JP5501329B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a ball game machine or a revolving game machine.

  Conventionally, pachinko machines are configured to control a special game (big hit) when a winning ball is won at the start opening provided on the game board and when a big hit lottery is won. Has been. In such special games, the big prize opening provided on the game board is opened to facilitate the winning of the game ball, and the prize ball corresponding to the game ball won in the big prize opening is paid out to the player. It is like that.

  In such a gaming machine, there is a game control unit (main control board) that controls the big win lottery process and special games, and a payout control part (payout control board) that controls the payout of game balls. At least. The game control unit then issues a payout number instruction command for paying out a predetermined number of game balls according to the type of the winning opening when a gaming ball is won at the start winning opening, the general winning opening, or the big winning opening. Send to the payout controller. The payout control unit is configured to pay out the number of game balls according to the payout number instruction command when receiving the payout number instruction command.

  In particular, the game control unit and the payout control unit perform game ball payout while confirming the number of payouts and the payout state through two-way communication. It is known (see Patent Document 1).

JP 2007-14536 A

And, if it is determined that there is a communication error between the game control unit and the payout control unit, the communication error automatic return function that automatically recovers the communication error between the game control unit and the payout control unit It is also conceivable to have
However, simply providing a communication error automatic recovery function, the payout number instruction command is erased or the payout number instruction command is transmitted many times, and the game ball that was originally supposed to be paid out There are cases where the planned payout number and the payout completion number of game balls actually paid out differ. For this reason, there is a disadvantage that a predetermined number of game balls are not paid out without even being noticed by the player, and an illegal payout may be made by a fraudulent person.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine having an automatic communication error recovery function, which can eliminate disadvantages to a player or suppress fraud.

The first invention, together with payout condition of game media to determine whether or not satisfied, performs the game control means for performing control relating to gaming state (the main control board 110), the control of the payout of game media, the game A payout control means (payout control board 130) that outputs a payout enable signal to the game control means that the ball can be paid out, and an abnormality release that detects a release operation for releasing an abnormality related to the control of the payout control means. Detecting means (error release switch 135),
After the game control means inputs a payout enable signal from the payout control means, every time the payout condition is satisfied, a state confirmation signal (payout state confirmation command) for confirming the payout state in the payout control means. The state confirmation signal output means (the main CPU 110a that performs the processing of step S514) to be output and the number of game media to be paid out are input by inputting the specific signal from the payout control means after outputting the state confirmation signal. Payout signal output means for outputting a payout signal (payout number command) (main CPU 110a performing the process of step S525),
The payout control means determines whether the input state of at least the state confirmation signal and the payout signal input from the game control means is abnormal (processing of steps S3901, S3311-3, S3322 and S3326). When the state check signal output by the payout CPU 130a) and the state check signal output means is input, the abnormality determination means determines that the input state of the state check signal is not abnormal, and controls the payout of game media When it is possible, in order to return normally to the game control means, the number request signal output means for outputting the number request signal for requesting the payout signal, and at least an abnormality caused by the input state of the state confirmation signal and the payout signal. Return control means for performing the return control (the payout for performing the processing of steps S3354 to S3356 And PU130a), has,
The payout signal output means outputs the payout signal when the number request signal from the number request signal output means is input as the specific signal after outputting the state confirmation signal ,
The return control means outputs a payout impossible signal indicating abnormality to the game control means when the abnormality determination means determines that the input state of the state confirmation signal is abnormal, and then automatically the payout enable signal outputs to the game control unit in so that to successfully restore the input state of the state confirmation signal,
When the abnormality determination means determines that the input state of the payout signal is abnormal, the payout impossible signal is output to the game control means, and the release operation is detected by the abnormality release detection means. The payout enable signal is output to the game control means so as to return the input state of the payout signal to a normal state.

The second invention is characterized in that the abnormality determination means determines whether or not the contents of at least the state confirmation signal and the payout signal input from the game control means are abnormal.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, when the abnormality determination unit cannot input the payout signal within a specific time after inputting the state check signal output by the state check signal output unit, the input state of the payout signal is set. Is determined to be abnormal.

  According to the present invention, in a gaming machine provided with a communication error automatic recovery function, it is possible to eliminate disadvantages to the player or to suppress fraud.

It is a front view of a gaming machine. It is a perspective view of the gaming machine with the glass frame opened. It is a perspective view of the back side of a gaming machine. It is a block diagram of the whole gaming machine. It is a figure which shows a big hit determination table and a hit determination table. It is a figure which shows a symbol determination table. 4 is a command list for explaining types of commands transmitted and received between a main control board 110 and a payout control board 130; It is a figure which shows the main process 1 in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the main process 2 in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the serial reception process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the timer interruption process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the input control process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the special figure special electric control process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the special symbol memory | storage determination process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the payout control process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the payout control state confirmation process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the output process for payout in the main control board. It is a figure which shows the payment operation | movement completion confirmation process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the main process in a payout control board. It is a figure which shows the timer interruption process in a payout control board. It is a figure which shows the serial reception process in a payout control board. It is a figure which shows the input control process in a payout control board. It is a figure which shows the prize ball control process in a payout control board. It is a figure which shows the state monitoring process in a payout control board. It is a figure which shows the number instruction | indication monitoring process in a payout control board. It is a figure which shows the prize ball monitoring process in a payout control board. It is a figure which shows the payout command error process in a payout control board. It is a figure which shows the data creation process in a payout control board. It is a sequence diagram when a command is normally transmitted and received between the main control board and the payout control board. FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram when a communication error corresponding to a timeout error of a payout number command occurs. It is a figure which shows a sequence diagram when the communication error corresponding to the data abnormality of a payout number command occurs. It is a figure which shows a sequence diagram when the communication error corresponding to the data abnormality of the payout state confirmation command occurs. It is a sequence diagram when a communication error occurs on the main control board side.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be specifically described with reference to the drawings.

(Composition of gaming machine)
Next, the configuration of the gaming machine 1 will be specifically described with reference to FIGS. 1 is a front view of the gaming machine 1 of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the gaming machine 1 with the glass frame of the present invention opened, and FIG. 3 is a rear side of one gaming machine 1. It is a perspective view.

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

  Further, the glass frame 50 is provided with a tray 40 for storing a plurality of game balls 200, and the tray 40 has a downward slope so that the game balls 200 flow down toward the operation handle 3. (See FIG. 2). A receiving opening for receiving a game ball is provided at the end of the downward slope of the tray 40, and the game ball received in the receiving opening is driven by the ball feed solenoid 4b, so that the glass frame 50 One by one is sent to the ball feed opening 41 provided on the back surface. Then, the game ball sent out to the ball feed opening 41 is guided to the end of the downward slope of the launch rail 42 by the launch rail 42 having a downward slope toward the launching member 4c. A stopper 43 for stopping and stopping the game ball is provided above the end of the downward slope of the launch rail 42, and the game ball 200 sent out from the ball feed opening 41 has a downward slope of the launch rail 42. One game ball is stopped at the end (see FIG. 2).

  When the player touches the operation handle 3, the touch sensor 3a (see FIG. 3) provided inside the operation handle 3 detects that the operation handle 3 and the player are in contact with each other. Thereafter, when the player rotates the operation handle 3, the launch volume 3b directly connected to the operation handle 3 also rotates, and the launch intensity of the game ball is adjusted by the launch volume 3b. The launch member 4c directly connected to the solenoid 4a for rotation rotates. By rotating the launch member 4 c, the game ball 200 stored at the end of the downward slope of the launch rail 42 is launched by the launch member 4 c, and the game ball is launched into the game area 6.

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

  The game area 6 is provided with a plurality of general winning awards 12. Each of these general winning ports 12 is provided with a general winning port detecting switch 12a. When the general winning port detecting switch 12a detects a winning of a game ball, a predetermined winning ball (for example, ten game balls) is provided. To be paid out.

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

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

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

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

Furthermore, in the area on the right side of the game area 6, there are provided a normal symbol gate 13 constituting a normal area through which game balls can pass and a first grand prize opening 16 through which game balls can enter.
For this reason, if the operation ball 3 is not a game ball which has been greatly rotated and launched with a strong force, the normal design gate 13 and the first big winning opening 16 are configured so that the game ball does not pass or win. Yes. In particular, even if the short game state, which will be described later, is entered, if the game ball flows down to the left side of the game area 6, the game ball does not pass through the normal symbol gate 13, so that it is at the second start port 15. The pair of movable pieces 15b are not opened, and it is difficult for a game ball to win the second starting port 15.

  The normal symbol gate 13 is provided with a gate detection switch 13a for detecting the passage of the game ball. When the gate detection switch 13a detects the passage of the game ball, the normal symbol determination random number value is acquired, which will be described later. “Normal lottery” is performed.

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

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

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

  The image display device 31 displays an image during standby when no game is being performed, or displays an image according to the progress of the game. Among them, three effect symbols 36 for informing the jackpot lottery result, which will be described later, are displayed, and a combination of specific effect symbols 36 (for example, 777) is stopped and displayed as a jackpot lottery result. A big hit is announced.

  When the game ball enters the first start port 14 or the second start port 15, this effect symbol 36 is displayed in a variable manner in accordance with a special symbol, which will be described later. Stop display according to the symbol stop display. In other words, the timing of the change display of the effect symbol 36 and the special symbol and the timing of the stop display of the effect symbol 36 and the special symbol correspond to each other (the same time). Furthermore, in the present embodiment, this effect symbol 36 is the same whether a game ball enters the first start port 14 or when a game ball enters the second start port 15. Various types of symbols are displayed in a variable or stopped manner. However, different types of effect symbols 36 may be variably displayed or stopped when a game ball enters the first start port 14 and when a game ball enters the second start port 15. I do not care.

  Further, the image display device 31 displays various images, characters, and the like during the variation display of the effect symbol 36. According to the image displayed on the image display device 31, a high sense of expectation that the player may win a big hit is given to the player.

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

  Furthermore, in addition to the above-described various production devices, the audio output device 32 outputs BGM (background music), SE (sound effects), etc., and produces productions using sound. The illumination direction and the emission color are changed to produce an effect by illumination.

  The effect button 35 is effective only when, for example, a message for operating the effect button 35 is displayed on the image display device 31. The effect button 35 is provided with an effect button detection switch 35a. When the effect button detection switch 35a detects the player's operation, a further effect is executed according to this operation.

  Outside the gaming area at the lower right of the game board 2, the first special symbol display device 20, the second special symbol display device 21, the normal symbol display device 22, the first special symbol hold display 23, the second special symbol hold display A device 24 and a normal symbol hold display device 25 are provided.

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

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

Further, in this embodiment, “big hit” means that a right to win a big hit game is obtained in a big win lottery performed on condition that a game ball has entered the first start port 14 or the second start port 15 Say what you did. In the “big hit game”, a round game in which the first big prize opening 16 or the second big prize opening 17 is opened is performed 15 times in total. A predetermined time is set for the maximum opening time of the first grand prize port 16 or the second grand prize port 17 in each round game, and during this time, the first grand prize port 16 or the second grand prize port 17 is set. When a predetermined number of game balls (for example, nine) enter, one round game is completed. In other words, the “big hit game” is a game in which a game ball can enter the first grand prize winning opening 16 or the second big winning prize opening 17 and the player can acquire a winning ball according to the winning prize.
This jackpot game is provided with a plurality of types of jackpots, which will be described in detail later.

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

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

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

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

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

  On the back side of the gaming machine 1, a main control board 110, an effect control board 120, a payout control board 130, a power supply board 170, a game information output terminal board 30, and the like are provided.

  The payout control board 130 is provided with an error release switch 135 for detecting an error release operation. Therefore, the error release switch 135 is configured so that the player cannot perform an operation.

