JP5516134B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine.

  Some gaming machines such as pachinko machines have a game board having a game area formed on the front surface. The game area is provided with a ball entrance part into which a game ball can enter, and if a ball enters the ball entrance part, for example, whether or not a special game state advantageous to the player is generated is determined. Benefits such as winning / failing lottery and payout of game balls are given to the player.

  In addition, there is one having a variable ball portion that is switchable between an accepting state that allows game balls to be accepted and a non-accepting state that makes it impossible to accept the game balls (for example, Patent Documents). 1). When the lottery based on the entrance to the entrance part is won, the variable entrance part is switched to the acceptance state for a preset period, and the inflow of game balls to the entrance part is allowed. The Rukoto.

  The gaming machine is provided with a guide passage that guides the game ball that has flowed into the variable entrance portion and branches at a midway position in the variable entrance portion, and a specific passage (for example, an advantageous entrance ball) among the plurality of the branched passages. Some game balls enter a special game state when a game ball flows into them. Thus, in a gaming machine of a type that shifts to a special gaming state by taking a plurality of procedures, an effect of suppressing monotonization of the game can be expected.

JP 2007-252538 A

  However, in the gaming machine of the type described above, the monotonization of the game can be suppressed, but waiting time or the like may occur between the processes. For this reason, for example, it is assumed that a player who dislikes such a waiting time intends to advantageously advance the game by temporarily suppressing the operation of launching the game ball to suppress the launch of the useless ball. There is a time lag between the game ball being launched and the arrival at the entrance, etc., so when the above action is performed, the probability of entering the entrance to the variable entrance is reduced. It is assumed that inconveniences such as a player missing a supposed privilege are likely to occur. Further, the same action may cause a disadvantage that the operating rate of the gaming machine is lowered.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described circumstances and the like, and an object thereof is to provide a gaming machine that can preferably prompt a game ball launching operation.

  Hereinafter, means for solving the above problems will be described.

  The invention according to claim 1 is provided in a game board having a game area formed on a front surface, game ball launching means for launching a game ball to the game area based on a predetermined launch operation, and the game area. A first variable entry portion that can be switched to a first state in which a game ball flowing down the game area can enter and a second state in which entry is more difficult or impossible than the first state; and A second variable pitching portion that is provided and can be switched between an accepting state allowing entry of game balls flowing down the game area and a non-accepting state prohibiting entry of game balls; and preset switching conditions When the above is established, based on the first variable control means for switching the first variable pitching portion from the second state to the first state, and the pitching into the first variable pitching portion, the second Second variable control means for switching the variable pitching portion from the non-accepting state to the accepting state; The second variable ball entry portion is provided with a guide passage for guiding the game ball flowing into the second variable ball entry portion, and the guide passage branches the guide passage at a midway position thereof. And the second variable ball entry portion allows the game ball that has flowed down the guide passage to reach the branch portion to be passed through the first branch passage. And a distribution device that distributes to one of the second branch passages, and based on the inflow of game balls into the second branch passage, a gaming machine that shifts to a special gaming state advantageous to a player, Game state control means for setting the game state to a specific state over a predetermined period set so as to include at least the reception period in which the second variable pitching portion is in the reception state by the second variable control means; The first variable control means is the switching When the condition is satisfied, the first variable pitching portion is set to be switchable to the first state in the predetermined period, and the pitching into the first variable pitching portion is performed in the predetermined period. When it occurs, the second variable entry during the predetermined period is permitted while giving a privilege different from the switching of the second variable ball-entering part from the non-acceptance state to the acceptance state during the predetermined period. Limiting means for limiting switching of the ball portion from the non-accepting state to the accepting state is provided.

  A game ball launching operation can be preferably encouraged.

It is a perspective view which shows the pachinko machine in one embodiment. It is a perspective view which decomposes | disassembles and shows the main structures of a pachinko machine. It is a front view which shows the structure of an inner frame. It is a front view which shows the structure of a game board. It is a rear view which shows the structure of an inner frame. It is a perspective view which shows the back surface structure of a game board. It is a rear view of the game board which shows the state which removed the main controller unit. It is a front view which shows the structure of a back pack unit. (A) The front view of a right side operation entrance part, (b) It is the perspective view which looked at the right side operation entrance part from the front side. FIG. 10 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. It is the exploded perspective view which looked at the right operation entrance part from the front side. It is the disassembled perspective view which looked at the right side operation entrance part from the back side. (A) A side view of a variable ball entry mechanism, (b) is a partially enlarged view of FIG. (A) The exploded perspective view which looked at the variable pitching mechanism from the front side, (b) The exploded perspective view which looked at the variable pitching mechanism from the back side. It is operation | movement explanatory drawing which shows roughly operation | movement of a variable pitching mechanism. It is the schematic which shows the mode of reception of the game ball of a right side variable entrance part. (A) The elements on larger scale of FIG. 4, (b) The perspective view which looked at the right side variable entrance part from the front side. It is the disassembled perspective view which looked at the right side variable pitching device from the front side. It is the disassembled perspective view which looked at the right side variable pitching apparatus from the back side. It is the schematic which shows the channel | path structure in a right side variable pitching apparatus. FIG. 21 is a partial sectional view taken along line BB in FIG. 20. It is the schematic which looked at the inside of a guide passage from the game machine front side. It is a block diagram which shows the electric constitution of a pachinko machine. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the content of the various counters used for a success / failure lottery. It is a flowchart which shows the timer interruption process in MPU of a main controller. It is a flowchart which shows the winning process for through gates. It is a flowchart which shows the winning process for an operation | movement pitching part. It is a flowchart which shows the normal process in MPU of a main controller. It is a flowchart which shows game times control processing. It is a flowchart which shows a change start process. It is a flowchart which shows a game state transfer process. It is a flowchart which shows the transfer process for special hits. It is a flowchart which shows a telephone combination support process. It is a flowchart which shows an electric role drive control process. It is a timing chart which shows the operation mode etc. of the right operation entrance part and the right side variable entrance device in high frequency support mode. It is a timing chart which shows the operation mode etc. of the right operation entrance part and the right side variable entrance device in high frequency support mode.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of a pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter referred to as “pachinko machine”), which is a type of gaming machine, will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a front view of the pachinko machine 10, and FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the main configuration of the pachinko machine 10 in an exploded manner. In FIG. 2, the configuration in the game area in the pachinko machine 10 is omitted for convenience.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko machine 10 includes an outer frame 11 that forms an outer shell of the pachinko machine 10, and a gaming machine main part 12 attached to the outer frame 11.

  The outer frame 11 is configured by connecting wooden plates to four sides and has a rectangular frame shape. By attaching and fixing the outer frame 11 to the island facility, the pachinko machine 10 is installed in the game hall. In the pachinko machine 10, the outer frame 11 is not an essential configuration, and the outer frame 11 may be provided on the island facility of the game arcade.

  The gaming machine main part 12 is supported by the outer frame 11 so as to be opened and closed. Specifically, the upper support bracket 17 is fixed to a connection portion between the upper frame portion and the left frame portion in the outer frame 11, and further, a lower portion is connected to the connection portion between the lower frame portion and the left frame portion in the outer frame 11. Side support fittings 18 are provided. The upper support bracket 17 and the lower support bracket 18 form a support mechanism. The support mechanism causes the gaming machine main unit 12 to turn the left side of the pachinko machine 10 in the front view with respect to the outer frame 11. In addition, the right side can be turned forward of the pachinko machine 10 with the turning tip side.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the gaming machine main part 12 includes an inner frame 13 as a base body, a front door frame 14 arranged in front of the inner frame 13, and a back pack arranged behind the inner frame 13. Unit 15. The inner frame 13 of the gaming machine main part 12 is supported so as to be rotatable with respect to the outer frame 11. Specifically, the inner frame 13 can be rotated forward with the left side as a rotation base end side and the right side as a rotation front end side in front view.

  A front door frame 14 is rotatably supported by the inner frame 13 and can be rotated forward with the left side as a rotation base end side and the right side as a rotation front end side in a front view. Further, the back pack unit 15 is rotatably supported on the inner frame 13, and can be rotated backward with the left side as a rotation base end side and the right side as a rotation front end side in a front view.

  Next, the front door frame 14 will be described. As shown in FIG. 1, the front door frame 14 is mainly composed of a synthetic resin frame body 20 whose outer shape is substantially the same as that of the outer frame 11, and covers almost the entire front surface of the inner frame 13. Yes. A substantially elliptical window portion 21 is formed in the central portion of the frame body 20 so that a substantially entire game area PE described later can be viewed from the front. The window portion 21 is formed by the glass unit 22. The front door frame 14 is closed from the back side.

  The glass unit 22 includes a plurality of glass panels 23 having transparency and a glass holder that holds the glass panels 23. The glass holder is formed with a partition portion for partitioning the holding region of the glass panel 23 in the front-rear direction, and the two glass panels 23 face each other in the front-rear direction with the partition portion interposed therebetween. That is, by securing a predetermined gap between the glass panels 23, the gaming area PE is covered by the glass panels 23 from the front side of the pachinko machine 10 while avoiding interference between the glass panels 23. It is in a state.

  Note that it is not always necessary to unitize both glass panels 23 using a glass holder, and each glass panel 23 may be individually attached to the frame 20. Furthermore, the number of glass panels is arbitrary, and may be one or three or more. However, from the viewpoint of improving safety and security, it is preferable to employ a plurality of glass panels and to make the glass panels face each other across a predetermined gap. Incidentally, it is also possible to employ a synthetic resin panel member having transparency instead of the glass panel.

  Around the glass unit 22 (specifically, the window portion 21), light emitting means such as various lamps are provided. For example, an annular illumination part 26 incorporating a light emitting means such as an LED is provided along the periphery of the window part 21. In the annular illumination part 26, lighting or blinking is performed according to a change in the gaming state at the time of big hit or at a predetermined reach. In addition, an error display lamp unit 27 that is turned on at the time of a predetermined error is provided in the center of the annular illumination unit 26 and at the uppermost part of the pachinko machine 10, and a prize that is turned on while the prize ball is being paid out on the left and right sides. A sphere lamp portion 28 is provided. Further, a speaker unit 29 is provided at a position close to the left and right prize ball lamp units 28 to output sound effects corresponding to the gaming state.

  Below the window portion 21 in the front door frame 14 (frame body 20), an upper bulging portion 31 and a lower bulging portion 32 that bulge toward the front side are arranged side by side. An upper pan 33 that opens upward is provided inside the upper bulging portion 31, and a lower pan 34 that also opens upward is provided inside the lower bulging portion 32. The upper plate 33 has a function of temporarily storing game balls paid out from a payout device described later and guiding them to the game ball launching mechanism described later while aligning them in a line. In addition, the lower tray 34 has a function of storing game balls that become surplus in the upper tray 33.

  A game ball launching handle 41 is provided on the right side of the lower bulging portion 32 so as to protrude toward the front side. By operating the game ball launch handle 41, a game ball is launched from a game ball launch mechanism described later.

  A passage forming unit is attached to the back surface of the front door frame 14. The passage forming unit is formed of a synthetic resin, and includes a front door side upper tray passage leading to the upper tray 33 and a front door side lower tray passage leading to the lower tray 34. In the passage forming unit, a receiving portion that protrudes rearward and opens upward is formed at the upper corner of the passage forming unit, and the inlet portion of the front door side upper dish passage is divided by a partition wall. And an entrance portion of the front door side lower dish passage are partitioned. The upstream side of the front door side upper dish path and the front door side lower dish path are connected to a game ball distributing section described later, and the game balls that have entered the front door side upper dish path are guided to the upper plate 33 and are moved to the lower side of the front door. The game ball that has entered the dish passage is guided to the lower dish 34.

  Projecting shafts are provided at the upper end and the lower end of the rotation base end side of the back surface of the front door frame 14. These projecting shafts constitute an assembly mechanism for the inner frame 13. Further, as shown in FIG. 2, a plurality of metal fittings 63 extending rearward are arranged in parallel in the vertical direction on the rotating front end side of the back surface of the front door frame 14. These hooks 63 constitute a locking mechanism for the inner frame 13.

  Next, the inner frame 13 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. FIG. 3 is a front view of the inner frame 13. In FIG. 3, as in FIG. 2, the configuration in the game area PE of the pachinko machine 10 is omitted for convenience.

  The inner frame 13 is mainly composed of a resin base 70 whose outer shape is substantially rectangular like the outer frame 11. The height dimension of the resin base 70 is set slightly smaller than the height dimension of the outer frame 11. The resin base 70 is arranged close to the upper frame portion of the outer frame 11, and a slight gap is formed between the lower frame portion of the outer frame 11 and the resin base 70. A curtain plate is attached to the outer frame 11 so as to close the gap (see FIG. 1). The curtain plate is disposed below the resin base 70 (specifically, the lower end portion thereof). When the inner frame 13 is closed with respect to the outer frame 11, the resin base 70 is placed on the curtain plate. . A slight clearance may be provided between the curtain plate and the resin base 70.

  Support metal fittings 71 and 72 are attached to the upper end portion and the lower end portion of the rotation base end side (left side in FIG. 3) on the front surface of the resin base 70. Although illustration is omitted, shaft holes are formed in the support fittings 71 and 72, and the projection shaft of the front door frame 14 is inserted into these shaft holes, so that the front door frame 14 is attached to the inner frame 13. It is rotatably supported.

  An insertion hole 73 for inserting a metal fitting 63 (see FIG. 2) provided on the back surface of the front door frame 14 is provided on the front end of the rotation of the resin base 70 (on the right side in FIG. 3). Yes. The pachinko machine 10 is configured such that a locking device 75 for locking the inner frame 13 and the front door frame 14 is hidden behind the inner frame 13 (see FIG. 2). Therefore, the front door frame 14 is locked to the inner frame 13 so that it cannot be opened by the hook metal 63 being locked to the locking device 75 (specifically, the front door hook receiving member 76) through the insertion hole 73. The The locking device 75 has an inner frame collar member 77 extending rearward of the inner frame 13. These inner frame hook members 77 are hooked on the hook receiving member 19 of the outer frame 11, so that the gaming machine main part 12 is locked in a closed state with respect to the outer frame 11.

  As shown in FIG. 3, a cylinder lock 78 for performing an unlocking operation of the locking device 75 is installed at the lower right corner of the resin base 70. The cylinder lock 78 is integrated with the locking device 75. When the key inserted into the key hole of the cylinder lock 78 is turned to the right, the lock of the front door frame 14 with respect to the inner frame 13 is released, and the cylinder lock 78 is inserted into the key hole of the cylinder lock 78. The locking device 75 is configured such that when the key is turned counterclockwise, the locking of the inner frame 13 with respect to the outer frame 11 is released.

  A substantially elliptical window hole 74 is formed at the center of the resin base 70, and the window hole 74 is closed from behind by a game board 80 attached to the resin base 70. The game board 80 includes a wooden plywood and a sheet material that covers a front plate surface of the plywood, and the front surface thereof is exposed to the front side of the resin base 70 through the window hole 74. In the exposed portion, that is, the front surface of the game board 80, a game area PE in which game balls flow down is formed. As already described, the game area PE is covered with the glass unit 22 (specifically, the rear glass panel 23). In the glass unit 22, the gap between the rear glass panel 23 and the front surface of the game board 80 is slightly larger than the diameter of the game ball, that is, the game balls flowing down the game area PE are the same in the game area PE. It is arranged so that it is not lined up back and forth at a point. Thereby, the ball blockage in the game area PE is suppressed. Note that the game board 80 is not limited to wooden, and may be made of synthetic resin.

  Hereinafter, the game board 80 (in particular, various configurations arranged in the game area PE) will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a front view of the game board 80.

  The game board 80 is formed with a plurality of large and small openings penetrating in its own thickness direction (front-rear direction) by performing router processing. Each opening is provided with a general winning opening 81, operating ball entry portions 82 and 83, variable ball entry devices 84 and 85, a through gate 86, a main display unit 87, a variable display unit 88, and the like. When game balls enter the general winning opening 81, the operation ball entering portions 82 and 83, and the variable ball entering devices 84 and 85, these game balls are detected by a detection sensor described later, and a predetermined number of prize balls are based on the detection results. Benefits such as paying out are given to the player. In addition, an out port 89 is provided at the lowermost part of the game board 80, and game balls that have not entered various winning ports etc. are discharged from the game area PE through the out port 89. In the following description, in order to clearly distinguish the game ball from entering the out port 89, the game to the general winning port 81, the actuated ball entering parts 82 and 83, the variable ball entering devices 84 and 85, and the through gate 86. A ball entry is also expressed as a prize.

  The game board 80 is provided with a large number of nails 90 in order to disperse and adjust the flow path of the game ball as appropriate, and various members (functions) such as a windmill. The flow path of the game ball is differentiated by various configurations such as the nails 90 and the windmills, and is adjusted so that a winning in the above-described general winning opening 81 and the like occurs with an appropriate probability.

  The variable display unit 88 is arranged in the center of the game board 80, and the operation entrance parts 82, 83 and the like are arranged around the variable display unit 88. The operation entrance parts 82 and 83 are a lower operation entry part 82 (hereinafter referred to as a lower operation entry part 82 for convenience) disposed below the variable display unit 88, and the variable display unit 88. It is composed of a right-hand working ball portion 83 (hereinafter, referred to as a right-hand working ball portion 83 for convenience) disposed on the right side. In particular, the right-hand working ball portion (lottery trigger ball portion) 83 includes In addition, an electric accessory is provided as a movable entrance assist device (entrance assist means) or an entrance restricting device (entrance restricting means). The electric accessory can be switched between a state in which it is possible to enter the right-hand actuated entrance part 83 (assist state) and a state in which the entry is impossible (non-assist state). Details regarding the right-hand actuating entrance 83 will be described later.

  The through gate 86 is arranged above the right working ball entering portion 83, and when a winning is made by lottery triggered by the passing of the game ball through the through gate 86, The electric accessory is switched to a state where the above-mentioned entry is possible for a preset number of times. Details of the operation of the right operation entrance portion 83 will be described later.

  In addition, when the entrance to the lower operation entrance portion 82 occurs, the payout of 3 game balls is executed, and when the entrance to the right operation entrance portion 83 occurs, 4 games are played. Although the payout of the balls is executed, the payout number of the game balls is not limited to the above. However, in order to increase the advantage of the right working ball entering portion 83 with respect to the lower working ball entering portion 82, the number of payouts related to the right working ball entering portion 83 is set larger than the number of payouts related to the lower operation entering ball portion 82. It is preferable to do.

  The variable pitching device (special pitching device or special pitching means) 84 and 85 is also individually provided below and to the right of the variable display unit 88 in the same manner as the lower actuation ball entry portion 82 and the right actuation ball entry portion 83. Is arranged. Hereinafter, for the sake of convenience, the variable pitching device 84 disposed below the variable display unit 88 (specifically, below the lower working pitching portion 82) is referred to as a “lower variable pitching device 84” and The variable pitching device 85 arranged in the direction (specifically, below the right side actuating pitching portion 83) is referred to as “right variable pitching device 85”.

  The lower variable pitching device 84 includes a lower large winning opening 84a leading to the back side of the game board 80, and an opening / closing mechanism 93 as an opening / closing means for opening and closing the lower large winning opening 84a. Yes. The opening / closing mechanism 93 includes an opening / closing door 93a as an opening / closing member for the lower large winning opening 84a. The open / close door 93a can be switched between an open state (assisting state and an accepting state) in which a game ball can be entered or facilitated and a closed state (non-assisting state and an unaccepted state) in which the entering ball is impossible. It has become. The opening / closing door 93a is connected to a variable ball driving unit 82b (specifically, a solenoid) provided on the back side of the game board 80, and the opening / closing door 93a is kept closed in a normal state. In the lottery, when the winning / opening execution mode (opening / closing execution state) is won, the open state is switched.

  Here, the opening / closing execution mode is a mode to be shifted to when a big win is won. As an opening mode of the lower variable pitching device 84 in the opening / closing execution mode, for example, a predetermined time (for example, 30 sec) or a predetermined number (for example, 10) winnings is defined as one round, and a plurality of rounds (for example, 15 rounds) are performed. Some are set so that the opening of the open / close door 93a as the upper limit is repeated.

  The right variable pitching device 85 is opened and closed as an opening / closing member (opening / closing means) that opens and closes the right big prize opening that leads to the back side of the game board 80 and the right big prize winning opening, like the lower variable pitching device 84. It has a door. The open / close door can be switched between an open state (assisting state, accepting state) where a game ball can be entered or facilitated and a closed state (non-assist state, non-accepting state) where the entering ball is impossible. ing. In addition, the door is connected to a variable prize driving unit (specifically, a solenoid) provided on the back side of the game board 80, and the door is kept closed in a normal state, and the right operation door is turned on. In the internal lottery based on the entrance to the ball part 83, when a special winning to be described later is won, the lottery result confirmation mode is switched.

  Here, the lottery result confirmation mode means that the lottery result (special hit) in the right-hand actuated entrance portion 83 becomes valid and the right variable entrance device 85 is shifted to the open / close execution mode, that is, the open / close execution mode is entered. In this mode, whether the transition is confirmed or whether the lottery result is invalid and the transition to the opening / closing execution mode is avoided. As an opening mode of the right variable pitching device 85 in the lottery result determination mode, the opening / closing door 84b until a predetermined period (for example, 3 sec) elapses from the timing at which a picture indicating a special hit is displayed on the right working port display unit described later. Is set to be opened, that is, to be in the above-described receiving state.

  Next, the variable display unit 88 will be described. The variable display unit 88 is provided with a symbol display device 96 that variably displays a symbol by using a winning in the operating ball entering portion 82 as a trigger. The variable display unit 88 is provided with a center frame 97 so as to surround the symbol display device 96. At the lower part of the center frame 97, a holding ramp portion 98 corresponding to the lower operation entrance portion 82 is provided. In the present embodiment, the number of times that the game ball has passed through the lower operation entrance portion 82 is held up to a maximum of 4 times. The reserved number corresponding to 82 is individually displayed.

  The symbol display device 96 is configured as a liquid crystal display device including a liquid crystal display, and display contents are controlled by a display control device described later. In the symbol display device 96, for example, symbols are displayed side by side on the left, middle, and right, and these symbols are variably displayed as they are scrolled up and down. When a predetermined combination of symbols is stopped and displayed on a preset active line, a special gaming state (hereinafter referred to as a jackpot) occurs.

  The operation entrance parts 82 and 83 are arranged at positions close to the variable display unit 88. Since a big hit or the like can be triggered by winning a prize at the activated ball entering portions 82 and 83, the player pays attention to whether or not each of the activated ball entering portions 82 and 83 wins, and whether or not a big hit occurs. It is considered that attention is paid to the symbol display device 96 in order to grasp the above. Providing the respective operation balls 82 and 83 near the variable display unit 88 is a device for concentrating a portion that the player wants to pay attention to around the variable display unit 88.

  The main display unit 87 is arranged on the side opposite to the right side variable pitching device 85 across the variable display unit 88. The main display unit 87 is arranged along the outer edge on the lower side of the game area PE, and protrudes from the front surface of the game board 80 to the front of the pachinko machine 10. The front surface of the main display unit 87 is opposed to the glass unit 22 (specifically, the rear glass panel 23) that allows the game area PE to be visually recognized from the front of the pachinko machine 10, and further to the rear glass panel 23. The distance between them is narrower than that of one game ball. This prevents the game ball from dropping in front of the front surface of the main display unit 87.

  In the main display unit 87, a main display portion D on which a predetermined pattern or the like is displayed is provided at a portion facing the glass unit 22. The main display portion D displays a lottery result based on a winning for the lower working entrance portion 82, and a lower working port display portion DL for displaying a lottery result based on the winning for the lower working entrance portion 82. And a right working port display section DR.

  In the lower working port display unit DL, the variation display of the picture is performed by using the winning in the lower operation entering ball unit 82 as a trigger, and based on the winning in the lower operation entering ball unit 82 as a result of stopping the variation display. The result of the internal lottery performed is clearly indicated. When the result of the internal lottery based on the winning to the lower operating ball entering portion 82 is the winning result corresponding to the shift to the opening / closing execution mode, the change display is stopped in the lower working port display portion DL, After a predetermined pattern is displayed as a stop result, the mode is shifted to the opening / closing execution mode.

  In the right working port display section DR, the variation display of the picture is performed with the winning of the right operation entering ball portion 83 as a trigger, and as a result of stopping the variation display, the display based on the winning in the right operation entering ball portion 83 is performed. The result of the internal lottery will be indicated. When the result of the internal lottery based on the winning to the right-hand actuated entry portion 83 is a winning result corresponding to the big hit or special win, the change display is stopped in the right actuating port display portion DR, After the predetermined pattern is displayed, the mode is shifted to the opening / closing execution mode or the lottery result determination mode according to the result.

  Here, based on the winning in any one of the activated ball entering portions 82 and 83, the variation display is started on the corresponding display portions DL and DR, a predetermined stop result is displayed, and the variation display is stopped. Corresponds to one game time. However, the number of game times is not limited to the above-mentioned content. For example, a single display area is provided, and no matter which winning ball is entered in any of the active ball entering portions 82 and 83, the single game region is provided. In the configuration in which the variable display is performed in one display area, the variable display is started in the single display area, and the above-mentioned variable display is stopped in a state where the predetermined stop result is displayed. Once.

  In the present embodiment, a configuration is adopted in which the number of times that the game ball has passed through the lower operation entrance portion 82 is held up to 4 times, but the main display portion D of the main display unit 87 has that configuration. A holding number display section DH for displaying the holding number is provided.

  In addition to the display portions DL and DR, the main display unit D of the main display unit 87 is also provided with a through gate display portion DS for displaying a lottery result based on winning through the through gate 86. In the through gate display unit DS, the display of the variation of the picture is performed with the winning of the through gate 86 as a trigger, and the result of the internal lottery performed based on the winning of the through gate 86 is displayed as a result of stopping the variation display. It is clearly shown. When the result of the internal lottery based on the winning to the through gate 86 is a winning result corresponding to the transition to the electric power open state, a predetermined stop result is displayed on the through gate display section DS, and the display is changed. After is stopped, it shifts to the electric utility open state. In the electric combination open state, the electric combination provided in the right operation entrance portion 83 is opened in a predetermined manner.

  These display parts DL, DR, DS, and DH are visible from the front of the pachinko machine 10 through the glass unit 22 of the front door frame 14, and the front of these various display parts DL, DR, DS, and DH. Visibility is secured by avoiding the movement of the game ball. In addition, the display mode in each of these display units DL, DR, DS, and DH will be described later.

  Referring to FIG. 3 again, the configuration of the inner frame 13 will be described below. A game ball for launching a game ball to the game area PE based on the operation of the game ball launch handle 41 is provided below the game board 80 in the resin base 70. A firing mechanism 110 is provided. The game ball launching mechanism 110 includes a solenoid 111 that launches a game ball placed at a predetermined launch standby position, a launch rail 112 that defines the launch direction of the game ball launched by the solenoid 111, and a game at the launch standby position. A ball feeding device 113 for supplying a ball and a base plate 114 on which the various configurations 111 to 113 are mounted are provided as main components, and the base plate 114 is fixed to the resin base 70, whereby the resin base 70. Are integrated.

  The firing rail 112 is fixed to the base plate 114 in an inclined state so as to be inclined upward toward the game board 80 side. A ball stopper that holds the game ball supplied from the ball feeding device 113 at the above-described firing standby position is disposed at a position closer to the downstream end portion (that is, the lower end portion) of the firing rail 112. The solenoid 111 is arranged at a position further downstream than the ball stopper.

  The solenoid 111 is electrically connected to a power source / launch control device described later. Based on the output of the electrical signal from the power supply / launch control device, the output shaft of the solenoid 111 reciprocates in the expansion / contraction direction, so that the game ball placed at the launch standby position is on the game board 80 side, more specifically, the game. It is driven out toward the guide rail 100 mounted on the board 80.

  In the guide rail 100, the game area PE is partitioned so that the outer shape of the game area PE is substantially circular. In addition, the guide rail 100 includes an inner rail 101 and an outer rail 102 arranged so as to face each other with a gap slightly larger than the diameter of the game ball, and a single guide passage 103 is defined by both the rails 101 and 102. Is formed. The guide passage 103 has an inlet portion that is open to the tip end side (obliquely downward) of the firing rail 112 and an outlet portion that is located above the game area PE. The game ball fired based on the operation of the solenoid 111 is guided to the game area PE by moving in the order of the firing rail 112 → guide rail 100 (entrance portion → exit portion). In the game board 80, a reverse prevention member 106 for preventing the game ball reaching the game area PE from going back into the guide passage 103 is attached to the front side of the exit portion, specifically near the tip of the inner rail 101. Thus, it is possible to prevent the subsequent launch of the game ball from being hindered by the game ball that has reached the game area PE first.

  Each of the rails 101 and 102 constituting the guide rail 100 has an arc shape centered at a substantially central portion of the game area PE. For this reason, the game ball passing through the guide passage 103 is likely to move (slide or roll) along the outer rail 102, that is, in contact with the outer rail 102 due to the centrifugal force generated by itself.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the guide rail 100 and the launch rail 112 are arranged such that the entrance portion of the guide rail 100 and the tip end portion of the launch rail 112 face each other with the lower end edge of the game board 80 interposed therebetween. ing. That is, both the rails 100 and 112 are arranged such that the entrance portion of the guide rail 100 and the tip portion of the firing rail 112 are shifted left and right in the vicinity of the lower end edge of the game board 80. Thus, a gap of a predetermined interval is formed between the entrance portion of the guide rail 100 and the launch rail 112 while bringing both rails 100 and 112 close to the lower end edge of the game board 80.

  A foul ball passage is disposed below the gap formed in this way. The foul ball passage is integrally formed with the passage forming unit of the front door frame 14. If the game balls launched from the game ball launching mechanism 110 do not reach the game area PE and return to the inside of the guide passage 103 as foul balls, the foul balls enter the foul ball passage through the gap. Become. The foul ball path leads to the front door side lower dish path, and the game balls that have entered the foul ball path are discharged to the lower dish 34 shown in FIG. This suppresses interference between the foul ball and the next game ball to be launched.

  A through hole that penetrates the resin base 70 in the front-rear direction is formed on the left side of the firing rail 112 in the resin base 70 (specifically, the side that supports the front door frame 14). A passage forming member is formed in the through hole. 121 is disposed. The passage forming member 121 is screwed to the resin base 70 and has a main body side upper dish path 122 and a main body side lower dish path 123. The upstream side of the main body side upper dish passage 122 and the main body side lower dish passage 123 communicates with a game ball distributing section described later. In addition, a receiving portion of a passage forming unit attached to the front door frame 14 enters below the passage forming member 121, and a front door side upper plate passage is disposed below the main body side upper plate passage 122, A front door side upper dish passage is disposed below the main body side lower dish passage 123.

  An opening / closing member 124 that opens and closes the main body side upper dish path 122 and the main body side lower dish path 123 is attached below the passage forming member 121 in the resin base 70. The opening / closing member 124 is supported by a support shaft provided at the lower end of the opening / closing member 124 so as to be pivotable in the front-rear direction. Further, the opening / closing member 124 is biased to a forward position where the main body side upper dish passage 122 and the main body side lower dish path 123 are closed. A member is provided. Therefore, when the front door frame 14 is opened with respect to the inner frame 13, the opening / closing member 124 rises as shown in the figure, and the main body side upper dish passage 122 and the main body side lower dish path 123 are closed. Thereby, when the front door frame 14 is opened in a state in which the game balls are stored in the main body side upper dish passage 122 or the main body side lower dish passage 123, it is possible to prevent the stored balls from spilling down. On the other hand, when the front door frame 14 is closed, the opening / closing member 124 is pushed open against the biasing force by the receiving portion provided in the passage forming unit of the front door frame 14. In this state, the main body side upper dish path 122 and the front door side upper dish path communicate with each other, and the main body side lower dish path 123 and the front door side lower dish path communicate with each other.

