (such as the first start port 121). Then, the payout driving unit 540 described later is controlled so as to pay out the number of prize balls specified by the command.

Further, the payout control unit 400 includes a payout ball detection unit 550 that detects the number of prize balls actually paid out from the game ball storage unit by the payout drive unit 540, and a storage unit (not shown). Whether there is a ball detection unit 530 that detects whether or not a game ball is stored, and a tray 153 that holds a game ball used when a player plays or a prize ball that is paid out are full. A full tank detection unit 570, which will be described later, is connected. Then, the payout control unit 400 receives detection signals detected by the payout ball detection unit 550, the ball presence detection unit 530, and the full tank detection unit 570, and performs predetermined processing according to these detection signals.
Further, the payout control unit 400 is connected to a frame external information terminal board 450 that transmits various types of information to a host computer installed in the hall. Then, the payout control unit 400, for example, information on the number of prize balls instructed to pay out to the payout driving unit 540, information on the number of prize balls actually paid out detected by the payout ball detection unit 550, etc. Is transmitted to the host computer via the frame external information terminal board 450. Also, similar information is transmitted to the game control unit 200.

[Configuration of dispensing device]
Next, details of the payout device 500 will be described.
FIG. 4 is a schematic rear view of the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment.
The payout device 500 includes a payout ball storage unit 510 that stores game balls supplied from incidental equipment (not shown), and a payout unit 520 that pays out game balls toward the tray 153.
The payout ball storage unit 510 is provided in the upper part of the pachinko gaming machine 100, and a game ball tank 511 which is a concave member having a bottom surface formed so that the supplied game ball is directed toward the payout unit 520 by its own weight, And a game ball tank rail 512 for guiding the game balls in the game ball tank 511 toward the payout unit 520.

FIG. 5 is a schematic configuration diagram of the payout unit 520.
The payout unit 520 includes a ball presence detection unit 530 that detects the presence or absence of game balls in the payout ball storage unit 510, a payout drive unit 540 that pays out game balls one by one toward the tray 153, and a payout drive unit 540. A payout ball detection unit 550 that detects the paid-out game balls. Further, the payout unit 520 includes the above-described payout control board 560 and a full tank detection unit 570 (see FIG. 4) that detects whether or not the plate 153 is in a full state. The payout unit 520 accommodates a ball presence detection unit 530, a payout drive unit 540, a payout ball detection unit 550, a payout control board 560, and a full tank detection unit 570, and from the payout ball storage unit 510 side to the tray 153 side. A unit case 590 in which a payout ball path 580 which is a path of the game ball to be reached is formed.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the ball presence detection unit 530 and is a diagram seen from the back side of the pachinko gaming machine 100. (A), (c) is a rear view, (b), (d) is a perspective view.
The ball presence detection unit 530 is rotated by being pushed by a ball ball sensor 531 which is a well-known photo interrupter sensor, a ball ball sensor substrate 532 on which the ball ball sensor 531 is mounted, and a game ball passing through the payout ball path 580. And a rotating member 533.
The sensor 531 with a sphere has two protrusions formed laterally on the sensor body, a light emitting element (not shown) and a light receiving element (not shown) provided on each of the protrusions, and emits light from the light emitting element. The presence of an object at a portion where the light emitting element and the light receiving element face each other is read depending on whether or not the light receiving element receives the emitted light. The ball presence sensor 531 outputs a high level (hereinafter referred to as “H level”) signal to the dispensing control unit 400 when the light receiving element does not receive the light emitted from the light emitting element. When the light receiving element receives the emitted light, it outputs a low level (hereinafter referred to as “L level”) signal to the payout controller 400. In addition, the ball presence sensor 531 outputs an H level signal or an L level signal to the payout control unit 400 according to a state at that time every predetermined period (for example, 2 milliseconds). .