  Further, the power supply board 170 is provided with a power plug 171 for supplying power to the gaming machine 1 and a power switch (not shown).

(Block diagram of the entire gaming machine)
Next, control means for controlling the progress of the game will be described using the block diagram of the entire gaming machine 1 in FIG.

  The main control board 110 is a game control means for determining whether or not a game ball payout condition (game ball winning determination to a winning opening, jackpot lottery, etc.) is established, and controlling the gaming state. That is, the main control board 110 inputs various detection signals from the first start port detection switch 14a, etc., and controls the game by driving the first special symbol display device 20, the first big winning port opening / closing solenoid 16c, and the like. Is.

  The main control board 110 includes at least a one-chip microcomputer 110m including a main CPU 110a, a main ROM 110b, and a main RAM 110c, an input port for main control, and an output port (not shown).

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

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

  The main CPU 110a reads out a program stored in the main ROM 110b based on an input signal from each detection switch or timer, performs arithmetic processing, directly controls each device or display, or determines the result of the arithmetic processing. In response, a command is transmitted to another board.

The main ROM 110b of the main control board 110 stores a game control program and data and tables necessary for determining various games.
For example, a jackpot determination table (see FIGS. 5 (a-1) and (a-2)) referred to in the jackpot lottery, a hit determination table (see FIG. 5 (b)) referred to in the normal symbol lottery, and a special symbol A symbol determination table (see FIG. 6) for determining a stop symbol is stored in the main ROM 110b.
Note that the above-described table is merely an example of characteristic tables among the tables in the present embodiment, and a number of other tables and programs (not shown) are provided for the progress of the game. ing.

The main RAM 110c of the main control board 110 reads and writes data during the arithmetic processing of the main CPU 110a and functions as a work area (work area).
For example, the main RAM 110c includes a payout counter, a loop count counter, a payout communication error flag storage area, a prize ball storage counter, a payout control timer, a payout control processing data storage area, a special figure special processing data storage area, and a normal symbol hold count ( G) storage area, normal symbol hold storage area, normal symbol data storage area, first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area, second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area, first special symbol random value storage area, Second special symbol random number value storage area, round game number (R) storage area, number of open times (K) storage area, number of winning prizes (C) storage area, game state storage area (high probability game flag storage area and Time-short game flag storage area), high probability game count (X) counter, time-short count (J) counter, game state buffer, stop symbol data storage area, transmission data storage area for performance , Special symbol time counter, various timer counters such special game timer counter is provided. Note that the above-described storage area is merely an example, and many other storage areas are provided.

  The game information output terminal board 30 is a board for outputting the external information signal generated on the main control board 110 and the external information signal generated on the payout control board 130 to a hall computer or the like of the game store. The game information output terminal board 30 is wired to the main control board 110 and provided with pins for connecting external information to a hall computer or the like of the game store.

The power supply substrate 170 is a substrate that supplies a power supply voltage to various substrates.
For power supply to the main control board 110, a backup power source dedicated to the main control board, which is a capacitor, is provided. Note that the backup power supply of the power supply board 170 is not limited to a capacitor, and may be, for example, a battery or a combination of a capacitor and a battery.

Therefore, the main RAM 110c of the main control board 110 constitutes a storage means capable of storing the written data even when the power to the gaming machine 1 is cut off by a backup power supply dedicated to the main control board. That is, even if the power supply to the gaming machine 1 is stopped, the content of the data stored in the main RAM 110c is preserved for a predetermined period (until the backup power supply cannot be supplied because the capacitor as the backup power supply is discharged). The
In order to enable the main RAM 110c to store the written information even when the power to the gaming machine 1 is cut off, the main RAM 101c is not provided with a backup power source dedicated to the main control board, and the main RAM 101c is a nonvolatile flash memory or the like. It may be configured.

  In addition, the power supply board 170 monitors the power supply voltage supplied to the gaming machine 1 in order to detect in advance that the power supply is cut off. When the power supply voltage becomes a predetermined value or less, the power supply detection signal is output. Output to the main control board 110. Thereby, when the power interruption detection signal becomes high level, the main CPU 110a becomes operable, and when the power interruption detection signal becomes low level, the main CPU 110a becomes inactive state.

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

  For example, when the sub CPU 120a in the effect control board 120 receives the fluctuation pattern designation command indicating the fluctuation pattern of the special symbol from the main control board 110, the sub CPU 120a analyzes the content of the received fluctuation pattern designation command, and displays the image display device 31 and the voice. Production data for causing the output device 32, the production drive device 33, and the production illumination device 34 to execute a predetermined production is generated, and the production data is transmitted to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140.

The sub ROM 120b of the effect control board 120 stores a program for effect control, data necessary for determining various games, and a table.
For example, an effect pattern determination table for determining an effect pattern based on a variation pattern designation command received from the main control board, an effect symbol determination table for determining a combination of effect symbols 36 to be stopped, and the like are stored in the sub ROM 120b. Has been. Note that the above-described table is merely an example of characteristic tables among the tables in the present embodiment, and a number of other tables and programs (not shown) are provided for the progress of the game. ing.

The sub RAM 120c of the effect control board 120 functions as a data work area when the sub CPU 120a performs arithmetic processing, and has a plurality of storage areas.
The sub RAM 120c is provided with a game state storage area, an effect mode storage area, an effect pattern storage area, an effect symbol storage area, and the like. Note that the above-described storage area is merely an example, and many other storage areas are provided.

The payout control board 130 is payout control means for controlling the payout of game balls, and includes a one-chip microcomputer 130m including a payout CPU 130a, a payout ROM 130b, and a payout RAM 130c.
The payout control board 130 is connected to the main control board 110 via a wire (harness) so as to be able to communicate with the main control board 110 in a bidirectional manner, and also to a ball lending machine (so-called card unit) via the ball rental connection board 136. It is connected so that it can communicate.

  Further, a payout motor 131 of a payout device for paying out a predetermined number of game balls is connected to the output side of the payout control board 130.

  Further, on the input side of the payout control board 130, the payout ball counting switch 132 for detecting the game balls actually paid out, the door opening switch 133 for detecting that the glass frame 50 is opened, and the tray 40 are stored. The dish full tank switch 134 for detecting that the played game ball is full, the error release switch 135 for detecting an error release operation, and a ball rental connection board 136 which is a relay board with the ball rental machine are connected. ing.

The payout CPU 130a stores in the payout ROM based on signals (commands) output from the main control board 110, input signals from the payout ball counting switch 132, the door opening switch 133, the dish full switch 134, the error release switch 135, and the like. The read program is read out and arithmetic processing is performed.
As will be described in detail later, when the payout CPU 130a receives a payout number command generated when a game ball wins a predetermined winning opening from the main control board 110, a predetermined number according to the content of the payout number command is received. The game ball is paid out (prize ball control), and the payout motor 131 is driven to control to pay out a predetermined game ball. Further, the payout CPU performs control (ball lending control) to pay out a specified number of game balls while exchanging information with the ball lending machine via the ball lending connection board 136, and drives the payout motor 131. Control to pay out a predetermined game ball is performed.

  The payout ROM 130b stores a payout control program, data necessary for determining payout, and a table.

The payout RAM 130c reads and writes data during the calculation processing of the payout CPU 130a, and functions as a work area (work area).
For example, the payout RAM 130c includes a serial transmission data storage area, an operation continuation flag storage area, an error flag storage area, a power interruption flag storage area, a payout control timer, an error control timer, a command error control timer, a prize ball control timer, a prize ball Various timer counters such as a number counter, a ball lending number counter, a payout counter, and a prize ball control processing data storage area are provided. Note that the above-described storage area is merely an example, and many other storage areas are provided.

  Here, as described above, unlike the main RAM 110c, the payout RAM 130c is erased when the power to the gaming machine 1 is shut off. That is, the payout RAM 130c constitutes volatile storage means.

  The lamp control board 140 is connected to the effect control board 120, the effect drive device 33, and the effect illumination device 34. The lamp control board 140 receives presentation data (various commands) from the presentation control board 120, and based on the received presentation data, energization of a drive source such as a solenoid or a motor for operating the presentation drive device 33 is performed. Control, light lighting control in the lighting device for effect 34, and drive control of a motor for changing the light irradiation direction are performed.

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

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

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

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

  The touch sensor 3a is provided in the inside of the operation handle 3, and is comprised from the electrostatic capacitance type proximity switch using the change of the electrostatic capacitance by the player touching the operation handle 3. When the touch sensor 3a detects that the player has touched the operation handle 3, the touch sensor 3a outputs a touch signal permitting the energization of the firing solenoid 4a to the firing control board 160. As a major premise, the launch control board 160 is configured not to launch the game ball 200 into the game area 6 unless a touch signal is input from the touch sensor 3a.

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

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

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

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

  Next, details of various tables stored in the main ROM 110b will be described with reference to FIGS.

(Big hit judgment table)
FIG. 5 (a-1) and FIG. 5 (a-2) are diagrams showing a jackpot determination table used for the “big hit lottery”. FIG. 5A-1 is a jackpot determination table referred to in the first special symbol display device 20, and FIG. 5A-2 is a jackpot determination table referred to in the second special symbol display device 21. is there. In the tables of FIG. 5 (a-1) and FIG. 5 (a-2), although the winning probabilities for the small hits are different, the jackpot probabilities are the same.

Specifically, the big hit determination table is used to determine whether “big hit”, “small hit”, or “losing” based on the current probability gaming state and the acquired random number for determining a special symbol.
For example, according to the jackpot determination table for the first special symbol display device shown in FIG. 5 (a-1), in the low probability gaming state, two special symbol determination disturbances “7” and “8”. The number is determined to be a big hit. On the other hand, in the high probability gaming state, 20 special symbol determination random numbers “7” to “26” are determined to be big hits.
Further, according to the jackpot determination table for the first special symbol display device shown in FIG. 5 (a-1), the random number value for determining the special symbol is the low probability gaming state or the high probability gaming state. In the case of four special symbol determination random numbers “50”, “100”, “150”, and “200”, it is determined as “small hit”. If the random number is other than the above, it is determined as “lost”.
Therefore, since the random number range of the special symbol determination random number value is 0 to 598, the probability of being determined to be a big hit in the low probability gaming state is 1 / 299.5, and in the high probability gaming state, The probability to be determined is 10 times up to 1 / 29.9. In the first special symbol display device, the probability of being determined to be a small hit is 1 / 149.75 regardless of whether the game state is a low probability game state or a high probability game state.

(Winning judgment table)
FIG. 5B is a diagram showing a hit determination table used for “ordinary symbol lottery”.
Specifically, the winning determination table determines whether it is “winning” or “lost” based on the presence / absence of the short-time gaming state and the acquired random number for normal symbol determination.
For example, according to the hit determination table shown in FIG. 5B, when in the non-time-saving gaming state, it is determined that one specific normal symbol determination random value of “0” is a win. On the other hand, when in the short-time gaming state, it is determined that 65535 specific random symbols for determining normal symbols from “0” to “65534” are hit. If the random number is other than the above, it is determined as “lost”.
Accordingly, since the random number range of the normal symbol determination random number value is 0 to 65535, the probability of being determined to be hit in the non-short-time gaming state is 1/65536, and the probability of being determined to be winning in the time-short gaming state is 65535/65536 = 1 / 1.00002.

(Design determination table)
FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a symbol determination table for determining a special symbol stop symbol.
FIG. 6A is a symbol determination table that is referred to in order to determine a stop symbol at the time of a big hit, and FIG. 6B is a symbol that is referred to in order to determine a stop symbol at the time of a big hit. FIG. 6C is a symbol determination table that is referred to in order to determine a symbol to be stopped when a loss occurs.