  Next, the back configuration of the inner frame 13 (the resin base 70 and the game board 80) will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a rear view of the inner frame 13.

  On the rotation base end side (the right side in FIG. 5) on the back surface of the resin base 70, bearing fittings 132 are arranged vertically. The bearing bracket 132 is formed with bearing portions spaced apart from each other in the vertical direction, and the back pack unit 15 is rotatably attached to the inner frame 13 by these bearing portions.

  A plurality of locking fittings 135 are provided on the back surface of the resin base 70, and the game board 80 is attached to the resin base 70 by the locking fittings 135 as described above. Here, with reference to FIG.6 and FIG.7, the structure of the back surface of the game board 80 is demonstrated. 6 is a perspective view of the gaming board 80 as seen from the rear of the gaming machine, and FIG. 7 is a rear view showing a state in which the main controller unit is removed from the gaming board 80.

  As shown in FIG. 6, a synthetic resin frame cover 141 that covers the center frame 97 from behind is provided on the variable display unit 88 disposed in the center of the game board 80 so as to protrude rearward. The above-described symbol display device 96 is attached to 141 from the rear side, and a display control device for driving the symbol display device 96 is attached (not shown). The symbol display device 96 and the display control device are arranged so as to overlap in the front-rear direction (the symbol display device is the front and the display control device is the rear), and the sound lamp control device unit 142 is mounted on the rear side. The sound lamp control device unit 142 includes a sound lamp control device 143 and a mounting table 144, and the sound lamp control device 143 is mounted on the mounting table 144.

  The sound lamp control device 143 includes a sound lamp control board that controls sound, lamp display, and display control device in accordance with instructions from a main control device to be described later, and the sound lamp control board is made of a transparent resin material or the like. It is configured to be accommodated in a substrate box 145.

  As shown in FIG. 7, below the variable display unit 88, there is a collective board unit 150 that collects the game balls that have moved to the back side of the game board 80 via the general prize opening 81, the operation ball entry parts 82, 83, etc. Is provided. The collective board unit 150 is fixed to the game board 80, and the main controller unit 160 is mounted on the collective board unit 150 so as to cover the collective board unit 150 from behind (see FIG. 6). The mounting target of the main controller unit 160 is not limited to the collective plate unit 150. For example, the main controller unit 160 can be mounted on the game board 80.

  The main controller unit 160 includes a colorless and transparent mounting base 161 made of a synthetic resin and a main control apparatus 162 mounted on the mounting base 161. The mounting base 161 is rotatably supported by the collective plate unit 150, and the main control unit 162 is rotated together with the mounting base 161 so that the main control unit 162 is removed from the mounting base 161 for visual confirmation. Work is possible.

  The main controller 162 includes a main control board having a function (main control circuit) that controls the main control of the game and a function (power failure monitoring circuit) that monitors the power source, and the main control board is made of a transparent resin material. It is configured to be accommodated in a substrate box 163 made of, for example.

  The board box 163 includes a substantially rectangular parallelepiped box base (front case body) and a box cover (back case body) that covers an opening of the box base. The box base and the box cover are connected so as not to be opened by a sealing portion 164 as a sealing means, whereby the substrate box 163 is sealed. Five sealing portions 164 are provided on the long side portion of the substrate box 163, and at least one of them is used for sealing processing.

  Any configuration can be applied to the sealing portion 164 as long as the box base and the box cover are coupled so as not to be opened. However, the box base and the box cover can be inserted by inserting a locking claw into the long hole constituting the sealing portion 164. And can be unopened. The sealing process by the sealing unit 164 prevents unauthorized opening after the sealing, and makes it possible to detect such a situation early and easily even if unauthorized opening is performed. It is possible to perform the sealing process again even after it has been performed. That is, the sealing process is performed by inserting a locking claw into at least one of the five sealing portions 164. When opening the board box 163 such as when a failure occurs in the housed main control board or when inspecting the main control board, the connecting part between the sealing part into which the locking claw is inserted and another sealing part is provided. Disconnect. As a result, the box base and the box cover of the substrate box 163 are separated, and the internal main control substrate can be taken out. Thereafter, when the sealing process is performed again, the locking claws are inserted into the long holes of the other sealing portions. If the history of opening the substrate box 163 is left in the substrate box 163, it can be easily found that the unauthorized opening has been performed by looking at the substrate box 163.

  A plurality of coupling pieces are provided on one short side portion of the substrate box 163 so as to protrude laterally. These coupling pieces have a one-to-one correspondence with a plurality of coupled pieces formed on the mounting base 161, and a sealing process is performed between the board box 163 and the mounting base 161 by the coupling pieces and the coupled pieces. Is called.

  Next, the back pack unit 15 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 8 is a front view of the back pack unit 15.

  As already described, the inner frame 13 is covered from behind by the back pack unit 15. As shown in FIG. 8, the back pack unit 15 includes a back pack 201, and a payout mechanism unit 202, a discharge passage board, and a control device assembly unit 204 are attached to the back pack 201.

  The back pack 201 is formed of a synthetic resin having transparency, and includes a base portion 211 to which the payout mechanism portion 202 and the like are attached, and a protective cover portion 212 that protrudes rearward from the pachinko machine 10 and has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. The protective cover 212 has a shape in which the left and right side surfaces and the upper surface are closed and only the lower surface is opened, and has a size sufficient to surround at least the variable display unit 88.

  The base portion 211 is provided with an external terminal plate 213 at the upper right portion thereof. The external terminal board 213 is provided with various output terminals, and various signals are output to the management control device on the game hall side through these output terminals. The base portion 211 is provided with a pair of upper and lower retaining pins 214 at the right end when viewed from the rear of the pachinko machine 10, and a bearing fitting 132 (specifically, a bearing portion) provided on the inner frame 13 with the retaining pins 214. The back pack unit 15 is supported so as to be rotatable with respect to the inner frame 13. In addition, a fastening tool 215 for fastening to a fastening hole provided in the inner frame 13 is provided at the rotating tip of the base portion 211, and the fastening tool 215 is fitted into the fastening hole. Thus, the back pack unit 15 is fixed to the inner frame 13.

  In the base portion 211, a payout mechanism portion 202 is disposed so as to bypass the protective cover portion 212. The payout mechanism 202 is provided with a tank 221 that is arranged at the top of the back pack 201 and that opens upward, and game balls supplied from the island facilities of the game hall are sequentially replenished to the tank 221. The A tank rail 222 that is gently inclined toward the downstream side is connected to the lower side of the tank 221, and a case rail 223 that extends in the vertical direction is connected to the downstream side of the tank rail 222. A payout device 224 is provided at the most downstream portion of the case rail 223. The game balls paid out from the payout device 224 are supplied to the game ball distribution unit 225 provided in the base portion 211 of the back pack 201 through a payout passage (not shown) provided on the downstream side of the payout device 224.

  The game ball distribution unit 225 has a function of distributing the game balls paid out from the payout device 224 to any one of the upper plate 33, the lower plate 34, and a discharge passage described later, and the inner opening is the main body described above. It is formed so that it communicates with the upper plate 33 through the side upper plate passage 122 and the front door side upper plate passage, and the outer opening communicates with the lower plate 34 through the main body side lower plate passage 123 and the front door side lower plate passage. Has been.

  A discharge passage board and a control device assembly unit 204 are attached to the lower end portion of the base portion 211 so as to sandwich the lower end portion in the front-rear direction (see FIG. 2). In the discharge passage board, a discharge passage opened rearward is formed on a surface facing the control device assembly unit 204, and an open portion of the discharge passage is closed by the control device assembly unit 204. The discharge passage is formed so as to discharge the game ball to the island facility or the like of the game hall, and the game ball led to the discharge passage from the recovery passage described above passes through the discharge passage to the outside of the pachinko machine 10. Discharged.

  As shown in FIG. 8, the control device assembly unit 204 has a horizontally long mounting base 241, and a payout control device 242 and a power supply / launch control device 243 are mounted on the mounting base 241. The payout control device 242 and the power supply / launch control device 243 are arranged so as to overlap each other so that the payout control device 242 is behind the pachinko machine 10.

  In the payout control device 242, a payout control board for controlling the payout device 224 is accommodated in the board box 244, and a state return switch 245 provided on the payout control board projects out of the board box 244. For example, when the state return switch 245 is pressed when a payout error occurs, such as a ball jam in the payout device 224, the ball jam is eliminated.

  The power source / launch control device 243 includes a power source / launch control board housed in the board box 246, and a predetermined power source required for various control devices and the like is generated and output by the board. Control of the launch of the game ball accompanying the operation of the firing handle 41 is performed. Further, the power supply / launch control device 243 is provided with a RAM erase switch 247. This pachinko machine 10 has a function to store and store various data so that even if a power failure occurs, it maintains the state at the time of the power failure, and when it recovers from the power failure, it can be restored to the state at the time of the power failure. It has become. Therefore, for example, when the power supply is turned off in the normal procedure, as in the case of the game hall being closed, the state before the interruption is stored and held, but when the power is turned on while the RAM erase switch 247 is held down, the RAM data is initialized. It is like that.

  Here, a supplementary description will be given of the aggregate plate unit 150 and the configuration related thereto. The collective board unit 150 includes a collective board 151 that collects game balls guided to the back side of the game board 80 through the above-described general winning opening 81 or the like. The collective plate 151 is made of a light-transmitting (specifically colorless and transparent) synthetic resin material, which facilitates visual confirmation of the flow path of the game balls. Thereby, even if a ball clogging or the like occurs in the collective plate 151, it is possible to easily grasp where such an inconvenience occurs.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the collective plate 151 is formed by integrally forming a main body portion provided with a function of collecting game balls and a mounting portion with respect to the game board 80, and straddles the left and right ends of the game board 80 as a whole. It has a horizontally long shape. The mounting portion has a plate shape parallel to the back surface of the game board 80, and the mounting plate 151 and the game board 80 are connected to each other by screwing in a state where the mounting portion is in contact with the game board 80. It is integrated.

  The main body portion of the collective plate 151 is provided with a pair of wall portions that stand up toward the back surface of the game board 80, and a collection passage for collecting game balls is defined by these wall portions. A plurality of collection passages are provided corresponding to the respective winning portions such as the general winning opening 81, the actuating entering portions 82 and 83, and the variable entering devices 84 and 85. All of the game balls that have won the respective ball entry portions are collected at the lower part of the game board 80 through the collection passage.

  The above-described discharge passage board 203 (see FIG. 2) is arranged below the game board 80, and the game balls collected at the lower part of the game board 80 by the collection passage are led to the discharge passage, and then the pachinko machine 10 It is discharged to the outside, and in detail it is returned to the island facility. In addition, the above-mentioned out port 89 is similarly connected to the discharge passage, and the game balls that have not won any prize opening are led out into the discharge passage through the out port 89 and are external to the pachinko machine 10. To be discharged.

  A detection sensor for detecting the passage of the game ball is provided at a midway position in the collection path corresponding to the general winning port 81 and the lower operation entrance part 82 among the collection paths. Each detection sensor detects a ball entering a ball-entry portion such as the general winning opening 81 by passing a game ball through a detection area provided in the middle of each collection passage. A magnetic sensor that grasps a change in a magnetic field that occurs when a game ball passes through the detection area is employed.

  Each of these detection sensors is electrically connected to a main control unit 160 (specifically, main control unit 162) provided on the back side of the game board 80, and the detection signals generated by these detection sensors are the same. It is configured to be output to the main controller 162.

<Right-hand action ball entry part 83>
In the present embodiment, there is a characteristic configuration with respect to the above-described right-hand actuating ball entering portion 83. Therefore, the right-hand actuated ball entering portion 83 will be described in detail below with reference to FIGS. 9 (a) is a partially enlarged view showing the right working ball entering portion 83 and its peripheral portion in FIG. 4 in an enlarged manner, and FIG. 9 (b) is a perspective view of the right working ball entering portion 83 as seen from the front side. 10 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along the line AA of FIG. 9A, FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of the right working ball entering portion 83 seen from the front side, and FIG. 12 is a right side working ball entering portion 83 seen from the back side. It is a disassembled perspective view. In FIG. 10, for convenience, the game board 80 is represented by a two-dot chain line.

  As shown in FIG. 9A, the above-described opening 92a is formed in a portion of the game board 80 on the right side of the variable display unit 88. The opening 92a penetrates in the thickness direction of the game board 80, and the right operation ball entering portion 83 is fitted into the opening 92a from the front of the gaming machine. In the state in which the right working ball entering portion 83 is arranged in this manner, the opening 92 a is covered by the housing 300 that forms the outline of the right working ball entering portion 83.

  The housing 300 has a base portion 310 as an attachment portion for the game board 80, and the right operation ball entering portion 83 is attached to the game board 80 by screwing the base portion 310 to the game board 80. It is integrated.

  The base portion 310 has a substantially flat plate shape facing the front surface of the game board 80, and an opening (hereinafter referred to as a right operation port 311) is formed in the center portion so as to penetrate in the thickness direction of the game board 80. Is formed. The right operation port 311 has a vertically long and substantially rectangular shape, and has a size that allows a game ball to pass therethrough.

  As shown in FIG. 9B, a cover member 350 is provided in front of the base portion 310 so as to overlap with the right operating port 311 in a front view of the gaming machine (so that the right operating port 311 is covered from the front of the gaming machine). Is provided. The cover member 350 includes a substantially rectangular plate-like facing portion 351 facing the base portion 310 and the right operation port 311 with a gap, and a leg portion 352 standing from the facing portion 351 to the base portion 310 side. These leg portions 352 are fixed to the base portion 310 so as to be integrated with the housing 300.

  As shown in FIG. 9A, the leg portion 352 is disposed at each corner portion of the base portion 310. The standing amount of the leg portion 352 is set so that the gap between the facing portion 351, the base portion 310, and the right operation port 311 is slightly larger than the diameter of the game ball, and the game between the facing portion 351 and the base portion 310 is performed. The passage of the sphere is allowed (see FIG. 10).

  Here, a supplementary explanation will be given regarding the configuration and arrangement of the legs 352. The leg portion 352 is arranged at a position outside the right working port 311 in front view (specifically, a position adjacent to the four corners of the right working port 311), and is arranged above the right working port 311. A pair of left and right upper leg portions 352U and a pair of left and right lower leg portions 352L arranged below the right-side operation port 311 are configured. The upper leg portion 352U is opposed to the game ball with a gap slightly larger than the diameter of the game ball, and the game ball that has passed between the upper leg portions 352U falls toward the right operation port 311. It has become. In other words, the upper leg portion 352U is provided with a function of defining a falling path of the game ball toward the right operation port 311.

  The lower leg 352L is disposed below the upper leg 352U, and is formed so that a game ball can pass between the upper leg 35L and the lower leg 352L. When the game ball that has passed between the upper leg portions 352U passes through the front of the right operation port 311, it passes between the lower leg portions 352L and falls toward the right variable pitching device 85. (See FIG. 4).

  The cover member 350 is formed of a synthetic resin material having transparency, and the visibility of the right operation port 311 through the facing portion 351 and the visibility of the game ball passing between the base portion 310 and the facing portion 351 Is secured. That is, it is possible to visually confirm from the front of the gaming machine whether or not the gaming ball flowing down the gaming area PE flows into the right operation port 311.

  As shown in FIG. 10, the housing 300 is provided with a main body portion 315 having a hollow and substantially box shape. Inside the main body 315, there is a guide passage 316 that is continuous with the right operation port 311 and guides the game balls that have flowed in from the right operation port 311 to the back side of the game board 80 (specifically, the collection passage of the collective plate 151). Is provided. The guide passage 316 includes an upstream passage 317 that communicates with the right operation port 311 and descends to the rear of the gaming machine (extends in the front-rear direction), and a downstream passage 318 that extends downward from the downstream end of the upstream passage 317. It is configured.

  The upstream-side passage 317 and the downstream-side passage 318 are formed to have a passage width corresponding to one game ball, and a plurality of game balls do not pass through the same place in each of the passages 317 and 318 at the same time. Yes.

  In the downstream passage 318, a ball detection sensor 360 (specifically, a magnetic sensor) that detects a game ball flowing into the right operation port 311 is arranged so that a detection region exists on the flow path of the game ball. . The ball detection sensor 360 is electrically connected to the main control device 162, and a detection signal (detection information) from the ball detection sensor 360 is output to the main control device 162. Based on this detection signal, the main controller 162 can grasp the presence / absence of winning in the right working port 311 and the like.

  The game ball that has flowed in from the right operation port 311 reaches the downstream passage 318 via the upstream passage 317, and the game ball that has reached the downstream passage 318 falls along the downstream passage 318. Then, after passing through the passage portion 361 of the ball detection sensor 360, it is discharged out of the housing 300 (the right operation ball entry portion 83) through the lower opening 325 as an exit portion, and finally becomes an island facility such as a game hall. Returned.

  As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the housing 300 in the present embodiment is formed by combining a front side structure 301 having the base portion 310 and a rear side structure 302 that forms a pair with the front side structure 301. In the inner region of the housing 300, the region above the accommodation region of the ball detection sensor 360 is an accepting state in which the right-hand actuated entrance ball portion 83 can accept a game ball and a non-acceptance in which a game ball cannot be accepted It is an accommodation area of the variable pitching mechanism 400 as an electric accessory that can be switched to a state.

  In this manner, by housing the configuration related to the entry of the game ball and the detection of the game ball in the housing 300, the exposure of these various configurations is suppressed, and the access from outside the housing 300 to the same configuration is suppressed. Thereby, the improvement of the crime prevention function in the right side action entrance part 83 is achieved.

<Variable entrance mechanism 400>
Hereinafter, the variable ball entry mechanism 400 accommodated in the housing 300 will be described with reference to FIGS. 13 and 14 in addition to FIGS. 13A is a side view of the variable pitching mechanism 400 and the configuration accompanying it, FIG. 13B is a partially enlarged view of FIG. 10, and FIG. 14A is the variable pitching mechanism 400 and the configuration associated therewith. FIG. 14B is an exploded perspective view of the variable pitching mechanism 400 and the structure associated therewith seen from the back side. In FIG. 13B, for the sake of convenience, peripheral components and the like of the variable pitching mechanism 400 are indicated by a two-dot chain line.

  The variable pitching mechanism 400 is provided so as to be switchable between a guiding state in which a game ball passing (falling) in front of the right operating port 311 is guided to the right operating port 311 and a non-inducing state in which the guiding is not performed. The guide member 410 is provided. As shown in FIG. 13A, the guide member 410 has a substantially long plate shape extending in the front-rear direction, and a pair of right and left provided upright from the plate-like portion 321 forming the bottom surface portion of the upstream-side passage 317. Is mounted on the upright portion 322 (see FIG. 13B).

  A communication port 411 is formed in the guide member 410 so as to communicate with an area defined by the plate-like portion 321 and the standing portion 322 in the upstream side passage 317. The communication port 411 extends along the upstream passage 317 and has a configuration that does not hinder the movement of the game ball from the upstream passage 317 to the downstream passage 318. By forming the communication port 411 in this way, the guide member 410 has a substantially frame shape having an opening at the center.

  As shown in FIG. 13B, the main body portion 315 of the housing 300 has groove portions 326 corresponding to the left and right end portions (both long side portions) of the guide member 410 mounted on the upright portion 322 on a one-to-one basis. The groove 326 defines the movement direction of the guide member 410 to be the front-rear direction. Further, the lower surface of the groove portion 326 (the upper surface of the standing portion 322) and the upper surface of the groove portion 326 that receive the guide member 410 from below are flat, and the height of the guide member 410 is increased when the guide member 410 is moved in the front-rear direction. It is formed so that no change or change in posture occurs. Thereby, when the guide member 410 moves in the front-rear direction, the distance between the guide member 410 and the standing portion 322 is prevented from changing.

  The guide member 410 is disposed so that the rear end portion thereof is in contact with the back wall portion 327 of the main body portion 315, and further rearward movement is prevented by the back wall portion 327. Hereinafter, for the sake of convenience, the last position of the guide member 410 that contacts the back wall 327 is referred to as the initial position of the guide member 410.

  As shown in FIG. 12, a protrusion 412 that protrudes rearward of the gaming machine is formed at the rear end portion of the guide member 410, and the tip portion of the protrusion 412 passes through a slit 327 a formed in the back wall portion 327. It protrudes out of the portion 315 (housing 300). The main body 315 is equipped with a position detection sensor 370 (specifically, an optical sensor) that detects the position of the guide member 410 based on whether or not the protrusion 412 is present at a predetermined position.

  The position detection sensor 370 is electrically connected to the main control device 162, and detects the projection 412 so that the detection signal (detection information) indicating that the guide member 410 is disposed at the initial position is the same. Output to the main controller 162. In main controller 162, it is possible to grasp the presence / absence of operation of guiding member 410 based on a detection signal from position detection sensor 370.

  Referring to FIG. 13 (b) again, the game ball is placed in the upstream side passage 317 (specifically, the communication port 411) at the front end of the guide member 410, that is, at the front side of the communication port 411. A guiding portion 413 for guiding to is formed. In the state where the guide member 410 is disposed at the initial position, specifically, in the state where the guide member 410 is in contact with the back wall portion 327, the guide portion 413 is prevented from protruding from the right operation port 311. Is formed. More specifically, the guide portion 413 is formed so that the front end edge of the guide portion 413 is located on the same virtual plane as the virtual plane including the front surface of the base portion 310.

  The upper surface of the guide portion 413 is inclined downward toward the rear of the gaming machine. For this reason, the game ball placed on the upper surface moves to the back side (communication port 411 side) of the upstream passage 317 by moving along the inclination. Hereinafter, for convenience, it is referred to as a guide inclined surface 414.

  When the guide member 410 moves forward from the initial position, the guide portion 413 protrudes from the right operation port 311, and when the guide member 413 moves rearward from the protruding position, the protrusion of the guide portion 413 from the right operation port 311 is suppressed. .

  As the guide member 410 moves forward, the guide portion 413 protrudes from the right operating port 311. When the protruding amount reaches a predetermined specified amount, the guiding function to the right operating port 311 by the guide member 410 is effective. It becomes. Specifically, when a game ball passing in front of the right operating port 311 comes into contact with the guiding inclined surface 414, the game ball is guided to the right operating port 311. On the other hand, when the projecting amount of the guiding portion 413 does not reach the specified amount, for example, when the guiding member 410 is disposed at the initial position and the guiding portion 413 does not project from the right operating port 311, The game ball falling forward passes through the right operating port 311 and is prevented from flowing into the right operating port 311.

  The variable entrance mechanism 400 together with the guide member 410 is located at a position facing the guide member 410 across the game ball passage area in the upstream passage 317, specifically at a position closer to the upper edge of the right operation port 311. And a blocking member 420 that can be switched between a blocking state for blocking the inflow of game balls through the right operation port 311 and an allowable state for allowing the inflow of game balls.

  The blocking member 420 is provided with an opposing plate portion 421 that is located above the guiding portion 413 and faces the guiding portion 413 with a gap, and an arm portion 422 that extends rearward from the facing plate portion 421. It has been. The blocking member 420 is integrated with the housing 300 by fitting the shaft portion 423 formed at the tip of the arm portion 422 into the bearing hole 328a formed in the housing 300 (the side wall portion 328 of the main body portion 315). Yes.

  A central axis CL1 of the bearing hole 328a extends in a direction (left-right direction) intersecting the passage direction of the upstream passage 317. The blocking member 420 is rotatable about the central axis CL <b> 1 to the side approaching the guiding member 410 and the side moving away from the guiding member 410.

  The side wall 328 of the housing 300 is provided with a stopper 329 that prevents the blocking member 420 from rotating toward the guiding portion 413 by abutting against the counter plate 421 from below. The counter plate portion 421 is placed on the stopper portion 329, and the lifting of the blocking member 420 from the stopper portion 329 is suppressed by at least the weight of the blocking member 420.

  A claw portion 424 that protrudes toward the guide portion 413 is formed at the front end portion (end portion on the rotating front end side) of the counter plate portion 421. As described above, the amount of standing of the claw portion 424 is such that the gap dimension between the tip of the claw portion 424 and the guide portion 413 (specifically, the guide inclined surface 414) is in a state where the opposing plate portion 421 is in contact with the stopper portion 329. The diameter is set to be smaller than the diameter of the game ball, and the game ball cannot pass between the guide member 410 and the blocking member 420.

  Further, the claw portion 424 is prevented from protruding from the right operating port 311 over the entire operating range of the blocking member 420, and interference with the game ball passing in front of the right operating port 311 is suppressed. .

  Here, with reference to FIG. 14, it demonstrates supplementarily about the guide part 413 of the guide member 410, and the nail | claw part 424 of the blocking member 420. FIG.

  The guiding portion 413 (the guiding inclined surface 414) is convex toward the facing portion 351 of the cover member 350 (toward the gaming machine front), and the width thereof gradually decreases toward the facing portion 351 side. It has a shape. The leading end portion of the guiding portion 413 is located at the center in the left-right direction of the right operation port 311, and the guiding function of the game ball that has dropped toward the position shifted to the left and right with respect to the leading end portion is difficult to be exhibited. . For this reason, the game ball falling toward the guide portion 413 is less likely to be guided to the right working port 311 by dropping to a position far from the tip portion, and excessively many game balls flow into the right working port 311. It is suppressed. In addition, simultaneous loading of a plurality of game balls on the guiding portion 413 is suppressed, and a load generated on the guiding portion 413 is reduced. Furthermore, when the guide member 410 moves to the non-guide position, it is possible to increase the degree of decrease in the area of the portion that protrudes from the right operation port 311 with respect to the decrease in the protrusion amount. It can be reduced.

  The claw portion 424 of the blocking member 420 is convex toward the guiding portion 413 and has a tapered shape with a lateral width that decreases toward the guiding portion 413. The tip of the claw portion 424 is located at the center in the left-right direction of the right operation port 311 similarly to the guide portion 413, and when the claw portion 424 hits the game ball guided to the right operation port 311 The game ball is easily pushed from side to side. As described above, the guiding portion 413 has a function of guiding the game ball moving away from the center with respect to the game ball moving near the center of the right operation port 311, and the same claw portion 424. When the ball moves to the blocking position, the game ball pushed to the left and right by the claw portion 424 is likely to fall from the guiding portion 413. Thereby, the structure which can avoid suitably that the load which generate | occur | produces on the prevention member 420 and the guidance member 410 due to a plurality of game balls on the guidance part 413 increases is realized.

  In the present embodiment, the variable pitching mechanism 400 causes a power transmission means (in detail, for operating the guide member 410 and the blocking member 420 constituting the variable pitching mechanism 400 based on the power from one driving unit 500. Link mechanism). Hereinafter, the drive unit 500 and the power transmission means will be described with reference to FIGS. 10, 13, and 14.

<Configuration related to drive unit 500 and power transmission means>
As shown in FIG. 10, the drive unit 500 includes a solenoid 501 as a power generation source that is electrically connected to the main control device 162, and a case body 502 that houses the solenoid 501. . The drive unit 500 is disposed behind the housing 300 (specifically, behind the blocking member 420), and is integrated with the housing 300 by fixing the case body 502 to the back wall portion 327 of the housing 300. Yes.

  The solenoid 501 has a shaft body 503 that is slidable in the front-rear direction. The shaft body 503 is biased forward of the gaming machine by a spring member as a biasing means built in the solenoid 501. That is, the shaft body 503 is in a standby state at the foremost position by the spring member in a normal state. When a drive signal is input from the main control device 162, the solenoid 501 switches from the non-excited state to the excited state, so that the shaft body 503 slides backward to the gaming machine against the urging force of the spring member. To do. As a result, the position of the shaft body 503 temporarily changes from the foremost position to the last position.

  The solenoid 501 and the case body 502 are disposed on the back side of the housing 300 (specifically, the back wall portion 327), and the distal end portion of the shaft body 503 is inserted into the housing 300 through a slit 327a formed in the back wall portion 327. Has been. A first link member 450 constituting the link mechanism is connected to a portion of the shaft body 503 inserted into the housing 300.

  Specifically, a driving unit side engaging portion 504 as a connecting portion with the first link member 450 is provided at the tip of the shaft body 503. On the other hand, the first link member 450 has a main body portion 451 extending in the same direction as the sliding direction of the shaft body 503, and a link side engaging portion 452 provided at the rear end portion of the main body portion 451. The side engagement portion 452 and the drive portion side engagement portion 504 are engaged. Thereby, the sliding movement of the first link member 450 following the shaft body 503 is realized. The insertion hole 327b of the back wall portion 327 is covered from the rear of the gaming machine by the case body 502, and access to the internal region of the housing 300 through the insertion hole 327b is blocked by the drive unit 500.

  As shown in FIG. 10, a placement portion 331 on which the first link member 450 (specifically, the link side engagement portion 452) is placed is provided at a position above the plate-like portion 321 in the housing 300. Yes. The mounting portion 331 extends in the same direction as the movement direction of the shaft body 503, and the contact with the first link member 450 is maintained in the entire movement range of the first link member 450 following the shaft body 503. It is formed as is. Since the first link member 450 slides on the mounting portion 331, the weight load of the first link member 450 is prevented from being concentrated on the drive unit 500.

  In addition, the top wall 332 of the housing 300 is positioned above the placement part 331, and the first link member 450 is sandwiched between the top wall part 332 and the placement part 331 in the vertical direction. Yes. Further, the first link member 450 is sandwiched between the side wall portions 328 of the housing 300 on the left and right sides, and the mounting portion 331, the top wall portion 332, and the side wall portion 328 move in a direction intersecting the moving direction of the shaft body 503. Is regulated.

<Configuration for Driving Guide Member 410>
As shown in FIG. 13, between the first link member 450 and the guide member 410 (specifically, in front of the placement portion 331), the second link member that constitutes the link mechanism together with the first link member 450. 470 is arranged. The power transmitted from the drive unit 500 to the first link member 450 is transmitted in the order of the first link member 450 → the second link member 470 → the guiding member 410.

  Specifically, the second link member 470 has a substantially columnar columnar portion 471 extending in a direction orthogonal to the sliding direction of the first link member 450 (specifically, the left-right direction) (see FIG. 14). Shaft portions 472 provided at both ends of the portion 471 are integrated with the housing 300 by fitting into bearing holes 328b (see FIG. 12) formed in the housing 300 (specifically, the side wall portion 328).

  A center axis CL2 of the bearing hole 328b extends in a direction (left-right direction) intersecting the passage direction of the upstream passage 317. The second link member 470 is rotatable about the central axis CL2.

  In the present embodiment, a configuration is adopted in which the guide member 410 and the blocking member 420 are arranged side by side with the passage region interposed therebetween, and both the members 410 and 420 are driven by one drive unit 500, and the above-described link members 450, 470 is accommodated in the housing 300 in consideration of simplification and downsizing of the entire drive mechanism and crime prevention.

  The second link member 470 arranged so as to straddle the guide member 410 and the blocking member 420 is located in the passage region of the guide passage 316 (upstream side passage 317). In a configuration in which a game ball passes between the guide member 410 and the blocking member 420, it is not preferable that the game ball and the second link member 470 interfere with each other because this causes factors such as ball clogging and malfunction.

  In this regard, the second link member 470 is disposed at a position on the rear side (the rear side of the gaming machine) and above the guide portion 413 of the guide member 410, and the second link member 470 (specifically, the columnar portion 471). A gap is formed between the guide portion 413 and the plate-like portion 321 in a state where the columnar portion 471 and the guide member 410 are arranged at the initial position, and allows a game ball to pass therethrough. Furthermore, the upper surface of the guide part 413 and the upper surface of the plate-like part 321 have a step shape in which the former is higher and the latter is lower. For this reason, the game ball that has passed through the guide portion 413 falls to the plate-like portion 321, and movement toward the second link member 470 is avoided. Accordingly, interference between the game ball flowing down the upstream passage 317 and the second link member 470 (specifically, the columnar portion 471) is preferably avoided.