  The rotation member 533 is a fan-like member when viewed from the front, and is formed on one side of the fan so as to be substantially perpendicular to the board surface of the game board 110 and a game ball passing through the payout ball path 580. A contact surface 533a that is in contact is provided with a light-shielding portion 533b that is interposed between the two protrusions of the ball sensor 531 at the tip of the other side of the fan. When the contact surface 533a of the rotating member 533 is pushed by the game ball passing through the payout ball path 580, the rotating member 533 rotates in the clockwise direction as viewed in FIG. 6, and the light shielding portion 533b is a sensor with a ball. Light emitted from the light emitting element provided between the two protrusions 531 and provided in the protrusions is shielded (see FIGS. 6A and 6B). Thereby, the light receiving element of the ball presence sensor 531 does not receive the light emitted from the light emitting element, and outputs an H level signal. On the other hand, when the contact surface 533a is not pushed by the game ball, the rotating member 533 rotates counterclockwise as viewed in FIG. 6, and the light shielding portion 533b is located between the two protruding portions of the ball sensor 531. (See FIGS. 6C and 6D). Thereby, the light receiving element of the ball presence sensor 531 receives the light emitted from the light emitting element and outputs an L level signal.

The rotating member 533 includes a first suppressing portion 533c that protrudes outward from the basic fan shape and suppresses rotation in the counterclockwise direction when viewed in FIG. 6, and an outer side from the basic fan shape. And a second restraining portion 533d that restrains rotation in the clockwise direction when viewed in FIG. 6.
As described above, the presence / absence detection unit 530 detects the presence / absence of a game ball and the passage of the game ball at a specific location where the contact surface 533a of the rotation member 533 is opposed to the payout ball path 580. .

FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the payout drive unit 540.
The payout drive unit 540 is provided on the payout ball path 580 and rotates to pay out the game balls that have flowed down the payout ball path 580 one by one toward the tray 153 and the rotation of the payout rotor 541. And a rotor gear 542 provided coaxially with the shaft. A plurality of recesses 541a (two in the present embodiment) capable of holding one game ball are formed on the outer peripheral surface of the payout rotor 541. By rotating together with the rotor gear 542, the recesses 541a The game ball is received and further rotated to supply the received game ball to the plate 153.
Also, the payout drive unit 540 transmits a payout motor 543 that is a drive source of the rotational driving force of the payout rotor 541 and a plurality (two in the present embodiment) of transmitting the drive force of the payout motor 543 to the rotor gear 542. And a gear 544.

  The payout ball detection unit 550 is provided on the downstream side of the payout rotor 541 of the payout driving unit 540 in the payout ball path 580, and detects the game balls supplied one by one by the payout rotor 541. When the game ball is detected, the payout ball detection unit 550 outputs a signal to that effect to the payout control unit 400. The payout control unit 400 counts the number of game balls supplied to the tray 153 by the payout rotor 541 based on the signal acquired from the payout ball detection unit 550, in other words, the payout game balls.

Next, the payout control process performed by the payout control unit 400 will be described.
When the payout control unit 400 acquires from the game control unit 200 a command for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls according to the place where the game ball has won (the first start port 121 or the like), the designated number of game balls The payout motor 543 of the payout drive unit 540 is driven so as to pay out as a prize ball. Then, the payout control unit 400 stops driving the payout motor 543 when the number of game balls detected by the payout ball detection unit 550 reaches a specified number.

  Also, even before the payout control unit 400 finishes paying out the designated number of game balls, the payout control unit 400 is sufficient to pay out the payout ball storage unit 510 and / or the payout ball path 580 in the following cases. It is determined that an error in which there is no game ball has occurred, and the drive of the payout drive unit 540 is stopped to stop the payout operation. In addition, the payout control unit 400 determines that an error has occurred, stops the payout operation, and if the game ball is continuously present in the payout ball path 580 upstream of the payout rotor 541, the error is canceled. The payout operation is resumed.

  That is, when the game ball is not continuously supplied to the payout ball path 580 upstream of the payout rotor 541, and the flow of the game ball in the payout ball path 580 upstream of the payout rotor 541 is worse than normal. If so, the drive of the payout drive unit 540 is stopped. The normal state of the flow of game balls means that the game balls are lined up in the payout ball path 580 on the upstream side of the payout rotor 541 and the payout rotor 541 rotates to supply the game balls to the plate 153 side. The game balls arranged on the upstream side of the payout rotor 541 are held in the concave portion 541a of the payout rotor 541 that has held the game balls so far, and accordingly, the game balls arranged on the further upstream side than the portion thereof Is the state of falling.