Specifically, according to the symbol determination table shown in FIG. 6, a special ball display device type (a type of a start opening in which a game ball has won) and a game ball at the first start port 14 or the second start port 15. The special symbol type (stop symbol data) is determined based on the jackpot symbol random number value or the small bonus symbol random number value acquired when the ball is entered.
For example, the first special symbol display device refers to the symbol determination table shown in FIG. 6A in the case of a jackpot, and if the acquired jackpot symbol random value is “55”, the stop symbol data is “03”. ”(Special symbol 3 (first positive variation jackpot 3)) is determined. Further, in the first special symbol display device, the symbol determination table shown in FIG. 6B is referred to at the time of the small hit, and if the acquired random number value for the small hit symbol is “50”, as the stopped symbol data “08” (special symbol B (small hit B)) is determined. In case of loss, “00” (special symbol 0 (lost)) is determined as stop symbol data without referring to any random number value.

  Then, at the time of starting the change of the special symbol, an effect designating command is generated as special symbol information based on the determined special symbol type (stop symbol data). Here, the effect designating command is composed of 2-byte data, and 1-byte MODE data for identifying the control command classification and 1-byte DATA indicating the contents of the control command to be executed. It consists of data.

  As will be described later, since the game state after the jackpot game and the type of jackpot game are determined by the type of special symbol (stop symbol data), the type of special symbol is the game state after the jackpot game ends. It can be said that the type of jackpot game is determined.

(Description of gaming state)
Next, the gaming state when the game progresses will be described. In this embodiment, there are “low probability gaming state” and “high probability gaming state” as the states related to the jackpot lottery, and “non-short-time gaming state” is the state relating to the pair of movable pieces 15b that the second starting port 15 has. And “short-time gaming state”. The state relating to the jackpot lottery (low probability gaming state, high probability gaming state) and the state relating to the pair of movable pieces 15b (non-short-time gaming state, short-time gaming state) can be associated with each other and are independent. You can also. That means
(1) “Low probability gaming state” and “Time saving gaming state”
(2) “Low probability gaming state” and “non-temporary gaming state”
(3) “High probability gaming state” and “short time gaming state”
(4) It is possible to provide a “high probability gaming state” and a “non-temporary gaming state”.
Note that the gaming state when the game is started, that is, the initial gaming state of the gaming machine 1 is a “low probability gaming state” and is set to a “non-short-time gaming state”. Is referred to as a “normal gaming state”.

In the present embodiment, the “low probability gaming state” means that in the jackpot lottery performed on condition that a game ball has entered the first starting port 14 or the second starting port 15, the winning probability of jackpot is, for example, It means a gaming state set as low as 1 / 299.5. On the other hand, the “high probability gaming state” refers to a gaming state in which the jackpot winning probability is improved compared to the low probability gaming state, and the jackpot winning probability is set to a high value of 1 / 29.95, for example. . Therefore, in the “high probability gaming state”, it is easier to win a jackpot than in the “low probability gaming state”.
Note that the low probability gaming state is changed to the high probability gaming state after the jackpot game described later is finished.

  In the present embodiment, the “non-short-time gaming state” means that, in a normal symbol lottery performed on the condition that a game ball has passed through the normal symbol gate 13, the variation time of the normal symbol corresponding to the lottery result is 29, for example. This is a gaming state in which the opening control time of the second start port 15 is set to be as short as 0.2 seconds, for example, which is set to be as long as 2 seconds and is won in the win. That is, when the game ball passes through the normal symbol gate 13, the normal symbol is drawn, and the normal symbol display device 22 displays the fluctuation of the normal symbol, but the normal symbol is displayed 29 seconds after the fluctuation display is started. Stop display later. If the lottery result is a win, the second start port 15 is controlled to the second mode for 0.2 seconds after the normal symbol stop display.

On the other hand, the “short-time gaming state” means that the normal symbol variation time corresponding to the lottery result is, for example, 3 seconds in the normal symbol lottery performed on the condition that the game ball has passed through the normal symbol gate 13. And the opening control time of the second start port 15 when the winning is won is set to 3.5 seconds, for example, longer than the “non-short game state”. Refers to the game state. Further, in the “non-short game state”, the probability of winning in the normal symbol lottery is set as low as 1/65536, for example, and in the “short time game state”, the probability of winning in the normal symbol lottery is, for example, 65535. / 65536 is set high. At this time, the short-time game flag, which will be described later, is set in the short-time game state, and the short-time game flag is off in the non-short-time game state.
Therefore, in the “short-time gaming state”, the second starting port 15 is more easily controlled to the second mode as long as the game ball passes through the normal symbol gate 13 than in the “non-short-time gaming state”. Thereby, in the “short-time gaming state”, the player can advance the game without consuming the game ball.
In addition, since the normal symbol gate 13 is provided in the area on the right side of the game area 6, when in the “short-time game state”, the operation handle 3 is greatly rotated, and the game ball is launched with a strong launch strength. Is configured to do.
Note that the probability of winning in the normal symbol lottery may be set so that it does not change in any of the “non-short-time gaming state” and the “time-short gaming state”.

(Description of types of jackpot games)
In the present embodiment, two types of “short win game” in which the first big winning opening 16 is opened in a long opening time and “short win game” in which the second big winning opening 17 is opened in a short opening time. A “big hit game” and one kind of “small hit game” are provided. In the present embodiment, the “big hit game” and the “small hit game” are collectively referred to as “special game”.

In the present embodiment, “long win game” means that a big win is won and a long jackpot is won in a big win lottery performed on condition that a game ball has entered the first start port 14 or the second start port 15. A game that is executed when the corresponding special symbol is determined.
In the “long game”, a round game in which the first grand prize winning opening 16 is opened is performed, for example, 15 times in total. The maximum opening time of the first grand prize opening 16 in each round game is set to a maximum of 29 seconds, and if a prescribed number (for example, 9) of game balls enter the first big prize opening 16 during this time, it will be once. The round game ends. In other words, “game per long” is a special game in which a game ball enters the first grand prize opening 16 and a player can acquire a prize ball according to the game, so that a lot of prize balls can be acquired. It is. In addition, since the first grand prize winning opening 16 is provided in the area on the right side of the game area 6, in the case of “long hit game”, the operation handle 3 is greatly rotated to launch the game ball with a strong launch intensity. And is configured to play a game.

In the present embodiment, “short win game” means that, in the big win lottery performed on the condition that a game ball has entered the first start port 14 or the second start port 15, A game that is executed when the corresponding special symbol is determined.
In the “short win game”, a round game in which the second grand prize winning opening 17 is opened is performed, for example, 15 times in total. The maximum opening time of the second grand prize opening 17 in each round game is set to a maximum of 0.052 seconds, which is shorter than the firing time (about 0.6 seconds) at which one game ball is launched. Yes. During this time, when a prescribed number (for example, 9) of game balls enter the second grand prize opening 17, one round game ends, but as described above, the opening time of the second big prize opening 17 is extremely short. Therefore, game balls are rarely entered. In other words, the “short win game” is a special game in which it is difficult to obtain a prize ball unlike the “long win game”.

In the present embodiment, “small hit game” means the right to execute a small hit game in the jackpot lottery performed on the condition that a game ball has entered the first start port 14 or the second start port 15. A game that is executed when the player wins the game.
Also in the “small win game”, the second big prize opening 17 is opened 15 times as in the “short win game”. At this time, the opening time, opening / closing timing, and opening / closing mode of the second big winning opening 17 are the same as the above “short win game”, or the player determines whether the “small win game” or “short win game” It is set to approximate the impossible or difficult level.

  In the present embodiment, in the special symbol types shown in FIG. 6, when the special symbols 1, 4 to 6 are determined, “game per long” is determined, and when the special symbols 2, 3 are determined, “short hits” When the “game” is determined and the special symbol A or the special symbol B is determined, the “small hit game” is determined.

  Next, processing of the main control board 110 and the payout control board 130 will be described. First, regarding types of commands (signals) transmitted and received between the main control board 110 and the payout control board 130. explain. Note that serial transmission / reception of commands is performed between the main control board 110 and the payout control board 130.

(Commands sent and received between the main control board and the payout control board)
7A is a command list transmitted from the main control board 110 to the payout control board 130, and FIG. 7B is a command list transmitted from the payout control board 130 to the main control board 110. is there.

  As shown in the command list of FIG. 7A, the main control board 110 has “1 command at power-on to 10 commands at power-on”, “payout status confirmation command”, “payout 3 commands”, “payout”. “10 commands”, “payout 15 commands”, “main control communication error command”, and “power shutdown command” are transmitted.

“Power-on 1 command to power-on 10 command” is a command indicating that the main control board 110 has been powered on and notifying the number of game balls to be stored stored in the main RAM 110c. “B0H” to “B9H”.
Specifically, “power-on 1 command: B0H” indicates the number of payouts (payout counter) = 0, “power-on 2 command: B1H” indicates the number of payouts (payout counter) = 1, and “power-on” "Time 3 command: B2H" indicates the number of payouts (payout counter) = 2, "power-on 4 command: B3H" indicates the number of payouts (payout counter) = 3, and "power-on 5 command: B4H" pays out Number (payout counter) = 4, “power-on 6 command: B5H” indicates payout number (payout counter) = 5, and “power-on 7 command: B6H” indicates payout number (payout counter) = 6 “Power-on 8 command: B7H” indicates a payout number (payout counter) = 7, “Power-on 9 command: B8H” indicates a payout number (payout counter) = 8, and “Power-on 10 command” : B9H ”is the number of payouts Shows a payout counter) = 9. In the following description, when “1 command at power-on to 10 commands at power-on” are not distinguished from each other, they are appropriately referred to as “command at power-on”.
Further, as will be described in detail using the flow described later, this “power-on command” is transmitted to the payout control board 130 when the main control board 110 is powered on.

The “payout status check command” is a command for the main control board 110 to check the payout status of the payout control board 130, and the command data includes “A0H”.
Further, as will be described in detail with reference to the flow described later, this “payout state confirmation command” is used when the game ball is to be paid out to the payout control board 130 (when payout storage counter> 0 described later). , Is sent to the payout control board 130.

The “3 payout commands”, “10 payout commands”, and “15 payout commands” are commands for the main control board 110 to instruct the payout of 3, 10, or 15 game balls. Is composed of “03H”, “0AH”, or “0FH”.
Specifically, “3 payout commands: 03H” instructs to pay out 3 game balls, “10 payout commands: 0AH” instructs to pay out 10 game balls, and “15 payouts”. “Individual command: 0FH” instructs to pay out 15 game balls. In the following description, when the “payout 3 command”, “payout 10 command”, and “payout 15 command” are not distinguished from each other, they will be referred to as “payout number command” as appropriate.
Further, as will be described in detail with reference to a flow described later, this “payout number command” is transmitted to the payout control board 130 when a “payout number request command” described later is received from the payout control board 130. become.

The “main control communication error command” is a command for informing a serial reception error of the serial data (command) received from the payout control board 130, and the command data is composed of “AAH”.
Further, as will be described in detail using a flow described later, this “main control communication error command” is transmitted to the payout control board 130 when there is a serial reception error.

The “power cut-off command” is a command for notifying that the main control board 110 has started the power cut-off process, and the command data is composed of “50H”.
Further, as will be described in detail using a flow described later, this “power cut-off command” is transmitted to the payout control board 130 when the main control board 110 starts the power cut-off process.

  As shown in the command list of FIG. 7B, the payout control board 130 has “payout enable command”, “payout number request command”, “1 command at power-off to 10 command at power-off”, “not payable”. Command 1 ”,“ payout impossible command 2 ”, and“ payout impossible command 3 ”are transmitted.