  The main body portion 451 of the first link member 450 is provided with a first operation portion 455 and a second operation portion 456 as operation means for operating the second link member 470 in conjunction with the first link member 450. The columnar portion 471 of the second link member 470 has a first operation receiving portion 475 and a second operation receiving portion 476 corresponding to the first operation portion 455 and the second operation portion 456 on a one-to-one basis. Is formed.

  The first operation receiving portion 475 has a protruding shape that protrudes toward the first link member 450 (specifically, the upper side) (see FIG. 14B). On the other hand, the 1st operation part 455 has comprised the concave shape open | released by the 2nd link member 470 side (downward), and the front-end | tip part of the 1st operation receiving part 475 is inserted in the said concave part. Specifically, a rear wall surface portion (hereinafter referred to as a rear side wall surface portion 455R) constituting the first operation portion 455 and a front wall surface portion (hereinafter referred to as a front wall surface portion 455F for the sake of convenience) constituting the first operation portion 455. Between the first operation receiving portion 475 and the first operation receiving portion 475 is inserted.

  When the front side wall surface portion 455F of the first operation portion 455 pushes the first operation receiving portion 475 from the front of the gaming machine as the first link member 450 moves backward, the second link member 470 is centered on the central axis CL2. Will rotate in the first direction. On the other hand, when the rear side wall surface portion 455R of the first operation portion 455 pushes the first operation receiving portion 475 from the rear of the gaming machine as the first link member 450 moves forward, the second link member 470 moves to the center axis CL2. Is rotated in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

  Here, the first operating portion 455 extends in the same direction as the sliding direction of the first link member 450 (see FIG. 14A), and the first link member 450 is in the initial position when the first link member 450 is disposed at the initial position. While the rear side wall surface portion 455R of the first operation portion 455 is in contact with the first operation receiving portion 475, the front side wall surface portion 455F of the first operation portion 455 and the first operation receiving portion 475 are opposed to each other with a gap. ing. By setting such a gap, relative displacement between the first operation portion 455 and the first operation receiving portion 475 in the same direction as the sliding direction of the first link member 450 is allowed, and the operation period of the first link member 450 is allowed. And the operation period of the second link member 470 are different. That is, as an operation mode of the first link member 450 and the second link member 470, an operation mode in which both link members 450, 470 are interlocked and an operation mode in which both link members 450, 470 are not interlocked are provided.

  As shown in FIG. 14, the second operation receiving portion 476 is arranged so as to be shifted in the longitudinal direction (left-right direction) of the columnar portion 471 with respect to the first operation receiving portion 475, and the first operation receiving portion 475 and Similarly, it has a protruding shape that protrudes toward the first link member 450 (specifically, upward). On the other hand, the second operation portion 456 of the first link member 450 protrudes from the side surface of the main body portion 451 and has a ridge extending in the same direction as the sliding direction of the first link member 450, and the second operation portion 456. The second operation receiving portion 476 is in contact with the lower surface 456a of the lower surface 456a from below.

  As shown in FIG. 13A, the first operation receiving portion 475 and the front side wall surface portion 455F in a state where the rear side wall surface portion 455R of the first operation portion 455 and the first operation receiving portion 475 are in contact with each other. The clearance dimension in the front-rear direction is set to be larger than the allowance in the front-rear direction between the second operation receiving portion 476 and the second operation portion 456. Therefore, when the first link member 450 is retracted from the initial position, the second operation receiving portion 476 and the second operation portion 456 are first separated in the front-rear direction, and then the front side wall surface portion 475F of the first operation portion 455 is abutted. You will be in touch. That is, at the timing at which the second link member 470 starts to rotate, the contact (hook) between the second operation portion 456 and the second operation receiving portion 476 is released, and the second link member 470 is rotated. Permissible.

  Then, as the second link member 470 rotates, the second operation receiving portion 476 moves on the movement path of the second operation portion 456. As a result, when the first link member 450 returns to the initial position, the second operation receiving portion 476 is pushed forward by the second operation portion 456 so that the second link member 470 is moved to the second position. It will turn in the direction.

  That is, when the first link member 450 moves backward, the first operation receiving portion 475 is pushed by the first operation portion 455, whereby the first link member 450 and the second link member 470 are interlocked to each other. When the link member 450 moves forward, the second operation receiving portion 476 is pushed by the second operation portion 456, whereby the first link member 450 and the second link member 470 are interlocked.

  The columnar portion 471 of the second link member 470 is provided with a bearing portion 473 that protrudes on the opposite side (the guiding member 410 side) from the operation receiving portions 475 and 476, and the guiding member 410 has the bearing portion 473. Is provided (see FIG. 14B). The bearing portion 473 has a substantially U shape that is opened in the radial direction along the central axis of the columnar portion 471, and the shaft portion 417 is sandwiched between the pair of arm portions constituting the bearing portion 473. ing. Thus, by combining the bearing portion 473 and the shaft portion 417, a change in the distance from the rotation center axis CL2 of the second link member 470 to the shaft portion 417 is allowed, and the rotation of the second link member 470 is allowed. The sliding movement of the guide member 410 corresponding to is allowed.

  When the second link member 470 is rotated in the first direction (when the first link member 450 is retracted), the shaft portion 417 is pushed forward of the gaming machine by the bearing portion 473, and the second link member The guide member 410 moves forward according to the rotation of 470. On the other hand, when the second link member 470 rotates in the second direction (when the first link member 450 moves forward), the shaft portion 417 is pushed rearward by the bearing portion 473, and the second As the link member 470 rotates, the guide member 410 moves backward.

<Configuration for Driving Blocking Member 420>
The 2nd link member 470 has the protrusion part 479 which protrudes from the columnar part 471 to the nail | claw part 424 side (front side) of the prevention member 420 (refer Fig.14 (a)). The projecting portion 479 is located below the arm portion 422 of the blocking member 420 and faces the arm portion 422 with a gap.

  When the second link member 470 rotates in the first direction, the projecting portion 479 contacts the arm portion 422 from below, and the arm portion 422 is lifted upward by the projecting portion 479. As a result, the blocking member 420 supported by the stopper portion 329 rotates against its own weight, and the claw portion 424 moves to the side away from the guide member 410 (specifically, the guide portion 413).

  As the claw portion 424 moves, the gap between the claw portion 424 and the guide portion 413 becomes larger than the diameter size of the game ball, so that the game ball passes between the guide portion 413 and the claw portion 424. It becomes possible.

  Further, when the second link member 470 rotates in the second direction while allowing the game ball to pass, the protruding portion 479 moves downward and is prevented from leaning on the movement of the protruding portion 479. The member 420 rotates. Then, when the opposing plate portion 421 contacts the stopper portion 329, the leaning target moves to the stopper portion 329, and the operation following the protruding portion 479 stops. As a result, the apparatus waits at the initial position on the stopper portion 329.

<Configuration for restricting movement of guide member 410 and blocking member 420 from their initial positions>
The power transmission means in the present embodiment has a function of restricting the movement of the guide member 410 and the like that do not intervene the link members 450 and 470 in a state where the guide member 410 and the blocking member 420 are disposed at the initial position. Has been granted. Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 13, a configuration related to the restriction function will be described.

  As described with reference to FIG. 13A, in the state where the first link member 450 is disposed at the initial position, the distal end portion of the second operation receiving portion 476 of the second link member 470 is the first link member. 450 is in contact with the second operation portion 456 from below. For this reason, even when the guide member 410 is pulled forward from the initial position through the right operation port 311 from the gaming machine, the movement of the second operation receiving portion 476 is hindered by the second operation portion 456, and the second link The rotation of the member 470 is prevented by the first link member 450. For this reason, as for the guide member 410 that is allowed to move following the second link member 470 and cannot move independently of the second link member 470, sliding movement is restricted. .

  Next, a configuration for restricting movement of the blocking member 420 from the initial position will be described with reference to FIG.

  The first link member 450 is disposed such that the main body portion 451 of the first link member 450 is positioned between the arm portions 422 of the blocking member 420 in a state where the first link member 450 is disposed at the initial position. Has been. The main body 451 is formed with an extending portion 461 that extends from the main body 451 to the front of the gaming machine. The extending portion 461 is formed such that the lower surface 461a of the extending portion 461 faces the opposing plate portion 421 of the blocking member 420 with a slight gap from above the gaming machine. Note that the extending portion 461 may be formed so that the lower surface 461a contacts the opposing plate portion 421.

  The lower surface 461a of the extending portion 461 has a planar shape facing downward from the gaming machine, and is in surface contact with the opposing plate portion 421. That is, the counter plate portion 421 is sandwiched between the stopper portion 329 and the extending portion 461. Thereby, the rotation of the blocking member 420 from the initial position is restricted. Note that the lower surface 461a can also be referred to as a “stopper portion 461a” when attention is paid to the fact that the lower surface 461a of the extending portion 461 prevents the counter plate portion 421 from being lifted upward.

  Here, the configuration of the extending portion 461 will be supplementarily described. An inclined surface 461b is formed at the distal end portion of the extending portion 461 so as to face obliquely forward in the gaming machine and to descend downward from the gaming machine front to the rear. By providing the inclined surface 461b in this manner, the inflow of game balls to the right operation port 311 is permitted from the state where the game balls are allowed to flow into the right operation port 311 (released state). The hooking of the first link member 450 and the blocking member 420 at the time of transition to the position (blocking state) arranged at the position is suppressed, and the return of the first link member 450 to the initial position is prevented from being hindered. .

  For the return of the blocking member 420 to the initial position, a configuration that depends on the weight of the blocking member 420 is adopted, but in this case, the blocking member 420 receives the reaction force from the game ball over the load of the blocking member 420. There is a possibility that the return to the initial position of 420 may be prevented. Here, when the blocking member 420 has not returned to the initial position, the inclined surface 461b of the first link member 450 comes into contact with the rear end edge of the opposing plate portion 421 of the blocking member 420. At this time, the power from the solenoid 501 (the biasing force from the spring member) acts on the blocking member 420 through the first link member 450 (inclined surface 461b). Thereby, the opposing board part 421 is pushed down by the inclined surface 461b, and the pressing force with respect to the game ball which is contact | abutting to the nail | claw part 424 with the dead weight and the power (biasing force) from the solenoid 501 can be raised. Thereby, the movement of the game ball forward or backward can be promoted, and the return of the blocking member 420 to the initial position can be supported.

<Operation of the variable pitching mechanism 400>
Here, based on FIG. 15, the operation of the variable pitching mechanism 400 accompanying switching of the excitation state / non-excitation state in the drive unit 500 (solenoid 501) will be described. 15 (1) is a schematic diagram showing the internal structure of the variable pitching mechanism 400, and FIG. 15 (2) is a schematic diagram of the variable pitching mechanism 400 viewed from the side. At the time of transition from the non-accepting state to the accepting state of the right-hand actuating entrance portion 83, the variable entrance mechanism 400 operates in the order of FIG. 15 (a) → FIG. 15 (b) → FIG. 15 (c) → FIG. To do.

  When the drive signal is not output to the drive unit 500, as shown in FIG. 15A, the shaft body 503 of the solenoid 501 is in a standby state at the maximum projecting position by the biasing force of the spring member. . In such a state, the guide member 410 stands by at the non-guide position (initial position), and the blocking member 420 stands by at the blocking position (initial position). In the initial state in which both the members 410 and 420 are disposed at the initial position and the link members 450 and 470 are disposed at the initial position, the guide member 410 and the blocking member 420 are moved by direct contact or the like. Even so, such an action will be hindered by both link members 450 and 470.

  When a drive signal is output from the main controller 162 to the drive unit 500, the solenoid 501 of the drive unit 500 switches from the non-excitation state to the excitation state. Thereby, as shown in FIG. 15A → FIG. 15B, the shaft body 503 of the solenoid 501 slides backward against the urging force. Following the movement of the shaft body 503, the first link member 450 slides backward. At this time, the second operation portion 456 slides with respect to the second operation receiving portion 476, so that the second operation receiving portion 476 is maintained in contact with the second operation portion 456 from below. . Accordingly, the second operation receiving portion 476 is prevented from moving upward by the second operation portion 456, and the second link member 470 remains in the initial position. That is, the first link member 450 moves independently (independently) from the second link member 470.

  The movement of the first link member 450 alone is continued until the movement restriction of the guide member 410 and the blocking member 420 by the first link member 450 and the second link member 470 is released. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 15B, the lower surface 461 a of the extending portion 461 of the first link member 450 is in contact with the rear side of the opposing plate portion 421 of the blocking member 420 (specifically, the lower side 461 a abuts against the opposing plate portion 421. (Refer to FIG. 15 (b1)), the second operation portion 456 of the first link member 450 is behind the second operation receiving portion 476 of the second link member 470 (more specifically, the second operation portion 456). The process continues until the lower surface 456a moves to a position where the lower surface 456a does not contact the second operation receiving portion 476 (see FIG. 15B2).

  Thereafter, as the movement restriction between the guide member 410 and the blocking member 420 is released, the front side wall surface portion 455a of the first operation portion 455 is a gaming machine with respect to the first operation receiving portion 475 of the second link member 470. Abut from the front.

  When the shaft body 503 further moves rearward from the state shown in FIG. 15B, the second link member is moved by the first operation portion 455 (specifically, the front wall surface portion 455a) of the first link member 450 that follows the shaft body 503. The first operation receiving portion 475 of 470 is pushed backward. Thereby, the 2nd link member 470 and the 1st link member 450 interlock | cooperate, and the 2nd link member 470 rotates in the said 1st direction with the movement to the back of the 1st link member 450. FIG.

  When the second link member 470 is rotated, the shaft portion 417 of the guide member 410 is pushed to the opposite side of the moving direction of the first link member 450 (front of the gaming machine) by the bearing portion 473 of the second link member 470. As a result, the guide member 410 slides forward in the gaming machine. In addition, by the rotation of the second link member 470, the second operation receiving portion 476 moves on the moving path of the second operation portion 456, and is in a state of facing the second operation portion 456 from the front.

  As shown in FIG. 15C, at a timing after the movement amount of the guide member 410 from the last position reaches the first predetermined value and the guide member 410 is switched from the non-guide state to the guide state. The projecting portion 479 of the second link member 470 contacts the arm portion 422 of the blocking member 420 from below. At the timing when the projecting portion 479 comes into contact with the arm portion 422, the blocking member 420 is waiting at the initial position, that is, the gap between the claw portion 424 of the blocking member 420 and the guiding portion 413 of the guiding member 410 is a game ball. The diameter of the game ball is kept smaller than the diameter of the game ball, and the game ball cannot pass between the claw portion 424 and the guide portion 413.

  As shown in FIG. 15 (c) → FIG. 15 (d), when the shaft body 503 further moves rearward, the first link member 450 moves rearward following the movement. The second link member 470 rotates in conjunction with the first link member 450, whereby the forward movement of the guide member 410 is continued, and the protrusion 479 of the second link member 470 moves the arm of the blocking member 420. The part 422 is pushed upward. As a result, the blocking member 420 rotates about the rotation center axis CL1, and the claw portion 424 moves to the side away from the guide portion 413 (specifically, above the gaming machine) by the rotation of the blocking member 420. Further, as the second link member 470 rotates, the second operation receiving portion 476 moves backward so as to follow the second operation portion 456.

  When the movement amount of the shaft body 503 reaches the second predetermined value, the gap between the claw portion 424 of the blocking member 420 and the guide portion 413 of the guide member 410 becomes larger than the diameter size of the game ball, and the game through the gap The movement of the sphere is allowed. That is, the blocking member 420 is switched to an allowable state, and interference between the game ball guided by the guide member 410 and the claw portion 424 of the blocking member 420 is avoided, and the flow of the game ball into the right operation port 311 is allowed. The Rukoto.

  Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 15D, when the rearward movement amount of the shaft body 503 is maximized, the movement of the shaft body 503 is stopped, and the first link member 450 and the second link member 470 that follow the movement stop. The movement also stops. Then, when both the link members 450 and 470 are stopped, the movement of the guide member 410 and the blocking member 420 is also stopped. When the movement of the first link member 450 is stopped, the second operation receiving portion 476 faces the second operation portion 456 with a slight gap from the front of the gaming machine. This gap is smaller than the front-rear gap between the rear side wall surface portion 455R of the first operation portion 455 and the first operation receiving portion 475.

  Next, the operation of the variable pitching mechanism 400 when shifting from an accepting state where a game ball is received to a non-accepting state will be described. At the time of transition from the receiving state to the non-accepting state of the right operating ball entering portion 83, the variable ball entering mechanism 400 operates in the order of FIG. 15 (d) → FIG. 15 (c) → FIG. 15 (b) → FIG. To do.

  When the drive unit 500 is operating as shown in FIG. 15D, the shaft body 503 of the solenoid 501 is in a standby state at the last position against the urging force of the spring member. In this case, the blocking member 420 is maintained in the allowable state by the link members 450 and 470, and the guide member 410 is maintained in the guide state.

  When the output of the drive signal from the main controller 162 to the drive unit 500 is stopped in the state shown in FIG. 15D, the solenoid 501 of the drive unit 500 switches from the excited state to the non-excited state. Thereby, the shaft body 503 of the solenoid 501 slides forward of the gaming machine by the biasing force of the spring member. Following the movement of the shaft body 503, the first link member 450 slides forward in the gaming machine.

  As shown in FIG. 15 (d) → FIG. 15 (c), when the first link member 450 moves forward of the gaming machine, the second operation portion 456 of the first link member 450 is moved to the first link member 450. It abuts against the second operation receiving portion 476 from behind the gaming machine. When the second operation receiving portion 476 is pushed by the second operation portion 456, the second link member 470 rotates in the second direction. At this time, a predetermined gap is secured between the rear side wall surface portion 455R of the first operation portion 455 and the first operation receiving portion 475, and the second operation portion 456 and the second operation receiving portion 476 The structure does not hinder the movement of the.

  When the second link member 470 rotates in the second direction, the shaft portion 417 of the guide member 410 is pushed rearward by the bearing portion 473 of the second link member 470, and the guide member 410 moves rearward of the gaming machine. Move the slide. Further, when the second link member 470 rotates in the second direction, the protruding portion 479 supporting the arm portion 422 of the blocking member 420 moves downward, and the blocking member 420 rotates by its own weight so as to follow it. Move.

  As shown in FIG. 15C, when the movement amount of the shaft body 503 from the last position reaches a predetermined amount, the blocking member 420 abuts against the stopper portion 329, and the blocking member 420 is supported. The object moves from the second link member 470 to the stopper portion 329. Thereby, the gap between the claw portion 424 of the blocking member 420 and the guide portion 413 of the guide member 410 becomes smaller than the diameter size of the game ball, and the game ball cannot move through the gap.

  Thus, even if the blocking member 420 is switched from the allowed state to the blocked state, the guiding member 410 is still maintained in the guided state. In other words, the blocking member 420 switches from the allowed state to the blocked state while the guiding member 410 is in the guiding state (that is, before switching to the non-inducing state).

  As shown in FIG. 15 (c) → FIG. 15 (b), after the rotation of the blocking member 420 interlocked with the retraction of the guide member 410 is stopped, the shaft body 503 is moved to the front of the gaming machine. The first link member 450 moves forward, and the second link member 470 rotates in the second direction following the movement of the first link member 450. Thereby, the guide member 410 slides to the back of the gaming machine. At this time, the blocking member 420 remains in the initial position due to its own weight, and the guide member 410 moves independently of this.

  Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 15B, when the guide member 410 returns to the initial position, the second operation receiving portion 476 of the second link member 470 moves on the movement path of the second operation portion 456 of the first link member 450. The second operation receiving portion 476 cannot be pressed by the second operation portion 456.

  As shown in FIG. 15 (b) → FIG. 15 (a), after the guide member 410 and the blocking member 420 return to the initial positions, when the shaft body 503 further slides forward in the gaming machine, the shaft body 503 follows. Then, the first link member 450 slides forward in the gaming machine. At this time, a gap is formed between the first operation portion 455 (specifically, the front side wall surface portion 455F) and the first operation receiving portion 475 to allow the first operation portion 455 to move forward. While the first operation unit 455 is moving, the movement of the second link member 470 is stopped.

  Then, as shown in FIG. 15A, when the first link member 450 returns to the initial position, the extended portion 461 of the first link member 450 comes into contact with the counter plate portion 421 of the blocking member 420 from above. In other words, the blocking member 420 is sandwiched between the stopper portion 329 and the extending portion 461, and the vertical movement of the blocking member 420 is restricted.

  Further, when the tip end portion of the second operation receiving portion 476 comes into contact with the lower surface 456a of the second operation portion 456, the rotation of the second link member 470 in the first direction is restricted. With respect to the guide member 410 that has returned to the initial position, the backward movement is restricted, and the forward and backward movement of the guide member 410 is substantially restricted by restricting the rotation of the second link member 470 as described above. The Rukoto.

<Accepting Aspects of Game Balls in the Right Acting Ball Entering Portion 83>
Here, the receiving mode of the game ball in the right-hand actuated entrance portion 83 based on the operation of the variable entrance mechanism 400 will be described based on FIG. FIG. 16 is a schematic view showing a manner of accepting a game ball in the right operation entrance portion 83. When the right operation ball entry portion 83 is switched in the order of non-acceptance state → acceptance state → non-acceptance state, the state of the right operation entry portion 83 is changed from FIG. 16 (a) → FIG. 16 (b) → FIG. c) Changes in the order of FIG. 16 (b) → FIG. 16 (a). In FIG. 16, the game ball that has reached the right-hand actuating ball entering portion 83 is illustrated by a two-dot chain line.

  As shown in FIG. 16 (a), when the right operation ball entering portion 83 is in the non-receiving state, the guide member 410 is waiting at the blocking position (initial position) and the blocking member 420 is in the non-guide position. Waiting at (initial position). The guide portion 413 of the guide member 410 and the claw portion 424 of the blocking member 420 face each other with a gap therebetween. However, since the gap is set to be smaller than the diameter dimension of the game ball, the right operation port 311. Inflow of game balls to is impossible. The guide part 413 and the claw part 424 are not brought into contact with each other, but a gap is provided between them to speed up the switching between the non-accepting state and the accepting state.

  Further, the guide member 410 is prevented from protruding from the right operation port 311. For this reason, the game ball that has passed between the upper leg portions 352U of the cover member 350 passes between the facing portion 351 of the cover member 350 and the right operation port 311 and passes through the lower leg portion 352L of the cover member 350. Will flow down to the right side variable pitching device 85.

  In the case where the right operating ball entering portion 83 switches from the non-accepting state to the accepting state, the state shown in FIG. Specifically, first, the guide member 410 protrudes from the right operation port 311 toward the facing portion 351, and the protruding amount becomes larger than the radial dimension of the game ball, and the gap between the guide member 410 and the facing portion 351 is a game size. It becomes smaller than the radius dimension of the sphere. Thus, the game ball that has passed between the upper leg portions 352U of the cover member 350 is guided to the right operation port 311 side by the guide member 410.

  However, in a state where the switching to the receiving state of the right operation ball entry portion 83 has not been completed, that is, in a state where the blocking member 420 is still waiting at the blocking position, the guiding member 410 is guided to the right operating port 311 side. This prevents the game ball from flowing into the operation port 311 on the right side. The game ball that has been prevented from flowing into the right operation port 311 stops on the guide member 410 or is distributed to the left and right of the guide member 410 and passes between the upper leg portion 352U and the lower leg portion 352L. It will flow down to the downstream side of the game area PE.

  After that, as shown in FIG. 16C, when the blocking member 420 is displaced from the blocking position to the allowable position, the right operation ball entry portion 83 enters the receiving state (guidance member 410: receiving state, blocking member 420: allowable state). The game ball that has passed between the upper leg portions 352U and dropped onto the guide member 410 is guided to the right operation port 311 along the guide inclined surface 414, and to the guide passage 316 through the right operation port 311. Inflow.

  When the predetermined period elapses after the right working ball entering portion 83 enters the receiving state, the right working ball entering portion 83 returns to the non-receiving state. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 16B, the blocking member 420 first moves from the allowable position to the blocking position, and the flow into the right working port 311 becomes impossible. At this time, the guiding member 410 is still maintained in the guiding state, but the game ball guided by the guiding member 410 abuts against the blocking member 420 (specifically, the claw portion 424), so Inflow to 311 will be hindered.

  After the blocking member 420 returns to the blocking position, the guiding member 410 moves to the initial position as shown in FIG. 16A, and the protrusion of the guiding member 410 from the right operation port 311 is avoided. Become. Thereby, the interference between the guide member 410 and the game ball is suppressed, and the game ball that has passed between the upper leg portions 352U of the cover member 350 passes between the facing portion 351 of the cover member 350 and the right operation port 311. It passes through the lower leg portion 352L of the cover member 350 and flows down to the right variable pitching device 85.

  As described above in detail, in the configuration having the guide member 410 and the blocking member 420 as the movable members that come into contact with the game ball, ball engagement can be generated by the operation of the guide member 410 and the blocking member 420. If such a ball biting occurs, it is assumed that the function of the variable pitching mechanism 400 is impaired, or the probability of entering the right-hand actuating pitching portion 83 is changed. In view of the fact that the right operating ball entry portion 83 is a part related to profits, the occurrence of the above-mentioned ball biting is not preferable because it can cause the player and the game hall to lose. Therefore, in the present embodiment, various measures are taken to suppress the occurrence of the above-mentioned ball biting.

<Operation Timing of Guiding Member 410 and Blocking Member 420>
Here, with reference to FIG.16 (d), the operation timing of the guide member 410 and the blocking member 420 accompanying the switching of the acceptance state of the right side operation entrance part 83 and a non-acceptance state is demonstrated. FIG. 16D is a timing chart showing the operation timing of the members 410 and 420. It should be noted that a slight width is set for the guiding position of the guiding member 410 and the blocking position of the blocking member 420 in this embodiment (the allowance allowance for displacement), and these guiding position and blocking position are displayed by dot hatching. doing.

  When the right operation ball entering portion 83 is switched from the non-accepting state to the accepting state, a drive signal is output from the main controller 162 to the drive unit 500 (specifically, the solenoid 501) at the timing t1. As a result, the drive unit 500 enters an excited state, and the shaft body 503 starts moving forward of the gaming machine against the biasing force of the biasing member.

  Thereafter, when the movement restriction of the guide member 410 and the blocking member 420 is released at the timing t2, the guide member 410 starts moving from the non-guide position to the guide position. Then, the guide member 410 reaches the guide position (see the upper dot hatched portion) at the timing t3 when a predetermined period has elapsed from the timing t2.

  At the timing t4 after the guiding member 410 reaches the guiding position, the blocking member 420 starts moving from the blocking position toward the allowable position. Even at this timing, the movement of the guide member 410 is continued, and the amount of protrusion from the right operation port 311 is further increased to enhance the guide function.

  As described above, the blocking member 420 has a slight width at the blocking position in order to secure the allowance with the game ball and to appropriately block the inflow of the game ball. At the subsequent timing t5, when the blocking member 420 moves away from the blocking position, the above-described hooking cost becomes 0, and a transition period from the non-accepting state to the receiving state is entered. Then, it reaches the allowable position at the timing of t6. Then, the movement of the guide member 410 and the blocking member 420 is stopped at the timing of t6. That is, the amount of protrusion of the guide member 410 from the right operating port 311 is maximized (the state in which the guide function is suitably exerted), and the gap between the blocking member 420 and the guide member 410 is expanded most (game ball) And interference with the blocking member 420 are preferably avoided). Thereby, the switch to the acceptance state is completed.

  Here, the period required for the blocking member 420 to reach the allowable position from the blocking position is set to be shorter than the period for the guiding member 410 to reach the guiding position (and the period for staying at the guiding position). The amount of movement required for the blocking member 420 to reach the allowable position from the blocking position is set smaller than the amount of movement required for the guiding member 410 to reach the guiding position. Accordingly, the switching of the blocking member 420 is speeded up as compared with the guiding member 410, and the ball is generated outside the period in which guidance is positively allowed while strengthening the guiding function by the guiding member 410. Can be suitably avoided.

  At a timing t7 when a preset period has elapsed from the timing t6, the output of the drive signal from the main controller 162 to the drive unit 500 is stopped, and the drive unit 500 enters a non-excited state. Thereby, the shaft body 503 starts moving forward of the gaming machine by the biasing force of the biasing member. Accordingly, the guide member 410 starts moving toward the non-guide position, and the blocking member 420 starts moving toward the allowable position.

  Thereafter, the blocking member 420 reaches the blocking position at the timing t8. At this timing, the guide member 410 is still in the guide position although the amount of protrusion from the right operation port 311 is reduced. That is, the blocking member 420 returns to the blocking position prior to the return of the guiding member 410 to the non-guided position.

  The blocking member 420 reaches the initial position at the timing t9 when a preset period has elapsed from the timing t7, and stops its movement. And the guidance member 410 detaches | leaves from a guidance position at the timing of following t10.

  Thereafter, when the guide member 410 reaches the initial position at the timing of t11, the guide member 410 stops. Thus, even after the movement of both members 410 and 420 stops (after returning to the initial position), the operation of the shaft body 503 is continued, and at the timing of t12, the members 410 and 420 continue to operate. The movement to the initial position is restricted.

  At the time of switching from the accepting state to the non-accepting state, the blocking member 420 moves from the allowable position to the blocking position while guidance by the guiding member 410 is positively permitted.

<Right variable entry device 85>
As already described, in the present embodiment, when a special winning lottery based on the entry to the right operation entry portion 83 is won, the right variable entry device 85 is opened and the right variable entry device The game ball is allowed to flow into the game ball 85. Here, the right variable pitching device 85 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 17 (a) is a partially enlarged view showing the right variable pitching device 85 and its peripheral portion in FIG. 4, FIG. 17 (b) is a perspective view of the right variable pitching device 85 as seen from the front side, and FIG. 18 is the right side. 19 is an exploded perspective view of the variable pitching device 85 as viewed from the front side, FIG. 19 is an exploded perspective view of the right side of the variable pitching device 85 as viewed from the back side, and FIG. It is. Note that FIG. 17B shows a state in which the right big winning opening is opened, and in FIG. 18 and FIG. 19, the game board 80 is represented by a two-dot chain line.

  As already described, the opening 92b is formed in the game board 80 at the site on the right side of the variable display unit 88 (see FIG. 17A). The opening 92b penetrates in the thickness direction of the gaming board 80, and the right variable pitching device 85 is fitted into the opening 92b from the front of the gaming machine. In the state in which the right variable pitching device 85 is arranged in this manner, the opening is formed by the base unit 600 that constitutes the front surface portion of the right variable pitching device 85 and is provided with a function as an attachment portion for the game board 80. The part 92b is covered.

  The base unit 600 includes a frame body 601 formed along the edge of the opening 92b. The frame body 601 is formed so as to face the front surface of the game board 80 and to face the front surface of the game board 80, to stand behind the game machine from the counter board part 601a, and to extend along the inner wall surface of the opening 92b of the game board 80. And a cylindrical portion 601b (see FIG. 19). The right variable pitching device 85 is integrated with the game board 80 by being screwed to the game board 80 in a state where the opposing plate portion 601a is in contact with the front surface of the game board 80.

  The game ball that has flowed into the right variable ball entry device 85 is guided to the back side of the game board 80 at a position above the central opening of the frame 601 in the frame 601 (specifically, the opposing plate 601a). The right large winning opening 602 is formed. The right side big winning opening 602 has an inlet portion 602a formed so as to penetrate in the thickness direction of the frame body 601 (the front-rear direction in the gaming machine), and the frame body 601 includes the inlet portion 602a. The opening / closing door 603 is attached so as to be openable and closable so as to cover from the front. In addition, a variable ball driving unit 604 (specifically, a solenoid) is mounted on the frame body 601 as a power source for driving the open / close door 603. The variable ball driving unit 604 is electrically connected to the main controller 162, and excitation / de-excitation is switched based on a drive signal from the main controller 162. The variable ball driving unit 604 has a movable piece that is displaced based on switching between excitation / non-excitation, and the opening / closing that follows the displacement of the movable piece by operating the opening / closing door 603 with the movable piece. Displacement (opening / closing switching) of the door 603 is realized, and the right side variable pitching device 85 can be switched between the receiving state and the non-receiving state.