  Even when the flow of game balls is worse than normal, the driving of the payout driving unit 540 is stopped when the number of game balls in the payout ball storage unit 510 decreases, the payout from the payout ball storage unit 510 This is because it is considered that the flow of the game ball to the ball path 580 may be intermittent. That is, when the flow of game balls is worse than normal, it is determined that the number of game balls in the payout ball storage unit 510 is small, and the drive of the payout drive unit 540 is stopped.

The payout control unit 400 determines that there are not enough game balls to payout, and implements the following to stop the payout operation and to resume the payout operation when the error is released: It is configured as follows.
FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the payout control unit 400.
The payout control unit 400 includes a first detection unit 411 that detects that the game ball is not continuously supplied to the payout ball path 580 on the upstream side of the payout rotor 541, and the payout rotor 541. A second detection unit 412 that detects a second state in which an interval of the flow of game balls in the upstream payout ball path 580 is worse than that in a normal state. Further, the payout control unit 400 drives the third detection unit 413 that detects a third state in which the flow of game balls in the payout ball path 580 upstream of the payout rotor 541 is normal, and the payout drive unit 540. A payout drive control unit 414 for controlling. The payout control unit 400 acquires detection results of the first detection unit 411, the second detection unit 412 and the third detection unit 413, and pays out a game ball state signal based on the detection results. An output unit 415 that outputs to the control unit 414 is provided.

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an output signal from the ball presence detection unit 530 that is a basis for determining that the state is the first state to the third state.
Based on the output signal from the ball detection unit 530, the first detection unit 411 indicates that the game ball is not continuously supplied to the payout ball path 580 upstream of the payout rotor 541. Detect (recognize). The first detection unit 411 acquires an output signal from the ball presence sensor 531 periodically (for example, every 2 milliseconds). When the first detection unit 411 continues to output an L level signal from the ball sensor 531 beyond the first period (see FIG. 8A), the first detection unit 411 Judged to be in a state. An example of the first period is 600 milliseconds. In addition, when the flow of the game ball is normal, it is considered that the time for one game ball to pass is about 20 milliseconds to 30 milliseconds.

The second detection unit 412 outputs from the ball detection unit 530 that the flow of game balls in the payout ball path 580 on the upstream side of the payout rotor 541 is in a second state that is worse than normal. Detect (recognize) based on the signal. The second detection unit 412 acquires the output signal from the ball presence sensor 531 periodically (for example, every 2 milliseconds). Then, the second detection unit 412 performs the above operation when a signal indicating that there is no game ball is output from the ball presence sensor 531 a predetermined number of times within the second period (see FIG. 8B). It is determined that the state is the second state. The second period can be exemplified as 500 milliseconds, and the predetermined number can be exemplified as two times. In such a case, the second state is determined when a signal indicating no game ball is output twice within 500 milliseconds.
An example of the signal indicating that there is no gaming ball is that it is composed of an H level signal output from the ball presence sensor 531 and an L level signal that follows. That is, when the output signal from the ball presence sensor 531 is switched from the H level to the L level, it is determined that a signal indicating a state without a game ball is output.

However, if the signals before and after the L level signal from the ball presence sensor 531 are at the H level, there is actually a game ball, and the light shielding portion 533b of the rotating member 533 of the ball presence detection unit 530 is the two of the ball presence sensor 531. It is also conceivable that the payout control unit 400 may acquire an L level signal despite being interposed between the protrusions. Therefore, it is preferable to determine that there is no game ball that pushes the rotating member 533 by acquiring a signal of L level that continues multiple times. Similarly, when the signals before and after the H level signal from the ball presence sensor 531 are at the L level, the light shielding portion 533 b of the rotating member 533 of the ball presence detection unit 530 is between the two protruding portions of the ball presence sensor 531. It is also conceivable that the payout controller 400 outputs an H level signal even though it is not interposed. Therefore, it is preferable to determine that there is a game ball that pushes the rotating member 533 by acquiring a signal of H level that continues multiple times.
That is, when the ball presence sensor 531 has output signals of H level, H level, L level, and L level in order until now, it may be determined that an effective signal indicating a state without a game ball has been output. As a result, it is possible to accurately grasp the state in which there is no gaming ball.