The “payable command” is a command for notifying that the game ball can be paid out, and the command data is composed of “90H”.
Further, as will be described in detail with reference to a flow described later, the “payable command” is transmitted to the main control board 110 when the power is turned on, when the payout is completed, or when an error is restored.

The “payout number request command” is a command for requesting a payout number command to the main control board 110, and the command data includes “A0H”.
Further, the details will be described using the flow described later, but this “payout number request command”
When a payout state confirmation command is received from the main control board 110, it is transmitted to the main control board 110.

“Power-off 1 command to power-off 10 command” is a command for storing in the main RAM 110 c of the main control board 110 the number of game balls to be stored stored in the pay-out RAM 130 c at the time of power-off. Are composed of “B0H” to “B9H”.
Specifically, “power-off 1 command: B0H” indicates the number of payouts (payout counter) = 0, “power-off 2 command: B1H” indicates the number of payouts (payout counter) = 1, "Time 3 command: B2H" indicates the number of payouts (payout counter) = 2, "power-off 4 command: B3H" indicates the number of payouts (payout counter) = 3, and "power-off 5 command: B4H" pays out Number (payout counter) = 4, “power-off 6 command: B5H” indicates payout number (payout counter) = 5, and “power-off 7 command: B6H” indicates payout number (payout counter) = 6 “8 commands at power-off: B7H” indicates the number of payouts (payout counter) = 7, “9 commands at power-off: B8H” indicates the number of payouts (payout counter) = 8, and “10 commands at power-off” : B9H ”is the number of payouts Shows a payout counter) = 9. In the following description, when “1 command at power-off to 10 commands at power-off” are not distinguished from each other, they are appropriately referred to as “command at power-off”.
Further, as will be described in detail using a flow described later, this “power-off command” is transmitted to the main control board 110 when a power-off command is received from the main control board 110.

“Unpaid command 1”, “Unpaid command 2”, and “Unpaid command 3” are commands for notifying that an unpaid error state has occurred, and the command data is “81H”, “82H”, “ 83H ".
Specifically, “unpaid command 1: 81H” indicates a payout command error, “unpaid command 2: 82H” indicates a dish full error, and “unpaid command 3: 83H” Indicates a counting error. In the following description, the “unpaid command 1”, “unpaid command 2”, and “unpaid command 3” are appropriately referred to as “unpaid commands” when not distinguished from each other.
Further, as will be described in detail with reference to a flow described later, this “payout impossible command” is transmitted to the main control board 110 when various errors occur.

  Next, the progress of the game in the gaming machine 1 will be described using a flowchart.

(Main processing of main control board)
The main process of the main control board 110 will be described with reference to FIGS. The main process 2 in FIG. 9 is performed subsequent to the main process 1 in FIG.

  When power is supplied from the power supply board 170, a system reset occurs in the main CPU 110a, and the main CPU 110a performs the following main processing.

  In step S1, the main CPU 110a performs initialization processing such as protection control of the main RAM 110c, serial communication port initialization, hard random number activation, watchdog timer initialization, and emission signal setting.

  In step S2, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not the RAM erase switch provided on the back of the gaming machine 1 (not shown) is turned on. If the RAM erase switch is determined to be turned on, the main CPU 110a clears the data in the main RAM 110c. The process moves to step S7. On the other hand, if the RAM erase switch is not determined to be on, the process proceeds to step S3.

  In step S3, the main CPU 110a creates a checksum of the main RAM 110c when the power is turned on.

  In step S4, the main CPU 110a compares the checksum of the main RAM 110c generated when the power is turned on with the checksum of the main RAM 110c generated when the power is turned off. If they match, it is determined to be normal, and the process proceeds to step S5. If they do not match, it is determined to be an error, and the process proceeds to step S7.

  In step S5, the main CPU 110a sets a power recovery preparation command indicating that the backup function is effective and power supply recovery preparation is being performed in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c, and issues a power recovery preparation command. Output to the production control board 120.

  In step S6, the main CPU 110a sets an initial value in the work area of the main RAM 110c that requires an initial value at the time of power failure and recovery, and performs a RAM setting process when backup is valid.

  In step S7, the main CPU 110a clears the use area of the main RAM 110c in order to clear the state when the power is shut off.

  In step S8, the main CPU 110a sets a RAM clear acceptance designation command indicating that the data in the main RAM 110c has been cleared in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c, and outputs the RAM clear acceptance designation command to the effect control board 120. To do.

  It should be noted that the “power recovery preparation command” and the “RAM clear acceptance designation command” are used to quickly determine whether the gaming machine 1 is powered on and the backup function has been activated or not. Can be determined.

  In step S9, the main CPU 110a sets an initial value in a work area of the main RAM 110c that requires an initial value at the time of initialization, and performs setting processing of the main RAM 110c when backup is not valid.

  In step S10, the main CPU 110a performs initial setting of devices around the CPU. Specifically, an interrupt (CTC) to be used is set, and an initial setting for setting an interrupt timer (4 ms) of a CTC (Counter Timer Circuit) to be used is performed.

  In step S11, the main CPU 110a loads the number of payouts stored in the payout counter of the main RAM 110c.

  In step S12, the main CPU 110a creates a power-on command based on the number of payouts loaded in step S11, and transmits the created power-on command to the payout control board 130.

  In step S13, the main CPU 110a sets 0 to the payout counter of the main RAM 110c, and resets the payout counter.

  In step S20, the main CPU 110a performs an effect random number update process for updating the reach determination random value and the special figure variation random value for determining the variation mode (variation time) of the special symbol.

  In step S30, the main CPU 110a updates the initial random number value for special symbol determination, the initial random number value for big hit symbol, the initial random number value for small bonus symbol, and the initial random number value for normal symbol determination.

  In step S31, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not the power cutoff flag is ON. If it is determined that the power cut-off flag is ON, the process proceeds to step S40 to prepare for power interruption, and if it is determined that the power cut-off flag is not ON, the process returns to step S20.

  Here, when the power supply board 170 detects a power failure (voltage drop), the power supply board 170 outputs a power interruption detection signal to the main control board 110. Then, the main CPU 110a that has input the power interruption detection signal sets the power interruption flag to ON. Thus, the “power cutoff flag” is turned ON when the power supply board 170 detects a power failure (voltage drop).

  Then, unless the power is cut off, in normal games, the processes of Step S20 and Step S30 are repeated until a predetermined interrupt process is performed.

  In step S40, the main CPU 110a transmits a power-off command to the payout control board 130 in order to notify that the main control board 110 has started the power-off process.

  In step S41, the main CPU 110a sets 3 (times) to the loop number counter of the main RAM 110c.

  In step S42, the main CPU 110a performs a loop number update process in which 1 is subtracted from the loop number counter of the main RAM 110c and updated.

  In step S50, the main CPU 110a performs a serial reception process for receiving serial data from the payout control board 130. The serial reception process will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

  In step S60, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not the loop number counter of the main RAM 110c = 0. If the loop number counter = 0, the main CPU 110a proceeds to step S61, and if the loop number counter is not zero, The process returns to step S42.

In step S61, the main CPU 110a calculates the number of payouts based on the power-off command received in the serial data receiving process in step S50, and stores the calculated payout number in the payout counter of the main RAM 110c.
Thereby, when the power supply of the gaming machine 1 is shut off, the payout amount data stored in the volatile payout RAM 130c can be stored in the main RAM 110c, and the payout amount data can be retained even when the power supply is shut off. .

  In step S62, the main CPU 110a creates a checksum of the main RAM 110c when the power is shut off.

  In step S63, the main CPU 110a prohibits access to the main RAM 110c and protects the contents of the main RAM 110c. Then, an infinite loop is performed to prepare for power down.

(Serial reception processing of main control board)
A serial reception process for receiving serial data from the payout control board 130 in the main control board 110 will be described with reference to FIG.
This serial reception process is performed not only in the main process in FIG. 9 described above but also in the input control process in FIG. 12 described later.

In step S51, the main CPU 110a refers to the control register of the input port for main control, and determines whether there is a serial reception error. Note that the “control register of the input port for main control” is a register for determining whether the received serial data is normal or abnormal. If a reception error occurs, the data indicating the abnormality is sent to the control register by a dedicated IC Is remembered.
If it is determined that it is a serial reception error, the process proceeds to step S56 to perform error processing. If it is determined that it is not a serial reception error, it is determined whether or not serial data of a payout command related to payout is received. Move processing to.

In step S52, the main CPU 110a refers to the status register of the main control input port and determines whether serial data of a payout command related to payout has been received. The “main control input port status register” is a register for determining the reception status of the received serial data. When serial data is being received, it is being received by a dedicated IC. Is stored in the status register.
If it is determined that the serial data is received, the process proceeds to step S53 to store the serial data. If it is determined that the serial data is not received, the current serial reception process is terminated.

  In step S53, the main CPU 110a stores (stores) the received serial data in the reception buffer.

  In step S54, the main CPU 110a confirms the last bit of the serial data and determines whether or not the reception of the serial data is completed. If it is determined that the reception of serial data is completed, the process proceeds to step S55, and if it is determined that the reception of serial data is not completed, the process returns to step S53.

  In step S55, the main CPU 110a clears the payout communication error flag stored in the main RAM 110c.

  In step S56, the main CPU 110a sets a payout communication error flag in the main RAM 110c.

  In step S57, the main CPU 110a transmits a main control communication error command to the payout control board 130 in order to notify a serial data reception error.

(Timer interrupt processing of main control board)
The timer interrupt process of the main control board 110 will be described with reference to FIG.

  A clock pulse is generated every predetermined period (4 milliseconds) by the reset clock pulse generation circuit provided on the main control board 110, thereby executing a timer interrupt process described below.

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

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

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

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

In step S200, the main CPU 110a performs input control processing.
In this process, the main CPU 110a includes a general winning opening detection switch 12a, a first large winning opening detection switch 16a, a second large winning opening detection switch 17a, a first starting opening detection switch 14a, a second starting opening detection switch 15a, a gate. It is determined whether or not there has been an input to various switches of the detection switch 13a, whether or not serial data has been received from the payout control board 130, and if there is an input, input control processing for setting predetermined data is performed. . Details will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S300, the main CPU 110a performs a special drawing special electric control process for controlling the jackpot lottery, the special electric accessory, and the gaming state. Details will be described later with reference to FIG.

In step S400, the main CPU 110a performs a normal / normal power control process for controlling the normal symbol lottery and the normal electric accessory.
Specifically, it is first determined whether or not 1 or more data is set in the normal symbol hold count (G) storage area, and 1 or more data must be set in the normal symbol hold count (G) storage area. If this is the case, the current ordinary power transmission control process is terminated.
If 1 or more data is set in the normal symbol holding number (G) storage area, after subtracting 1 from the value stored in the normal symbol holding number (G) storage area, the data is in the normal symbol holding storage area. The normal symbol determination random numbers stored in the first storage unit to the fourth storage unit are shifted to the previous storage unit. At this time, the normal symbol determination random value already written in the 0th storage unit is overwritten and erased.
Then, referring to the hit determination table shown in FIG. 5B, whether or not the normal symbol determination random number value stored in the 0th storage unit of the normal symbol hold storage area is a random value corresponding to “win”. Processing to determine is performed. Thereafter, the normal symbol display device 22 displays the fluctuation of the normal symbol. When the fluctuation time of the normal symbol elapses, the normal symbol corresponding to the result of the normal symbol lottery is stopped and displayed. If the random number for normal symbol determination referred to is “winning”, the start opening / closing solenoid 15c is driven to control the second start opening 15 to the second mode for a predetermined opening time.
Here, in the non-short-time gaming state, the variation time of the normal symbol is set to 29 seconds, and if it is “winning”, the second start port 15 is controlled to the second mode for 0.2 seconds. On the other hand, in the short-time gaming state, the normal symbol variation time is set to 0.2 seconds, and if it is “winning”, the second start port 15 is controlled to the second mode for 3.5 seconds. .