  The variable entrance driving unit 604 is provided with a position detection sensor 611 that detects the position of the movable piece in the variable entrance driving unit 604 (see FIG. 18). The position detection sensor 611 is electrically connected to the main control device 162. In the main control device 162, the position of the movable piece, that is, the position of the movable piece based on the detection signal (detection information) generated by the position detection sensor 611. The position of the opening / closing door 603 can be grasped. Thereby, it is possible to determine whether or not the opening / closing door 603 has been switched in accordance with a signal from the main control device 162, and to suppress the occurrence of a disadvantage due to malfunction or the like.

  It should be noted that the door 603 is not operating normally even though a drive signal is output from the main controller 162, or the door 603 is opened even if the drive signal is not output. If it is recognized, the error display lamp unit 27 and the speaker unit 29 notify that the abnormality has occurred, and the upper part indicating that the abnormality has occurred is output to the hall computer. . As a result, the hall manager or the like can grasp that an abnormality has occurred in the gaming machine.

  As shown in FIG. 20, the right-hand side big winning opening 602 has a horizontally long shape extending in the left-right direction, and the back side (specifically, the right-hand side big winning opening) of one end thereof (specifically, the end that is the central side of the game area PE). A detection sensor 605 (in detail, a magnetic sensor) for detecting a game ball that has flowed into the right winning prize opening 602 is disposed at the exit portion of the 602 (see FIG. 19).

  The detection sensor 605 is electrically connected to the main control device 162, and a detection signal (detection information) from the detection sensor 605 is output to the main control device 162. Based on this detection signal, the main controller 162 can grasp the presence / absence of winning in the right big winning opening 602 and the like.

  Here, a supplementary explanation will be given on the right side big winning opening 602 based on FIG. 21 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line BB in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 21, the right side big winning opening 602 has a passage portion 602b that guides the game ball flowing in from the entrance portion 602a to the guide passage 620. The detection sensor 605 disposed in the downstream portion of the passage portion 602b (the outlet portion 602c of the right big winning opening 602) has a through-hole penetrating vertically. The game ball is configured to be detected when the game ball passes through a region (detection region DE0) surrounded by the through hole.

  The passage portion 602b of the right winning prize opening 602 is surrounded by the wall surface portion of the base unit 600, and exposure to the outside of the base unit 600 is suppressed. Thereby, inflow and outflow of the game ball at the midway position of the passage portion 602b are avoided, and access to the passage portion 602b through other than the inlet portion 602a and the outlet portion 602c is impossible.

  Returning to FIG. 12, in the base unit 600, a front panel member 606 is provided below the right large winning opening 602 so as to cover the central opening portion of the frame body 601 (that is, the front opening portion of the tubular portion 601b). It has been. The front panel member 606 is fixed to the frame body 601, and the opening 92 b is blocked by the front panel member 606 and the frame body 601.

  As shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, the frame 601 is separated from the front panel member 606 by a predetermined gap (specifically, a gap set to be the same as the thickness dimension of the game board 80). A rear panel member 607 facing from the rear of the gaming machine is provided. The rear panel member 607 has a flat plate shape, and the rear opening of the tubular portion 601b is closed from the rear of the gaming machine by the rear panel member 607.

  The front panel member 606 and the rear panel member 607 are made of a synthetic resin material having transparency, and the rear of the base unit 600 can be visually recognized through these panel members 606 and 607. Behind the base unit 600, a guide passage that guides the game balls that have flowed into the right big prize opening 602 and that have passed through the detection area DE0 in the detection sensor 605 to the collecting plate 151 (specifically, a collection passage). 620 is provided.

  Here, with reference to FIG. 22 as appropriate in addition to FIGS. 17 to 21, the guide passage 620 formed in the right variable pitching device 85 will be described. FIG. 22 is a schematic view of the inside of the guide passage 620 as viewed from the front side of the gaming machine.

  As shown in FIG. 22, the guide passage 620 is formed by combining a base unit 600 and a passage formation unit 630 disposed behind the base unit 600.

  More specifically, the passage forming unit 630 has a flat plate-like base portion 631 that faces the rear panel member 607 with a predetermined gap therebetween. A plurality of standing wall portions 632 that stand toward the rear panel member 607 are formed in a portion of the base portion 631 that faces the rear panel member 607. These standing wall portions 632 oppose each other with a gap slightly larger than the diameter size of the game ball, and a groove portion 633 opened to the rear panel member 607 side (the front of the gaming machine) by the standing wall portion 632. Is formed. The guide passage 620 is formed by closing the opening portion of the groove 633 toward the front of the gaming machine with the rear panel member 607. Thus, by arranging the guide passage 620 behind the panel members 606 and 607 and forming the guide passage 620 using the rear panel member 607, the game balls passing through the guide passage 620 can be moved from the front of the gaming machine. Visible.

  As shown in FIG. 20, the guide passage 620 has an upstream passage 621 that communicates with the right large prize winning port 602 of the base unit 600. The upstream passage 621 has a horizontally long shape, and an inlet portion opened upward is formed at one end thereof. The game ball that has reached the back side of the game board 80 through the passage portion 602b of the right side prize winning opening 602 and has flowed out from the outlet portion 602c of the right side big winning opening 602 will flow into the guide passage 620 through the entrance portion. .

  The outlet portion 602c of the right big prize winning opening 602 and the inlet portion 620a of the guide passage 620 face each other with a slight gap therebetween, and the gap is set smaller than the diameter dimension of the game ball, Inflow and outflow of game balls through the gap are avoided. Further, as shown in FIG. 21, this gap is surrounded by a storage case 653, and access to the gap from the outside of the right side variable pitching device 85 is prevented.

  As shown in FIG. 22, the upstream passage 621 is inclined downward from the inlet portion of the upstream passage 621 toward the opposite end (specifically, toward the center of the game area PE). The game ball that has flowed into the upstream passage 621 from the entrance portion flows down along the portion of the standing wall portion 632 that forms the bottom portion of the upstream passage 621.

  A first downstream passage 622 is connected to the downstream end of the upstream passage 621 so as to change the flow direction of the game ball. The first downstream passage 622 extends in the vertical direction, and the game ball that has reached the first downstream passage 622 via the upstream passage 621 falls along the first downstream passage 622 by its own weight. It will be.

  A game ball flowing into the first downstream passage 622 is detected at the outlet portion of the first downstream passage 622 (specifically, a game ball passing through the first detection region DE1 in the first downstream passage 622 is detected). A first detection sensor 625 is provided.

  As the first detection sensor 625, a magnetic sensor capable of grasping a change in a magnetic field that occurs when a game ball passes through the first detection region DE1 is employed. The first detection sensor 625 is electrically connected to the main control device 162, and a detection signal (detection information) from the first detection sensor 625 is input to the main control device 162. Thereby, the main controller 162 can grasp whether or not the game ball has passed in the first detection area DE1, that is, whether or not there is a ball entering the first downstream passage 622.

  In addition, the guide passage 620 includes a second downstream passage 623 that branches from a midway position of the first downstream passage 622. That is, the guide passage 620 branches into two at the midway position. The game ball that has flowed into the right big prize opening 602 has a configuration in which the movement destination (distribution destination) changes in accordance with the inflow timing or the like.

  An upright wall 632 that forms the first downstream passage 622 is formed with an opening 635 as an inlet to the second downstream passage 623. The opening 635 communicates with both the first downstream passage 622 and the second downstream passage 623, and the inflow of game balls from the first downstream passage 622 to the second downstream passage 623 through the opening 635. Is allowed.

  In addition, if it supplements about the relationship between the 1st downstream channel | path 622 and a branch, the site | part (henceforth an upstream part for convenience, the upstream part rather than a branch part (henceforth the intermediate part 622M) in the 1st downstream channel 622. 622U) extends in the vertical direction, and an outlet portion of the upstream portion 622U is opened downward. An inlet portion of the downstream portion 622L (first branch passage) as one branch passage is located on the extension of the outlet portion to the downstream side, and the inlet portion is on the outlet portion side (upward) of the upstream portion 622U. ) Is open. On the other hand, the inlet portion (opening 635) of the second downstream passage 623 (second branch passage) as the other branch passage is disposed at a position deviated from the extension of the upstream portion 622U and the extension direction thereof is They are opened in different directions, specifically in the direction in which the downstream passages 622 and 623 are arranged side by side (specifically, in the lateral direction). For this reason, the game ball that has dropped along the upstream portion 622U normally flows into the downstream portion 622L of the first downstream passage 622, and the inflow into the second downstream passage 623 is avoided.

  A game ball that has flowed into the second downstream passage 623 is detected in the middle of the second downstream passage 623 (specifically, a game ball that passes through the second detection area DE2 in the second downstream passage 623 is detected). A second detection sensor 626 (possible) is provided. As the second detection sensor 626, a magnetic sensor capable of grasping a change in the magnetic field generated when the game ball passes through the second detection area DE2 is employed. The second detection sensor 626 is electrically connected to the main controller 162, and a detection signal (detection information) from the second detection sensor 626 is input to the main controller 162. Thereby, it is possible for the main controller 162 to grasp whether or not the game ball has passed in the second detection area DE2, that is, whether or not the game ball flows into the second downstream side passage 623. Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, the detection sensor 605 arranged on the upstream side of the game ball distribution part (the branch part of the guide passage 620) is arranged on the “upstream detection sensor 605” and on the downstream side of the distribution part. The first detection sensor 625 and the second detection sensor 626 are referred to as “downstream first detection sensor 625” and “downstream second detection sensor 626”.

  A game ball that has flowed into the right variable pitching device 85 (right big prize opening 602) is first detected by the upstream detection sensor 605, and then the downstream first detection sensor 625 and the downstream second detection sensor according to the destination. One of 626 is detected. When the upstream detection sensor 605 detects a ball entering the right big winning opening 602, a predetermined number of game balls are paid out according to the ball. As described above, the game balls are paid out based on the detection result of the upstream detection sensor 605 among the upstream / downstream detection sensors 605, 625, and 626, so that the detection by the downstream detection sensors 625 and 626 is performed. Compared to a configuration in which game balls are paid out based on the results, the game balls are expedited.

  The number of game balls that have flowed into the right variable ball entry device 85 (right big prize opening 602) is detected by the upstream detection sensor 605 and the downstream detection sensors 625 and 626, and the game balls detected by these upstream detection sensors 605. Is compared with the number of game balls detected by the downstream detection sensors 625 and 626, it is possible to confirm whether or not the game balls remain in the guide passage 620.

  In this embodiment, a magnetic sensor is applied to each of the detection sensors 605, 625, 626. However, it is possible to change this and apply a photo sensor to each of the detection sensors 605, 625, 626. . In particular, it is assumed that the right variable pitching device 85 has few opportunities for a plurality of game balls to enter simultaneously as compared to other pitching units. Therefore, even if a photosensor that is assumed to be difficult to improve the detection accuracy of individual game balls when a plurality of game balls pass through the detection area as a unit, it is preferable to cause inconveniences caused by it. Can be suppressed. Specifically, it is important for the detection sensors 625 and 626 on the downstream side to know whether or not the entry into the advantageous entry portion has occurred, rather than the number of inflowing game balls. Therefore, even if the detection function of individual game balls when a plurality of game balls pass through the detection area together, it is possible to know at least the fact that the game balls have passed, so there are disadvantages caused by this. Occurrence is avoided. In addition, a photosensor is less susceptible to radio waves and magnetism than a magnetic sensor. Therefore, a further improvement in the crime prevention function can be expected by applying a photo sensor in particular to the detection sensor related to the advantageous ball entry portion. Incidentally, in view of the fact that the upstream detection sensor 605 has a function relating to a prize ball, in the case of adopting the above modification, a magnetic sensor is applied to the upstream detection sensor 605 and the downstream detection sensor 605 is provided. It is preferable to apply the photosensors of the detection sensors 625 and 626.

  Here, the passage configuration of the guide passage 620 will be supplementarily described. The guide passage 620 is defined by the rear panel member 607 and the passage formation unit 630 of the base unit 600 and surrounded by the housing case 653, similarly to the passage portion 602 b of the right winning prize opening 602. The exposure to the outside of the base unit 600 is suppressed. As a result, inflow and outflow of game balls in the middle of the guide passage 620 are avoided, and access to the game ball passage area other than the entrance portion 620a and the exit portions 620b and 620c of the guide passage 620 is impossible. It has become.

  Furthermore, the guide passage 620 (specifically, the portion upstream of the branching portion) has a plurality of wall portions intersecting with the moving direction of the game ball, and is meandering as a whole. For this reason, the momentum of the game ball that has flowed into the guide passage 620 through the right winning prize opening 602 is reduced by hitting the wall surface. In this way, by reducing the influence of the moving speed of the game ball moving in the guide passage 320 due to the moving speed when flowing into the right variable pitching device 85, it is possible to reach the branch portion from the right big prize winning opening 602. Adjustment is made so that the required period is substantially constant.

  In addition, in the above-described branch portion (intermediate portion 622M of the first downstream passage 622), a guiding state in which the game ball that has flowed from the upstream passage 621 into the first downstream passage 622 is guided to the second downstream passage 623. A switching member 641 that can be switched to a non-inductive state in which the same guidance is not performed is provided. The switching member 641 is prevented from projecting into the guide passage 620 (specifically, the first downstream passage 622) in the non-guided state, and by switching to the guided state, the first downstream passage 622 is blocked. It protrudes to a position that makes it impossible for the game ball to reach the 1 detection area DE1 (see the two-dot chain line in FIG. 22).

  If it explains supplementarily about arrangement of switching member 641, storage part 636 which stores switching member 641 in the part which counters the above-mentioned opening 635 in standing wall part 632 is formed. The accommodating portion 636 communicates with the first downstream side passage 622 through an open portion 637 formed in the standing wall portion 632. The opening 637 has a size that allows the switching member 641 to pass through. When the switching member 641 is in the non-induction state, the opening 637 is blocked by the switching member 641.

  The switching member 641 is pivotably supported by a shaft portion 642 provided at the upstream end of the switching member 641 by a bearing portion formed on the base portion 631 of the passage forming unit 630. It is attached to the passage forming unit 630. Specifically, with respect to the shaft portion 642 and the bearing portion, the switching member 641 is specifically configured so that the rotation center axis of the switching member 641 is orthogonal to the direction in which the opening 635 faces and the flow direction of the game ball in the first downstream passage 622. The rotation center axis 641 extends in the front-rear direction. The shaft portion 642 (rotation base end portion) of the switching member 641 is disposed at a position facing the opening 635. The switching member 641 extends to the downstream side of the first downstream passage 622, and the distal end portion (rotating distal end portion) thereof is located downstream of the opening 635.

  When the switching member 641 is in a guiding state, the switching member 641 comes into contact with the game ball flowing down (falling) the first downstream side passage 622 from the downstream side of the first downstream side passage 622. As a result, a guide inclined surface 643 is formed to which a function of guiding the game ball to the opening 635 side while flowing from the upstream portion 622U of the first downstream passage 622 is provided. In the non-guided state, approximately half of the rotation base end side (upstream side) of the guiding inclined surface 643 is opposed to the opening 635, and approximately half of the rotation leading end side (downstream side) is both downstream passages. It faces the upright wall 632D as a “partition” that partitions 622 and 623. Further, the guide inclined surface 643 is prevented from projecting toward the opening 635, and the guide inclined surface 643 constitutes a part of the first downstream passage 622 (specifically, the intermediate portion 622M). Accordingly, it is possible to suppress variation in the falling path of the game ball passing through the intermediate portion 622M of the first downstream passage 622 in the non-guided state by the guide inclined surface 643.

  At the time of switching to the guiding state, the switching member 641 is rotated around the rotation base end portion, whereby the rotating tip end portion of the guiding inclined surface 643 in the switching member 641 is closer to the upright wall portion 632D. Will be displaced. Then, the amount of rotation is maximized when the rotation tip of the guide inclined surface 643 reaches a position close to the upper edge of the upright wall 632D (specifically, a position slightly above the upper edge). The member 641 stops. In such a state, the guiding inclined surface 643 is positioned on the extension of the upstream side passage 621.

  When switching to the guiding state in this way, the end of the guiding inclined surface 643 on the rotating distal end side is positioned below the end of the guiding inclined surface 643 on the rotating base end side, and the guiding The inclined surface 643 is inclined downward toward the inlet portion (opening 635) of the second downstream side passage 623. Therefore, in the same guiding state, the game ball that has flowed from the upstream passage 621 into the first downstream passage 622 collides with the guiding inclined surface 643 and moves along the guiding inclined surface 643 or the opening 635. By being reflected to the side, it is guided to the second downstream passage 623 (opening 635).

  If attention is paid to the function of guiding the game ball to the second downstream passage 623 in this way, the switching member 641 can also be referred to as “guidance means 641”. Further, if attention is paid to the fact that the game ball is prevented from flowing into the first detection area DE1 of the first downstream passage 622, the switching member 641 can also be referred to as a “shutter 641”.

  Behind the passage forming unit 630 is a biasing member 651 that biases the switching member 641 toward a position where the protrusion to the guide passage 620 is suppressed, and the switching member against the biasing force of the biasing member 651. A drive unit 650 is provided that includes a solenoid-type switching member drive unit 652 that moves the drive unit 641 to the protruding position, and a storage case 653 that stores the various components 651 and 652.

  The switching member drive unit 652 is electrically connected to the main controller 162, and switching between excitation / non-excitation is performed based on a drive signal output from the main controller 162. In addition, the switching member drive unit 652 has a movable piece that is displaced based on switching between excitation / non-excitation, and the switching member 641 is operated by the movable piece to follow the displacement of the movable piece. Displacement (switching) of the switching member 641 is realized.

  The drive unit 650 is provided with a position detection sensor 654 that detects the position of the movable piece in the switching member drive unit 652 (see FIG. 18 and the like). The position detection sensor 654 is electrically connected to the main control device 162. In the main control device 162, the position of the movable piece, that is, based on the detection signal (detection information) generated by the position detection sensor 654. The position of the switching member 641 can be grasped. As a result, it is possible to determine whether or not the position of the switching member 641 has been switched in accordance with a signal from the main controller 162, and to suppress the occurrence of a disadvantage due to malfunction or the like.

  It should be noted that the switching member 641 does not operate normally despite the drive signal being output from the main controller 162, or that the switching member 641 has been operated even when the drive signal is not output. When it is grasped, the error display lamp unit 27 and the speaker unit 29 notify that the abnormality has occurred, and the upper part indicating that the abnormality has occurred is output to the hall computer. As a result, the hall manager or the like can grasp that an abnormality has occurred in the gaming machine.

  In the present embodiment, the switching member 641 is normally held in a non-inducted state by the urging force of the urging member, and when a special win occurs in the lottery based on the winning to the right working ball entering portion 83. When the switching member drive unit 652 is driven, the switching member 641 is switched to the guiding state. That is, the inflow of game balls to the second downstream side passage 623 is allowed.

  Although details will be described later, when a game ball that has flowed into the second downstream passage 623 is detected by the downstream second detection sensor 626, the winning according to the lottery result based on winning in the right operation ball entering portion 83 is determined. When the game ball that has been confirmed and has flowed into the first downstream passage 622 is detected by the first detection sensor 625, the winning according to the lottery result based on the winning to the right operation ball entering portion 83 remains undefined. In other words, the game ball that has flowed into the guide passage 620 has a configuration in which a difference in advantages and disadvantages occurs in the subsequent game progress depending on which of the first detection area DE1 and the second detection area DE2 reaches.

  Here, the operation modes of the opening / closing door 603 and the switching member 641 will be described. The opening / closing door 603 is switched from the closed state to the open state by the driving of the variable ball driving unit 604 when a special hit occurs in the lottery based on the winning to the right operation ball entering unit 83, and is synchronized with this. When the switching member drive unit 652 is driven, the switching member 641 is switched to the guiding state. In contrast, the return timing of the opening / closing door 603 and the switching member 641 to the initial state is set so as not to be the same timing. Specifically, first, the switching member 641 is switched to the non-induction state, and after a predetermined period has elapsed from the switching timing, the open / close door 603 is switched to the closed state. Therefore, the game ball that has flowed into the right big prize opening 602 does not necessarily reach only one of the first detection area DE1 and the second detection area DE2, but the first detection area according to the inflow timing to the right big prize opening 602. The configuration is such that which of DE1 and second detection area DE2 is reached is distributed. Specifically, game balls that have flowed in immediately after opening of the opening / closing door 603 are easily guided to the second detection area DE2, and game balls that have flowed in immediately before closing of the opening / closing door 603 are likely to be guided to the first detection area DE1. The operation modes of the open / close door 603 and the switching member 641 are set.

  As described above in detail, in the configuration in which the game balls flowing down the guide passage 620 are distributed so that an advantage / disadvantage difference occurs in the middle of the game ball, a clogged ball or the like occurs in the guide passage 620 (particularly, a branch portion). Then, there is a concern that the above-mentioned distribution will not be performed normally and the player or the game hall will suffer disadvantages. Such inconvenience is assumed to easily occur due to the movement of the movable part such as the switching member. In this respect, in the present embodiment, the occurrence of the inconvenience is suitably suppressed by devising the switching member 641 and the configuration related thereto. Hereinafter, the relationship between the movement of the switching member 641 and the game ball will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 22, for convenience, a game ball that has flowed into the guide passage 620 is illustrated by a two-dot chain line. Note that the switching member 641 is normally switched in the order of the non-inductive state (initial state) → the induced state → the non-inducted state. Thereafter, switching from the non-inductive state to the inductive state will be described.

  When the switching member 641 is in the guiding state, the rotation tip portion of the switching member 641 (specifically, the guiding inclined surface 643) is aligned with the lower end portion of the opening 635 (upper end portion of the standing wall portion 632). It is arranged at the position. The gap between the guide inclined surface 643 and the standing wall portion 632 is set to be smaller than the diameter of the game ball, and the game ball B1 moved along the guide inclined surface 643 is between the switching member 641 and the standing wall portion 632. Is preferably avoided. In this guiding state, the gap between the guiding inclined surface 643 and the upper end portion of the opening 635 is set to be larger than the diameter size of the game ball, and moves along the guiding inclined surface 643. It is avoided that the game ball B1 is sandwiched between the upper end edge of the opening 635 and the guide inclined surface 643. Thereby, generation | occurrence | production of the ball clogging in the guide path 620 in a guidance state is avoided suitably.

  When returning from such a guide state to a non-guide state, the switching member 641 rotates, so that the rotation tip portion (downstream end portion) of the switch member 641 moves away from the upright wall portion 632D. . At this time, since the switching member 641 is displaced so as to pass through the region where the game ball cannot flow down in the guidance state, the switching member 641 and the passage wall surface of the guide passage 620 (for example, the lower end of the opening portion 637). There is no game ball between the edge). Therefore, it is avoided that the return of the switching member 641 to the non-induction state is hindered by the biting of the game ball.

  Next, the case where the switching member 641 switches from the non-induction state to the induction state will be described. When the switching member 641 is switched from the non-guidance state to the guidance state, the guidance inclined surface 643 moves to the side closer to the standing wall portion 632D as the switching member 641 rotates. When the game ball B2 passes through the side of the opening 635 and reaches the downstream portion 622L of the first downstream passage 622 while the gap between the guide inclined surface 643 and the standing wall portion 632D is gradually reduced, the game There is a possibility that the sphere B2 is caught (bited) between the guide inclined surface 643 and the standing wall portion 632D. If such a game ball B2 is bitten, switching of the switching member 641 to the guiding state is prevented. However, when the game ball B2 is bitten in this way, the function of guiding the subsequent game ball B2 to the opening 635 is given to the game ball B2, and the switching member 641 is switched to the guided state. At least the game ball to be guided to the opening 635 is guided to the opening 635. That is, it is possible to avoid the occurrence of a clogged ball or the like with the game ball B2 bitten as the head, and it is possible to suitably suppress a decrease in the distribution function of the game balls in the guide passage 620.

  However, it is not preferable that the game ball B2 bitten in this way remains in the guide passage 620 indefinitely from the viewpoint of improving the crime prevention function. Specifically, as described above, in the present embodiment, the number of game balls that have flowed into the guide passage 620 is compared with the number of game balls that have flowed out of the guide passage 620, thereby remaining games in the guide passage 620. By grasping the number of balls, it is possible to suppress an illegal act such as intentionally reciprocating a game ball in the guide passage 620. For this reason, it is not preferable for the game ball to remain in the guide passage 620 as described above because it may hinder the improvement of the reliability of the crime prevention function.

  In this regard, in the present embodiment, as described above, the switching member 641 is displaced so as to pass through the area where the game ball cannot flow down, so that the passage wall surfaces (for example, the switching member 641 and the guide passage 620) There is no gaming ball between the lower edge of the opening 637). That is, there is nothing that prevents the switching member 641 from returning from the state in which the game ball B2 is bitten to the non-induction state. For this reason, when the switching member 641 is rotated so as to be switched to the non-guided state, the guide inclined surface 643 moves to the side away from the standing wall portion 632. Thereby, the clearance gap between the guidance inclined surface 643 and the standing wall part 632 is expanded, and the game ball B2 sandwiched between them flows into the downstream part 622L of the first downstream passage 622.

  Since the game ball B2 whose flow has been stopped as described above passes through the side of the opening 635 and misses the opportunity to flow into the second downstream passage 623, the game ball flows into the downstream portion 622L. In this way, the player or the hall manager will not suffer any disadvantages.

  Thus, even if a game ball is caught between the switching member 641 and the passage wall surface, the distribution function in the guide passage 620 can be suitably achieved by making it possible to avoid the occurrence of a ball clogging caused by the game ball. Can be secured.

  The housing case 653 is open to the passage forming unit 630 side, and the urging member 651, the switching member driving portion 652 and the like are housed therein. The drive unit 650 is screwed to the base unit 600 together with the passage forming unit 630, whereby the units 600, 630, and 650 are integrated. In such an integrated state, the open portion of the housing case 653 is covered with the passage forming unit 630 (specifically, the base 631), and the switching member drive unit from the outside of the right variable ball entry device 85 is provided. Access to 652 and the switching member 641 becomes difficult. Further, as described above, the guide passage 620 is also sandwiched between the base unit 600 and the drive unit 650, thereby preventing the right variable pitching device 85 from being exposed to the outside. Unauthorized access to the passage 620 is suppressed.

  A vibration sensor 655 is attached to the rear side of the housing case 653 so as to protrude rearward of the gaming machine. The vibration sensor 655 can detect the vibration generated (applied) in the right variable pitching device 85.

  As described above, in the configuration in which a difference in advantage and disadvantage occurs in the subsequent game progress depending on which of the first detection area DE1 and the second detection area DE2 the game ball flowing into the guide passage 620 reaches, the pachinko machine 10 is It is assumed that an act of changing the moving destination of the game ball is performed by hitting or shaking. In this regard, in the present embodiment, by arranging the vibration sensor 655 in the right variable ball entry device 85, when such an action is performed, this can be easily grasped.

  Further, in the present embodiment, in addition to the above-described protection function against vibration and the like, a protection function against magnetism such as a magnet is provided to enhance the crime prevention in the pachinko machine 10. Specifically, in the game area PE, a plurality of magnetic sensors are arranged along the flow path of the game ball, and each of these magnetic sensors monitors whether an illegal act using a magnet or the like is performed. It is possible.

  In particular, in the right-hand variable pitching device 85, a difference between advantages and disadvantages is generated depending on the timing of entering the game ball as described above. Therefore, the inflow timing of the game ball to the right big prize opening 602 by the magnet or the like and the first It is not preferable that the game ball is arbitrarily distributed to the respective downstream passages 622 and 623 by adjusting the inflow timing to the downstream passage 622. Therefore, at least one of the above magnetic sensors is arranged around the right side variable ball entry device 85 and employs a configuration for monitoring the use of a magnet or the like around the right side variable ball entry device 85.

<Electric configuration of pachinko machine 10>
Next, the electrical configuration of the pachinko machine 10 will be described based on the block diagram of FIG.

  An MPU 702 is mounted on a main control board 701 provided in the main controller 162. The MPU 702 includes a ROM 703 storing various control programs executed by the MPU 702 and fixed value data, and a memory for temporarily storing various data when the control program stored in the ROM 703 is executed. It is an element incorporating a RAM 704, an interrupt circuit, a timer circuit, a data input / output circuit, various counter circuits as a random number generator, and the like. Note that a part of the functions of the MPU 702, such as the function of the ROM 703 and the function of the RAM 704, may be included as another element.

  The MPU 702 is provided with an input port and an output port. On the input side of the MPU 702, a power failure monitoring board 705, a payout control device 242 and various detection sensors (for example, a ball detection sensor 360 and a position detection sensor 370) provided in the main control device 162 are connected. In this case, a power / fire control device 243 is connected to the power failure monitoring board 705, and power is supplied to the MPU 702 via the power failure monitoring board 705. In addition, as part of the sensor group, a prize such as a general prize opening 81, a lower action entry part 82, a lower variable entry part 84, a right action entry part 83, a right entry part 85, a through gate 86, and the like. A plurality of detection sensors provided in the corresponding pitching part (payout-corresponding pitching part) are connected, and the MPU 702 of the main control device 162 performs a winning determination (speech determination) to each pitching part. In addition, the MPU 702 executes a lottery for winning a special jackpot or special hit based on winning for the lower operating ball entering portion 82 and the right operating ball entering portion 83, and performs a support generating lottery based on winning for the through gate 86. Run.

  On the output side of the MPU 702, a power failure monitoring board 705, a payout control device 242 and an audio lamp control device 143 (specifically an audio lamp control board) are connected. For example, a payout ball command is output to the payout control device 242 based on a winning determination result to the winning corresponding winning portion. In this case, the command information storage area 723 of the ROM 703 is referred to when the prize ball command is output. When the winning to the general winning opening 81 is specified, a winning ball command corresponding to the payout of 10 game balls is output, and when the winning to the variable pitching devices 84 and 85 is specified, 15 is received. A prize ball command corresponding to the payout of the game ball is output, and when a win to the lower operation ball entering portion 82 is specified, a prize ball command corresponding to the payout of three game balls is output and the right action is performed. When the winning to the pitching unit 83 is specified, a winning ball command corresponding to the payout of four game balls is output.

  Various commands such as a change command, a type command, a change end command, an opening command, and an ending command are output to the sound lamp control device 143. In this case, the command information storage area 723 of the ROM 703 is referred to when these various commands are output. Details of these various commands will be described later. Each command is configured as information of a predetermined number of bytes, and various information is included as information of the predetermined number of bytes.

  Further, on the output side of the MPU 702, a variable ball driving unit 84 c of the lower variable ball driving device 84, a variable ball driving unit 604 and a switching member driving unit 652 of the right variable ball driving device 85, and a right operation ball driving unit. The drive part 500 for the electric accessory in 83 and the main display unit 87 are connected. The main control board 701 is provided with various driver circuits, and the MPU 702 executes drive control of various drive units through the driver circuits.

  That is, in the opening / closing execution mode, the MPU 702 performs drive control of the variable ball driving unit 84c so that the open / close door 84b of the lower variable ball pitching device 84 is opened and closed. In addition, when the variable ball entry mechanism 400 (electrical accessory) in the right operation ball entry unit 83 is elected, the MPU 702 drives the drive unit 500 so that the variable ball entry mechanism 400 is in the receiving state. Control is executed. In each game round, the MPU 702 performs light emission control of the main display portion D.