The third detection unit 413 detects, based on the output signal from the ball detection unit 530, that the game ball is in the third state where the game ball continuously exists in the payout ball path 580 on the upstream side of the payout rotor 541. (recognize. The third detection unit 413 acquires an output signal from the ball presence sensor 531 periodically (for example, every 2 milliseconds). Then, when the signal indicating the presence of the game ball is output from the ball presence sensor 531 (see FIGS. 8A and 8B), the third detection unit 413 exceeds the third period. It is determined that the third state has been reached. An example of the third period is 4 seconds.
An example of the signal indicating the state in which a game ball exists is that the signal includes an H level signal output from the ball presence sensor 531. That is, when an H level signal is output from the ball presence sensor 531, it is determined that a signal indicating a state in which a game ball exists is output.

When the output unit 415 obtains the result of detecting the first state from the first detection unit 411, the output unit 415 from a specific location arranged so that the contact surface 533a of the rotating member 533 in the payout ball path 580 is opposed to the output unit 415. Recognizing that the supply state of the game ball to the downstream side deteriorates, a signal indicating a state of no game ball as an example of the recognition result is output to the payout drive control unit 414. In addition, when the output unit 415 obtains the result of detecting the second state from the second detection unit 412, the output unit 415 recognizes that the supply state of the game ball to the downstream side from the specific location is deteriorated, and the game A signal indicating the absence of a ball is output to the payout drive control unit 414. As described above, the output unit 415 obtains at least a detection ball when the detection result of either the first state detection by the first detection unit 411 or the detection of the second state by the second detection unit 412 is acquired. A signal indicating the absence state is output to the payout drive control unit 414.
In addition, when the output unit 415 acquires the result of detecting the third state from the third detection unit 413, the output unit 415 recognizes that the supply state of the game ball to the downstream side from the specific location is normal, A signal indicating the presence of the game ball is output to the payout drive control unit 414.

  The payout drive control unit 414 stops driving the payout drive unit 540 when acquiring a signal indicating no game ball from the output unit 415, and acquires a signal indicating a game ball present state from the output unit 415. In this case, the payout driving unit 540 is driven.

Next, the procedure of the payout stop control process performed by the payout control unit 400 will be described using a flowchart.
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the first payout stop control process performed by the payout control unit 400. The payout control unit 400 repeatedly executes the first payout stop control process every predetermined period (for example, every 2 milliseconds). Alternatively, after a command for paying out a predetermined number of game balls is acquired from the game control unit 200, the predetermined number of game balls detected by the payout ball detection unit 550 is set within a predetermined period. You may perform repeatedly every period (for example, every 2 milliseconds).

  The payout control unit 400 first loads (reads) the level value of the signal acquired from the ball presence sensor 531 of the ball presence detection unit 530 (step (hereinafter simply referred to as “S”) 1001). Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the signal level read in S1001 is L level (S1002). If it is at the L level (Yes in S1002), the time of the H level timer for counting the duration of the H level is cleared (S1003). After that, it is determined whether or not the time of the L level timer (the period during which the L level continues) that measures the duration of the L level exceeds a predetermined first period (S1004).

  If the period during which the L level continues exceeds the first period (Yes in S1004), it is determined that there is no game ball in the payout ball storage unit 510 (the first detection unit 411 has The first state is detected), and the no-sphere error process is started (S1005). In this ballless error processing, the payout drive control unit 414 that has acquired the signal from the output unit 415 stops the drive of the payout motor 543 of the payout drive unit 540, and the character “please call an attendant” is displayed on the image display unit 114. Is a process of displaying. On the other hand, when the period during which the L level continues does not exceed the first period (No in S1004), the time of the L level timer is updated (S1006). For example, the time from the previous flow to the current flow is added.

  On the other hand, if the signal level read in S1001 is not the L level but the H level (No in S1002), the L level timer is cleared (S1007). Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the time of the H level timer (the period during which the H level continues) exceeds a predetermined third period (S1008). When the period during which the H level continues exceeds the third period (Yes in S1008), it is determined that the error that there is no game ball in the payout ball storage unit 510 is released (third detection unit 413). Is detected in the third state), and the no-sphere error canceling process is started (S1009). In the ball-free error canceling process, the payout drive control unit 414 that has acquired the signal from the output unit 415 resumes the drive of the payout motor 543 of the payout drive unit 540 and displays the “person in charge” displayed on the image display unit 114. This is a process to eliminate the display of “Please call me”. On the other hand, if the period during which the H level continues does not exceed the third period (No in S1008), the time of the H level timer is updated (S1010). For example, the time from the previous flow to the current flow is added.