In step S500, the main CPU 110a performs a payout control process.
In this payout control process, the main CPU 110a refers to each prize ball counter while sending and receiving various serial data to and from the payout control board 130, and generates payout number commands corresponding to various winning holes. The generated payout number designation command is transmitted to the payout control board 130. Details will be described later with reference to FIG.

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

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

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

(Input control processing of main control board)
The input control processing of the main control board 110 will be described using FIG.

In step S210, the main CPU 110a performs a general winning opening detection switch input process.
In this general winning opening detection switch input process, it is determined whether or not a detection signal is input from the general winning opening detection switch 12a. If there is no input of a detection signal from the general winning opening detection switch 12a, the process proceeds to the next step.
When a detection signal is input from the general winning opening detection switch 12a, predetermined data is added to and updated in the winning ball counter for the general winning opening, and then the process proceeds to the next step.

In step S220, the main CPU 110a performs a special winning opening detection switch input process.
In this special winning opening detection switch input process, it is determined whether or not a detection signal is input from the first large winning opening detection switch 16a or the second large winning opening detection switch 17a. If no detection signal is input from the first big prize opening detection switch 16a or the second big prize opening detection switch 17a, the process proceeds to the next step.
When a detection signal is input from the first big prize opening detection switch 16a or the second big prize opening detection switch 17a, predetermined data is added to the prize winning ball counter for the big prize opening and updated. After updating by adding 1 to the large winning opening number of balls (C) storage area for counting the game balls won in the large winning opening 16 or the second large winning opening 17, the process proceeds to the next step.

In step S230, the main CPU 110a performs a first start port detection switch input process.
In the first start port detection switch input process, it is determined whether or not a detection signal is input from the first start port detection switch 14a. If no detection signal is input from the first start port detection switch 14a, the process proceeds to the next step.
When a detection signal is input from the first start port detection switch 14a, first, predetermined data is added to the prize ball counter for the first start port. If the data set in the first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area is less than 4, add 1 to the first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area, the special symbol determination random number value, Random value for jackpot symbol, random value for jackpot symbol, random number for reach determination and random number for special figure fluctuation are acquired, and the various random values obtained are stored in a first special symbol random value storage area. After storing in (the 0th storage part-the 4th storage part), processing is moved to the next step.

In step S240, the main CPU 110a performs a second start port detection switch input process.
In the second start port detection switch input process, it is determined whether or not a detection signal is input from the second start port detection switch 15a. If there is no detection signal input from the second start port detection switch 15a, the process proceeds to the next step.
When a detection signal is input from the second start port detection switch 15a, first, predetermined data is added to the prize ball counter for the second start port. If the data set in the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area is less than 4, add 1 to the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area, and a special symbol determination random number value, Random value for jackpot symbol, random value for jackpot symbol, random number for reach determination and random number for special figure variation are acquired, and the various random values obtained are stored in a second special symbol random number storage area. After storing in (the 0th storage part-the 4th storage part), processing is moved to the next step.

In step S250, the main CPU 110a performs gate detection switch input processing.
In this gate detection switch input process, it is determined whether or not a detection signal is input from the gate detection switch 13a. If no detection signal is input from the gate detection switch 13a, the process proceeds to the next step.
When a detection signal is input from the gate detection switch 13a, a gate passage designation command is generated, and the generated gate passage designation command is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Next, if the data set in the normal symbol holding number (G) storage area is less than 4, add 1 to the normal symbol holding number (G) storage area to obtain a normal symbol determination random number value. Then, after storing the acquired random number for normal symbol determination in a predetermined storage unit (the 0th storage unit to the fourth storage unit) in the normal symbol holding storage area, the processing is moved to the next step.

  In step S260, the main CPU 110a performs serial reception processing for receiving serial data from the payout control board 130. This serial reception process is as described in FIG.

  In step S270, the main CPU 110a selects an error notification command to be transmitted to the effect control board 120 with reference to an error flag indicating the gaming state and various errors, and transmits the selected error notification command for effect transmission. Store in the data storage area.

(Special figure special electric control processing of main control board)
With reference to FIG. 13, the special figure special power control process of the main control board 110 will be described.

First, in step S301, the value of the special figure special electricity processing data is loaded, the branch address is referred to from the special figure special electric treatment data loaded in step S302, and if the special figure special electric treatment data = 0, the special symbol memory determination process (step The process proceeds to S310). If the special symbol special power processing data = 1, the process proceeds to the special symbol variation processing (step S320). If the special symbol special power processing data = 2, the special symbol stop processing (step S330) is performed. If special figure special electric processing data = 3, the process moves to jackpot game processing (step S340), and if special figure special electric processing data = 4, the process moves to big hit game end processing (step S350). If special electric processing data = 5, the processing is shifted to the small hit game processing (step S360).
This “special drawing special electricity processing data” is set as necessary in each subroutine of the special figure special electricity control processing as will be described later, so that the subroutine necessary for the game is appropriately processed. .

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

(Special symbol memory judgment processing of the main control board)
FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a special symbol memory determination process of the main control board 110.

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

In step S312, the main CPU 110a performs a jackpot determination process.
Specifically, when one or more data is set in the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area, 1 is calculated from the value stored in the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area. After the subtraction, the various random numbers stored in the first to fourth storage units in the second special symbol random number storage area are shifted to the previous storage unit. At this time, various random values already written in the 0th storage unit are overwritten and deleted. Then, referring to the jackpot determination table shown in FIG. 5 (a-2), the random symbol value for special symbol determination stored in the 0th storage unit of the second special symbol random number storage area corresponds to “big hit”. It is determined whether it is a numerical value or a random value corresponding to “small hit”.
In addition, when one or more data is not set in the second special symbol hold number (U2) storage area and one or more data is set in the first special symbol hold number (U1) storage area, Various random numbers stored in the first to fourth storage units in the first special symbol random number storage area after subtracting 1 from the value stored in the first special symbol hold number (U1) storage area Is shifted to the previous storage unit. Also at this time, various random numbers already written in the 0th storage unit are overwritten and deleted. Then, with reference to the jackpot determination table shown in FIG. 5 (a-1), the random number for special symbol determination stored in the 0th storage unit of the first special symbol random number storage area corresponds to “big hit”. It is determined whether it is a numerical value or a random value corresponding to “small hit”.
In the present embodiment, the random number value stored in the second special symbol random value storage area is shifted (digested) with priority over the first special symbol random value storage area. However, the first special symbol storage area or the second special symbol storage area may be shifted in the order of winning in the starting opening, and the first special symbol storage area is given priority over the second special symbol storage area. You may let them.

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

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

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

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

The description of the special figure special electric control process shown in FIG. 13 will be returned.
In the special symbol variation process of step S320, the main CPU 110a performs a process of determining whether or not the special symbol variation time has elapsed.
Specifically, it is determined whether or not the variation time of the special symbol determined in step S314 has elapsed (special symbol time counter = 0), and if it is determined that the variation time of the special symbol has not elapsed The special symbol variation process is terminated while the special symbol special electricity processing data = 1 is held. Note that the special symbol variation time counter set in step S314 is subtracted in step S110.
If it is determined that the variation time of the special symbol has elapsed, the special symbol determined in step S313 is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21. Thereby, the special symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21, and the player is notified of the jackpot determination result.
Also, when the number of time reduction (J)> 0, 1 is subtracted from the time reduction (J) counter and updated. When the number of time reduction (J) = 0, the time reduction game flag is cleared and the number of high probability games (X )> 0 is updated by subtracting 1 from the high probability game number (X) counter, and if the high probability game number (X) = 0, the high probability game flag is cleared.
Finally, the special symbol special power processing data = 1 is set to the special symbol special power processing data = 2, preparation is made to move to a special symbol stop processing subroutine, and the special symbol variation processing is terminated.

In the special symbol stop process in step S330, the main CPU 110a performs a process of determining whether the special symbol that is stopped and displayed is a “big hit symbol”, a “small bonus symbol”, or a “losing symbol”. Do.
If it is determined that the game is a jackpot symbol, the data stored in the gaming state storage area is referred to and data (00H to 03H) indicating the current gaming state is set in the gaming state buffer. Thereafter, the data (high probability game flag and short time game flag), high probability game number (X) counter, and short time number (J) counter stored in the high probability game flag storage area and the short time game flag storage area are cleared. . Further, the special figure special power processing data = 2 is set to the special figure special electric processing data = 3, preparation is made to move to the jackpot game processing subroutine, and the special symbol stop processing is ended.
In addition, when it is determined that the small winning symbol, the data stored in the game state storage area is not cleared, and the special figure special electric processing data = 2 to the special figure special electric treatment data = 5 is set. The special symbol stop process is completed by making preparations for transferring to a winning game process subroutine.
On the other hand, if it is determined that the symbol is a lost symbol, the special symbol special electric processing data = 2 is set to special special electric symbol processing data = 0, and the special symbol memory determination processing subroutine is prepared for the special symbol stop processing. finish.

In the jackpot game process of step S340, the main CPU 110a determines which jackpot of the long hit or short hit is executed, and performs a process of controlling the determined jackpot.
Specifically, the jackpot release mode is determined based on the type of jackpot symbol (stop symbol data) determined in step S313.
Next, in order to execute the determined jackpot opening mode, an opening time corresponding to the type of jackpot is set in the special game timer counter, and the first big winning opening opening / closing solenoid 16c (or the second big winning opening opening / closing solenoid) is set. 17c) is output to open the first big prize opening / closing door 16b (or the second big prize opening / closing door 17b). At this time, 1 is added to the round game count (R) storage area.
When a predetermined number of game balls enter during the opening or when the opening time of the big prize opening has elapsed (the number of the big prize opening (C) = 9 or the special game timer counter = 0), The output of the drive data of the big prize opening / closing solenoid 16c (or the second big prize opening / closing solenoid 17c) is stopped, and the first big prize opening / closing door 16b (or the second big prize opening / closing door 17b) is closed. Thereby, one round game is completed. This round game control is repeated 15 times.
When the 15 round games are completed (round game count (R) = 15), the data stored in the round game count (R) storage area and the number of winning prize entrance (C) storage areas are cleared, The special figure special electric processing data = 3 is set to the special figure special electric treatment data = 4, preparation is made to move to the big hit game end processing subroutine, and the big hit game processing is ended.

In the big hit game ending process in step S350, the main CPU 110a determines the probability gaming state of either the high probability gaming state or the low probability gaming state, and changes the gaming state of either the short-time gaming state or the non-short-time gaming state. Perform the decision process.
Specifically, based on the data stored in the game state buffer and the type of jackpot symbol (stop symbol data) determined in step S313, the setting of the high probability game flag, the number of high probability games (X) , Time-short game flag, time-short number of times (J).
For example, if the special symbols 1 to 3 and 5 corresponding to the probability variation jackpot, the high probability game flag is set in the high probability game flag storage area, and the high probability game number (X) counter is set to 10,000 times. Further, if the special symbols 1 to 3 and 5 corresponding to the probability variation jackpot are set, the time-short game flag is set in the time-short game flag storage area, and the time-short-time (J) counter is set to 10,000 times. On the other hand, if the special symbols 4 and 6 correspond to the normal jackpot, the high probability game flag is not set and the high probability game number (X) counter is set to zero. Further, if the special symbol 4 or 6 corresponding to the normal jackpot, the short time game flag is set, and the short time number (J) counter is also set to 100 times.
After that, the special symbol special power processing data = 4 is set to the special symbol special power processing data = 0, and preparation for moving to the special symbol memory determination processing subroutine is made, and the big hit game end processing is ended.