  The power failure monitoring board 705 relays between the main control board 701 and the power / fire control device 243, and monitors the DC stable voltage of 24 volts, which is the maximum voltage output from the power / fire control device 243. The payout control device 242 controls payout of prize balls and rental balls by the payout device 224 based on the prize ball command input from the main control device 162.

  The power / launch control device 243 is connected to, for example, a commercial power source (external power source) in a game hall or the like. Based on the external power supplied from the commercial power supply, necessary operating power is generated for each of the main control board 701, the payout controller 242 and the like, and the generated operating power is supplied through a predetermined power path. To do. The power supply / launch control device 243 is responsible for launch control of the game ball launch mechanism 110, and the game ball launch mechanism 110 (specifically, the solenoid 111) is driven when predetermined launch conditions are met.

  The sound lamp control device 143 drives and controls the various lamp units 26 to 28 and the speaker unit 29 provided on the front door frame 14 and controls the display control device 825 based on various commands input from the main control device 162. To do.

The display control device 825 executes display control of the symbol display device 96 based on the command input from the sound lamp control device 143. In this case, the voice lamp control device 143 determines the symbol variation display time in the symbol display device 96 and the type of symbol combination to be finally stopped and displayed based on various commands input from the main control device 162. The presence or absence of reach and the contents of reach production are determined.
<About various counters>
Next, the operation of the pachinko machine 10 configured as described above will be described.

  The MPU 702 uses various counter information during the game to generate a jackpot or special winning lottery, display setting of the main display portion D (that is, setting of the light emission mode in the various light emitting portions DL, DR, DS, DH), and the symbol display device 96. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 24, the random number counter C1 used for the lottery of the big hit or the special win and the presence / absence of the high frequency support mode described later are set. A hit type counter C2 used for determination, a random number initial value counter CINI used for setting an initial value of the hit random number counter C1, a lower working port display unit DL and a right working port display unit DR. In addition, a variation type counter CS that determines the variation display time in the symbol display device 96 is used. Furthermore, the counter C3 for an electric accessory used for the lottery for determining whether or not the electric accessory of the right operation entering ball portion 83 is set to the electric open state is used.

  Each of the counters C1 to C3, CINI, and CS is a loop counter that adds 1 to the previous value each time it is updated, and returns to 0 after reaching the maximum value. Each counter is updated at short time intervals, and the updated value is appropriately stored in a lottery counter buffer 731 set in a predetermined area of the RAM 704. The RAM 704 is provided with a holding ball storage area 732 having a counter information storage area and an execution area for the lower working ball entry portion 82. Then, in the reserved ball storage area 732, the values of the winning random number counter C1 and the winning type counter C2 are stored in time series in accordance with the winning history of the game balls to the lower operating ball entering portion 82. It has become.

  Further, the RAM 704 is provided with a counter information storage area 733 for the right working ball entering portion 83, and the counter information storing area 733 is a random number counter corresponding to the winning of the game ball to the right working ball entering portion 83. Each value of C1 and the hit type counter C2 is stored.

  Specifically, each counter is configured so that the hit random number counter C1 is incremented by 1 in the range of, for example, 0 to 599, and returns to 0 after reaching the maximum value. In particular, when the winning random number counter C1 makes one round, the value of the initial random number counter CINI at that time is read as the initial value of the winning random number counter C1. The random number initial value counter CINI is a loop counter similar to the winning random number counter C1 (value = 0 to 599). The hit random number counter C1 is periodically updated, and stored in the reserved ball storage area 732 and the counter information storage area 733 of the RAM 704 at the timing when the game ball wins the lower operation entrance portion 82 or the right operation entrance portion 83. . More specifically, it is stored in the reserved ball storage area 732 of the RAM 704 at the timing when the game ball is won in the lower operation ball entering portion 82, and is stored in the counter information storage area of the RAM 704 at the timing when the game ball is won in the right operation ball entering portion 83. 733.

  The value of the random number that is won is stored as a success / failure table (availability information group) in a success / failure table storage area 721 as a success / failure information group storage means in the ROM 703. Here, the contents of the success / failure table will be described. As the success / failure table, two types are set in association with each of the activated ball entering portions 82 and 83 individually. In other words, a winning table for the lower working port (a lower working port pass / fail information group) and a winning for the right working ball entering portion 83 that are referred to when a winning is made to the lower working ball entering portion 82 have occurred. A right operation port success / failure table (right operation port success / failure information group) referred to in this case is set.

  In the gaming state in which the winning / failing table for the lower working port is referred to at the time of the lottery, the random number values (that is, winning information) for winning the jackpot are two, “7” and “307”. That is, among the values of the hit random number counter C1 of “0 to 599”, “7” and “307” correspond to the jackpot result, and the others correspond to the outlier result.

  On the other hand, in the gaming situation in which the winning table for the right working port is referred to at the time of the lottery, the random value (that is, the winning information) for winning the big hit is the same as the winning table for the lower working port. “7” and “307”. Further, among the values of the random number counter C1 of “0 to 599”, “51 to 60”, “151 to 160”,..., “551 to 560” correspond to the special winning results, and other than that Corresponds to outliers.

  Here, the difference between the jackpot result and the special hit result will be described. When a big win result is obtained by a lottery based on winning in each of the activated ball entering units 82 and 83, the lower variable ball entering device 84 is shifted to the opening / closing execution mode. On the other hand, when a special winning result is obtained by the lottery, the lower variable pitching device 84 is not immediately shifted to the opening / closing execution mode, but is given the right to perform another lottery again. By winning the lottery, similarly to the case of the jackpot result, the lower variable pitching device 84 is shifted to the opening / closing execution mode.

  Specifically, when a special hit result is obtained, the right variable pitching device 85 is first shifted to an open state. At that time, the winning ball is determined by the game ball that has won the right big winning opening 602 flowing into a specific branch passage among the plurality of branch passages, and the lower variable ball entering device 84 is shifted to the opening / closing execution mode. In other words, when a special win is won, a result similar to the jackpot is given to the player when the player enters a specific branch passage. If attention is paid to the fact that the winning is determined by entering a specific branch path, the branch path can also be referred to as an “advantageous entry portion”.

  Next, the win type counter C2 will be described. The hit type counter C2 is incremented by 1 within the range of 0 to 29, and returns to 0 after reaching the maximum value. The hit type counter C2 is periodically updated, and stored in the reserved ball storage area 732 and the counter information storage area 733 of the RAM 704 at the timing when the game ball wins the lower operation entrance portion 82 or the right operation entrance portion 83. . More specifically, it is stored in the reserved ball storage area 732 of the RAM 704 at the timing when the game ball is won in the lower operation ball entering portion 82, and is stored in the counter information storage area of the RAM 704 at the timing when the game ball is won in the right operation ball entering portion 83. Stored in

  The game result distribution destination for the win type counter C2 is stored as a distribution table (distribution information group) in a distribution table storage area 722 as a distribution information group storage unit in the ROM 703. Here, the contents of the distribution table will be described. Two types of sorting tables are set in association with each of the actuated balls 82 and 83 individually. In other words, the lower working port sorting table (lower working port sorting information group) and the right working ball entering unit 83 that are referred to when a prize is awarded to the lower working ball entering part 82 are received. The distribution table for the right working port (right working port sorting information group) that is referred to when it occurs is set individually. With reference to these distribution tables, the support mode distribution in the electrically-powered article of the right operation ball entering portion 83 after the opening / closing execution mode ends is performed.

  As a support mode for the electrically-powered object of the right-hand actuated ball entry portion 83, when compared with a situation in which the game ball is continuously launched in the same manner with respect to the game area PE, The low frequency support mode (the low frequency support state or the low frequency guide state) and the high frequency support mode (the high frequency support state or the high frequency) are set so that the frequency at which the objects are received in the unit time is relatively high. Guide state) is set.

  Specifically, the low-frequency support mode and the high-frequency support mode have different configurations in which the probability of winning the electrification acceptance state in the electrification lottery (support lottery) using the counter C3 for electrification is different. ing. Specifically, the random number value for winning the electrification accepting state is stored as a success / failure table (acceptance information group) in a success / failure table storage area 721 as a success / failure information group storage means in the ROM 703. Here, the contents of the success / failure table will be described. As the success / failure table, two types are set corresponding to the low frequency support mode and the high frequency support mode individually. In other words, the low-frequency support mode success / failure table (the low-frequency support mode success / failure information group) that is referred to when a winning to the through gate 86 occurs during the low-frequency support mode, and the through-gate during the high-frequency support mode. A high-frequency support mode success / failure table (high-frequency support mode success / failure information group) that is referred to when winning 86 is set.

  Here, the counter C3 for electric accessories will be described. The electric accessory counter C3 is, for example, configured to increment one by one within a range of 0 to 249 and return to 0 after reaching the maximum value. The electric accessory counter C3 is periodically updated and stored in the electric accessory counter information storage area 734 of the RAM 704 at the timing when a game ball wins the through gate 86. Then, at a predetermined timing, a lottery is performed as to whether or not to control the electric accessory of the right-hand actuated ball entering portion 83 to the receiving state based on the stored value of the counter C3 for electric accessory.

  When a lottery for an electric accessory is performed using the success / failure table for the low frequency support mode, if the value of C3 is “0 to 24”, the electric accessory is controlled to an acceptance state, and “25 to 249”. If so, the electric accessory is not controlled to be received. In other words, the probability of winning the winning role of electric role is set to be 1/10. On the other hand, when a lottery for an electric accessory is performed using the success / failure table for the high frequency support mode, if the value of C3 is “0 to 199”, the electric accessory is controlled to be received, and “200 to If "249", the electric accessory is not controlled to be received. In other words, the probability of winning the electrification acceptance state is set to be 8/10. This ensures the superiority of the high frequency support mode over the low frequency support mode.

  In addition, in the high frequency support mode, the number of times that the electric charge is in the reception state when the electrification acceptance state is won is set more than in the low frequency support mode, and the time for one reception is set longer. ing. In this case, in the high frequency support mode, when the electrified state is elected and the electrified state of the electric component occurs multiple times, the waiting time from the end of one accepting state until the start of the next accepting state Is set to be shorter than one acceptance time. Furthermore, in the high frequency support mode, the minimum secured time (interval) that is secured when the next lottery for the electric utility product is performed after the first lottery for the electric power product is performed, compared to the low frequency support mode. Is set short. As a result, there is a difference in the advantage between the low frequency support mode and the high frequency support mode, and when the game is aimed at the through gate 86 during the low frequency support mode, It is set so as to be disadvantageous for the player as compared to the case where the game is aimed at 82.

  As described above, in the high-frequency support mode, the probability that a winning to the right-hand acted ball entering portion 83 occurs is higher than in the low-frequency support mode. In other words, in the low frequency support mode, there is a higher probability of winning the lower operation ball entry portion 82 than in the right operation ball entry portion 83, but in the high frequency support mode, the lower operation ball entry portion 82. As a result, the probability that a winning in the right-hand actuated ball entering portion 83 will occur becomes higher. When a winning is made to the right-hand actuated pitching portion 83, a predetermined number of game balls are paid out. Therefore, in the high-frequency support mode, the player plays a game while not reducing the number of possessed balls so much. It can be performed.

  Note that the configuration for increasing the frequency at which the high-frequency support mode is set to the power-accepting state per unit time as compared to the low-frequency support mode is not limited to the above, and for example, switching to the receiving state Increase the number of times, lengthen the acceptance time, and shorten the minimum secured time when the next lot of electric power objects is performed after the first electric character lottery is performed (that is, through High-frequency support mode for low-frequency support mode by applying any one condition or any combination of conditions among shortening the fluctuation display time in the gate display section DS and increasing the winning probability The advantage of may be increased. In addition, it is not always necessary to set a difference in the probability of winning the electrification acceptance state (winning probability) in the lottery for electrical equipment (support lottery), and the high frequency support mode is operated per unit time more than the low frequency support mode. If the frequency of entering the role accepting state can be increased, it is possible to set the probabilities of winning the electrified accepting state to be the same.

  However, the high-frequency support mode shifts to the low-frequency support mode when the number of games reaches the end reference number (specifically, 100 times) after the shift.

  In the pachinko machine 10, the distribution mode to the low-frequency support mode and the high-frequency support mode in the case of a big hit result or a special hit result is a win based on winning in the lower operation ball entering portion 82. And the case where the winning combination is based on the winning to the right-hand actuated entry portion 83.

  Specifically, in the gaming state in which the lower work opening success / failure table is referred to at the time of the allocation, the random number value (that is, the winning information) for winning the high frequency support mode is “0 to 14”. It is 15 pieces. On the other hand, under the gaming situation in which the distribution table for the right working port is referred to at the time of the distribution, the random number value (that is, the winning information) for winning the high-frequency support mode is 25 of “0-24”. It is a piece. In other words, if a big win is won by winning the lower operating ball entering portion 82, it will be assigned to the high frequency support mode with a probability of 1/2, and a win or special win will be won by winning the right operating ball entering portion 83 In this case, the high frequency support mode is assigned with a probability of 5/6.

  In addition, when it becomes a losing result in the success / failure lottery, the mode does not shift to the opening / closing execution mode, and the support mode is not changed.

  For example, the variation type counter CS is incremented one by one within a range of “0 to 198”, for example, and after reaching the maximum value, returns to 0. The variation type counter CS is used when the MPU 702 determines the variation display time in the lower working port display portion DL of the main display unit 87 and the symbol variation display time in the symbol display device 96. The variation type counter CS is updated once every time a normal process to be described later is executed once, and is repeatedly updated even within the remaining time in the normal process. Then, the buffer value of the variation type counter CS is acquired when the variation pattern is determined at the start of variation display in the lower working port display unit DL and at the time of symbol variation start by the symbol display device 96.

  As already described, in the MPU 702, at least the buffer value of the variation type counter CS is used to determine the variation display time in the lower working port display unit DL. Is used. Further, the MPU 702 uses the value of the hit random number counter C1 and the value of the hit type counter C2 stored in the execution area to determine the stop results in the lower working port display unit DL and the right working port display unit DR. However, the stop result table storage area of the ROM 703 is used for the determination.

<About various processes executed by MPU 702 of main control board 701>
Next, each control process executed by the MPU 702 of the main control board 701 will be described. The processing of the MPU 702 is roughly classified into a normal process that is started when the power is turned on and a timer interrupt process that is started by periodically interrupting the normal process. For convenience of explanation, the timer interrupt process is described first. Thereafter, the normal process will be described. The MPU 702 is activated by inputting a power interruption signal to the NMI terminal (non-maskable terminal) in addition to the timer interrupt process and the normal process, and a power interruption flag storage area (power interruption information storage in the various flag storage areas of the RAM 704). NMI interrupt processing for storing a power interruption flag (power interruption information) in the means) is executed, but a detailed description of the processing is omitted.
<Timer interrupt processing>
First, timer interrupt processing will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. This process is started periodically by the MPU 702 (for example, at a cycle of 2 msec).

  In step S101, various detection sensor reading processes are executed. That is, the state of various detection sensors connected to the main control device 162 is read, the state of the detection sensors is determined, and detection information (winning detection information) is stored.

  Thereafter, in step S102, the random number initial value counter CINI is updated. Specifically, the random number initial value counter CINI is incremented by 1 and cleared to 0 when the counter value reaches the maximum value. Then, the update value of the random number initial value counter CINI is stored in the corresponding buffer area of the RAM 704.

  In the subsequent step S103, the winning random number counter C1, the hit type counter C2, and the electric utility counter C3 are updated. Specifically, the hit random number counter C1, the hit type counter C2, and the electric accessory counter C3 are each incremented by 1, and are cleared to 0 when the counter values reach the maximum value. Then, the updated values of the counters C1 to C3 are stored in the corresponding buffer area of the RAM 704.

  In the subsequent step S104, a winning process for the through gate accompanying the winning to the through gate 86 is executed.

<Winning process for through gate>
Here, the winning process for the through gate will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In the winning process for the through gate, first, an update process of the first limit counter LC1 is executed in step S201. The first limit counter LC <b> 1 is a counter that is referred to when limiting an information acquisition procedure described later over a predetermined period, and is stored in various counter areas 735 of the RAM 704. In the case of winning a support lottery (open lottery) of the right-hand acted ball entering portion 83 in a power combination support process described later, a predetermined value is set in the first limit counter LC1. In this update process, when the value of the first limit counter LC1 is “0”, the value is maintained, and when the value of the first limit counter LC1 is not “0”, the first limit counter LC1 is maintained. The value of “1” is subtracted. After executing the update process in step S201, the process proceeds to step S202.

  In step S202, it is determined based on the detection information read in step S101 whether or not the game ball has passed through the through gate 86, that is, whether or not a winning has occurred in the through gate 86. If a negative determination is made in step S202, the main winning process is terminated as it is. On the other hand, if an affirmative determination is made in step S202, the process proceeds to step S203 to determine whether or not the first limit counter LC1 is “0”.

  If a negative determination is made in step S203, the main winning process is terminated as it is. On the other hand, if an affirmative determination is made in step S203, the process proceeds to step S204, and information acquisition processing is executed. In the information acquisition process, the value of the counter for electric charge C3 is stored in the counter information storage area for electric power 734 in the RAM 704. In subsequent step S205, a winning flag for through gate is set in various flag storage areas 736 of the RAM 704, and the main winning process is terminated.

  After the through winning process is executed in step S104, the process proceeds to step S105, and the working port winning process is performed in accordance with winning in the working ball units 82 and 83.

<Winning process for working port>
Hereinafter, with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In the winning process for the operating pitching part, first, an update process of the second limit counter LC2 is executed in step S301. The second limit counter LC <b> 2 is a counter that is referred to when limiting an information acquisition process to be described later over a predetermined period, and is stored in various counter areas 735 of the RAM 704. In the update process, when the value of the second limit counter LC2 is “0”, the value is maintained, and when the value of the second limit counter LC2 is not “0”, the second limit counter LC2 is maintained. The value of “1” is subtracted. After executing the update process in step S301, the process proceeds to step S302.

  In step S <b> 302, it is determined whether or not the game ball has entered the lower working ball entering portion 82 (start winning prize) based on the detection state of the detection sensor corresponding to the lower working ball entering portion 82. If it is determined that the game ball has won the lower operation ball entering portion 82, the process proceeds to step S303, and a prize ball command for paying out three game balls is set. This prize ball command is transmitted to the payout control device 242 in an external output process of a normal process described later.

  In the subsequent step S304, an external signal setting process is performed in order to output a signal to the management control device on the game hall side that the game ball has won the lower operation ball entry portion 82. Thereafter, in step S305, an information acquisition process for storing each value of the winning random number counter C1 and the winning type counter C2 is performed, and the main winning process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S302 that the game ball has not won the lower action entry portion 82, the process proceeds to step S306, where the game ball has entered the right action entry portion 83 (start prize). Whether or not is determined by the detection state of the detection sensor 360 corresponding to the right-hand actuated entrance portion 83. If a negative determination is made in step S306, that is, if it is determined that no game ball has entered any of the lower operation entrance portion 82 and the right operation entrance portion 83, the main winning process is terminated. To do.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step S306, that is, if it is determined that the game ball has won the right-hand actuated ball entering portion 83, the process proceeds to step S307, and a prize ball command for paying out four game balls is set. . This prize ball command is transmitted to the payout control device 242 in an external output process of a normal process described later. In subsequent step S308, an external signal setting process is performed in order to output a signal to the management control device on the game hall side that the game ball has won the lower operation ball entry portion 82.

  Then, it progresses to step S309 and it is determined whether it is during the period when the information acquisition process is effective. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the value of the second limit counter LC2 is “0”. If a negative determination is made in step S309, the main winning process is terminated as it is. On the other hand, if an affirmative determination is made in step S309, the process proceeds to step S310, and information acquisition processing is executed.

  In the information acquisition process of step S310, each value of the hit random number counter C1, the hit type counter C2, and the reach random number counter is stored in the counter information storage area 733 of the RAM 704. Thereafter, the main winning process is terminated.

  The prize ball command set in steps S303 and S307 is transmitted to the payout control device 242 in an external output process (step S301) of a normal process described later.

  After executing the winning process for the working pitching part in step S105, the winning process for the right variable winning apparatus is executed in step S106, and then the timer interruption process is terminated.

<Winning process for the right-hand variable pitching device>
The right variable pitching device 85 in the present embodiment is normally in a closed state in which it is not possible to enter a ball, and is switched to an open state in which the ball is allowed to enter when a special hit occurs. Although the details will be described later, a period in which a ball is assumed to be generated by switching from the closed state to the open state to the closed state is set in advance. Sphere), and game balls are not paid out for incoming balls outside the same period. That is, in the right variable pitching device 85, an effective period for determining whether or not a prize ball is allowed is set.

  In the winning process for the right big prize opening, first, it is determined whether or not the game ball payout (prize ball) based on the winning to the right variable pitching device 85 (right big prize winning opening 602) is valid. To do. If it is during the effective period, the presence / absence of a winning is determined based on the result of the winning determination based on the detection signal from the upstream side detection sensor 605. If it is determined that the game ball has won the right variable pitching device 85 (right large prize opening 602), a prize ball command for causing the payout device 224 to pay out 10 game balls is set. Note that the winning ball command set in the winning process for the right side big winning opening is transmitted to the payout control device 242 in the external output process of the normal process described later.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that it is not during the effective period, or when it is determined that no winning has occurred even during the effective period, the winning process of the right variable pitching unit is terminated.

<Normal processing>
Next, the flow of normal processing will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The normal process is a process that is started after the main process that is activated when the power is turned on, and the main process of the game is executed in the normal process. As an overview, the processing of steps S401 to S406 is executed as a periodic processing with a period of 4 msec, and the counter update processing of steps S408 and S409 is executed with the remaining time.

  In the normal process, first, in step S201, output data such as a command set in the timer interrupt process or the previous normal process is transmitted to each control device on the sub side. Specifically, the presence or absence of a prize ball command is determined, and if a prize ball command is set, it is transmitted to the payout control device 242. In addition, when a predetermined effect command or various abnormality notification commands are set, the command is transmitted to the sound lamp control device 143.

  Next, in step S402, the variation type counter CS is updated. Specifically, the variation type counter CS is incremented by 1, and the counter value is cleared to 0 when the counter value reaches the maximum value. Then, the update value of the variation type counter CS is stored in the corresponding buffer area of the RAM 704.

  In subsequent step S403, a game time control process for controlling a game in each game time is executed. In this game times control process, jackpot determination or special hit determination is performed, symbol variation display setting by the symbol display device 96, display control of the display units DL and DR on the variable display side, and the like are performed.

<Game times control processing>
Here, the game times control process of step S403 will be described in detail with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.

  As shown in FIG. 29, in the game times control process, first, in step S501, it is determined whether or not the opening / closing execution mode is in effect. Specifically, it is determined whether the opening / closing execution mode flag (opening / closing execution state information) is stored (stored) in the opening / closing execution mode flag storage area (opening / closing execution state information storage means) in the various flag storage areas 736 of the RAM 704. To do. The opening / closing execution mode flag is stored when the gaming state is shifted to the opening / closing execution mode in the gaming state transition process described later, and is erased when the opening / closing execution mode is ended in the gaming state transition process.

  When the open / close execution mode is in effect, the processing after step S502, that is, the game turn start processing at steps S503 to S505 and the game turn progress processing at steps S506 to S509 are not executed. The control process ends. In other words, in the open / close execution mode, the game turn is not started regardless of whether or not a winning is made to the operating ball entering portions 82 and 83 (the operating ports 82a and 311).

  If it is not in the opening / closing execution mode, in step S502, it is determined whether or not any one of the lower working port display portion DL and the right working port display portion DR is in a variable display state, ie, It is determined whether or not a game for one game is being executed. This determination is made as to whether or not the variable display flag (variable display information) is stored (stored) in the variable display flag storage area (variable display information storage unit) in the various flag storage areas 736 of the RAM 704. This is done by judging. The variable display flag is stored when the variable display is started for one of the lower working port display unit DL and the right working port display unit DR, and is erased when the variable display is finished.

  When the operation port display portions DL and DR are not in a variable display, the process proceeds to a game turn starting process. In the game turn starting process, first, in step S503, it is determined whether or not a ball has entered the working ball entering portions 82 and 83. Specifically, first, it is determined whether or not the counter information is stored in the counter information storage area 733, and further, with reference to the total number-of-holds storage area of the reservation ball storage area 732, It is determined whether or not the number is “0”. If no balls have entered into both the actuated balls 82 and 83, the game times control process is terminated.

  On the other hand, when the entrance into the operation entrance parts 82 and 83 has occurred, in step S504, the storage ball storage area 732 for the lower operation entrance part or the counter information for the right operation entrance part is stored. Based on the data stored in the area 733, a data setting process for setting for variable display is executed.

  In the data setting process, first, it is determined whether or not the counter information is stored in the counter information storage area 732 for the lower operation ball entry portion. When counter information is stored in the counter information storage area 732, a process of shifting the counter information to an execution area that is referred to at the time of execution of a success / failure lottery described later is executed. As a result, when counter information is stored in both the holding ball storage area 732 for the lower working entrance and the counter information storage area 733 for the right working entrance, the lower operation entrance 83 Counter information corresponding to is preferentially handled.

  On the other hand, when the counter information is not stored in the counter information storage area 732 for the lower working ball entry portion, it is determined whether the counter information is stored in the reserved ball storage area 733 for the right operation ball entry portion. judge. When the counter information is stored in the holding ball storage area 733, the data stored in the first area of the right working ball holding unit holding area is moved to the execution area, and the right working ball holding unit holding area. A process of shifting data stored in the storage area is executed. Then, one LED of the holding number display section DH that is lit is extinguished.

  When the counter information based on the entrance to the lower operation entrance portion 82 is transferred to the execution area, the first result display flag is stored in the various flag storage areas 736 of the RAM 704, and the right operation entrance portion is stored in the execution area. When the counter information based on the entry to 83 is transferred, the second result display flag is stored in various flag storage areas 736 of the RAM 704. Each of these flags is referred to when specifying whether the start of the current variation display is the lower working port display unit DL or the right working port display unit DR.

  After executing the data setting process described in detail above, after executing the change start process for starting the change display on the main display device 69 and the change display on the symbol display device 96 in step S505, Exit.

<Variation start processing>
Here, with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 30, the variation start processing in step S <b> 505 will be described.

  In the variation start process, first, in step S601, a success / failure determination process is executed. In the success / failure determination process, first, it is identified whether the current determination is based on the entry into the lower operation entry portion 82 or the entry into the right operation entry portion 83. Specifically, the entry destination is identified based on which of the first result display flag and the second result display flag is stored in the various flag storage areas 736 of the RAM 704.

  When the first result display flag is stored in the various flag storage areas 736 of the RAM 704, that is, when the current winning / failing determination is based on the entrance into the lower operation entrance portion 82, the acceptance table storage area. In the table stored in 721, with reference to the success / failure table for the lower action entry part, the information for success / failure determination among the information stored in the execution area, that is, the numerical information related to the hit random number counter C1 is the same. It is determined whether or not it matches the jackpot value information of the table, and if it does not match the jackpot value information, it is determined whether or not it matches the special outlier value information.

  On the other hand, if the second result display flag is stored in the various flag storage areas 736 of the RAM 704, that is, if the current winning / failing determination is based on the entrance to the right operation entrance portion 83, the acceptance / rejection table storage is performed. Of the information stored in the area 721, with reference to the right / left action entry table, the information for determining whether or not the information stored in the execution area, that is, the numerical information related to the hit random number counter C1 is the same. It is determined whether or not it matches the jackpot value information of the table, and if it does not match the jackpot value information, it is determined whether or not it matches the special outlier value information.

  In a succeeding step S602, it is determined whether or not the result of the success / failure determination process in the step S601 is a jackpot winning result. If it is not the big win result, the process proceeds to step S603 to determine whether or not the result of the success / failure determination process is a special win result.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step S603, a distribution determination process is executed in subsequent step S604.

  In the allocation determination process, first, it is identified whether the current determination is based on the entry into the lower operation entry portion 82 or the entry into the right operation entry portion 83. Specifically, the entry destination is identified based on which of the first result display flag and the second result display flag is stored in the various flag storage areas 736 of the RAM 704.

  When the first result display flag is stored in the various flag storage area 736 of the RAM 704, that is, when the current lottery is based on the entry into the lower operation entry portion 82, the distribution table storage area. Referring to the success / failure table for the lower action entry portion in the table stored in 722, information for distribution determination among the information stored in the execution area, that is, numerical information related to the hit type counter C2 is obtained. The special hit result in the table is specified. Specifically, the special hit result corresponding to the high-frequency support mode compatible special hit result or the high-frequency support mode non-compatible (low frequency support mode compatible) special hit result is specified.

  On the other hand, when the second result display flag is stored in the various flag storage areas 736 of the RAM 704, that is, when the current lottery is based on the entry into the right operation entry portion 83, the sorting table is stored. Referring to the right-hand actuated entrance / exit determination table in the table stored in area 722, information for allocation determination among the information stored in the execution area, that is, numerical information related to the hit type counter C2 is obtained. The special hit result in the table is specified. Specifically, the special hit result corresponding to the high-frequency support mode compatible special hit result or the high-frequency support mode non-compatible (low frequency support mode compatible) special hit result is specified.

  After executing the distribution determination process in step S604, the process proceeds to step S605, and it is determined whether or not the current hit result corresponds to the high frequency support mode.

  When an affirmative determination is made in step S605, the process proceeds to step S606, and a stop result setting process for the special hit result corresponding to the high frequency support mode is executed. Specifically, the pattern that is finally stopped and displayed on the main display portion D of the main display device 69 (specifically, the right working port display portion DR and the lower working port display portion DL) in the game round relating to the start of the current variation. The mode information (e.g., emission color) is specified from the stop result table for hit results stored in advance in the ROM 703, and the specified information is stored in the RAM 704.

  In this stop result table for winning results, the types of patterns stopped and displayed on the main display portion D are set differently for each hit result type. In step S606, steps S601 and S604 are set. The RAM 704 stores information on the pattern mode corresponding to the type of the hit result specified in the above.

  In addition, the information on the type of the picture to be stopped and displayed is determined according to each hit type. In this case, the pattern mode may be set in a one-to-one correspondence with each game result, and a plurality of types of pattern modes may be set for each game result.

  In the subsequent step S607, processing for setting a flag corresponding to the type of the special winning result specified in step S403 in the various flag storage areas 736 of the RAM 704 is executed.

  On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in step S605, the process proceeds to step S608, and a stop result setting process for the high-frequency support mode non-corresponding special hit result (low-frequency support mode-compatible special hit result) is executed. Specifically, the pattern that is finally stopped and displayed on the main display portion D of the main display device 69 (specifically, the right working port display portion DR and the lower working port display portion DL) in the game round relating to the start of the current variation. The mode information (e.g., emission color) is specified from the stop result table for hit results stored in advance in the ROM 703, and the specified information is stored in the RAM 704. In the subsequent step S609, processing for setting a flag in the RAM 704 according to the type of the special winning result specified in step S604 is executed.

  If negative determination is made in both steps S602 and S603, a stop result setting process for removal is executed in step S610. Specifically, the stop result for the detachment result stored in advance in the ROM 703 is used to store information on the pattern mode that is finally stopped and displayed on the main display unit D of the main display device 69 in the game round relating to the start of the current variation. The information is specified from the table, and the specified information is stored in the RAM 704.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step S602, that is, if a big win is won, the process proceeds to step S611 to execute a distribution determination process.

  In the allocation determination process, first, it is identified whether the current determination is based on the entry into the lower operation entry portion 82 or the entry into the right operation entry portion 83. Specifically, the entry destination is identified based on which of the first result display flag and the second result display flag is stored in the various flag storage areas 736 of the RAM 704.