  When the payout control unit 400 executes the first payout stop control process, the ball presence sensor 531 of the ball presence detection unit 530 continuously outputs an L level signal, and the game ball from the payout ball storage unit 510 side. When the state in which the game is not supplied has continued beyond the first period (Yes in S1004), the drive of the payout motor 543 of the payout drive unit 540 is stopped, and the payout operation of the game ball to the tray 153 is stopped. (S1005). In addition, when the ball presence sensor 531 of the ball presence detection unit 530 continuously outputs the H level signal and the state where the game ball is present continues beyond the third period (Yes in S1008), The driving of the payout motor 543 of the payout drive unit 540 is resumed, and the payout operation of the game ball to the tray 153 is resumed (S1009).

  In order to grasp the period during which the H level and / or L level continues, the number of times the H level and / or L level signals acquired from the ball presence sensor 531 of the ball presence detection unit 530 are continuously acquired. And the number of times of integration may be multiplied by the interval at which the ball sensor 531 outputs a signal. In determining whether or not the first period or the third period has been exceeded, the H level and / or L level signals acquired from the ball presence sensor 531 of the ball presence detection unit 530 are continuously acquired. The number of times may be integrated, and determination may be made based on whether or not the number of times of integration has exceeded the number of times corresponding to the first period or the third period.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the second payout stop control process performed by the payout control unit 400. The payout control unit 400 repeatedly executes the second payout stop control process every predetermined period (for example, every 2 milliseconds). Alternatively, after a command for paying out a predetermined number of game balls is acquired from the game control unit 200, the predetermined number of game balls detected by the payout ball detection unit 550 is set within a predetermined period. You may perform repeatedly every period (for example, every 2 milliseconds).

  The payout control unit 400 first loads (reads) a history of signal levels acquired from the ball presence sensor 531 of the ball presence detection unit 530 (S1101). Thereafter, it is determined whether or not switching from the H level to the L level is detected from the history of the signal level read in S1101 (S1102). For example, it can be exemplified that the level of the signal acquired immediately before is the L level, and the level of the signal acquired before the L level is the H level. When a switch from the H level to the L level is detected (Yes in S1102), the period from the previous detection of the switch from the H level to the L level until the detection of the switch from the H level to the L level is detected. It is determined whether or not the second period has been exceeded (S1103). An example of the second period is 500 milliseconds.

  If the second period has not been exceeded (No in S1103), since the second switching from the H level to the L level is detected within the second period, the game balls are intermittently played from the payout ball storage unit 510. Is detected (it is detected that the second detection unit 412 is in the second state), and the no-sphere error process is started (S1104). In this ball-free error process, the payout drive control unit 414 that has acquired the signal from the output unit 415 stops driving the payout motor 543 of the payout drive unit 540 in the same manner as the ball-free error process in the first payout stop control process. In addition, it is a process of displaying the characters “Please call a staff member” on the image display unit 114. After that, the interval timer time (elapsed time since the previous switching from the H level to the L level was detected) for counting the period of the switching interval from the H level to the L level is cleared (S1105). On the other hand, if the second period has been exceeded (Yes in S1103), the processes after S1105 are executed.

  On the other hand, when the switching from the H level to the L level has not been detected (No in S1102), it is determined whether or not the elapsed time after the previous switching from the H level to the L level has exceeded the second period. (S1106). If the second period has not been exceeded (No in S1106), the interval timer is updated (S1107), and the second payout stop control process is terminated. If the second period is exceeded (Yes in S1106), the second payout stop control process is terminated.

  The payout control unit 400 executes the second payout stop control process, so that the H level is changed to the L level within the second period based on the signal level output from the ball presence sensor 531 of the ball presence detection unit 530. Is switched twice (No in S1103), the driving of the payout motor 543 of the payout drive unit 540 is stopped, and the payout operation of the game ball to the tray 153 is stopped (S1104). When the ball presence sensor 531 of the ball presence detection unit 530 continuously outputs the H level signal and the state where the game ball is present continues beyond the third period, the payout drive unit 540 The driving of the payout motor 543 is resumed, and the payout operation of the game ball to the tray 153 is resumed.

  In order to grasp the period during which the H level and / or L level continues, the number of times the H level and / or L level signals acquired from the ball presence sensor 531 of the ball presence detection unit 530 are continuously acquired. And the number of times of integration may be multiplied by the interval at which the ball sensor 531 outputs a signal. Further, in determining whether or not the second period has been exceeded, the number of times that the H level and / or L level signals acquired from the ball presence sensor 531 of the ball presence detection unit 530 are acquired is integrated, and the number of integrations However, the determination may be made based on whether or not the number of times corresponding to the second period has been exceeded.

  In the pachinko gaming machine 100 configured as described above, the payout control unit 400 has no game ball in the payout ball storage unit 510 and / or the payout ball path 580, and the game ball is continuously supplied to the specific location. It is possible to recognize with higher accuracy that the interval between the flow of the game balls is worse than that in the normal state as well as the state where the game ball is not. And even if it is before the payout drive part 540 finishes paying out the designated number of game balls, the payout control part 400 is more accurate when the supply state of the game balls at the specific location is deteriorated. The driving of the payout driving unit 540 can be stopped. As a result, the payout ball 541 is not paid out in spite of the fact that the payout rotor 541 is idled and the payout ball detection unit 550 is out of order even though there is no game ball. It can suppress that the detection part 550 detects that the game ball was paid out. In addition, even if the distance between the payout rotor 541 and the ball presence detection unit 530 of the payout drive unit 540 is short and a large number of game balls cannot be secured between the payout rotor 541 and the ball presence detection unit 530, The payout operation can be stopped before the game balls run out.

  In S1102 described above, in determining whether or not the switching from the H level to the L level is detected from the signal level history read in S1101, the level of the signal acquired immediately before is the L level. The level of the signal acquired before the L level signal is L level, the level of the signal acquired before the L level signal is H level, and the level of the signal acquired before the H level signal is The level may be based on the H level. That is, when signals of H level, H level, L level, and L level have been acquired so far, it may be determined that switching from H level to L level has been detected.

  By determining that there is no game ball by acquiring the L level signal that continues multiple times, there is actually a game ball, and the light shielding unit 533b of the rotating member 533 of the ball detection unit 530 is two of the sensors 531 with the ball It is possible to suppress the determination that the game ball does not have the noise that the payout control unit 400 acquires an L level signal despite being interposed between the protrusions.

  Similarly, by determining that there is a game ball by acquiring an H level signal that continues multiple times, the light shielding portion 533 b of the rotating member 533 of the ball presence detection unit 530 is connected to the two protrusions of the ball presence sensor 531. It is possible to suppress the determination that there is a game ball from the noise that the payout control unit 400 outputs an H level signal even though it is not interposed between them.

  As described above, the presence / absence of a game ball can be detected with higher accuracy by determining the presence / absence of a game ball by acquiring a signal of L level or H level that continues multiple times. Therefore, when there are not enough game balls to be paid out (decrease), it is possible to stop paying out the game balls with higher accuracy.

  In the above-described embodiment, the first detection unit 411 that detects that the game ball is not continuously supplied to a specific location on the path through which the game ball flows, and the specific state A second detection unit 412 that detects a second state in which the interval between the flow of game balls in the location is worse than normal, and a third state in which the flow of game balls in the specific location is normal The third detection unit 413, and the detection results of the first detection unit 411, the second detection unit 412 and the third detection unit 413 are acquired, and the state signal of the game ball is obtained based on the detection result. The output unit 415 that outputs toward the payout drive control unit 414 is applied to the payout control unit 400 that controls the payout of game balls to the tray 153, but is not particularly limited.

  For example, the number of rental balls provided to the side of the pachinko gaming machine 100 and corresponding to the money thrown by the player to the tray 153 or a part of the number of stored balls written on the IC card You may apply to the supply control part which controls the game ball supply apparatus which performs supply (payout) of the stored ball to the tray 153. As a result, it is possible to more accurately recognize that the supply state of the game ball at the specific portion upstream of the supply rotor that supplies the game ball to the plate 153 is deteriorated, and the supply state of the game ball is deteriorated. Therefore, the driving of the supply rotor can be stopped with higher accuracy. As a result, the supply rotor is idle while there is no game ball, and the sensor that detects the number of game balls supplied from the supply rotor downstream of the supply rotor has actually failed. Although the ball is not supplied, it is possible to suppress the sensor from detecting that the game ball is supplied. Further, even if the distance between the supply rotor and the specific part is short and a large number of game balls cannot be secured between the supply rotor and the specific part, the supply operation is stopped before the game balls are exhausted. Is possible.

In addition, the first detection unit 411, the second detection unit 412, the third detection unit 413, the output unit 415, etc. are enclosed-type gaming machines in which game balls are enclosed in an internal space so that they cannot be touched from the outside. You may apply to the supply control part which controls the ball supply apparatus which supplies a game ball to the.
FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the sphere supply device.
The ball supply device 1000 supplies each of the plurality of enclosed game machines 2000 with the number of game balls to be enclosed in each enclosed game machine 2000. The ball supply device 1000 includes a ball supply unit 1500 having the same configuration as the above-described payout device 500 at the top of each gaming machine 2000 and a supply control unit 1400 that controls the ball supply unit 1500. In such a configuration, the first detection unit 411, the second detection unit 412, the third detection unit 413, the output unit 415, and the like may be applied to the supply control unit 1400.

  As a result, it is possible to more accurately recognize that the supply state of the game ball at a specific portion upstream of the supply rotor that supplies the game ball to the enclosed game machine 2000 is deteriorated, and supply of the game ball The drive of the supply rotor can be stopped with higher accuracy when the state is deteriorated. As a result, the supply rotor is idle while there is no game ball, and the sensor that detects the number of game balls supplied from the supply rotor downstream of the supply rotor has actually failed. Although the ball is not supplied, it is possible to suppress the sensor from detecting that the game ball is supplied. Further, even if the distance between the supply rotor and the specific part is short and a large number of game balls cannot be secured between the supply rotor and the specific part, the supply operation is stopped before the game balls are exhausted. Is possible.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 ... Pachinko machine, 110 ... Game board, 400 ... Dispensing control part, 500 ... Dispensing device, 510 ... Dispensing ball storage part, 520 ... Dispensing unit, 530 ... Detection unit with ball, 540 ... Dispensing drive part, 550 ... Dispensing Sphere detection unit, 1000 ... sphere supply device, 2000 ... enclosed game machine

Claims (4)

First detection means for detecting a state in which the game ball is not continuously supplied at a specific location on the path through which the game ball flows;
Second detection means for detecting a state in which the interval between the flow of game balls is worse than normal at the specific location;
Recognizing means for recognizing a deterioration in the supply state of the game ball to the downstream side from the specific location based on detection by the first detection means and / or detection by the second detection means ;
Sensors that output different levels of signals according to the presence or absence of a game ball at the specific location;
With
When the second detection means outputs a signal of a level corresponding to the absence of a game ball after a signal of a level corresponding to the presence of a game ball is output from the sensor a plurality of times within a predetermined period In addition, it detects that the flow interval of the game balls is worse than normal,
Said recognition means, said second detection means to recognize the deterioration of the supply state of the game ball relative to the downstream side of the specific location upon detecting that the state in which the interval of flow of the game ball is deteriorated as compared with the normal A gaming machine characterized by that. The second detection means is configured to acquire a signal of a level corresponding to the existence of regular game ball from the sensor, after obtaining a signal having a level corresponding to there game ball, corresponding to no game ball when acquiring the level of the signal 2 times consecutively, the gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein detecting that the signal indicating the state without the game balls is output. Before SL first detecting means, when the level of the signal corresponding to no game ball beyond a predetermined time from the sensor is continuously output, if it is a state in which the game ball is not continuously supplied the gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the detection. Further comprising a supply means for supplying the game ball further downstream from the specific location on the path through which the game ball flows;
The said supply means stops supply of a game ball, if the said recognition means recognizes the deterioration of the supply state of the game ball with respect to the downstream from the said specific location, The supply of a game ball is any one of Claim 1 to 3 characterized by the above-mentioned. Game machines.

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