In the small hit game processing in step S360, the main CPU 110a determines the small hit release mode based on the type of small hit symbol (stop symbol data) determined in step S313.
Next, in order to execute the determined small hit opening mode, the small hit opening time is set in the special game timer counter, and the driving data of the second big winning opening / closing solenoid 17c is output to output the second big winning prize. The mouth opening / closing door 17b is opened. At this time, 1 is added to the number-of-releases (K) storage area.
When the small winning opening time elapses (special game timer counter = 0), the drive data output of the second big prize opening / closing solenoid 17c is stopped and the second big prize opening / closing door 17b is closed. The opening / closing control of the second big prize opening opening / closing door 17b is repeated 15 times.
Then, the opening / closing control of the second grand prize opening / closing door 17b is performed 15 times, or a predetermined number of game balls enter the second big prize opening 17 (the number of times of opening (K) = 15 or the grand prize opening entrance) Number (C) = 9), in order to end the small hit game, the output of the drive data of the second large winning opening / closing solenoid 17c is stopped, the number of times of opening (K) storage area and the number of winning winning holes (C) Clear the data stored in the storage area, set special figure special electricity processing data = 5 to special figure special electricity treatment data = 0, and prepare to move to a special symbol memory judgment processing subroutine. The winning game process is terminated.

(Main control board payout control processing)
The payout control process of the main control board 110 will be described with reference to FIG.

First, in step S501, the value of the payout control process data is loaded, and the branch address is referenced from the payout control process data loaded in step S502.
If the payout control process data = 0, the process moves to a payout control state confirmation process (step S510), and if the payout control process data = 1, the process moves to a payout output process (step S520). If data = 2, the process proceeds to a payout operation end confirmation process (step S530).
Since this “payout control process data” is set as necessary in each subroutine of the payout control process as will be described later, the subroutine necessary for the game is appropriately processed.

(Main control board payout control status confirmation process)
The payout control state confirmation process of the main control board 110 will be described with reference to FIG.

In step S511, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not a payout communication error flag is set in the main RAM 110c.
If it is determined that the payout communication error flag is set, the current payout control state confirmation process is terminated, and if it is determined that the payout communication error flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S512.

In step S512, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not a payout enable command has been received from the payout control board 130.
If it is determined that a payout enable command has been received, the process proceeds to step S513. If it is determined that a payout enable command has not been received, the current payout control state confirmation process ends.

In step S513, the main CPU 110a refers to the prize ball storage counter in the main RAM 110c and determines whether or not the prize ball storage counter> 0.
If it is determined that the winning ball storage counter> 0, the process proceeds to step S514. If it is determined that the winning ball storage counter> 0 is not satisfied, the present payout control state confirmation process is terminated.

  In step S514, the main CPU 110a transmits a payout state confirmation command to the payout control board 130.

  In step S515, the main CPU 110a stores 01H in the payout control process data and prepares for the payout output process.

In step S516, the main CPU 110a sets T1 in the payout control timer of the main RAM 110c, and ends the current payout control state confirmation process.
As will be described later, the “payout control timer” indicates an effective reception time for receiving a payout quantity request command from the payout control board 130. When the payout control timer = 0, the payout quantity request command times out. An error will occur.

(Output processing for payout of main control board)
The payout output process of the main control board 110 will be described with reference to FIG.

In step S521, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not a payout communication error flag is set in the main RAM 110c.
If it is determined that the payout communication error flag is set, the current payout output process is terminated. If it is determined that the payout communication error flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S522.

  In step S522, the main CPU 110a performs a subtraction process in which 1 is subtracted from the payout control timer of the main RAM 110c and updated.

In step S523, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not the payout control timer of the main RAM 110c = 0.
If it is determined that the payout control timer = 0, the process proceeds to step S528 to perform error processing. If it is determined that the payout control timer = 0 is not satisfied, the process proceeds to step S524.

In step S524, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not a payout number request command has been received from the payout control board 130.
If it is determined that a payout number request command has been received, the process returns to step S525. If it is determined that a payout number request command has not been received, the current payout output process ends.

  In step S525, the main CPU 110a creates a payout number command with reference to the prize ball storage counter in the main RAM 110c, and transmits the created payout number command to the payout control board 130.

  In step S526, the main CPU 110a updates the prize ball storage counter by subtracting data (number) corresponding to the payout quantity command transmitted from the prize ball storage counter of the main RAM 110c.

  In step S527, the main CPU 110a stores 02H in the payout control process data and prepares for the payout operation end confirmation process.

  In step S528, the main CPU 110a sets a payout communication error flag in the main RAM 110c.

  In step S529, the main CPU 110a transmits a main control communication error command to the payout control board 130 in order to notify a serial data reception error, and the current payout output process ends.

(Main control board payout operation end confirmation process)
The payout operation end confirmation process of the main control board 110 will be described with reference to FIG.

In step S531, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not a payout enable command has been received from the payout control board 130.
If it is determined that a payout enable command has been received, the process returns to step S532. If it is determined that a payout enable command has not been received, the current payout operation end confirmation process ends.

  In step S532, the main CPU 110a stores 00H in the payout control process data and prepares for the payout control state confirmation process.

  Next, processing executed by the payout CPU 130a in the payout control board 130 will be described.

(Main processing of payout control board)
The main process of the payout control board 130 will be described with reference to FIG.

  When power is supplied from the power supply board 170, a system reset occurs in the payout CPU 130a, and the payout CPU 130a performs the following main processing.

  In step S3001, the payout CPU 130a performs an initialization process. In this process, the payout CPU 130a reads a start program from the payout ROM 130b and initializes a flag stored in the payout RAM 130c in response to power-on. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S3002.

In step S3002, the payout CPU 130a refers to the operation continuation flag storage area of the payout RAM 130c and determines whether or not the operation continuation flag is set.
If it is determined that the operation continuation flag is not set, the operation continuation flag determination process is repeated until the operation continuation flag is set, and if it is determined that the operation continuation flag is set, The process moves to S3003.

In step S3003, the payout CPU 130a clears the operation continuation flag and moves the process to S3100.
The operation continuation flag is set every 2 ms in the timer interrupt processing 1 described later with reference to FIG. 20A, and the processing of S3100 to S3700 described later is performed.

  In step S3100, the payout CPU 130a performs time control processing for subtracting and updating the payout control timer, error control timer, and command error control timer of the payout RAM 130c.

  In step S3200, the payout CPU 130a performs input control processing for detecting inputs from the payout ball counting switch 132, the door opening switch 133, and the dish full tank switch 134. Details will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S3300, the payout CPU 130a sets the number of game balls to be paid out (prize ball number counter) on condition that the game balls have been won at various winning ports while transmitting / receiving various serial data to / from the main control board. Perform prize ball control. Details will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S3400, the payout CPU 130a performs a ball lending control process. Specifically, while sending / receiving various data to / from the ball lending machine, check whether there is a lending request from the ball lending machine, and if there is a lending request, the number of game balls to be paid out ( Control to set the ball lending counter.

  In step S3500, the payout CPU 130a performs payout control processing. Specifically, in either the winning ball control process or the ball lending control process, a payout determination process is performed to determine whether the payout number data (prize ball number counter or ball lending number counter) is set, and the payout data is set. If the payout data is set, the payout start data is set. If the payout data is not set, the payout stop data is set.

  In step S3600, the payout CPU 130a performs data creation processing for creating external information for payout of the number of game balls actually paid out and commands based on various work areas. Details will be described later with reference to FIG.

In step S3700, the payout CPU 130a performs output control processing.
Specifically, drive data for driving the payout motor 131 is output to the output port, and the payout external information created in step S3600 is output to the game information output terminal board 30. Further, the serial transmission data (command) stored in the serial transmission data storage area is output to the main control board 110. If this process ends, the process returns to step S3002.

  In this embodiment, the payout control board 130 is configured to output the external information for payout to the game information output terminal board 30, but the payout control board 130 outputs the external information for payout to the main control board 110. May be configured to output the payout external information to the game information output terminal board 30 via the main control board 110.

(Timer interrupt processing 1 of payout control board)
The timer interrupt process of the payout control board 130 will be described with reference to FIG.

  The timer interrupt process 1 of the payout control board will be described with reference to FIG. Timer interrupt processing 1 is executed by generating a clock pulse every first cycle (for example, 2 milliseconds) by a reset clock pulse generation circuit provided on the payout control board.

  In step S3810, the payout CPU 130a sets an operation continuation flag in the operation continuation flag storage area of the payout RAM 130c. When this process ends, the current timer interrupt process 1 ends.

(Timer interrupt processing 2 of the payout control board)
The timer interruption process 2 of the payout control board will be described with reference to FIG. Similarly to the timer interrupt process 1 described above, the reset clock pulse generation circuit provided on the payout control board is used every second period (eg, 1.47 milliseconds) different from the first period of the timer interrupt process 1. When the clock pulse is generated, the timer interrupt process 2 is executed.

  In step S3820, the payout CPU 130a determines the drive of the payout motor 131. If it is determined that the payout motor 131 is driven, the payout motor drive data is stored in the payout motor work area. When it is determined to stop, excitation control processing for stopping the payout motor is performed. Thereafter, in step S3600, drive data for driving the payout motor 131 is output to the output port.

(Serial reception processing of payout control board)
A serial reception process for receiving serial data from the main control board 110 in the payout control board 130 will be described with reference to FIG. In this serial reception process, when serial data from the main control board 110 is received, an interrupt signal is generated, and the serial reception process (reception interrupt process) is executed when the interrupt signal is generated. It will be.

In step S3901, the payout CPU 130a refers to the control register of the payout control input port and determines whether a serial reception error has occurred. Note that the “control register of the input port for payout control” is a register for determining the normality / abnormality of the received serial data. Is remembered.
If it is determined that there is a serial reception error, the process proceeds to step S3908 to perform error processing, and if it is determined that it is not a serial reception error, the process proceeds to step S3902 to determine whether serial data is received.

In step S3902, the payout CPU 130a refers to the status register of the payout control input port and determines whether serial data has been received. The “status register of the input port for payout control” is a register for determining the reception state of the received serial data. When serial data is being received, it is being received by a dedicated IC. The indicated data is stored in the status register.
If it is determined that serial data has been received, the process proceeds to step S3903 to store the serial data. If it is determined that serial data has not been received, the current serial reception process is terminated.

  In step S3903, the payout CPU 130a stores (stores) the received serial data in the reception buffer.

In step S3904, the payout CPU 130a determines whether or not a power-off command has been received from the main control board 110.
If it is determined that the power-off command has been received, the process proceeds to step S3905. If it is determined that the power-off command has not been received, the process proceeds to step S3906.

In step S3905, the payout CPU 130a sets a power interruption flag in the power interruption flag storage area of the payout RAM 130c.
When this power interruption flag is set, a power shutdown command is created in the data creation processing of FIG. 28 described later.

In step S3906, the payout CPU 130a determines whether a main control communication error command is received from the main control board 110.
If it is determined that the main control communication error command has been received, the process proceeds to step S3907. If it is determined that the main control communication error command has not been received, the current serial reception process is terminated.

In step S3907, the payout CPU 130a sets a payout command error flag in the error flag storage area of the payout RAM 130c.
By setting this payout command error flag, processing corresponding to the error is executed in the prize ball control processing of FIG. 23 described later.

  In step S3908, the payout CPU 130a sets a payout impossible 1 command in the serial transmission data storage area and outputs it to the payout impossible 1 command main control board 110 to notify a serial data reception error.