  When the first result display flag is stored in the various flag storage area 736 of the RAM 704, that is, when the current lottery is based on the entry into the lower operation entry portion 82, the distribution table storage area. Referring to the success / failure table for the lower action entry portion in the table stored in 722, information for distribution determination among the information stored in the execution area, that is, numerical information related to the hit type counter C2 is obtained. Specify which jackpot result in the table corresponds to. Specifically, it is specified which jackpot result corresponds to the jackpot result corresponding to the high-frequency support mode or the jackpot result not corresponding to the high-frequency support mode (corresponding to the low-frequency support mode).

  On the other hand, when the second result display flag is stored in the various flag storage areas 736 of the RAM 704, that is, when the current lottery is based on the entry into the right operation entry portion 83, the sorting table is stored. Referring to the right-hand actuated entrance / exit determination table in the table stored in area 722, information for allocation determination among the information stored in the execution area, that is, numerical information related to the hit type counter C2 is obtained. Specify which jackpot result in the table corresponds to. Specifically, it is specified which jackpot result corresponds to the jackpot result corresponding to the high-frequency support mode or the jackpot result not corresponding to the high-frequency support mode (corresponding to the low-frequency support mode).

  After executing the distribution determination process in step S611, the process proceeds to step S612 to determine whether or not the current hit result corresponds to the high frequency support mode.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step S612, the process advances to step S613 to execute a stop result setting process for the high-frequency support mode compatible jackpot result. Specifically, the pattern that is finally stopped and displayed on the main display portion D of the main display device 69 (specifically, the right working port display portion DR and the lower working port display portion DL) in the game round relating to the start of the current variation. The mode information (e.g., emission color) is specified from the stop result table for hit results stored in advance in the ROM 703, and the specified information is stored in the RAM 704.

  In this stop result table for winning results, the types of patterns stopped and displayed on the main display portion D are set differently for each hit result type. In step S613, steps S601 and S612 are set. The RAM 704 stores information on the pattern mode corresponding to the type of the hit result specified in the above.

  In addition, the information on the type of the picture to be stopped and displayed is determined according to each hit type. In this case, the pattern mode may be set in a one-to-one correspondence with each game result, and a plurality of types of pattern modes may be set for each game result.

  In the subsequent step S614, processing for setting a flag corresponding to the type of the special winning result specified in step S613 in the various flag storage areas 736 of the RAM 704 is executed.

  On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in step S612, the process proceeds to step S615 to execute a stop result setting process for the high-frequency support mode non-corresponding jackpot result (low-frequency support mode-compatible jackpot result). Specifically, the pattern that is finally stopped and displayed on the main display portion D of the main display device 69 (specifically, the right working port display portion DR and the lower working port display portion DL) in the game round relating to the start of the current variation. The mode information (e.g., emission color) is specified from the stop result table for hit results stored in advance in the ROM 703, and the specified information is stored in the RAM 704. In the subsequent step S616, processing for setting a flag corresponding to the type of the special winning result specified in step S615 in the various flag storage areas 736 of the RAM 704 is executed.

  In the following description, whether or not the special hit results are obtained is determined by determining whether or not a flag corresponding to the RAM 704 is set.

  As described above, different display contents are set depending on the presence / absence of occurrence and the type of the result display, or even completely off. As a result, when the game round is completed, the manager of the game hall displays the variable display related to the game round among the lower working opening display section DL and the right working opening display section DR of the main display section D. By looking at the main display section D, it is possible to monitor what the game result of the game time is.

  In particular, the lower working port display unit DL and the right working port display unit DR provided in the main display unit D are display units that are directly displayed and controlled by the main control unit 162, so that the sub display control unit 825 includes the sub display control unit 825. Compared to a display unit (for example, the symbol display device 96) that intervenes during display control, the display reliability is high.

  However, as described above, with respect to the main display portion D, a plurality of display portions such as the lower working port display portion DL and the right working port display portion DR are aggregated, and which portion shows what content. It has become difficult to figure out. Furthermore, since it is smaller than the display screen 96a of the symbol display device 96 and is arranged closer to the edge of the game area PE, its visibility is also lower than that of the display screen 96a. For this reason, it is assumed that the player's attention tends to be directed to the display screen 96a. Therefore, as described above, even if the display contents are temporarily different between the main display unit D and the display screen 96a, it is preferable to suppress the player from noticing such a difference compared to the hall manager. Can do.

  After executing the processes of steps S607, S609, S610, S614, and S616, the process proceeds to step S617, and the process for setting the variable display time (variable display duration) is executed.

  In this process, the value of the variation type counter CS stored in the variation type counter buffer in the lottery counter buffer of the RAM 704 is acquired. Further, it is determined whether or not a reach display is generated in the symbol display device 96 in the current game round. Specifically, when the game times related to the start of the current variation is a jackpot result or a special hit result, it is determined that reach display occurs. In addition, even if neither the jackpot result nor the special hit result is reached, if the numerical information related to the reach random number counter stored in the execution area is the numerical information corresponding to the occurrence of reach, the reach display is generated. Judge that.

  When it is determined that reach display occurs, display duration information corresponding to the value of the current variation type counter CS is acquired by referring to the reach generation display duration table stored in the ROM 703 and displayed. The duration information is set in a display duration counter provided in various counter areas 735 of the RAM 704. On the other hand, when it is determined that the reach display does not occur, the display duration information corresponding to the value of the current variation type counter CS is acquired by referring to the reach non-occurrence display duration table stored in the ROM 703. The display duration information is set in the display duration counter. Incidentally, the display duration that can be acquired with reference to the reach non-occurrence display duration table is different from the display duration that can be acquired with reference to the reach occurrence display duration table.

  In particular, when the game result of the current game round is a special hit result, the common variation display time table (common variation display time information group) in the reach generation display duration table stored in the ROM 703 is referred to. Thus, the fluctuation display time information corresponding to the value of the current fluctuation type counter CS is acquired, and the fluctuation display time information is set in a display continuation period counter (fluctuation display time measuring means) provided in various counter areas 735 of the RAM 704. To do. Thereafter, the setting process ends.

  Note that the display duration information when no reach occurs is set so that the display duration is shortened as the number of reserved storages increases. In the situation where the support mode is the high frequency support mode, the non-reach mode is selected so that a shorter display duration is selected compared to the case where the number of the hold information is the same as in the situation where the low frequency support mode. The generation display duration table is set. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a configuration in which the display duration time does not vary according to the number of common reserved memories and the support mode may be used, and the above relationship may be reversed. Furthermore, the above-described configuration may be applied to the display continuation time when reach occurs. In addition, in the case of various jackpot results, special hit results, a case of outreach and a case of a non-reach outbreak result, a display duration table may be set individually. In this case, the display duration time is allocated according to each game result.

  After the display continuation time setting process is executed in step S617, a change start command and a type command are set in step S618. The change start command includes information on whether or not reach has occurred and whether or not special reach has occurred, and information on change display time. The type command includes game result information. That is, the type command includes jackpot result information, special jackpot result information, missed result information, and the like as game result information.

  Here, the display duration obtained by referring to the display non-occurrence display duration table as described above is different from the display duration obtained by referring to the display occurrence time table for reach occurrence. Even if the information on the presence / absence of reach has not been included in the command, the audio lamp control device 143, which is the sub-side control device, can identify the presence / absence of reach from the display duration information. In this regard, it can be said that the change command includes information indicating whether or not reach has occurred. Note that the change command may include information that directly indicates whether or not reach has occurred.

  The variation start command and type command set in step S618 are transmitted to the sound lamp control device 143 in step S401 in the normal process (FIG. 28). Based on the received change start command and type command, the audio lamp control device 143 determines the contents of the effect at the game time and controls various devices so that the determined contents of the effect are executed. The contents of the effect include a symbol variation display mode on the symbol display device 96, and the determined symbol variation display mode is output from the sound lamp control device 143 to the display control device 825 as a display content command. Is done. The display control device 825 controls the display of the symbol display device 96 based on the display content command received from the sound lamp control device 143 so that the symbol change display corresponding to each game time is performed. Details of processing in the display control device 825 upon receipt of these commands will be described later.

  After the process of step S618 is executed, the fluctuation display of the pattern is started on the main display unit D in step S619, and then the fluctuation start process is terminated.

  Returning to the description of the game times control process (FIG. 29) again, when the main display portion D (specifically, the operation port display portions DL and DR) is variably displayed, the game times advancement of steps S506 to S509 is performed. Execute the process.

  In the process for advancing game times, first, in step S506, it is determined whether or not the current game time fluctuation display time has elapsed. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the value of the display continuation period counter (variable display time information) provided in the various counter areas 735 of the RAM 704 is “0”. The value of the variable display time information is set in the variable display time setting process as described above. The set value of the variable display time information is decremented by 1 every time the timer interrupt process (FIG. 25) is started.

  If the variable display time has not elapsed, the variable display process is executed in step S507. In the variable display process, the display mode in the main display portion D (specifically, the lower working port display portion DL or the right working port display portion DR) is changed. Specifically, in the variable display process, the LEDs of the operation port display units DL and DR related to the current game turn are turned on and off in a predetermined cycle, and the emission color is changed. Display control (light emission control of each display LED) is performed on the operation port display portions DL and DR. Then, this game times control process is complete | finished.

  If the display continuation time has elapsed, a change end process is executed in step S508. In the change end process, the information stored in the RAM 704 in any of steps S606, S608, S610, S613, and S615 of the change start process (FIG. 30) executed when the currently executed game round is started. The main display unit 87 is controlled to be specified so that the pattern form corresponding to the information is displayed on the operation port display portions DL and DR of the main display portion D.

  In the subsequent step S509, after setting the change end command, the game times control process is ended. The change end command set in step S509 is transmitted to the sound lamp control device 143 in step S401 in the normal process (FIG. 28). The sound lamp control device 143 executes a process for ending the effect in the game times based on the reception of the change end command. Further, the change end command is transmitted to the display control device 825 via the sound lamp control device 143, and the display control device 825 receives the change end command to determine the combination of the final stop symbols in the game round. A fixed display (final stop display) is performed on the display screen 96a of the symbol display device 96. Note that a configuration may be employed in which the effect for playing the game is ended independently by the sound lamp control device 143 or the display control device 825 without transmitting the change end command.

  As shown in FIG. 28, after executing the game times control process of step S403, the process proceeds to step S404, and the game state transition process is executed. By this gaming state transition process, the gaming state transitions to an opening / closing execution mode, a high frequency support mode, or the like.

<Game state transition processing>
Here, the gaming state transition processing in step S404 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  First, in step S701, it is determined whether or not the open / close execution mode corresponding to the jackpot result or the special hit result is in effect. If it is not in the opening / closing execution mode corresponding to the big hit result or the special hit result, the process proceeds to step S702. In step S702, it is determined whether the lottery result determination mode corresponding to the special winning result is in progress. In other words, it is determined whether or not the lottery result based on the winning to the right-hand actuated pitching unit 83 becomes a special winning result, and the mode is switched to a mode in which the inflow of the game ball to the right variable pitching device 85 is allowed.

  In each of step S701 and step S702, the determination is made based on whether or not the flags corresponding to the opening / closing execution mode flag storage area and the lottery result determination mode flag storage area provided in the various flag storage areas 736 are set. Note that the lottery result confirmation mode flag is stored in the flag storage area by winning a special winning when a lottery based on winning in the right-hand acted ball entering portion 83 is performed.

  If it is determined in step S702 that the lottery result determination mode corresponding to the special winning result is in progress, the process proceeds to a special winning transition process in step S703.

<Migration processing for special bonus>
Here, the special winning transition process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In the special winning transition process, first, in step S801, it is determined whether or not the value of the first timer counter TC1 stored in the various counter areas 735 of the RAM 704 is “0”. The first timer counter TC1 is a counter used for measuring the operation period (opening period) in the right variable pitching device 85 and the above-described winning valid period.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step S801, that is, if it is the transition timing to the lottery result determination mode, the process proceeds to step S802, and the switching member 641 is switched from the non-guided state to the guided state. Specifically, by starting the output of the drive signal to the drive unit 652 and exciting the drive unit 652, the movable piece of the drive unit 652 is displaced against the urging force of the urging member 651, and the switching member 641 is switched from the non-inductive state to the inductive state. This disables the inflow of game balls to the downstream portion 622L of the first downstream passage 622 and allows the game balls to be guided to the second downstream passage 623.

  After executing the driving process in step S802, the process proceeds to step S803, where “1425: (corresponding to 5700 msec)” is set in the first timer counter TC1. After the setting process of the first timer counter TC1 is completed, the process proceeds to step S804, the opening process of the right variable pitching device 85 is executed, and the special winning transition process is terminated.

  In the opening process of the right variable pitching device, a drive signal is output to the variable pitch driving unit 604 so as to open the right large winning opening 602, and the variable pitching driving unit 604 is in an excited state. As a result, the open / close door 603 covering the right large winning opening 602 is switched from the closed state to the open state. In the process of step S804, a confirmation mode start command transmitted to the audio lamp control device 143 in the external output process (step S401) is set.

  In the sound lamp control device 143, based on the received confirmation mode start command, the effect when the right variable pitching device 85 is open in the lottery result confirmation execution mode corresponding to the special winning result is determined and determined. Various devices are controlled so that the contents of the performance are executed.

  After executing the process of step S804, the process proceeds to step S805, where “3470” is set in the second limit counter LC2, and the transition process for the special win is completed. The second limit counter LC2 is gradually subtracted by being periodically updated as described above, and finally the value is returned to “0”. The information acquisition process in step S310 is limited. In other words, when a game ball enters the right-hand actuated entrance portion 83 and wins in a lottery process based on the information acquisition process based on the entry, the next information acquisition process is performed for about “6940 msec” thereafter. If the entry into the right operation entry portion 83 occurs during the restriction period, only awarding of a prize ball is executed.

  In addition, about the order of step S802-S805, it is arbitrary, and if each process of step S802-S805 is performed by the transition process (normal process) for special hits at least once, step S802-S805 will be performed. The order is arbitrary.

  On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in step S801, that is, if the value of the first timer counter TC1 is not “0”, the process proceeds to step S806, and an update process for the first timer counter TC1 is executed. Specifically, “1” is subtracted from the value of the first timer counter TC1.

  After the update process of the first timer counter TC1 is executed in step S806, it is determined whether or not the value of the first timer counter TC1 is “1000” in the subsequent step S807. If an affirmative determination is made in step S807, the process proceeds to step S808, and the closing process of the right variable ball entry device 85 is executed. Specifically, the drive signal output to the variable ball driving unit 604 is stopped to close the right large winning opening 602, and the variable ball driving unit 604 is brought into a non-excited state. As a result, the open / close door 603 is switched from the open state to the closed state, and subsequent entry into the right variable entry device 85 (the right big prize opening 602) becomes impossible.

  That is, in this special winning transition process, every time a negative determination is made in step S801, the value of the first timer counter TC1 is decremented by “1”, and the transition timing of the lottery result determination mode (that is, the opening / closing door 603 The inflow of the game ball to the right big prize winning opening 602 becomes impossible at the timing when approximately 1700 msec has elapsed from the opening timing).

  On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in step S807, the process proceeds to step S809 to determine whether or not the value of the first timer counter TC1 is “750”. If an affirmative determination is made in step S809, the process proceeds to step S810, and a switching member return process is executed.

  Specifically, the output of the drive signal to the drive unit 652 of the switching member 641 is stopped. As a result, the drive unit 652 switches from the excited state to the non-excited state, and the switching member 641 returns to the non-inductive state by the biasing force of the biasing member 651. Thereby, the inflow of the game ball to the downstream portion 622L of the first downstream side passage 622 is allowed, and the inflow of the game ball to the second downstream side passage 623 becomes impossible. The game ball that has flowed into the first portion is guided to the downstream portion 622L of the first downstream passage 622.

  That is, in this special winning transition process, every time a negative determination is made in step S801, the value of the first timer counter TC1 is decremented by “1”, and the transition timing of the lottery result determination mode (that is, the opening / closing door 603 The game ball cannot be guided to the second downstream passage 623 at a timing when approximately 2700 msec has elapsed from the opening timing.

  If a negative determination is made in step S809, the process proceeds to step S811, and it is determined whether or not the value of the first timer counter TC1 is “0”. That is, it is determined whether or not 5700 msec has elapsed since the closing timing of the right variable pitching device 85. When a negative determination is made in step S811 or after the processing of steps S808 and S810 is executed, it is still during the period in which the winning of the game ball to the advantageous pitching part 623 is still valid, step S812. It is determined whether or not a winning entry to the advantageous ball portion 623 has occurred. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the downstream second detection sensor 626 provided in the right variable pitching device 85 has detected a pitch in the reading process of step S101 in the timer interrupt process described above.

  If a negative determination is made in step S811, that is, if a winning to the advantageous ball portion 623 has not occurred, the special winning transition process is terminated as it is. On the other hand, if an affirmative determination is made in step S812, that is, if it is determined that there is a winning in the advantageous ball entry portion 623, the opening / closing execution mode setting process corresponding to the lower variable ball entry device 84 is executed in step S813. Then, the migration process for this special hit is completed.

  On the other hand, if an affirmative determination is made in step S811, the lottery result determination mode flag is deleted in step S814. As a result, when the next normal process is executed, a negative determination is made in step S702 in the game state transition process, and the special winning transition process is canceled until the next lottery result determination mode flag is stored.

  After executing the process of step S814, the specific valid period end flag is stored in the various flag storage areas 736 of the RAM 704 in the subsequent step S815, and the special win transition process is ended. The specific effective period end flag is referred to in the remaining sphere monitoring process described later, and the remaining sphere monitoring process ends based on the specific effective period end flag.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step S811, a confirmation mode end command transmitted to the sound lamp control device 143 in the external output process (step S401) is set. The sound lamp control device 143 controls various devices so that the contents of the determined effect are executed based on the received confirmation mode end command. Specifically, when this process is executed, it means that the lottery result confirmation mode corresponding to the special winning result has ended, so an effect corresponding to the end of the lottery result fixing mode corresponding to the special winning result is executed. Is done. For example, a message such as “Retry!” Or “Lucky!” Is displayed on the symbol display device 96.

  Incidentally, in the special winning process according to the present embodiment, not only when the effective period has elapsed or when the entrance into the advantageous entry part during the effective period has occurred, the right variable entry apparatus 85 is opened. The special winning process is also terminated when a predetermined number (specifically, 10) of game balls enter the right-hand side variable pitching device 85 during the course. However, among these end timings, the latter has an opportunity to actually occur because the interval between game ball firings is 0.6 sec and the period during which the right variable pitching device 85 is in the accepting state is approximately 1.7 sec. Since there is no such description, the description is omitted in the flowchart of FIG.

  Returning to the description of the gaming state transition process (FIG. 31), if it is determined in step S702 that the lottery result determination mode is not in effect, the process proceeds to step S704. In step S704, it is determined whether or not it is the timing when the variable display on each display part DL, DR of one game time is finished. If it is not the timing when the variable display is finished, the gaming state transition process is finished as it is.

  If it is the end timing of the variable display, that is, the timing when the display units DL and DR are switched from the variable display to the stop display, it is determined in step S705 whether or not the transition to the opening / closing execution mode is restricted. Specifically, it is determined whether or not a transition restriction flag is stored in various flag storage areas 736 of the RAM 704. The transition restriction flag is a flag that is stored when occurrence of an abnormality is confirmed in the remaining ball monitoring process described later, and details thereof will be described later.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step S705, that is, if the transition to the opening / closing execution mode is restricted, the gaming state transition process is terminated as it is. On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in step S705, the process proceeds to step S706, and it is determined whether or not the game result of the current game round corresponds to the transition to the opening / closing execution mode. Specifically, it is determined whether an open / close execution mode flag is stored in various flag storage areas 736 of the RAM 704. If the flag is not stored, the gaming state transition process is terminated as it is.

  If the opening / closing execution mode flag is stored, “15” is set in the round counter RC in step S707. The round counter RC is a counter for counting the number of times the lower large winning opening 84a of the lower variable pitching device 84 is opened.

  In the subsequent step S708, it is determined whether or not the current hit result corresponds to the high frequency support mode. If the hit result corresponds to the high frequency support mode, the high frequency is stored in the various flag storage areas 736 of the RAM 704. Set the support mode flag.

  After executing the processing in step S708, an opening command is set in step S709. The set opening command is transmitted to the sound lamp control device 143 in step S401 in the normal process (FIG. 28). This opening command includes information indicating whether the high-frequency winning mode or the low-frequency winning mode is set. The sound lamp control device 143 determines the contents of the effect corresponding to the opening / closing execution mode based on the received opening command, and controls various devices so that the determined contents of the effect are executed. In addition, the opening command is transmitted from the sound lamp control device 143 to the display control device 825, and the display control device 825 receives the opening command to display corresponding to the current opening / closing execution mode (for example, moving image display). Display control of the symbol display device 96 is performed. After executing the process of step S709, the gaming state transition process ends.

  When it is determined in step S701 that the open / close execution mode corresponding to the jackpot result or the special hit result is being performed, the processing for the open / close execution mode corresponding to the jackpot result or the special hit result in steps S710 to S715 is executed.

  First, in step S710, it is determined whether or not the waiting time for opening has elapsed. If the opening standby time has not elapsed, the gaming state transition process is terminated. If the opening standby time has elapsed, the lower variable winning device opening / closing process is executed in step S711.

  In the lower variable winning device opening / closing process, when the lower large winning opening 84a is closed, the variable ball driving unit 84c is set in the driving state on condition that the round counter RC is “1” or more. Thus, the lower large winning opening 84a is opened. In addition, when the lower big prize opening 84a is being opened, on condition that the opening limit time has passed since the opening of the lower big prize opening 84a or the opening limit number has been won, The driving state of the variable ball driving section 84c is stopped, and the lower large winning opening 84a is closed.

  After the lower variable winning device opening / closing process is executed in step S711, it is determined in subsequent step S712 whether or not the value of the round counter RC is “0”. If the value of the round counter RC is not “0”, the gaming state transition process is terminated as it is. On the other hand, if the value of the round counter RC is “0”, the open / close execution mode flag is cleared in step S713.

  If the opening / closing execution mode flag is cleared in step S713, the process proceeds to step S714 to determine whether or not the high-frequency support mode flag is set. If the high frequency support mode flag is not set, the gaming state transition process is terminated as it is. If the high-frequency support mode flag is set, the process proceeds to step S715, where “100” is set in the game number counter provided in the RAM 704, and the gaming state transition process ends. When “100” is set in the game number counter, the game state is shifted to the high frequency support mode. However, the high-frequency support mode ends when the game times continue 100 times, and thereafter, the support mode shifts to the normal game state in which the low-frequency support mode is set. The number of high-frequency support continuations (restricted number of games) is not limited to 100 times, and may be 1 or more and less than 100 times, such as 10 times, 20 times, or 30 times, or 101 times or more. May be.

After the game state transition process of step S404 is completed in the normal process, the process proceeds to step S405, and the electronic combination support process is executed.
<Telephone support processing>
Hereinafter, the electric role support process will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.

  As shown in FIG. 33, in the electronic combination support process, first, update processing of the second timer counter TC2 is executed in step S901. The second timer counter TC <b> 2 is a counter that is referred to when the opening period and the closing period of the electric accessory (variable pitching mechanism 400) are defined, and is stored in various counter areas 735 of the RAM 704. In this update process, when the value of the second timer counter TC2 is “0”, the value is maintained, and when the value of the second timer counter TC2 is not “0”, the second timer counter TC2 is maintained. The value of “1” is subtracted. After executing the update process in step S901, the process proceeds to step S902.

  In step S902, it is determined whether support is being performed. Specifically, it is determined whether or not a supporting flag is stored in a supporting flag storage area provided in various flag storage areas 736 of the RAM 704. The in-support flag is a flag that is stored when the electrically-powered article of the right-hand actuating ball entering portion 83 is set to the receiving state and is deleted when the state is returned to the non-receiving state.

  If the supporting flag is not stored, the process proceeds to step S903 to determine whether or not the value of the second timer counter TC2 is “0”. If an affirmative determination is made in step S903, the process proceeds to step S904 to determine whether or not the game ball has passed through the through gate 86. Specifically, it is determined whether or not a winning flag for through gate is stored in various flag storage areas 736 of the RAM 704.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step S904, it is determined in step S905 whether or not the open / close execution mode is being performed, and in step S906 whether or not the high frequency support mode is being determined.

  If it is not in the opening / closing execution mode and in the high frequency support mode, lottery processing is performed in step S907. In such a lottery process, the lottery table for the high frequency support mode is referred to, and the value of the counter C3 for the electric utility item stored in the counter information storage area 734 for the electric utility is “0” to “199” Will be won.

  If the lottery in step S907 is won, the process proceeds to step S909, the support winning flag is stored in the various flag storage areas 736 of the RAM 704, “2” is set in the round counter RC, and “4540: "Equivalent to 9080 msec" is set.

  If the lottery process in step S907 is not won, the process proceeds to step S910, and “corresponding to 620: 1240 msec” is set in the first limit counter LC1.

  As described above, the value of the first limit counter LC1 is decremented by “1” every time the timer interrupt process is started. Therefore, when “4540” is set in the first limit counter LC1 in the process of step S909, the winning in the through gate 86 is limited for 9080 msec thereafter, and the first limit counter LC1 in the process of step S910. When “620” is set in the information, the information acquisition processing for the through gate 86 is restricted for 1240 msec thereafter. Thereby, the lottery process for the through gate 86 is avoided for a predetermined period.

  On the other hand, when an affirmative determination is made in step S905 and a negative determination is made in step S906, a lottery process is performed in step S911. In such a lottery process, the lottery table for the low frequency support mode is referred to, and the value of the counter C3 for the electric utility item stored in the counter information storage area 734 for the electric utility is “0” to “24” Will be won.

  If the lottery in step S911 is won, the process proceeds to step S913, the support winning flag is stored in the various flag storage areas 736 of the RAM 704, “1” is set in the round counter RC, and “8040: "Equivalent to 16080 msec" is set. The support winning flag stored in steps S909 and S913 is deleted when the supporting flag is stored.

  If the lottery process in step S911 is not won, the process proceeds to step S914, where “4120: equivalent to 8240 msec” is set in the first limit counter LC1.

  As described above, the value of the first limit counter LC1 is decremented by “1” every time the timer interrupt process is started. Therefore, if “8040” is set in the first limit counter LC1 in the process of step S913, the information income process for the through gate 86 is limited for 16080 msec thereafter, and the first limit counter LC1 is set in the process of step S910. When “620” is set in the limit counter LC1, the information acquisition process for the through gate 86 is limited for 8240 msec thereafter. Thereby, the lottery process for the through gate 86 is avoided for a predetermined period.

  After executing the processes of steps S909, S910, S913, and S914, the process proceeds to step S915. In step S915, a variable display start process of the through gate display unit DS is executed. In this variable display time setting process, a stop display mode corresponding to the variable display period and the lottery result is determined, and blinking display of the through gate display section DS is started. In the present embodiment, the variable display time (for example, 7640 msec) in the low frequency support mode is set to be longer than the variable display time (for example, 640 msec) in the high frequency support mode.

  After the change start process is executed in step S915 or when a negative determination is made in steps S903 and S904, the process proceeds to the change display stop process in steps S916 to S919. In the variable display stop process, first, in step S916, it is determined whether or not it is time to end the variable display on the through-gate display unit DS. If an affirmative determination is made in step S916, the process advances to step S917 to execute a lottery result display process.

  In the lottery result display process, when the support lottery is won, the above-described variation display is terminated in a state where the pattern corresponding to the winning result is stopped and displayed. On the other hand, when the support lottery is not won, the variable display is ended in a state where the pattern corresponding to the result of the non-win is stopped. After executing the process of step S917, the process proceeds to step S918, and it is determined whether or not the lottery result is a support win. If an affirmative determination is made in step S918, the process advances to step S919 to store the supporting flag and delete the support winning flag.

  After the process of step S919 is executed, or when a negative determination is made in any of steps S916 and S918, the process proceeds to step S920. In step S920, it is determined whether or not the value of the game number counter is “0”. The game number counter is stored in various counter areas 735 of the RAM 704, and the number of continuations of the high frequency support mode is defined by the game number counter. Specifically, the value of the game number counter is incremented by “1” every time one game number is completed in the high frequency support mode, and the value of the game number counter becomes “0”. The frequency support mode will end.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step S920, the main role support process is terminated. On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in step S920, that is, if the value of the game number counter is “0”, the high frequency support flag is deleted in step S921, and the support mode is set to the low frequency support mode. The low-frequency support command (low-frequency support setting information) that is information for causing the sub-side control device to recognize this is set as a command to be transmitted to the sound lamp control device 143. Thereafter, the main role support processing is terminated.

  The low frequency support command set in step S921 is transmitted to the sound lamp control device 143 in the external output process (step S401). The voice lamp control device 143 transmits the low frequency support command to the display control device 825 as it is. Based on the reception of the low frequency support command, the display control device 825 specifies that the support mode is the low frequency support mode, and executes processing corresponding to the support mode.

  Returning to the description of step S901 again, if an affirmative determination is made in step S901, that is, if the supporting flag is stored, the process proceeds to step S922 to drive-control the electric accessory of the right working ball entry portion 83. After executing the electric role driving control process for the current electric role, the main electric character support process is terminated. The electric role drive control process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

<Electronic drive control processing>
First, in step S1001, it is determined whether or not the electric accessory (variable ball entry mechanism 400) of the right operation ball entry portion 83 is in an accepting state. Whether or not the electric accessory is in the accepting state is determined by whether or not the driving unit 500 (specifically, the solenoid 501) for the electric accessory is in the driving state. If the electric accessory is in the accepting state, the process proceeds to step S1002, and it is determined whether or not the value of the second timer counter TC2 is “0”.

  When the value of the second timer counter TC2 is not “0”, the main utility drive control process is terminated as it is. If the value of the second timer counter TC2 is “0”, the value of the round counter RC is decremented by “1” in step S1003, and then the value of the round counter RC is “0” in step S1004. Determine whether or not. When it is determined that the value of the round counter RC is “0”, that is, when the current support is completed, the process proceeds to step S1005, and “450” is set to the second timer counter TC2. As a result, the electric accessory is maintained in the non-accepting state for at least 1800 msec.

  After executing the processing of step S1005, the process proceeds to step S1007, and the supporting flag is deleted. As a result, the support based on the current winning result ends.

  On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in step S1004, the process proceeds to step S1006, and "760" is set to the second timer counter TC2. As a result, the electric accessory is maintained in the non-accepting state for at least 3040 msec.

  After executing the process of step S1006 or step S1007, the process proceeds to step S1008, the non-acceptance state transition process is executed, and the main role drive control process is terminated. In the non-accepting state transition process, the output of the driving signal to the driving unit 500 is stopped to shift the electric accessory to the accepting state.

  On the other hand, if the electric accessory is not in an accepted state, a negative determination is made in step S1001, and the process proceeds to step S1009. In step S1009, it is determined whether or not the second timer counter TC2 is “0”. If the second timer counter TC2 is not “0”, the main role driving control process is terminated as it is. If the second timer counter TC2 is “0”, it is determined in step S1010 whether or not the opening / closing execution mode is being performed, and in step S1011 whether or not the high frequency support mode is being determined.

  If a negative determination is made in step S1010 and an affirmative determination is made in step S1011, that is, if not in the opening / closing execution mode and in the high frequency support mode, the process proceeds to step S1012 and the second timer counter TC2 is set to “ 375 "is set. As a result, the electric accessory is maintained in the receiving state for 1500 msec.

  On the other hand, if an affirmative determination is made in step S1010 or a negative determination is made in step S1011, that is, if the open / close execution mode or the low frequency support mode is in progress, the process proceeds to step S1013 and the second timer counter Set “50” to TC2. As a result, the electric accessory is maintained in the receiving state for 200 msec.

  After executing the processes of steps S1012 and S1013, an acceptance state transition process is executed in step S1014, and the main role driving control process is terminated. In the acceptance state transition process, output of a drive signal to the drive unit 500 is started to control the electric accessory to the acceptance state, and the transition to the acceptance state is started in the various flag storage areas 736 of the RAM 704. Is stored.

  Returning to the description of the normal process in FIG. 28 again, after executing the power combination support process in step S405, the game ball launch control process is executed in step S406. In the game ball launch control process, the solenoid 111 of the game ball launch mechanism 110 is excited once every predetermined period (for example, 0.6 sec) on condition that a launch permission signal is input from the power source / launch controller 243. To do. Thereby, the game ball is launched toward the game area.

  In subsequent step S407, it is determined whether or not the execution timing of the next normal process has been reached, that is, whether or not a predetermined time (4 msec in the present embodiment) has elapsed since the start of the previous normal process. Then, the random number initial value counter CINI and the variation type counter CS are repeatedly updated within the remaining time until the next normal processing execution timing.

  That is, in step S408, the random number initial value counter CINI is updated. Specifically, the random number initial value counter CINI is incremented by 1 and cleared to 0 when the counter value reaches the maximum value. Then, the update value of the random number initial value counter CINI is stored in the corresponding area of the RAM 704. In step S409, the variation type counter CS is updated. Specifically, the variation type counter CS is incremented by 1 and cleared to 0 when the counter values reach the maximum value. Then, the update value of the variation type counter CS is stored in the corresponding area of the RAM 704.

  Here, since the execution time of each process of steps S401 to S406 changes according to the state of the game, the remaining time until the next normal process execution timing is not constant and varies. Therefore, by repeatedly executing the update of the random number initial value counter CINI using the remaining time, the random number initial value counter CINI (that is, the initial value of the hit random number counter C1) can be updated at random. The variation type counter CS can also be updated at random.

<Operation Modes of the Right Acting Ball Entering Portion 83 and the Right Variable Ball Entering Device 85>
Here, with reference to FIG. 35 and FIG. 36, the relationship between the operation | movement of the right side operation | movement entrance part 83 in the high frequency support mode and the operation | movement of the right side variable entrance device 85 is demonstrated. FIG. 35 and FIG. 36 are timing charts showing the operation mode of the right-hand actuated entrance portion 83 and the right-hand variable entrance device 85 during the high-frequency support mode (right-handed), and (a) is a through gate display portion. The display state of the DS is shown, (b) shows whether or not the through-gate display part DS can be changed, (c) shows the state of the right action entry part 83, and (d) shows the right action port display part. (E) shows the state of the right variable pitching device 85, (f) shows whether or not the right variable pitching unit can accept a ball, and (g) shows the right working port display unit. This indicates whether or not the variable display is possible.

  As already described, in the present embodiment, when the support lottery is won during the high-frequency support mode, the right-hand actuated ball entering unit 83 is switched to the receiving state twice. First, with reference to FIG. 35, a description will be given of a case where a ball enters the right-hand actuated ball-entry unit 83 at the first switching to the receiving state and a lottery based on the ball is won.

  When the game ball passes through the through gate 86 at the timing of ta1, a support lottery is executed based on the passage of the game ball, and the fact that the passage of the game ball is effectively accepted and the lottery result are notified. As a pre-operation, the variable display of the through gate display section DS is started. When the support lottery is won, the pattern corresponding to the winning result is stopped and displayed on the through gate display unit DS at the timing ta2 when a preset period has elapsed from the timing ta1. At the timing ta3 when a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the stop display, the right-hand actuated entrance portion 83 (specifically, the electric accessory (variable entrance mechanism 400)) switches from the non-accepting state to the accepting state. The acceptance state is continued until a preset acceptance period elapses from the switching timing to the acceptance state.

  The next support lottery based on winning through the through gate 86 is limited according to a period determined according to the result of the current support lottery. Specifically, when a non-winning result is obtained in the support lottery, the next support lottery is allowed immediately after the current lottery result is stopped for a certain period of time. On the other hand, if the winning result is the current support lottery, the next lottery will be limited until the support by the right-hand side actuating ball 83 is completed even after the current lottery result is stopped for a certain period of time. . That is, the change display of the through gate display section DS is invalid.

  When a ball enters the right-hand actuated ball entering portion 83 during the acceptance period (for example, at timing ta3) in the right-hand actuated ball entering portion 83, a winning / no-win lottery and a distribution lottery are executed based on the received ball. At the same time, the variable display of the right working port display section DR is started, and the picture corresponding to the result of the lottery is stopped and displayed at the timing of ta4 when a predetermined period has elapsed from the timing of ta3 when the ball has entered. .

  When winning or failing lottery based on the entry to the right operation entering ball portion 83 is won, the pattern corresponding to the winning result and the distribution result is stopped and displayed, and ta5 where a predetermined period has elapsed from the timing of the stopping display At the timing, the right variable pitching device 85 switches from the non-accepting state to the accepting state. The acceptance state is continued until a preset acceptance period elapses from the switching timing to the acceptance state.

  In addition, when the entrance to the right operation entrance portion 83 occurs at the same time as the start of the acceptance period (timing of ta3), the timing of ta6 immediately after the timing of ta5 (preliminarily set from the timing of ta3). At the time of ta6 when the acceptance period has passed), the right-hand side actuated ball portion 83 switches to the non-acceptance state.

  The right variable pitching device 85 is switched to the non-acceptance state at the timing ta7 after the timing ta6, that is, at the timing ta7 when the preset acceptance period has elapsed from the timing ta5. During the period in which the right variable pitching device 85 is in the receiving state (timing from ta5 to timing ta7), switching to the receiving state (second switching) of the right working pitching portion 83 is avoided and the right variable The inflow of game balls to the ball entering device 85 is prevented from being hindered by the right operation ball entering portion 83.

  Here, with respect to the right variable pitching device 85 in the present embodiment, a lottery function (distribution) for performing a lottery as to whether or not to confirm the lottery result by the right working pitching unit 83 according to the game ball allocation destination. Function), and it is possible to visually confirm the movement of the game ball that has flowed into the right variable pitching device 85 and its distribution destination. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 20, the game ball that has flowed in from the entrance portion of the right variable pitching device 85 is located at a midway position in the guide passage 620, and the downstream portion 622 </ b> L and the second downstream passage of the first downstream passage 622. The lottery result is determined when the game ball reaches the second detection area DE2 of the second downstream passage 623 and is distributed to any one of 623 (advantageous ball portion). That is, the transition to the special game state is determined.

  In this embodiment, in consideration of the fact that a predetermined period is required until the game ball flowing in from the entrance portion reaches the second detection area DE2 as the “specific area” in the present embodiment. A period in which the detection result in DE2 is valid (a period in which the determination of the lottery result is valid), that is, a valid period for entering a ball in the right variable pitching device 85 is set.

  This effective period is set longer than the period during which the right variable pitching device 85 is maintained in the receiving state, and for a while after the right variable pitching device 85 is switched to the non-accepting state at the timing ta7. Are processed on the assumption that the passing of the game ball in the second detection area DE2 is effective.

  At the timing ta8 after the timing ta7, the right-hand actuated ball portion 83 switches to the receiving state again. Then, at the timing ta9 when a preset acceptance period elapses from the timing ta8, the right working ball entering portion 83 returns to the non-accepting state. Since the right variable pitching device 85 is in a non-accepting state from the timing ta8 to the timing ta9, the game ball to the right variable pitching device 85 is switched to the acceptance state of the right working pitching portion 83. Inflow is not hindered.

  The period during which the right working ball entering portion 83 is maintained in the receiving state overlaps with the ball entry effective period in the right variable ball entry device 85. Here, in the right-hand actuated entry portion 83, at the timing ta8 to ta9, even if a game ball enters, the game ball is paid out, while the above-described winning lottery and distribution lottery are avoided. It is the composition which becomes. Therefore, the lottery result is rewritten during the acceptance period in the right variable pitching device 85, or the transition to the special game state is made prior to the stop display while the right working port display unit DR is performing the variable display. There is no confirmation.

  At the timing of ta10 after the timing of ta9, more specifically, at the timing of ta10 when a preset period has elapsed from the timing of ta5, the effective period (acceptance period) ends, and the stored right-hand side actuated ball The lottery result based on the entry to the part 83 is deleted. For this reason, even if the game ball reaches the second detection area DE2 after the timing of ta10, the special game state is not shifted.

  At the timing of ta11 after the timing of ta10, that is, the timing of ta11 at which a preset limit period has elapsed after the support by the right operation ball entering portion 83 is started (after the lottery at the through gate 86 is performed). The support by the right-hand side actuating entrance 83 is completed. After the timing of ta11, the support lottery in the through gate 86 is validated again.

  If the support lottery based on the game ball that has passed through the through gate 86 at the timing of ta1 is not won, the timing of ta3 after the result of non-winning is notified on the through gate display unit DS Thereafter, the support lottery in the through gate 86 is validated again.

  When the game ball passes through the through gate 86 at the timing ta11, the support lottery is executed again, and the variation display of the pattern is started on the through gate display section DS. Thereafter, the pattern corresponding to the lottery result is stopped and displayed at the timing of ta12. In the following, each event at the timing of ta13 to the timing of ta16 is the same as each event at the timing of ta3 to the timing of ta6, and will be described briefly.

  When the right actuated ball entering portion 83 switches to the receiving state at the timing of ta13, and a ball enters the right actuated entrance ball portion 83 at the same ta13 timing, the winning lottery and the distribution lottery are performed based on the entered ball. Is executed. When the lottery is won, the right variable pitching device 85 is switched to the receiving state. Suppose that a ball enters the right variable ball entry device 85 while the right variable ball entry device 85 is in the receiving state at the timing ta17 after the timing ta16. The game ball flows down the guide passage 620 of the right side variable ball entry device 85. At this time, since the switching member 641 is disposed at the guidance position, the game ball flows into the second downstream side passage 623, and the timing of ta18 when the right variable pitching device 85 is switched to the non-accepting state. The second detection area DE2 is reached at the later ta19 timing. At this timing, since the detection result in the second detection area DE2 is effectively handled, the result of the lottery is finalized when the game ball reaches the second detection area DE2, and the state shifts to the special game state. Will be.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 36, description will be given of a case where a ball is entered into the right working ball entry portion 83 at the time of switching to the second acceptance state and a lottery based on the ball is won.

  When the game ball passes through the through gate 86 at the timing of tb1, a support lottery is executed based on the passage of the game ball, and the fact that the passing of the game ball is effectively accepted and the lottery result are notified. As a pre-operation, the variable display of the through gate display section DS is started. When the support lottery is won, the picture corresponding to the winning result is stopped and displayed on the through gate display unit DS at the timing tb2 when a preset period has elapsed from the timing tb1, and the picture is displayed. At the timing tb3 when a predetermined period has elapsed since the stop display, the right-hand actuated entrance portion 83 (specifically, the electric accessory (variable entrance mechanism 400)) switches from the non-accepting state to the accepting state. The acceptance state is continued from the switching timing to the acceptance state until a timing tb4 when a preset acceptance period elapses.

  If the entrance into the right-hand side actuating ball part 83 occurs during the receiving period (timing from tb3 to tb4) in the right-hand side actuating ball part 83, a predetermined number as in the example of FIG. The lottery based on the payout of the game balls and the incoming ball will be executed. When the lottery is not won, the right variable pitching device 85 is not switched to the receiving state as in the example shown in FIG.

  At the timing of tb5 after a preset interval from the timing of tb4, the right working ball entering portion 83 is switched to the receiving state again. When a ball enters the right-hand actuated ball entering portion 83 at the timing of tb6 during the acceptance period of the right-hand actuated ball entering portion 83, the right / left lottery and the lottery lottery based on the received ball are executed, The variation display of the pattern is started on the mouth display unit DR. Thereafter, the picture corresponding to the result of the lottery is stopped and displayed at the timing of tb7 when a predetermined period has elapsed from the timing of tb6 when the ball has entered. In FIG. 36, the return timing to the non-accepting state of the right working ball entering portion 83 and the end timing of the pattern change display are the same timing. Accordingly, the return timing and the end timing are different.

  In the case of winning the winning lottery based on the entry to the right-hand actuating entry portion 83, the pattern corresponding to the winning result and the distribution result is stopped and displayed at tb8 when a predetermined period has elapsed from the timing of the stopping display. At the timing, the right variable pitching device 85 switches from the non-accepting state to the accepting state. The acceptance state is continued until a preset acceptance period elapses from the switching timing to the acceptance state.

  A preset limit period has elapsed from the timing of tb9 after the timing of tb8, more specifically, the timing of tb1 at which the variable display is started on the display unit DS for through gate (the lottery was performed in the through gate 86). At the timing of tb9, the support by the right operation ball entering portion 83 is completed. After the timing tb9, the support lottery in the through gate 86 is validated again. That is, the change display of the through gate display section DS is effective.

  When the game ball passes through the through gate 86 at the timing of tb9, the support lottery is executed based on the passage of the game ball, and the fact that the passage of the game ball is effectively accepted and the lottery result are notified. As a preliminary operation, the variable gate display of the through gate display unit DS is started. At the timing of tb10 after the timing of tb9, that is, at the timing of tb10 when the reception period has elapsed from the timing of tb8 when the right variable pitching device 85 is switched to the receiving state, the right variable pitching device 85 is not received. Switch to state.

  The pattern corresponding to the lottery result is stopped and displayed on the through gate display section DS at the timing of tb11 after the timing of tb10, specifically, at the timing of tb11 when a preset period has elapsed from the timing of tb9. When the support lottery is won, the picture corresponding to the winning result is stopped and displayed on the through gate display unit DS at the timing of tb11, and a predetermined period has elapsed after the picture is stopped and displayed tb12 At the timing, the right-hand actuated entrance portion 83 (specifically, the electric accessory (variable entrance mechanism 400)) switches from the non-accepting state to the accepting state. The acceptance state is continued from the switching timing to the acceptance state until the timing tb13 when a preset acceptance period elapses.

  During the period in which the right operating ball entry portion 83 is in the receiving state (timing from tb12 to timing from tb13), the right variable pitching device 85 is in the non-receiving state and the determination of the lottery result is valid. Yes. When a ball enters the right-hand actuated ball entering portion 83 between the timing tb12 and the timing tb13, a predetermined number of game balls are paid out, and on the other hand, whether or not the lottery is based Distribution lottery is avoided.

  After the timing of tb13 when the right-hand actuated ball portion 83 is switched to the non-accepting state, the effective period (acceptance period) ends at the timing of tb14 after a preset period has elapsed from the timing of tb8. The stored lottery result based on the entry to the right operation entry portion 83 is erased. For this reason, after the timing of tb14, even if the game ball arrives at the second detection area DE2 without winning the lottery based on the entry to the right operation entry portion 83, the special game state is not shifted.

  At the timing of tb15 after the timing of tb14, specifically, at the timing of tb15 after a preset interval from the timing of tb13, the right working ball entering portion 83 is again switched to the receiving state. After the timing of tb14, the payout of game balls based on the entrance to the right operation entrance portion 83, the success / failure lottery, and the distribution lottery are effective.

  For this reason, for example, when a ball enters the right operation ball entering portion 83 at the timing of tb15, a winning / no-use lottery and a distribution lottery based on the same ball are executed, and a picture is displayed on the right working port display portion DR. The change display of is started. Thereafter, the picture corresponding to the result of the lottery is stopped and displayed at the timing of tb16 when a predetermined period has elapsed from the timing of tb15 when the ball has entered. When the support lottery is won, the picture corresponding to the winning result is stopped and displayed on the through gate display unit DS at the timing of tb11, and thereafter, the lottery based on the passing of the game ball in the through gate 86. Is limited over a certain period.

  Then, the right variable pitching device 85 switches to the receiving state at the timing tb17 after the picture is stopped and displayed on the right working port display section DR, and the right working pitching section 83 at the timing tb18 immediately after. Switches to a non-accepted state.

  According to the embodiment described in detail above, the following excellent effects are obtained.

  By winning the support lottery based on the passing of the game ball in the through gate 86, the right operation ball entering portion 83 is switched from the non-accepting state to the accepting state, and it is easy to enter the right operation ball entering portion 83. Is done. The winning lottery based on the entrance to the right operation entrance portion 83 is won, so that the transition to the opening / closing execution mode is allowed and the entrance to the right variable entrance device 85 is allowed. Thereafter, when the game ball enters the right variable pitching device 85 (specifically, the advantageous pitching portion), the transition to the opening / closing execution mode is confirmed.

  As described above, in a type of gaming machine that shifts to the opening / closing execution mode by performing a plurality of procedures (processes), it is possible to suppress monotonization of the game, but waiting time between the processes occurs. Can do. Specifically, a predetermined period is required after the game ball passes through the through gate 86 until the support lottery result is displayed on the through gate display unit DS, and after the support lottery result is displayed. A predetermined period of time is required until the right operation entrance portion 83 enters the receiving state, and the result of the lottery or the like after the entrance to the right operation entrance portion 83 is generated is displayed on the right operation opening display portion DR. A predetermined period is required until it is displayed, and a predetermined period is required after the result of the lottery determination is displayed until the right variable pitching device 85 enters the receiving state. For this reason, in a player who dislikes such waiting time, when an act of restraining the launch of a useless ball by temporarily refraining from the launch operation of the game ball, that is, an act of proceeding the game advantageously is performed. is assumed. When such an action is performed, there may be a disadvantage that the operating rate of the gaming machine is lowered. In addition, there is a time lag until the game ball that has been launched after the launch operation reaches the through gate 86, the right operation entrance portion 83, and the right variable entrance device 85. May cause inconvenience that the player misses a privilege that should be originally obtained, for example, because the probability of entering the entrance portion 86, 83, 85 decreases.

  In this regard, as shown in the above-described embodiment, the inflow of the game ball to the right operation entrance ball portion 83 is allowed during the effective period in the right variable entrance device 85, and the game ball is in response to the inflow of the game ball. If it is set as the structure which pays out, it can make it hard to give a player a feeling of loss and can accelerate | stimulate the continuous launch of a game ball. Thereby, the fall of the operation rate in a gaming machine can be suppressed, and also generation | occurrence | production of the oversight of the privilege mentioned above can be suppressed.

  In particular, with respect to the right variable pitching device 85 in the above embodiment, the game ball that has flowed into the right variable pitching device 85 flows down the guide passage 620, and the second detection area in the guide passage 620 within the effective period. A configuration is adopted in which the transition to the opening / closing execution mode is confirmed by reaching DE2, and by making the game ball moving in the guide passage 620 visible, the player's attention to the movement of the game ball To improve the interest in gaming machines. As described above, in the configuration in which the confirmation of the movement of the game ball is visually confirmed, if it is difficult to follow the movement of the game ball with the eyes, the above-described interest improvement effect is not suitably exhibited. Therefore, a configuration is adopted in which a passage extending in the lateral direction is provided upstream from the branch position between the downstream portion 622L of the first downstream passage 622 and the second downstream passage 623, and the guide passage 620 is meandered to change the right side. The game ball that has flowed into the ball device 85 is decelerated and facilitated to move in the lateral direction, thereby facilitating visual observation of the game ball.

  However, when such a measure is taken, the effect of improving the visibility can surely be exhibited suitably, but the time required for the lottery of game balls in the right variable pitching device 85 increases. There is a concern that the above-described game ball launch avoidance operation is likely to be performed. In this regard, in the above-described embodiment, by using a configuration in which the game ball is allowed to flow into the right working ball entering portion 83 during the effective period and the game ball is paid out in accordance with the flow of the game ball. It is possible to make it difficult to give the player a sense of loss and to encourage the continuous launch of game balls. Therefore, it is possible to suitably suppress a decrease in the operating rate due to the improvement of interest in games.

  As described above, even when the configuration that allows the entry into the right working entry portion 83 during the effective period is adopted, the lottery based on the entry into the right operation entry portion 83 during the entry effective period Since the lottery result is rewritten, the transition to the opening / closing execution mode is suddenly cancelled. In addition, there is no inconvenience that the shift to the opening / closing execution mode is confirmed in spite of the fact that the change display of the pattern is being performed on the right working port display section DR. Thereby, it becomes possible to suppress the fall of the operation rate in a game machine, ensuring the soundness of a game.

  As described above, when the configuration permitting the switching of the right operating ball entering portion 83 during the effective period to the acceptance state is adopted, the right operating ball entering portion 85 is originally entered into the right variable ball entering device 85. When the game ball that should have been played flows, the player misses the opportunity to enter the opening / closing execution mode. This is not preferable because it may cause a decrease in interest in games.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, a configuration is adopted in which switching to the second acceptance state is performed during the effective period and during the period in which the right variable pitching device 85 is in the non-acceptance state. Accordingly, the right-hand actuated ball entering portion 83 is configured to be switched to the accepting state a plurality of times, and while adopting a configuration that suppresses the decrease of the game ball, it is easy to prevent the ball entering the right variable ball-entering device 85. Can be made difficult to occur. In addition, by adopting such a configuration, it contributes to an improvement in the degree of freedom of arrangement of the right operation ball entry portion 83 and the right variable ball entry device 85.

  In the case of adopting a configuration that allows the right working ball entering portion 83 to be switched to the receiving state during the effective period in the right variable ball entering device 85, for example, the period during which the right working ball entering portion 83 is in the receiving state is set to be long. By doing so, the effect of prompting the continuation of the game ball can be suitably exhibited. However, in order to smoothly advance the game, it is necessary to restart the process immediately after the valid period has elapsed (when it is determined that the transition to the opening / closing execution mode is not performed). At this time, it is not preferable that the right working ball entering portion 83 remains in the accepting state because it may be a factor that hinders the smooth progress of the game.

  In this respect, in the above-described embodiment, the occurrence of the above-described inconvenience is avoided by returning the right-hand actuated ball entering portion 83 to the non-accepting state before the expiration of the effective period. In other words, it is possible to suppress the inconvenience that the game progress is prolonged due to the adoption of the configuration in which the right-hand actuated ball portion 83 is in the receiving state during the effective period.

  When the support lottery is won, the right-hand actuated entry unit 83 is switched to the accepting state twice, and the entrance to the right-hand actuated entry unit 83 is generated in the first accepting state and the accepting lottery is won. In such a case, the lottery in the second acceptance state (winning lottery and distribution lottery) is disabled, and the game ball is paid out. If a lottery occurs and the winning / failing lottery is lost or if no entry occurs, the lottery in the second acceptance state (winning / lottery lottery and distribution lottery) is allowed and game balls are paid out. Thus, it is possible to favorably promote the continuation of the game ball launching operation while suppressing an excessive amount of privilege given to the player.

  In the case of winning the lottery based on the entry into the right working ball entering part 83 during the second receiving state of the right working ball entering part 83, the support lottery and the right working ball entering part 83 during the subsequent effective period. Switching to the receiving state is allowed, and an overlap between the receiving period of the right-hand actuated ball entering portion 83 and the effective period is allowed. As a result, the occurrence of a disadvantage caused by the continuation of the game ball firing operation is suppressed, and further, the game progress can be speeded up without interfering with the above process.

  As described above in detail, in the configuration in which the right variable pitching portion 83 is switched to the receiving state during the effective period, it is not preferable that the end timing of the effective period varies. In this regard, in the above-described embodiment, when a game ball flows into the right variable pitching device 85, the period required to reach the second detection area DE2 is configured to be substantially constant. For this reason, the variation in the end timing of the effective period is suppressed, and the end timing and the period in which the right operation ball entering portion 83 is in the receiving state are overlapped, and a practically preferable configuration is realized.

  In addition, it is not limited to the description content of embodiment mentioned above, For example, you may implement as follows. Incidentally, the configuration of another embodiment described below may be applied individually to the configuration in the above embodiment, or may be applied in combination with each other.

  (1) In the above embodiment, when the right working ball entering portion 83 serving as the “first variable ball entering portion” is switched to the second receiving state, the receiving period in the right working ball entering portion 83 is “second”. Although it shifted so that it may not overlap with the acceptance period of the right variable entry device 85 as a "variable entry part", it is not limited to this, It is also possible to overlap both acceptance periods at least partially.

  However, when such a change is made, the right-hand side variable pitching device can be obtained by allowing the game ball that would otherwise have reached the right-side variable pitching device 85 to flow into the right-hand side working pitching portion 83. By being discharged from the game area PE without flowing into 85, it is assumed that the transition to the special game state based on the entry into the advantageous entry portion is likely to be hindered. This is contrary to the player's intention to advance the game advantageously, and may be a factor that hinders the improvement of interest in the gaming machine.

  Certainly, by reversing the positional relationship between the right working ball entry portion 83 and the right variable ball entry device 85 and disposing the right operation ball entry portion 83 on the downstream side of the right variable ball entry device 85, the above disadvantages are avoided. Occurrence can be avoided. However, when such an arrangement is adopted, the time required to reach the right variable pitching device 85 is shortened, and the game is performed in anticipation of the timing when the right variable pitching device 85 switches to the receiving state. It is assumed that the act of suppressing the consumption of the game ball is likely to be performed by temporarily stopping the ball launch operation. This is not preferable because it may cause a reduction in the operating rate of the gaming machine.

  Therefore, it is desirable to adopt the configuration shown in the above embodiment and suppress the overlap between both acceptance periods. Thereby, generation | occurrence | production of the said various inconvenience can be suppressed.

  (2) In the above-described embodiment, the right-hand actuated entrance portion 83 as the “first variable entrance portion” is before the effective period of the right variable entrance device 85 as the “second variable entrance portion” elapses. However, the present invention is not limited to this, but may be configured to return to the non-accepting state after the validity period has elapsed.

  However, when such a change is made, a lottery based on the entry to the right-hand actuated entry part 83 is avoided even during the acceptance period after the effective period, and the bonus that the player should originally obtain (the lottery ) Cannot be enjoyed. In order to deal with such inconvenience, it is possible to adopt a structure in which a lottery based on the entry to the right-hand actuated entry part 83 is performed in the acceptance period after the effective period, but when such a change is made, The boundary between the period in which the lottery is performed and the period in which the lottery is not performed is unclear, which may cause confusion for the player. Therefore, in consideration of ensuring soundness in the gaming machine, whether or not the current acceptance period is allowed to be selected by lottery by switching the right-hand actuated ball entering portion 83 to the non-acceptance state before the expiration of the effective period. It is preferable to clarify.

  (3) In the above-described embodiment, when the support lottery is won during the high-frequency support mode, the right-hand actuated entrance portion 83 as the “first variable entrance portion” is set in the accepting state a plurality of times (specifically 2 However, the number of times of switching of the right-hand actuated ball entering portion 83 may be one.

  However, in view of smoothing and speeding up of the game progress, as shown in the above embodiment, the number of times of switching to the receiving state is set to at least two, and the right variable pitching device 85 is overlapped with the interval period. An acceptance period is set, and further, the right working entrance part 83 is set to the second acceptance state so as to overlap with an effective period of the right variable entry device 85 (a period during which the arrival to the specific area is allowed after the acceptance period). It is preferable that the switching is performed.

  (4) In the above embodiment, when the support lottery is won and the right working ball entering portion 83 switches to the receiving state, the game ball flows into the right working ball entering portion 83 simultaneously with the transition to the first receiving period. When the winning lottery based on the same ball is won, the receiving period of the right variable pitching device 85 and the receiving period of the right working ball portion 83 are partially overlapped. A configuration that does not overlap is also possible. For example, the change display time of the pattern and the stop display time of the pattern on the right working port display unit DR are lengthened, or the waiting time until the right variable pitching device 85 is switched to the receiving state after the pattern is stopped is increased. By doing so, it is possible to eliminate duplication of both acceptance periods.

  (5) In the above embodiment, when a winning lottery based on the entry to the right working entry portion 83 is won, a predetermined value is set in the second limit counter LC2, and the value of the second limit counter LC2 is set. With reference, it was set as the structure which determines whether the success / failure lottery and distribution lottery based on subsequent entrance are performed. By changing this, it is possible to enter the right action entry portion 83 depending on whether or not it is an effective period in which the passing of the game ball in the second detection area DE2 as the “specific area” in the right variable entry device 85 is valid. It is good also as a structure which determines whether to perform the lottery determination etc. based on this. In other words, if the entry into the right working entry portion 83 occurs during the effective period, the lottery or the like is not allowed, and if the entry into the right operation entry portion 83 occurs during the effective period, the decision is not accepted. It is also possible to adopt a configuration for performing lottery or the like.

  However, if such a change is made, the validity period ends during the acceptance period of the right-hand actuated ball entering portion 83, so that the acceptance period becomes a period during which the lottery is disabled and a period during which the lottery is allowed. 2 minutes. Thus, it is not preferable that the specification of one acceptance period is divided because it can be a factor to confuse the player. Therefore, it is desirable to employ the configuration shown in the above embodiment to avoid the occurrence of the inconvenience.

  (6) In the above-described embodiment, the through gate 86 as the “passing portion”, the right operating ball entering portion 83 as the “first variable entry portion”, and the right variable entry as the “second variable entry portion”. The device 85 is disposed along one of the flow paths that bypass the symbol display device 96 left and right (the flow route that bypasses the symbol display device 96 from the right side), but the present invention is not limited to this. Any one of the through gate 86, the right operation ball entry portion 83, and the right variable ball entry device 85 can be disposed in the other flow path (flow path that bypasses the symbol display device 96 from the left side).

  However, when such a change is made, it is assumed that the player needs to frequently change the launch destination of the game ball, and smooth progress of the game becomes difficult. In particular, it is assumed that the receiving period is set in the operation ball entry unit and the variable ball entry device, and the player suffers a disadvantage if the change operation is not performed quickly. Therefore, it is desirable that the through gate 86, the working ball entry portion 83, and the variable ball entry device 85 are desirably arranged along the same flow path.

  (7) In the above-described embodiment, the right-hand actuated entrance portion 83 as the “first variable entrance portion” is located upstream of the downflow path from the right side variable entrance device 85 as the “second variable entrance portion”. However, it is also possible to change this and arrange the right operation ball entry portion 83 downstream of the right variable entry device 85 in the same flow down path.

  (8) In the above embodiment, the pattern variation display time in the right working port display unit DR is constant, but the present invention is not limited to this, and a plurality of the same variation display times may be set. In addition, when making such a change, it is preferable to make the following changes together. For example, the operation of the right working ball entering unit 83 is made to correspond to each variable display time one-on-one so as to avoid the overlap between the receiving period of the right variable ball entering device 85 and the receiving period of the right working ball entering unit 83. It is preferable to set the limit value of the variable display time so as to avoid the overlap between the acceptance period of the right variable entry device 85 and the acceptance period of the right operation entry unit 83.

  Incidentally, although the variation display time of the pattern in the through-gate display section DS is fixed, a plurality of the same variation display times can be set.

  (9) In the above embodiment, the period until the switching member 641 in the right variable pitching device 85 is switched to the non-induction state after the corresponding pattern is stopped and displayed on the display unit DR for the right working port, By setting the game ball that is launched at the timing when the winning corresponding pattern is stopped and displayed on the right working port display section DR to be shorter than the period required for reaching the branch position (switching member 641) in the guide passage 620. This makes it difficult to intentionally continue the high frequency support mode. In other words, the fairness in the gaming machine is maintained by eliminating the room for technical intervention. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the period in which the switching member 641 is in the guiding state is set by reversing the relationship between the two periods and firing the game ball immediately after the stop display of the pattern. It is also possible to adopt a configuration in which the game ball can reach the branch position.

  (10) In the above embodiment, the right-hand actuated entrance portion 83 as the “first variable entrance portion” can be switched between the accepting state and the non-accepting state. However, the present invention is not limited to this. In addition, it is possible to adopt a configuration in which the right-hand side actuated ball portion can be switched between a state in which the game ball is allowed to be received and a state in which the game ball is more easily received than in the same state.

  (11) In the above-described embodiment, the right working ball entry portion 83 as the “first variable ball entry portion” has the two movable members 410 and 420 facing each other with the right operation port 311 interposed therebetween. It is only necessary to be able to switch to the first state in which a game ball flowing down the game area PE can enter and the second state in which entering the ball is more difficult or impossible than the first state, and is limited to the above configuration is not. For example, a movable piece is provided on both the left and right sides of the right operation port, and the movable piece is turned left and right along the front surface of the game board 80 to switch between the first state and the second state. Is also possible.

  However, in the configuration in which the flow path of the game ball is differentiated between the right side and the left side across the symbol display device 96, and the right operation ball entrance portion is arranged on the side of the symbol display device 96, the right operation ball entrance portion By expanding the operation area, the arrangement area of the symbol display device 96 can be pressed. Furthermore, when the right-hand side actuating ball portion is in the second state, too many game balls flowing down toward the right-hand side variable pitching device 85 are picked up, and the right-hand side actuating ball portion is entered. It is assumed that the number increases excessively or the number of balls entering the right variable pitching device 85 decreases excessively. Therefore, it is preferable to adopt the configuration shown in the above-described embodiment for the right-hand operation entrance portion and suppress the occurrence of various inconveniences.

  (12) In the above embodiment, the passage width and the like are defined so that a plurality of game balls do not simultaneously pass through the same location in the upstream passage 621 of the guide passage 620, and the guide passage 620 is meandered to The period required for the game ball that has flowed into the variable pitching device 85 to reach the second detection area DE2 is adjusted so as to be substantially constant. However, this can be changed as follows. .

  That is, a ball feed mechanism that guides the game ball that has flowed into the right variable ball entry device 85 to the second detection area DE2 is provided, and the ball feed speed by the ball feed mechanism is made constant so that the second detection area DE2 is reached. You may adjust so that the period required to do may become substantially constant.

  (13) In the above embodiment, when the game ball passes through the through gate 86 as the “passing portion”, whether or not to switch the right working ball entering portion 83 as the “first variable pitching portion” to the receiving state. However, if this is changed and the through gate 86 is passed through, it may be configured to switch to the accepting state without performing the lottery.

  In the above embodiment, a lottery table for the high frequency support mode and a lottery table for the low frequency support mode are individually provided, and a difference is set in the probability of winning the support lottery. If the above change is made, the difference in the advantage between the high frequency support mode and the low frequency support mode becomes small. Therefore, when making the above changes, it is preferable to make the following changes together. In other words, the lottery probability and the allocation probability in the right / left lottery portion 83 and the number of winning balls are set so that the player in the high frequency support mode is more advantageous than the player in the low frequency support mode. Or the difference between the number of times of switching to the receiving state of the right-hand side actuating ball portion 83 between both support modes, the switching period, and the like may be increased.

  (14) In the above embodiment, when the end timing of the effective period as the “predetermined period” overlaps with the reception period of the right operation ball entering portion 83, the right operation input is performed during the period overlapping the effective period. The lottery based on the entry to the ball part 83 is not allowed, and the lottery based on the entry to the right operation ball entry part 83 is allowed during the period that does not overlap with the valid period. It is also possible to change. In other words, if at least a part of the acceptance period overlaps with the validity period, it is possible to disable the lottery based on the entry during the acceptance period. By adopting such a configuration, it is possible to avoid the possibility of lottery being influenced by the timing at which a ball is entered during one acceptance period. As a result, the opportunity for lottery determination or the like becomes complicated, and it is possible to make inconvenience that the player is confused.

  Moreover, when winning by support lottery, it is also possible to avoid the overlap between the end timing and the acceptance period by changing the timing at which the right-hand actuated ball entering portion 83 is switched to the acceptance state. . When adopting such a configuration, for example, when the acceptance period falls within the valid period, the transition to the acceptance state is performed as it is, and when the acceptance period does not fall within the valid period, the timing for switching to the acceptance state Is preferably delayed until the timing at which duplication is avoided.

  In the above-described embodiment, the effective period as the “predetermined period” is the same as the operation period of the right variable entry part 85, but the operation period of the right variable entry part 85 is longer than the effective period. It is also possible to adopt a long configuration, and when such a change is made, the lottery based on the entrance to the right operation entrance portion 83 during the operation period is impossible, that is, the operation is performed as a “predetermined period”. What is necessary is just to set it as the structure which sets a period.

  (15) In the above embodiment, the right-hand actuated entrance portion 83 as the “first variable entrance portion” is switched between an accepting state in which game balls are accepted and a non-accepting state in which game balls are not acceptable. Although the possible configuration is adopted, this is changed, and the right-hand actuated entrance portion 83 allows the entrance of the game ball, and the entrance of the game ball becomes difficult or impossible than the first state. It is also possible to employ a configuration that can be switched between two states.

  However, in the case where such a configuration is adopted, various lotteries based on the same entry ball are not permitted if the entrance to the right operation entrance portion 83 occurs during the effective period as the “predetermined period”. It is preferable to use the configuration in combination.

  (16) In the above embodiment, when a ball enters the right-hand actuated ball entering portion 83 during the effective period as the “predetermined period”, a predetermined number of games are given as benefits for the ball. Although it was set as the structure which pays out a ball | bowl, this is changed and the holding | maintenance function is provided to the right side operation | movement entrance part 83 similarly to the lower side operation | movement entrance part 82, and the entrance limit during a valid period is set beforehand. You may set as the said privilege to memorize | store as a reservation ball | bowl until it becomes a number. Furthermore, it may replace with the structure which provides one privilege with respect to the entrance during an effective period, and the structure which provides a some privilege may be employ | adopted. In short, unless “privilege” = “opening of the right variable pitching device 85 during the effective period”, the type and number of the privilege to be granted are arbitrary. However, if attention is paid to the point that the player performs a temporary firing stop operation in order to avoid wasting the game ball, the game ball is paid out as the bonus as shown in the above embodiment. By adopting a configuration that suppresses the decrease in the number of players, it is possible to appropriately experience the benefits of benefits to the player. Thereby, continuation of the game ball launching operation can be preferably promoted.

  (17) In the above embodiment, when a game ball flows into the right-hand actuated entrance portion 83 as the “first variable entrance portion”, a lottery decision is performed, and when the lottery is won, a “second variable entry portion” is entered. The right variable pitching device 85 as the “ball portion” is switched to the accepting state, but when the game ball flows into the right actuated pitching portion 83, the right variable pitching device 608 is accepted without performing the lottery. It is also possible to switch to

  (18) In the above embodiment, by restricting the information acquisition process based on the entry to the right-hand actuated entry part 83 during the “predetermined period”, the right variable entry apparatus 85 receives the same again during the same period. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, by restricting the lottery during the same period while allowing the information acquisition process during the predetermined period, It is good also as a structure which avoids that the right side variable pitching apparatus 85 will be in an acceptance state again. In addition, while permitting the information acquisition process and the lottery process during the predetermined period, by invalidating the result, the right variable pitching device 85 is prevented from entering the receiving state again during the predetermined period. Also good.

  (19) In the above-described embodiment, the limit counter LC2 is used to limit the information acquisition process based on the entry to the right operation entry portion 83, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, instead of the limit counter LC2, a timer counter TC1 used for switching the state of the right variable pitching device 85 may be used. After the right variable pitching device 85 is in the receiving state, the right variable pitching device 85 is again turned on based on the pitching into the right working pitching portion 85 during the waiting period until it can be in the next receiving state. As long as it is possible to avoid the acceptance state, the method is arbitrary.

  (20) In the above embodiment, when the support lottery is won, the information acquisition process based on entering the through gate 86 is restricted for a certain period using the restriction counter LC2. It is not limited to this. As long as the support lottery is avoided at least during the period in which the support by the right-hand actuating ball entering unit 83 is valid (the period including the accepting state and the non-accepting state), the specific method is arbitrary. For example, when the support flag is stored at the start of the support period and the support flag is deleted at the end of the support period, the difference port lottery is performed when the support flag is stored. It is sufficient that the configuration is not.

  (21) Other types of pachinko machines different from the above-described embodiment, such as pachinko machines in which an electric accessory is released a predetermined number of times when a game ball enters a specific area of a special device, or a game ball in a specific area of a special device The present invention can also be applied to a pachinko machine that generates a right if a player enters, a pachinko machine equipped with other objects, an arrangement ball machine, a sparrow ball, and other gaming machines.

<Invention Group Extracted from the Embodiments>
Hereinafter, the features of the invention group extracted from the above-described embodiment will be described while showing effects and the like as necessary. In the following, for ease of understanding, the corresponding configuration in the above embodiment is appropriately shown in parentheses, but is not limited to the specific configuration shown in parentheses.

Features 1. A game board (game board 80) having a game area (game area PE) formed on the front surface;
Game ball launching means (game ball launching mechanism 110) for launching a game ball to the game area based on a predetermined launch operation;
A first variable entrance that is provided in the game area and can be switched between a first state in which a game ball flowing down the game area can enter and a second state in which entry is more difficult or impossible than the first state. Part (right-hand actuated entrance part 83),
A second variable entrance portion (right side variable entrance) that is provided in the game area and can be switched between an accepting state that allows entry of game balls flowing down the game area and a non-accepting state that prevents entry of game balls. Ball device 85),
When a preset switching condition is satisfied, first variable control means (electric utility drive control processing in the MPU 702 of the main control device 162) is performed to switch the first variable pitching portion from the second state to the first state. Function to execute)
Second variable control means for switching the second variable entrance portion from the non-accepting state to the accepting state based on the entrance to the first variable entrance portion (the process of step S804 in the MPU 702 of the main controller 162) Function to execute)
The second variable pitching portion is provided with a guide passage (guide passage 620) for guiding the game ball flowing into the second variable pitching portion,
The guide passage is divided into a first branch passage (downstream portion 622L of the first downstream passage 622) and a second branch passage (second downstream passage 623) provided by branching the guide passage at a midway position thereof. Have
Further, the second variable entry portion distributes the game ball that has flowed down the guide passage and reached the branch portion to one of the first branch passage and the second branch passage (switching member 641). Have
A gaming machine that shifts to a special gaming state advantageous to a player based on the inflow of gaming balls into the second branch passage,
A gaming state control means (main control) for setting the gaming state to a specific state over a predetermined period set so as to include at least the receiving period in which the second variable pitching portion is in the receiving state by the second variable control means. A function for executing a special winning transition process in the MPU 702 of the device 162),
The first variable control means is set to be able to switch the first variable pitching portion to the first state in the predetermined period when the switching condition is satisfied,
A privilege different from switching the second variable pitching portion from the non-accepting state to the accepting state during the predetermined period when a ball enters the first variable pitching portion during the predetermined period. Restricting means (steps S309, S307, and S805 in the MPU 702 of the main control device 162) that restricts switching of the second variable pitching portion from the non-accepting state to the accepting state during the predetermined period. A game machine having a function of executing the process.

  According to the feature 1, when the switching condition is satisfied, the entry into the first variable entry portion is facilitated, and the second variable entry portion receives the entry based on the entry into the first variable entry portion. Switch to state. And if a game ball enters into the 2nd branch passage in the 2nd variable entrance part, it will change to a special game state based on the entrance ball.

  In this way, in a type of gaming machine that shifts to a special gaming state by taking a plurality of procedures, it is possible to suppress monotonization of the game, but waiting time may occur between the processes. In particular, in the second variable entry portion, the game balls that have flowed into the guide passage reach the branch portion and are distributed to the first branch passage and the second branch passage, so that the second variable entry portion is switched to the receiving state. Since a certain waiting time is required until it is determined whether or not the transition to the specific gaming state is possible, the waiting time that occurs when proceeding to the next procedure tends to be long.

  It is assumed that a player who dislikes such a waiting time may perform an act of suppressing the launch of a useless ball by temporarily refraining from launching a game ball, that is, an act of proceeding the game advantageously. . There is a time lag between the launching game ball and the launched game ball reaching the first variable pitching portion, etc., so when the above action is performed, the ball enters the second variable pitching portion, etc. There may be a disadvantage that the player misses a privilege that should originally be obtained due to a decrease in the probability. Further, the same action may cause a disadvantage that the operating rate of the gaming machine is lowered.

  In this regard, as shown in this feature, if a configuration that allows entry into the first variable entry portion during a predetermined period and gives a player a privilege according to the inflow of the same game ball is adopted, Even if the game ball is continuously fired during the waiting time, it is possible to make it difficult to give the player a sense of loss due to the game ball. As a result, it is possible to prompt a continuous operation for launching a game ball, and to suppress the occurrence of various inconveniences described above.

Feature 2. The first variable pitching portion is at a position upstream of the second variable pitching portion, and when the first variable pitching portion is at least in the first state, It is located at a position where game balls facing the variable entry part can flow,
The predetermined period is a gaming machine set so that an end timing of the predetermined period is later than an end timing of the acceptance period,
When the first variable control section switches the first variable pitching section during the predetermined period, the second variable pitching section during the predetermined period has returned from the receiving state to the non-accepting state. 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the first variable pitching portion is set to be in the first state in a later period.

  When the configuration that allows the switching of the first variable pitching portion during a predetermined period as shown in the feature 1 is adopted, the first variable pitching portion temporarily prevents the second variable pitching portion from entering the ball. The player will miss the opportunity to enter the special gaming state. This is not preferable because it may cause a decrease in interest in games. Such an inconvenience is assumed to become conspicuous by lengthening the period during which the first variable pitching portion is in the first state in order to make the effect shown in the feature 1 suitable.

  Therefore, in the configuration in which a certain period of time is required for the distribution of the game balls as shown in feature 1, the first variable ball-in-part is the second variable ball-in during the period in which the second variable ball-in-part is in the non-accepting state. The following effects can be expected by using the configuration in a state together. That is, the effect shown in the feature 1 is preferably exhibited by making it difficult for the first variable entry portion to prevent the entry into the second variable entry portion and preventing the player from feeling uncomfortable. Can be made.

  Feature 3. The first variable control means sets the first variable pitching portion to the second state before elapse of the predetermined period when the first variable pitching portion is set to the first state during the predetermined period. The gaming machine according to Feature 1 or 2, wherein the game machine is set so as to complete the return.

  In the configuration shown in the feature 1, when the restriction by the restriction means is released during the period in which the first variable pitching portion is in the first state, the player's attention is directed to the first variable pitching portion. In a state where the game is not performed, for example, in a state where attention is still being paid to the second variable pitching portion, there is a high possibility that the game will proceed. In this case, there is a concern that the interest effect and the effect of improving the attention degree to the game by setting a plurality of procedures will not be exhibited well. Therefore, as shown in this feature, if the configuration is such that the return of the first variable pitching portion to the second state is completed before the lapse of the predetermined period, the first variable pitching portion of the first variable pitching portion during the predetermined period While prompting the continuation of the launch operation by switching to the first state, it is possible to suitably suppress the occurrence of the inconvenience caused by it.

  Feature 4. The first variable control means is configured to prevent the end timing of the predetermined period from being reached in the middle of the period in which the first variable pitching portion is in the first state. The gaming machine according to any one of the features 3 to 3.

  If a configuration is adopted in which the restriction is switched between valid / invalid depending on at which timing the game ball has entered during the period in which the first variable entry portion is in the first state, the first variable It is assumed that confusion is likely to arise for the function of the entrance part. Further, in order to avoid such an inconvenience, continuing the above-described restriction when the first state is maintained after a predetermined period may be a factor that hinders smooth game progress.

  Therefore, as shown in this feature, if a configuration that avoids the overlap between the period during which the first variable pitching portion is in the first state and the end timing of the predetermined period is employed, occurrence of such inconvenience is suitably suppressed. Therefore, a practically preferable configuration can be realized.

  Feature 5 The first variable control means makes the timing for starting the switching to the first state after the end timing of the predetermined period at the time of switching to the first state after the restriction by the restricting means. The gaming machine according to any one of features 1 to 4, wherein the gaming machine is a product.

  As shown in feature 1, the first variable pitching portion is allowed to switch to the first state during a predetermined period, and the second variable pitch is entered based on the pitching into the first variable pitching portion during the predetermined period. In a configuration in which a privilege other than the switching to the acceptance state of the ball part is given, the first variable ball entry part is in the first state many times, and the second variable entry despite the occurrence of a ball entry each time. If the ball part is not switched to the accepting state, the adoption of the function for prompting the launch operation may be a factor that causes discomfort and distrust to the player. Therefore, the main function of the first variable pitching portion (the function responsible for a part of the above procedure) is configured so that the restriction function is not exhibited at least in the next first state where the restriction function is exhibited. ) Can be used to suppress the above discomfort.

Feature 6 The first variable control means is set to perform switching to the first state of the first variable pitching portion a plurality of times when the switching condition is satisfied,
Furthermore, the first variable control means is configured to change the first variable control unit when the second variable pitching unit is switched to the receiving state based on the pitching at the first switching of the first variable pitching unit. 6. The gaming machine according to any one of features 1 to 5, wherein the game machine is set to complete at least a second switching of the ball-entry portion within the predetermined period.

  As shown in the feature 6, if the first variable pitching portion is switched to the second state a plurality of times, when the lottery is won by the pitching at the first switching, the second and subsequent switching is performed. It is used as a means to suppress the decrease of game balls, and when it is lost in the lottery by the same ball, it does not become a predetermined period, so the lottery is executed again by the ball at the second and subsequent switching.

  As shown in the feature 1, in the configuration in which the game balls are distributed in the second variable entry portion, there is a considerable waiting time. Then, if it is set as the structure which switches a 1st variable ball | bowling part in multiple times by establishment of switching conditions, the launch operation of the game ball in this waiting time can be encouraged suitably.

  For example, in the case where switching is performed only once due to the establishment of the switching condition, in order to enjoy the above-described privilege, it is necessary to perform a game ball firing operation in order to satisfy the switching condition. For this reason, when the number of players who judge that it is more advantageous to execute a stop to resume the shooting operation of the game ball after the lapse of a predetermined period when the bonus granted and the game ball lost by the shooting operation are compared, It is assumed that it is difficult to perform the function shown in Feature 1 well. Therefore, as shown in this feature, if switching is performed a plurality of times by establishing a single switching condition, it is difficult to give an indication that the game ball is wasted, and the effect shown in Feature 1 is preferably exhibited. be able to.

Feature 7. The first variable control means performs the next switching when the ball enters the first variable ball entry portion in the second and subsequent receiving states and the predetermined period is reached based on the ball entry. Is set to allow the condition to be met,
Further, the first variable control means sets the first variable pitching portion to the first state for the first time when the first variable pitching portion is switched to the first state due to establishment of the switching condition. It is set so as to allow an overlap between the period and the predetermined period, and the overlap between the period when the first variable pitching portion is in the first state and the predetermined period after the second time is made impossible. The gaming machine according to the feature 6, wherein the gaming machine is set to.

  According to the feature 7, when the game ball is continuously fired, it is possible to suppress the player from being disadvantaged by the same operation. Specifically, at least once in the switching to the first state, the switching to the receiving state of the second variable pitching portion becomes effective, thereby ensuring the game progress function based on the result of establishment of the switching condition. The Rukoto. For this reason, it is avoided that “the privilege that can be expected by the establishment of the switching condition = the privilege that is permitted by the restricting means only”, and the privilege (acceptance of the second variable pitching unit is received) by continuing the game ball launching operation. It is possible to make it difficult to give the player an impression that the player has missed the switch to the state. Thereby, the effect shown to the characteristics 1 etc. can be exhibited suitably.

Feature 8 The first variable control means is set to perform switching to the first state of the first variable pitching portion a plurality of times when the switching condition is satisfied,
Furthermore, the first variable control means includes
Judgment means for determining success or failure of the switching condition triggered by the passing of a game ball (through gate 86) provided in the game area (the processing of steps S907 and S911 in the MPU 702 of the main controller 162 is executed) Function)
In the first state of the first state, when the ball enters the first variable ball entry part and the predetermined period is reached based on the ball entry, the switching to the remaining first state is completed. And a means (a function for executing the process of step S203 in the MPU 702 of the main control device 162) for limiting the determination of the success or failure of the next switching condition by the determination means until the predetermined period ends. 8. The gaming machine according to any one of features 1 to 7, which is a feature.

  In the case of adopting a configuration in which the first variable pitching portion is switched to the first state a plurality of times when the switching condition is satisfied once, for example, compared to the case where the switching is performed only once by the satisfaction of the switching condition, It is easy to realize switching to the first state during a predetermined period. By facilitating the switching to the first state during the predetermined period as described above, it is possible to preferably prompt the continuation of the game ball firing operation during the predetermined period.

  Further, in the configuration in which the first variable pitching portion is switched to the first state due to the establishment of the switching condition, if the determination of whether the switching condition is successful is not made even though the game ball has passed through the passage portion, Concerned about the impression that a disadvantage has occurred. In this regard, in this feature, a configuration is adopted in which switching to the first state is performed a plurality of times when the switching condition is satisfied once, and the first variable entering portion is in the first state for the first time. If a predetermined period is generated based on the entry, the determination of success or failure of the next switching condition is limited until the switching to the remaining first state is completed and the predetermined period ends. For example, it is possible to suppress that the switching condition is satisfied at an unfavorable timing (allowing the first variable pitching portion to be in the first state) while allowing the first variable pitching portion during the predetermined period to be in the first state. Furthermore, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of the disadvantage caused by the determination limitation by the limiting means.

Feature 9 The first variable control means is a determination means (in the MPU 702 of the main control device 162) for determining success or failure of the switching condition when a game ball has passed through a passing portion (through gate 86) provided in the gaming area. A function of executing the process of step S109),
The first variable pitching portion is at a position upstream of the second variable pitching portion, and when the first variable pitching portion is at least in the first state, It is located at a position where game balls facing the variable entry part can flow,
The passage portion is located at a position upstream of the second variable ball entry portion, and is disposed at a position where a game ball toward the second variable ball entry portion can pass. The gaming machine according to any one of features 1 to 8.

  In the gaming machine of the type that shifts to the special gaming state through a plurality of procedures as shown in the feature 1, the first variable entry portion may be positioned. Thereby, when the 1st variable entrance part switches to the 1st state during a predetermined period, the entrance to the 1st variable entrance part can be generated suitably. Since the first variable pitching portion is arranged upstream of the second variable pitching portion, when the first variable pitching portion is opened during a predetermined period, the second variable pitching portion is It is possible to suppress the inflow of the game ball to the 1 variable pitching portion, and to effectively exhibit the effect of switching the first variable pitching portion during the predetermined period.

  In addition, when switching to the acceptance state again after the second variable entry portion is in the non-acceptance state, it is necessary to enter a game ball into the first variable entry portion. The game ball can pass through the passage by continuing to fire the game ball toward the. Thereby, it can suppress that the repetition of the procedure mentioned above is delayed, and can contribute to smoothing of game progress.

  Feature 10 The said 2nd variable entrance part is comprised so that the game ball which moves the said guidance channel | path can be visually recognized from the game machine front, The characteristic one thru | or the feature 9 characterized by the above-mentioned. Gaming machine.

  According to the feature 10, by making it possible to visually recognize the game ball moving in the guide passage, it is possible to improve the degree of attention of the player with respect to the movement of the game ball and to contribute to the enhancement of interest in the game machine. In such a configuration in which the game ball can be visually confirmed (final result), the movement of the game ball flowing down the guide passage is slowed down for the purpose of improving the visibility of the game ball. Is preferred. However, when such a response is performed, the predetermined period is likely to be long, and the period required to complete a series of the above procedures is long, so that it is easy to avoid the above-described game ball firing operation. It is assumed that If the technical idea shown in the feature 1 or the like is applied to such a configuration, it is possible to suppress the avoidance of the game ball launching operation and promptly advance the re-game after the end of the series of processes. Thereby, the fall of the operation rate in a game machine can be suppressed suitably.

Feature 11. A gaming machine that shifts a gaming state to the special gaming state by the arrival of a gaming ball at a specific area (second detection area DE2) in the second branch passage,
In the guide passage, the time required for the game ball that has flowed into the second variable ball entry portion to reach the specific area from the entrance portion of the second variable ball entry portion is adjusted to be substantially constant. 8. A gaming machine according to any one of features 2 to 7, characterized in that the game machine has meandering means (meandering structure of guide passage 620).

  In the configuration in which the second variable entry portion has the guide passage as shown in the feature 2 or the like, if the movement period of the technical ball moving in the guide passage varies, the predetermined variable as shown in the feature 2 or the like is used. It becomes difficult to realize the relationship between the period and the period (start / end timing) to be in the first state. Therefore, as shown in this feature, by adjusting the period required for the movement from the entrance portion of the second variable ball entry portion to the specific area to be substantially constant, the above-described variation in the period is suppressed. The relationship between the predetermined period and the period in the first state can be made suitable.

  In particular, in combination with feature 10 (a configuration in which a game ball flowing down the guide passage is visible), the movement of the game ball can be easily followed by meandering the guide passage to suppress the moving speed of the game ball. can do. However, when such a response is simply performed, the predetermined period is likely to be long, and when the game ball enters the second variable ball-entry part, the launch operation is easily avoided to avoid wasting the game ball. is assumed. If the technical idea shown in the feature 1 is applied to such a configuration, it is possible to favorably promote the continuation of the launching operation during the predetermined period, and it is possible to favorably suppress a decrease in operating rate or the like.

Feature 12. The second variable pitching part is
Upstream detection means (upstream detection sensor 605) for detecting a game ball passing through an upstream specific area (detection area DE0) upstream of the branch portion in the guide passage;
Downstream detection means (downstream detection sensor 626) for detecting a game ball passing through the downstream specific area (detection area DE2) in the second branch passage,
The second variable control means is configured to detect the second variable entrance ball when a specific number of game balls preset by the upstream detection means are detected or when a game ball is detected by the downstream detection means. Means for switching the part to the non-accepting state,
Any one of the characteristics 1 to 11, wherein the specific number is set to be greater than a number that allows the game balls fired by the launching means to reach the upstream specific area within the predetermined period. The gaming machine according to one.

  As described in the feature 1, in the configuration that allows the first variable pitching portion to be switched to the first state during the predetermined period, as already described, the second state → the first state → It is preferable to complete the switching of the second state. According to the present feature, when a specific number of game balls flow into the second variable pitch ball portion, the variable pitch ball portion switches to a non-acceptance state. It is set larger than the number to get. Thereby, it can suppress that a specific number of game balls flow in before a predetermined period passes, and it switches to a non-accepting state. By applying the technical idea shown in the feature 1 or the like to such a configuration, a practically preferable configuration can be realized.

Feature 13. The allocating means is configured to be switchable between a guiding state in which the game ball that has reached the branch position is guided to the second branch passage and a non-guidance state that is not guided to the second branch passage.
Drive control means (main control device 162) that operates the allocating means so as to be in the guiding state until a preset period elapses after the second variable pitching portion is switched to the receiving state. MPU702 of the function of executing the processing of steps S808 and S809),
The first variable control means is set to perform switching to the second state of the first variable pitching portion a plurality of times when the switching condition is satisfied,
Further, the first variable control means is configured to switch the second variable pitching portion to the receiving state based on the pitching when the first variable pitching portion is switched for the first time. The gaming machine according to any one of features 1 to 12, wherein the game machine is set so that the second and subsequent switching of the ball-entry portion is performed after the switching member returns to the non-guided state.

  According to the feature 13, the game ball that has flowed into the guide passage reaches the second branch passage if the inflow timing is early, and does not reach the second branch passage if the inflow timing is late. In this way, in the configuration in which the presence or absence of the special game state is influenced by the inflow timing of the game ball, when the first variable pitching portion is opened again at the timing related to the occurrence of the special game state, On the other hand, it is assumed that discomfort is likely to occur. Therefore, as shown in this feature, the first variable entry portion is switched after the second time after the switching member is returned to the non-induction state, so that the occurrence of the special game state is the first variable entry. It is possible to suppress the hindrance by the part and to appropriately exhibit the effect shown in the feature 1 or the like.

  The basic configuration of the gaming machine to which the above features can be applied is shown below.

  Pachinko machine: operation means (game ball launching handle 41) operated by a player, game ball launching means (game ball launching mechanism 110) for launching a game ball based on the operation of the operation means, and the fired A ball passage (guide rail 100) for guiding a game ball to a predetermined game area and game parts (nails 90, etc.) arranged in the game area, and a predetermined passage portion (general prize) among these game parts A gaming machine that gives a privilege to a player when a game ball passes through the mouth 81 or the like.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Pachinko machine as a gaming machine, 41 ... Game ball launching handle, 80 ... Game board, 82 ... Lower operation entrance part, 83 ... Right operation entrance part as first variable entrance part, 84 ... Lower side Variable pitching device, 85... Right side variable pitching device as second variable pitching portion, 86... Through gate as passing portion, 110... Gaming ball launching mechanism as gaming ball launching means, 162. ... upstream detection sensor as upstream detection means, 620 ... guide passage, 622 ... first downstream passage, 622L ... downstream portion as first branch passage, 623 ... second downstream passage as second branch passage, 626 ... downstream detection sensor as downstream detection means, 641 ... switching member as distribution means, 702 ... MPU, DE0 ... detection area as upstream specific area, DE2 ... detection area as downstream specific area, PE ... play Area.

Claims (5)

A game board with a game area formed on the front,
Based on a predetermined launch operation, game ball launching means for launching a game ball to the game area;
A first variable entrance that is provided in the game area and can be switched between a first state in which a game ball flowing down the game area can enter and a second state in which entry is more difficult or impossible than the first state. And
A second variable pitching portion that is provided in the gaming area and is switchable between an accepting state allowing entry of game balls flowing down the gaming area and a non-accepting state disallowing entry of game balls;
First variable control means for switching the first variable pitching portion from the second state to the first state when a preset switching condition is satisfied;
A second variable control means for switching the second variable ball-entering portion from the non-accepting state to the accepting state based on a ball entering the first variable ball-entering portion;
The second variable pitching portion is provided with a guide passage for guiding the game ball that has flowed into the second variable pitching portion,
The guide passage has a first branch passage and a second branch passage provided by branching the guide passage at a midway position thereof,
Furthermore, the second variable ball entry portion has distribution means for distributing the game ball that has flowed down the guide passage and reached the branch portion to one of the first branch passage and the second branch passage,
A gaming machine that shifts to a special gaming state advantageous to a player based on the inflow of gaming balls into the second branch passage,
Game state control means for setting the game state to a specific state over a predetermined period set so as to include at least the reception period in which the second variable ball-in-ball unit is in the reception state by the second variable control means;
The first variable control means is set to be able to switch the first variable pitching portion to the first state in the predetermined period when the switching condition is satisfied,
A privilege different from switching the second variable pitching portion from the non-accepting state to the accepting state during the predetermined period when a ball enters the first variable pitching portion during the predetermined period. And a restricting means for restricting switching of the second variable pitching portion from the non-accepting state to the accepting state during the predetermined period. The first variable pitching portion is at a position upstream of the second variable pitching portion, and when the first variable pitching portion is at least in the first state, It is located at a position where game balls facing the variable entry part can flow,
The predetermined period is a gaming machine set so that an end timing of the predetermined period is later than an end timing of the acceptance period,
When the first variable control section switches the first variable pitching section during the predetermined period, the second variable pitching section during the predetermined period has returned from the receiving state to the non-accepting state. 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the first variable pitching portion is set to be in the first state in a later period.   The first variable control means sets the first variable pitching portion to the second state before elapse of the predetermined period when the first variable pitching portion is set to the first state during the predetermined period. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the game machine is set so as to complete the return.   The said 1st variable control means prevents the end timing of the said predetermined period from being reached in the middle of the period when the said 1st variable pitching part is in the said 1st state. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3.   The first variable control means makes the timing for starting the switching to the first state after the end timing of the predetermined period at the time of switching to the first state after the restriction by the restricting means. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the gaming machine is one.

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