In step S3909, the payout CPU 130a sets T2 (for example, 3000 ms) to the command error control timer of the payout RAM 130c.
When the “command error control timer” becomes 0, the serial communication error is automatically recovered in the payout command error process of FIG. 27 described later.

  In step S3910, the payout CPU 130a sets 04H in the prize ball control process data, prepares for moving to a payout command error process of FIG. 27 described later, and ends the current serial reception process.

(Input control processing of payout control board)
The input control processing of the payout control board will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S3210, the payout CPU 130a detects the game balls paid out by the payout ball counting switch 132, and when a game ball is detected, subtracts 1 from the prize ball number counter or the ball lending number counter in the payout RAM 130c. At the same time, the payout counter 130 of the payout RAM 130c is updated by adding 1.

  In step S3220, the payout CPU 130a checks whether or not a signal is input from the door opening switch 133, and if the signal input is detected, sets the door open error flag in the error flag storage area of the payout RAM 130c. .

  In step S3230, the payout CPU 130a checks whether or not a signal is input from the pan full switch 134, and if the signal input is detected, sets the pan full error flag in the error flag storage area of the payout RAM 130c. Set the current input control process.

(Prize control processing of payout control board)
The prize ball control process of the payout control board 130 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, in step S3301, the payout CPU 130a loads the value of prize ball control processing data.

In step S3302, the payout CPU 130a refers to the error flag storage area of the payout RAM 130c and determines whether or not the payout command error flag is set.
If it is determined that the payout command error flag is set, the process proceeds to step S3303. If it is determined that the payout command error flag is not set, the process proceeds to one of steps S3310, S3320, S3330, S3340, and S3350 based on the prize ball control process data loaded in step S3301. .

  In step S3303, the payout CPU 130a sets a payout impossible 1 command in the serial transmission data storage area and outputs the payout impossible 1 command to the main control board 110 in order to notify a serial data reception error.

  In step S3304, the payout CPU 130a clears the payout command error flag in the error flag storage area of the payout RAM 130c.

  In step S3305, the payout CPU 130a sets T2 (for example, 3000 ms) to the command error control timer of the payout RAM 130c.

  In step S3306, the payout CPU 130a sets 04H in the prize ball control process data, and moves on to the payout command error process in step S3350.

  Step S3310 is a process executed when prize ball control process data = 00H. In step S3310, the payout CPU 130a monitors reception of a payout state confirmation command or a power-on command from the main control board 110, and performs state monitoring processing for setting necessary data in accordance with each command. Details will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Step S3320 is a process executed when prize ball control process data = 01H. In this step S3320, the payout CPU 130a monitors reception of a payout number command from the main control board 110, and performs a number instruction monitoring process for setting necessary data in accordance with each command. Details will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Step S3330 is a process executed when prize ball control process data = 02H. In step S3330, the payout CPU 130a determines whether or not the ball lending control is performed in the ball lending control processing in step S3400 (whether or not the ball lending control is being performed). Prize ball start determination processing for setting 03H in the control processing data is performed.

  Step S3340 is a process executed when prize ball control process data = 03H. In step S3340, the payout CPU 130a performs a prize ball monitoring process for monitoring the prize ball number counter and setting necessary data. Details will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Step S3350 is a process executed when prize ball control process data = 04H. In step S3350, the payout CPU 130a performs payout command error viewing processing for performing communication error return control. Details will be described later with reference to FIG.

(Discharge control board status monitoring process)
The state monitoring process of the payout control board 130 will be described with reference to FIG.

In step S3311-1, the payout CPU 130a sets 0 to the prize ball control timer of the payout RAM 130c, and resets the prize ball control timer.
As will be described later, the “prize ball control timer” indicates an effective reception time for receiving a payout number command from the main control board 110, and when the prize ball control timer is greater than 500 ms, the payout number command times out. An error will occur.

In step S3311-2, the payout CPU 130a determines whether or not a payout state confirmation command has been received from the main control board 110.
If it is determined that a payout state confirmation command has been received, the process proceeds to step S3311-3. If it is determined that a payout state confirmation command has not been received, the process proceeds to step S3311-6.

In step S3311-3, the payout CPU 130a determines whether it is a normal payout state confirmation command. Specifically, refer to whether there is a parity check, start bit, stop bit, command overflow, etc., and determine whether it is a normal payout status confirmation command. If it is determined that there is, the process proceeds to step S3311-4, and if it is determined that the command is not a normal payout state confirmation command, the process proceeds to step S3311-9.

  In step S3311-4, the payout CPU 130a sets a payout number request command in the serial transmission data storage area, and outputs the payout number request command to the main control board 110.

  In step S3311-5, the payout CPU 130a stores 01H in the prize ball control process data and prepares for the number instruction monitoring process.

In step S3311-6, the payout CPU 130a determines whether or not a power-on command has been received from the main control board 110.
If it is determined that the power-on command has been received, the process proceeds to step S3311-7. If it is determined that the power-on command has not been received, the current state monitoring process is terminated.

  In step S3311-7, the payout CPU 130a stores the payout number corresponding to the received power-on command in the payout counter of the payout RAM 130c.

  In step S3311-8, the payout CPU 130a sets a payout enable command in the serial transmission data storage area, and outputs the payout enable command to the main control board 110.

  In step S3311-9, the payout CPU 130a sets a payout command error flag in the error flag storage area of the payout RAM 130c.

(Dispensing control board number indication monitoring process)
The number instruction monitoring process for the payout control board 130 will be described with reference to FIG.

In step S3321, the payout CPU 130a determines whether or not a payout number command has been received from the main control board 110.
If it is determined that a payout number command has been received, the process proceeds to step S3322, and if it is determined that a payout number command has not been received, the process proceeds to step S3325.

In step S3322, the payout CPU 130a determines whether the command is a normal payout number command. Specifically, refer to whether there is a parity check, start bit, stop bit, command overflow, etc., and determine whether it is a normal payout number command. If it is determined, the process proceeds to step S3323, and if it is determined that the command is not a normal payout number command, the process proceeds to step S3327.

  In step S3323, the payout CPU 130a stores the number of prize balls corresponding to the received payout number command in the prize ball number counter of the payout RAM 130c.

  In step S3324, the payout CPU 130a stores 02H in the prize ball control process data and prepares for the prize ball start determination process.

  In step S3325, the payout CPU 130a updates the prize ball control timer of the payout RAM 130c by adding 1.

In step S3326, the payout CPU 130a refers to the prize ball control timer in the payout RAM 130c, and determines whether or not the prize ball control timer> 500 ms.
If it is determined that the winning ball control timer is greater than 500 ms, the process proceeds to step S3327 in order to perform a timeout error process of the payout number command. If it is determined that the winning ball control timer is not greater than 500 ms, the current number instruction monitoring process is terminated. To do.

  In step S3327, the payout CPU 130a sets the payout impossible 1 command in the serial transmission data storage area and outputs the payout impossible 1 command to the main control board 110.

  In step S3328, the payout CPU 130a sets an error release request flag in the error flag storage area of the payout RAM 130c.

  In step S3329, the payout CPU 130a stores 04H in the prize ball control processing data and prepares for payout command error processing.

(Prize ball monitoring process on payout control board)
The prize ball monitoring process of the payout control board 130 will be described with reference to FIG.

In step S3341, the payout CPU 130a refers to the prize ball number counter in the payout RAM 130c and determines whether or not the prize ball number counter = 0.
If it is determined that the winning ball number counter = 0, the process proceeds to step S3342, and if it is determined that the winning ball number counter is not 0, the current winning ball monitoring process is terminated.

  In step S3342, the payout CPU 130a sets a payable command in the serial transmission data storage area, and outputs the payable command to the main control board 110.

  In step S3343, the payout CPU 130a stores 00H in the prize ball control process data and prepares for the state monitoring process.

(Discharge command error processing of the payout control board)
The payout command error process of the payout control board 130 will be described with reference to FIG.

In step S3351, the payout CPU 130a refers to the error flag storage area of the payout RAM 130c and determines whether or not the error release request flag is set.
If it is determined that the error cancellation request flag is set, the process proceeds to step S3353. If it is determined that the error cancellation request flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S3352.

In step S3352, the payout CPU 130a refers to the command error control timer in the payout RAM 130c, and determines whether or not the command error control timer = 0.
If it is determined that the command error control timer = 0, the process proceeds to step S3354. If it is determined that the command error control timer = 0 is not satisfied, the current payout command error process is terminated.

In step S3353, the payout CPU 130a determines whether or not there is an input signal from the error release switch 135.
If it is determined that there is an input signal from the error release switch 135, the process proceeds to step S3354. If it is determined that there is no input signal from the error release switch 135, the current payout command error process is terminated.

  In step S3354, the payout CPU 130a sets a payout enable command in the serial transmission data storage area, and outputs the payout enable command to the main control board 110.

  In step S3355, the payout CPU 130a clears the error release request flag stored in the error flag storage area of the payout RAM 130c.

  In step S3356, the payout CPU 130a stores 00H in the prize ball control process data and prepares for the state monitoring process.

Steps S3354 to S3356 correspond to the communication error recovery process for recovering the serial data communication error state.
As described above, regarding the communication error recovery process, when there is a communication error related to the payout number command, the communication error recovery process is executed on the condition that the error cancel switch 135 is reset. On the other hand, in the case of a communication error related to the payout state confirmation command, it automatically recovers after T2 time (eg, 3000 ms) has elapsed since the error occurred.

(Data creation process for payout control board)
The data creation process of the payout control board 130 will be described with reference to FIG.

In step S3601, the payout CPU 130a refers to the payout counter in the payout RAM 130c and determines whether or not the payout counter = 10.
If it is determined that the payout counter = 10, the process proceeds to step S3602. If it is determined that the payout counter = 10, the process proceeds to step S3604.

In step S3602, the payout CPU 130a performs an external information creation process for creating external information for payout in order to send information about the game balls actually paid out to the hall computer of the game store.
Therefore, every time 10 game balls are paid out, external information for one payout is created.

  In step S3603, the payout CPU 130a sets 0 to the payout counter of the payout RAM 130c, and resets the payout counter.

In step S3604, the payout CPU 130a refers to the power interruption flag storage area of the payout RAM 130c and determines whether or not the power interruption flag is set.
If it is determined that the power interruption flag is set, the process proceeds to step S3607. If it is determined that the power interruption flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S3605.

In step S3605, the payout CPU 130a refers to various work areas of the payout RAM 130c and creates various serial transmission data (commands) as necessary.
Specifically, if the dish full tank error flag is set in the error flag storage area, serial transmission data of the payout impossible 2 command is created, or a disconnection error by the payout ball count switch 132 or a payout ball count switch 132 If a flag indicating an excessive payout error is set, serial transmission data of the payout impossible 3 command is created.

  In step S3606, the payout CPU 130a sets the serial transmission data created in step S3605 in the serial transmission data storage area, and outputs various commands to the main control board 110.

In step S3607, the payout CPU 130a refers to the payout counter of the payout RAM 130c, and creates serial transmission data (power-off command) at the time of power supply.
Specifically, if the payout counter = 0, a command is generated when the power is shut off. If the payout counter = 1, a command is generated when the power is shut off. If the payout counter = 3, 4 commands are generated when the power is shut off. If the payout counter = 4, 5 commands are generated when the power is shut off. If the payout counter = 6, the power cut-off 7 command is created. If the payout counter = 7, the power cut-off 8 command is created. If the payout counter = 8, the power cut-off 9 command is created. If the counter = 9, 10 commands are generated at power-off.

  In step S3608, the payout CPU 130a sets the power-off command generated in step S3607 in the serial transmission data storage area, and outputs the power-off command to the main control board 110.

  Next, the timing of commands transmitted and received between the main control board 110 and the payout control board 130 will be described. FIGS. 29 to 33 show sequence diagrams of commands transmitted and received between the main control board 110 and the payout control board 130. FIG.

  FIG. 29 is a sequence diagram when a command is normally transmitted and received between the main control board 110 and the payout control board 130.

  As shown in FIG. 29, when the gaming machine 1 is powered on, the main control board 110 transmits a “power on command” to the payout control board 130 (step S12 shown in FIG. 8).

When the “power-on command” is received, the payout control board 130 stores the payout number in the payout counter of the payout RAM 130c (step S3311-7 shown in FIG. 24).
Thereafter, the payout control board 130 transmits a “payable command” to the main control board 110 (step S3311-8 shown in FIG. 24).

  In the main control board 110, when a game ball wins in various winning openings, a “payout state confirmation command” is transmitted to the payout control board 130 in order to confirm the payout state (step S514 shown in FIG. 16).

  When the payout control board 130 receives the “payout state confirmation command”, it sends a “payout number request command” to the main control board 110 on condition that the “payout state confirmation command” has been normally received (FIG. 24). Step S3311-4).

  When the main control board 110 receives the “payout number request command”, the main control board 110 transmits a “payout number command” corresponding to the prize ball storage counter to the payout control board 130 (step S525 shown in FIG. 17).

  When the “payout number command” is received, the payout control board 130 sets the number of prize balls according to the “payout number command” on condition that the “payout number command” is normally received, and performs the payout operation. (Step S3323 shown in FIG. 25).

  In the payout control board 130, when the payout operation is completed (the prize ball storage counter = 0), a “payable command” is transmitted to the main control board 110 (step S3342 shown in FIG. 26). Thereafter, the transmission / reception of the above-mentioned command is repeated every time a game ball wins in various winning holes.

  When it is detected in advance that the power to the gaming machine 1 is cut off, the main control board 110 transmits a “power cut-off command” to the payout control board 130 (step S40 shown in FIG. 9).

  When the payout control board 130 receives the “power cutoff command”, the payout control board 130 transmits a “power cutoff command” corresponding to the number of payouts stored in the payout counter of the payout RAM 130c to the main control board 110 (step shown in FIG. 28). S3608).

  When receiving the “power shutdown command”, the main control board 110 stores the number of payouts in the payout counter of the main RAM 110c (step S61 shown in FIG. 9), and then prepares for power interruption.

  In this way, even if the payout control board 130 does not have a so-called backup function (even if the data in the payout RAM 130c of the payout control board 130 is erased due to the power interruption of the gaming machine 1), the main control board has a backup function. Since the data can be held in the main RAM 110c of 110, an accurate payout number can be held.

  In the present embodiment, the main RAM 110c of the main control board 110 holds data on the number of payouts (payout counter) stored in the payout RAM 130c of the payout control board 130 when the power to the gaming machine 1 is shut off. However, the main RAM 110c of the main control board 110 holds data such as the number of prize balls (prize ball number counter) and the number of balls lent (ball number counter) stored in the payout RAM 130c of the payout control board 130. May be.

  FIG. 30 is a sequence diagram when the payout control board 130 cannot receive the payout quantity command from the main control board 110 and a communication error corresponding to the time-out error of the payout quantity command occurs.

  In the description of the sequence diagram of FIG. 30, the description of the same portion is omitted as compared to the sequence diagram of FIG. This is the same until the main control board 110 transmits a “payout state confirmation command” to the payout control board 130.

  If the payout control board 130 receives the “payout state confirmation command” and cannot receive the “payout number command” within a specific time (prize ball control timer> 500 ms), it corresponds to a time-out error of the payout number command. A communication error occurs (step S3326 shown in FIG. 25). Then, when a communication error corresponding to the timeout error of the payout number command occurs, the payout control board 130 transmits “no payout 1 command” to the main control board 110 (step S3327 shown in FIG. 25).

  In order to cancel the communication error corresponding to the timeout error of the payout number command, the game shop clerk or the like must perform the error canceling operation. When the canceling operation is detected by the error canceling switch 135, the payout control board In 130, a communication error recovery process is performed, and a “payable command” is transmitted to the main control board 110 (steps S3353 to S3356 shown in FIG. 27).

  In the payout control board 130, when the communication error is restored, the process returns to the initial state monitoring process in the prize ball control process in FIG. 23 and transmits the “payout number request command” to the main control board 110 again (see FIG. Step S3356 shown, Step S3311-4 shown in FIG.

  FIG. 31 is a sequence diagram when the payout control board 130 detects a data abnormality in the payout number command and a communication error corresponding to the data abnormality in the payout number command occurs.

  In the description of the sequence diagram of FIG. 31, the description of the same portions is omitted as compared to the sequence diagram of FIG. The same is true until the main control board 110 transmits a “payout number command” to the payout control board 130.

When the payout control board 130 receives the “payout number command” and detects a data abnormality in the payout number command, a communication error occurs (step S 3322 shown in FIG. 25).
Then, when a communication error corresponding to the data abnormality of the payout number command occurs, the payout control board 130 transmits “no payout 1 command” to the main control board 110 (step S3327 shown in FIG. 25).

  In order to cancel the communication error corresponding to the timeout error of the payout number command, the game shop clerk or the like must perform the error canceling operation. When the canceling operation is detected by the error canceling switch 135, the payout control board In 130, a communication error recovery process is performed, and a “payable command” is transmitted to the main control board 110 (steps S3353 to S3356 shown in FIG. 27).

  In the payout control board 130, when the communication error is restored, the process returns to the initial state monitoring process in the prize ball control process in FIG. 23 and transmits the “payout number request command” to the main control board 110 again (see FIG. Step S3356 shown, Step S3311-4 shown in FIG.

  FIG. 32 is a sequence diagram when the payout control board 130 detects a data abnormality in the payout state confirmation command and a communication error corresponding to the data abnormality in the payout state confirmation command occurs.

  In the description of the sequence diagram of FIG. 32, the description of the same portion is omitted as compared to the sequence diagram of FIG. This is the same until the main control board 110 transmits a “payout state confirmation command” to the payout control board 130.

  When the payout control board 130 receives the “payout state confirmation command” and detects a data abnormality in the payout state confirmation command, a communication error occurs (step S3311-9 shown in FIG. 24).

  Then, when a communication error corresponding to the data abnormality of the payout state confirmation command occurs, the payout control board 130 transmits the “payout impossible 1 command” to the main control board 110 (step S3303 shown in FIG. 23) and automatic return. Is set to T2 (3000 ms) in the command error control timer (step S3305 shown in FIG. 23).

  When the command error control timer = 0 (3000 ms elapses), the payout control board 130 performs a communication error return process and transmits a “payable command” to the main control board 110 (steps S3352 and S3354 shown in FIG. 27). ~ S3356).

  The payout control board 130 returns to the initial state monitoring process in the prize ball control process in FIG. 23 by the communication error recovery process.

As shown in FIG. 30 and FIG. 31, when a communication error related to a payout number command indicating the number of game balls to be paid out occurs, a communication error will occur unless the game store clerk performs an error canceling operation without automatically returning. Therefore, the payout can be confirmed on the game store side, and the disadvantage to the player due to the difference in the number of payout of game balls can be eliminated, or fraudulent acts can be suppressed.
On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 32, an (indirect) payout state confirmation command or the like that is not directly related to the payout number of game balls automatically resets a communication error after a predetermined time has elapsed, and cancels the error release. The troublesomeness is eliminated.

  FIG. 33 is a sequence diagram when the main control board 110 determines a communication error of the command received from the payout control board 130 and a communication error occurs on the main control board side.

  In the description of the sequence diagram of FIG. 33, the description of the same portion is omitted as compared to the sequence diagram of FIG. This is the same until the payout control board 130 transmits a “payable command” to the main control board 110.

  When the main control board 110 receives the “payable command” and determines that it is a serial reception error, it transmits a “main control communication error command” to the payout control board 130 (step S57 shown in FIG. 10).

When the payout control board 130 receives the “main control communication error command”, the payout command error flag is set (step S3907 shown in FIG. 21).
Then, the payout control board 130 transmits a “no payout 1 command” to the main control board 110 because the payout command error flag is set (step S3303 shown in FIG. 23), and sets the return time for automatic return. Therefore, T2 (3000 ms) is set in the command error control timer (step S3305 shown in FIG. 23).

  When the command error control timer = 0 (3000 ms elapses), the payout control board 130 performs a communication error return process and transmits a “payable command” to the main control board 110 (steps S3352 and S3354 shown in FIG. 27). ~ S3356).

  The payout control board 130 returns to the initial state monitoring process in the prize ball control process in FIG. 23 by the communication error recovery process.

  Thus, although error determination is performed on both the main control board 110 and the payout control board 130, the communication error automatic recovery processing is provided only on the payout control board 130 side, so the storage capacity of the gaming machine 1 It is possible to improve the accuracy of determining a communication error while suppressing an increase in the communication error.

  In this embodiment, the communication error automatic recovery process is provided only on the payout control board 130 side. However, the same automatic recovery process as in this embodiment may be provided only on the main control board 110 side.

  Moreover, according to this embodiment, although the game machine used for a pachinko game machine was demonstrated, you may use for a swing type game machine (slot machine), a jigball game machine, and an arrangement ball game machine. That is, a game ball as a game medium may be replaced with medals, coins, tokens, and the like.

1 gaming machine 30 game information output terminal board 110 main control board 110a main CPU
110b Main ROM
110c Main RAM
130 payout control board 130a payout CPU
130b payout ROM
130c payout RAM
132 Discharge ball counting switch 135 Error release switch 170 Power supply board

Claims (3)

A game control means for determining whether or not a game medium payout condition is satisfied, and for controlling the gaming state;
A payout control means for controlling the payout of the game medium and outputting a payout enable signal to the game control means when the payout of the game ball is possible ;
An abnormality release detecting means for detecting a release operation for releasing an abnormality related to the control of the payout control means, and
The game control means includes
After inputting a payout enable signal from the payout control means, a state confirmation signal output means for outputting a state confirmation signal for confirming a payout state in the payout control means each time the payout condition is satisfied ;
A payout signal output means for outputting a payout signal indicating the number of payout of game media by inputting a specific signal from the payout control means after outputting the state confirmation signal ;
The payout control means includes
An abnormality determining means for determining whether or not an input state of at least the state confirmation signal and the payout signal input from the game control means is abnormal;
When the state confirmation signal output by the state confirmation signal output unit is input, the abnormality determination unit determines that the input state of the state confirmation signal is not abnormal, and when the game medium can be controlled to be dispensed, Number request signal output means for outputting a number request signal for requesting the payout signal to the game control means;
A return control means for performing a return control for normally returning an abnormality caused by an input state of at least the status confirmation signal and the payout signal;
The payout signal output means outputs the payout signal when the number request signal from the number request signal output means is input as the specific signal after outputting the state confirmation signal ,
The return control means includes
When the abnormality determination means determines that the state confirmation signal input state is abnormal, it outputs a payout impossible signal indicating abnormality to the game control means, and then automatically inputs the state confirmation signal. the payout can signal so that the state is successfully restored the output to the game control unit,
When the abnormality determination means determines that the input state of the payout signal is abnormal, the payout impossible signal is output to the game control means, and the release operation is detected by the abnormality release detection means. To output the payout enable signal to the game control means so as to return the input state of the payout signal to a normal state. 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the abnormality determination unit determines whether or not at least the state confirmation signal and the payout signal input from the game control unit are abnormal. The abnormality determination unit determines that the input state of the payout signal is abnormal if the payout signal cannot be input within a specific time after the input of the state check signal output by the state check signal output unit. The gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2 , characterized in that: