JP5882877B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine capable of performing a predetermined game.

  As a gaming machine, a game ball, which is a game medium, is launched into a game area by a launching device, and when a game ball wins a prize area such as a prize opening provided in the game area, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out to the player. There is something to be done. Further, a variable display device capable of variably displaying the identification information (also referred to as “fluctuation”) is provided, and when the display result of the variable display of the identification information becomes a specific display result in the variable display device, the game state (game There is a machine configured to give a predetermined game value to a player (specifically, a state in which a gaming machine is controlled).

  The game value is the right that the state of the variable winning ball apparatus provided in the gaming area of the gaming machine becomes advantageous for a player who is easy to win, and the right for becoming advantageous for a player. In other words, or a condition for winning a prize ball is easily established.

  In a pachinko machine, a specific display mode determined in advance is derived and displayed as a display result of variable display of special symbols (identification information) that is started in the variable display device based on the winning of a game ball at the start winning opening. If this happens, a “big hit” will occur. The derived display is to finally stop and display a symbol (final stop symbol). When the big hit occurs, for example, the big winning opening is opened a predetermined number of times, and the game shifts to a big hit gaming state where the hit ball is easy to win. And in each open period, if there is a prize for a predetermined number (for example, 10) of the big prize opening, the big prize opening is closed. And the number of times of opening the special winning opening is fixed to a predetermined number (for example, 15 rounds). An opening time (for example, 29 seconds) is determined for each opening, and even if the number of winnings does not reach a predetermined number, the big winning opening is closed when the opening time elapses. Hereinafter, the opening period of each special winning opening may be referred to as a round. A game in a round may be referred to as a round game.

  In the variable display device, the symbols other than the symbol that becomes the final stop symbol (for example, the middle symbol in the left, middle, and right symbols) continue for a predetermined period of time and stop and shake in a state that matches the specific display result. It can be a big hit before the final result is displayed because it is moving, scaling, or deforming, or multiple symbols change synchronously with the same symbol, or the position of the displayed symbol is switched. An effect performed in a state where the sex is continued (hereinafter, these states are referred to as reach states) is referred to as reach effect. Further, the reach state and its state are referred to as a reach mode. Furthermore, variable display including reach production is called reach variable display. Then, when the display result of the symbol variably displayed on the variable display device is not a specific display result, it becomes “out of” and the variability display state ends. A player plays a game while enjoying how to generate a big hit.

  Some of these gaming machines are configured to detect an error relating to a game and output error information. For example, Patent Document 1 includes a winning ball detector that detects a game ball that has entered a winning opening, and the number of gaming balls that are continuously detected by the winning ball detector within a predetermined time period. It is described that an alarm is activated when the number of measured game balls is greater than or equal to a predetermined number exceeding the number of game balls entering the winning device.

JP 2011-167406 A

  According to the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, it is determined whether or not the winning of the game ball is due to an illegal act. This can be notified by blinking or generating an alarm sound from the speaker. However, the cited document 1 does not describe a process when an illegal act is simultaneously performed on a plurality of winning detection means. That is, in the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, when error information is output based on the fact that an error has occurred in one winning detection means and an error has occurred in other winning detection means, It is conceivable that no error information is output based on the occurrence of an error in other winning detection means.

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of outputting error information based on the occurrence of a new error even when a new error occurs while outputting the error information. And

(Means 1) The gaming machine according to the present invention is provided in the operation means (for example, the operation button 120) and the first winning area (for example, the start winning opening, the big winning opening, the winning opening, the gate 32). First detection means (for example, start port switch 14a, count switch 23, winning port switches 29a and 30a, gate switch 32a) and a second winning area (for example, start winning prize) Second detection means (for example, start port switch 14a, count switch 23, winning port switch) provided to the mouth, the big winning port, the winning port, the gate 32) for detecting that the game medium has passed through the second winning area. 29a, 30a, gate switch 32a) and the time point when the first detection means detects the passage of the game medium until the first monitoring period (the monitoring period shown in FIG. 15) elapses. First counting means for counting the number of times the first detection means has detected the passage of the game medium again (for example, a portion where the processing of steps S2507 and S2508 of the start port switch determination processing (step S259a) is executed by the CPU 56); The second detection means counts the number of times the second detection means detects the passage of the game medium again from the time when the passage of the game medium is detected until the second monitoring period (the monitoring period shown in FIG. 15) elapses. 2 counting means (for example, the part corresponding to steps S2507 and S2508 of the start opening switch determination process (step S259a) in the winning opening switch determination process (step S259b) by the CPU 56) and the first counting means counted First error determination means for determining that an error has occurred when the number of times reaches a predetermined number (for example, It is determined that an error has occurred when the number of times counted by the second counting means reaches a predetermined number when the PU 56 determines the start port switch determination processing (steps S2511 and S2512). Second error determination means (for example, a portion in which processing corresponding to steps S2511 and S2512 of start port switch determination processing (step S259a) is executed by the CPU 56 in the winning port switch determination processing (step S259b)), and first error determination Error information output means (for example, steps S1004 to S1015 of information output processing by the CPU 56) that outputs error information (security signal) when it is determined that an error has occurred by at least one of the means and the second error determination means. The part where the process is executed) The error information output means is provided in common output means (for example, provided on the terminal board 160, regardless of whether the first error determination means or the second error determination means determines that an error has occurred). Within the output period in which error information is output over a common predetermined output period (for example, 0.2 seconds) and error information is output based on the determination of the first error determination means. When it is determined by the second error determination means that an error has occurred, the error information is output over a predetermined output period using the common output means after the output period has elapsed and the predetermined waiting period has elapsed. (For example, the part in which the process of steps S1004 to S1015 of the information output process is executed by the CPU 56), the first counting means determines the number of times of counting. If it is determined by the first error determination means that an error has occurred based on the number of times, the counted number is initialized (for example, the portion where the process of step S2513 is executed by the CPU 56), and the second The counting means does not initialize the number of times counted at the time of initialization by the first counting means, and every time the first detecting means detects the passage of the game medium continues for a predetermined period, a continuous detection error First continuous detection error determining means for determining that the occurrence of the game has occurred and second continuous detection for determining that the continuous detection error has occurred each time the second detection means detects the passage of the game medium for a predetermined period of time. Whenever it is determined by the detection error determination means and the first continuous detection error determination means or the second continuous detection error determination means that a continuous detection error has occurred, the common output means is used to specify a specific period. Further comprising further a continuous error detection information output means for outputting the continuous error detection information across characterized.
With such a configuration, even when a new error occurs while outputting error information, error information based on the occurrence of a new error can be output using a common output unit. Further, according to such a configuration, since the output period is common, the process for outputting the error information can be made common.

(Means 3) In the means 1 or 2, the first continuous detection error determination means for determining that a continuous detection error has occurred when the state in which the first detection means detects the passage of the game medium continues for a predetermined period. (For example, when the CPU 56 executes the processing of steps S2502 to S2506 of the start port switch determination process) and when the second detection means detects the passage of the game medium continues for a predetermined period of time, continuous detection Second continuous detection error determination means for determining that an error has occurred (for example, a portion in which the CPU 56 executes processing corresponding to steps S2502 to S2506 of the start port switch determination processing in the winning port switch determination processing), and first continuous When it is determined by the detection error determination means or the second continuous detection error determination means that a continuous detection error has occurred , Continuous detection error information output means for outputting continuous detection error information over a specific period using a common output means (for example, a portion in which steps S1004 to S1015 of the information output processing are executed by the CPU 56). It may be configured.
According to such a configuration, it is possible to detect the occurrence of ball clogging in the winning area.

(Means 4) In the means 3, the error information output means includes the first error determination means or the second error within a specific period in which the continuous detection error information output means outputs the continuous detection error information using the common output means. When it is determined by the determination means that an error has occurred, the specific period has elapsed, and after the specific standby period has elapsed, the error information is output using a common output means, and the continuous detection error information output means is If the continuous detection error determination unit determines that a continuous detection error has occurred within the output period in which the error information output unit outputs error information using a common output unit, the output period has elapsed. In addition, after the specific waiting period has elapsed, the continuous detection error information is output using a common output means (for example, the CPU 56 performs a winning mouth switch determination process). Partial processing corresponding to step S2502~S2506 of starting opening the switch determination process is performed: FIG. 20 (A) refer) may be configured so.
According to such a configuration, when it is determined that an error has occurred by the first error determination unit or the second error determination unit within the specific period in which the continuous detection error information output unit outputs the continuous detection error information, Or, even if it is determined that a continuous detection error has occurred by the continuous detection error determination means within the output period in which the error information output means is outputting error information, error information or continuous Detection error information can be output.

(Means 5) In any one of the means 1 to 4, the error information output means is the first error judgment means or the second error judgment regardless of the setting state of whether or not the execution of the error notification by the setting means is restricted. The error information may be output when it is determined by the means that an error has occurred.
According to such a configuration, it is possible to output error information regardless of whether or not the execution of error notification is set to be restricted, so that illegal acts can be prevented.

(Means 6) In any one of the means 1 to 5, the game control board (for example, the game control board (main board) 31) having at least the game control means or the effect control board (for example, the effect) having the effect control means. Any one of the control boards 80) is equipped with notification means (for example, error notification LEDs 31A and 80A) for performing predetermined notification, and when it is determined that a predetermined error has occurred, the notification means is provided. Predetermined notification executing means (for example, a part for executing step S262 in the game control microcomputer 560. Step S3002 in the effect control microcomputer 100 is used for executing predetermined notification (for example, lighting the error notification LEDs 31A and 80A)). The predetermined notification execution means includes an error notification by the setting means. Regardless of the setting state of whether or not to limit the row, when it is determined that a predetermined error has occurred, a predetermined notification is executed (for example, the game control microcomputer 560 particularly restricts execution of error notification). And the step S262 is executed without being restricted by whether or not the execution restriction of the error notification is set on the side of the effect control microcomputer 100. The effect control microcomputer 100 performs the error control. Step S3002 may be executed without being limited to the presence or absence of the notification prohibition flag or the error sound volume setting value.
According to such a configuration, it is possible to recognize that an error has occurred by checking the game control board or the effect control board regardless of whether or not the error notification is set to be restricted. Therefore, cheating can be prevented.

(Means 7) In any one of the means 1 to 6, a specific notification (for example, on condition that the setting device does not limit the execution of error notification when power supply to the gaming machine is started) , A power supply start notification means (for example, a portion for executing step S703 in the production control microcomputer 100) that executes the error notification restriction release screen shown in FIG. 24 (1) is configured. Also good.
According to such a configuration, it can be recognized that the setting has been made so as not to limit the execution of error notification when power supply to the gaming machine is started.

It is the front view which looked at the pachinko game machine from the front. It is a front view which shows the front of a game board. It is the rear view which looked at the gaming machine from the back. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of a game control board (main board). It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a relay board | substrate, an effect control board, a lamp driver board | substrate, and an audio | voice output board | substrate. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of bit allocation of the output port in a game control means. It is explanatory drawing which shows the bit allocation example of the input port in a game control means. It is a circuit diagram which shows the internal structure of a terminal board | substrate. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which the microcomputer for game control performs. It is a flowchart which shows a 4 ms timer interruption process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the program of a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows a normal symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows abnormal winning determination processing. It is a flowchart which shows a starting port switch determination process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the monitoring time defined for every switch classification. It is a flowchart which shows a sensor error determination process. It is a block diagram which shows the various signals output to a terminal board. It is a flowchart which shows an information output process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the output timing of a security signal. It is explanatory drawing which shows the output timing of a security signal. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which the microcomputer for production control performs. It is a flowchart which shows an error alerting | reporting restriction setting process. It is a flowchart which shows an error alerting | reporting process. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the example of a display of an error alerting | reporting restrictions cancellation | release screen and an error alerting | reporting restriction | limiting setting screen. It is a flowchart which shows the modification of a start port switch determination process. It is a flowchart which shows the modification of an information output process.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
First, the overall configuration of a pachinko gaming machine that is an example of a gaming machine will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine as viewed from the front, and FIG. 2 is a front view showing the front of the game board.

  The pachinko gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame (not shown) formed in a vertically long rectangular shape, and a game frame attached to the inside of the outer frame so as to be opened and closed. Further, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape that is provided in the game frame so as to be opened and closed. The game frame includes a front frame (not shown) installed to be openable and closable with respect to the outer frame, a mechanism plate to which mechanism parts and the like are attached, and various parts attached to them (excluding a game board described later). Is a structure including

  As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape. On the lower surface of the glass door frame 2 is a hitting ball supply tray (upper plate) 3. Under the hitting ball supply tray 3, an extra ball receiving tray 4 for storing game balls that cannot be accommodated in the hit ball supply tray 3 and a hitting operation handle (operation knob) 5 for launching the game balls are provided. A game board 6 is detachably attached to the back surface of the glass door frame 2. The game board 6 is a structure including a plate-like body constituting the game board 6 and various components attached to the plate-like body. A game area 7 is formed on the front surface of the game board 6.

  In the vicinity of the center of the game area 7, there is provided an effect display device (decorative symbol display device) 9 including a plurality of variable display portions each variably displaying an effect decorative symbol (effect symbol). The effect display device 9 includes, for example, three variable display portions (symbol display areas) of “left”, “middle”, and “right”. The effect display device 9 performs variable display of the effect symbol as a symbol for decoration (for effect) during the variable display period of the special symbol by the special symbol indicator 8. The effect display device 9 that performs variable display of effect symbols is controlled by an effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board.

  Below the effect display device 9, four special symbol hold memory indicators 18 are provided for displaying the number of effective winning balls that have entered the start winning opening 14, that is, the number of hold memories (also referred to as start memory or start prize memory). ing. The special symbol reservation storage display 18 displays up to four reservation storage numbers in the order of winning. The special symbol hold storage display 18 increases the number of LEDs in the lit state by 1 each time there is a start winning in the start winning opening 14. Then, each time the special symbol display 8 starts variable display, the special symbol hold storage indicator 18 reduces the number of LEDs in the lit state by 1 (that is, turns off one LED). Specifically, the special symbol hold storage display 18 shifts the lighting state each time variable display is started on the special symbol display 8. In this example, the upper limit number (up to 4) is provided for the number of starting memories by winning to the start winning opening 14, but the upper limit number may be four or more.

  A special symbol display (special symbol display device) 8 that variably displays a special symbol as identification information is provided on the top of the effect display device 9. In this embodiment, the special symbol display 8 is realized by a simple and small display (for example, 7 segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9, for example. The special symbol display 8 may be configured to variably display a larger number of numbers such as 0 to 99 in order to make it difficult for the player to grasp a specific stop symbol. Further, the effect display device 9 performs variable display of the effect symbol as a symbol for decoration (for effect) during the variable display period of the special symbol by the special symbol indicator 8.

  Below the effect display device 9, a variable winning ball device 15 that forms a start winning opening 14 is provided. The variable winning ball device 15 is configured to be able to open and close the wings, and when the wings are open, the game ball is easy to win (open state) and when the wings are not open (closed). The game ball becomes difficult to win (closed state). A winning ball that has entered the start winning opening 14 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by a start opening switch 14a (for example, a proximity switch). The variable winning ball device 15 is opened by a solenoid 16. The first winning prize opening may be provided directly above the variable winning ball apparatus 15, and the variable winning ball apparatus 15 may be used as the second starting prize opening.

  Below the variable winning ball apparatus 15, a special variable winning ball apparatus 20 using an opening / closing plate that is controlled to be opened by a solenoid 21 in a specific gaming state (big hit state) is provided. The special variable winning ball apparatus 20 is a means for opening and closing the big winning opening. The winning ball that is won by the special variable winning ball device 20 and guided to the back of the game board 6 is detected by a count switch 23 (for example, a proximity switch).

  When the game ball passes through the gate 32 and is detected by the gate switch 32a, the variable display of the normal symbol display 10 is started. In this embodiment, variable display is performed by alternately lighting the left and right lamps (a symbol can be visually recognized when the lamp is lit). For example, if the left lamp is lit when the variable display ends, it is a hit. When the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times. In the vicinity of the normal symbol display 10, a normal symbol start memory display 41 having a display unit with four LEDs for displaying the number of winning balls that have passed through the gate 32 is provided. Each time there is a game ball passing through the gate 32, the normal symbol start memory display 41 increases the number of LEDs to be turned on by one. Each time the variable display on the normal symbol display 10 is started, the number of LEDs to be lit is reduced by one.

  The game board 6 is provided with a plurality of winning holes 29 and 30, and winning of game balls to the winning holes 29 and 30 is detected by winning hole switches 29a and 30a (for example, proximity switches), respectively.

  Each of the winning ports 29 and 30 constitutes a winning area provided on the game board 6 as an area for accepting game media and allowing winning. The start winning opening 14 and the big winning opening also constitute a winning area that accepts game media and allows winning. In addition, it may be configured to detect with a detection switch that a game ball has passed a predetermined area (for example, a gate), instead of the configuration in which the game ball won in each winning opening 29, 30 is detected with a prize switch. Around the left and right of the game area 7, there are provided decorative lamps 25 blinking and displayed during the game, and at the lower part there is an outlet 26 for absorbing a game ball that has not won a prize. Two speakers 27 that emit sound effects are provided on the left and right upper portions outside the game area 7. On the outer periphery of the game area 7, a top frame lamp 28a, a left frame lamp 28b, and a right frame lamp 28c are provided. Further, a decoration LED is installed around each structure (such as a big prize opening) in the game area 7. The top frame lamp 28a, the left frame lamp 28b, the right frame lamp 28c, and the decoration LED are examples of a decorative light emitter provided in the gaming machine. In this embodiment, the case where the light emitter provided in the gaming machine is configured by using a lamp or an LED is shown. However, the present invention is not limited to the mode shown in this embodiment. You may make it comprise all the provided light-emitting bodies using LED.

  Although not shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, a prize ball lamp that is turned on during the prize ball payout is provided in the vicinity of the left frame lamp 28b, and a supply ball is provided in the vicinity of the top frame lamp 28a. There is a ball-out lamp that illuminates when it runs out. Note that the award ball lamp and the out-of-ball lamp are controlled to be turned on by the effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board when the award ball is being paid out or when the out-of-ball is detected. Further, a prepaid card unit (hereinafter referred to as “card unit”) 50 that enables lending a ball by inserting a prepaid card is installed adjacent to the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  The card unit 50 includes, for example, a usable display lamp that indicates whether or not the card unit 50 is in a usable state, a connection table direction indicator that indicates which side of the pachinko gaming machine 1 corresponds to the card unit, and a card unit. When checking the card insertion indicator lamp indicating that a card is inserted in the card, the card insertion slot into which the card as a recording medium is inserted, and the card reader / writer mechanism provided on the back of the card insertion slot A card unit lock for releasing the card unit is provided.

  A game ball launched from the ball striking device by the player's operation enters the game area 7 through the hit ball rail, and then descends the game area 7. When the game ball enters the start winning opening 14 and is detected by the start opening switch 14a, the special symbol on the special symbol display 8 starts variable display (variation) if the variable display of the symbol can be started. If the variable display of the symbol cannot be started, the number of reserved memories is increased by one.

  The variable display of the special symbol on the special symbol display device 8 stops when a certain time has elapsed. If the special symbol (stop symbol) at the time of stoppage is a jackpot symbol (specific display result), the game shifts to a jackpot gaming state. That is, the special variable winning ball apparatus 20 is released until a predetermined time elapses or a predetermined number (for example, 10) of gaming balls wins. The opening of the special variable winning ball apparatus 20 is allowed until the last round of the determined number of rounds (for example, up to 15 rounds).

  When the special symbol on the special symbol display 8 at the time of stoppage is a jackpot symbol (probability variation symbol) with a probability variation, the probability of the next jackpot increases. That is, it becomes a more advantageous state for the player in the probability variation state.

  When the game ball passes through the gate 32, the normal symbol display unit 10 enters a state in which the normal symbol is variably displayed. Further, when the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined time.

  The members constituting the hitting ball supply tray 3 are provided with operation buttons 120 as operation means that can be operated by the player. The operation button 120 is provided with a push button switch that can be pressed by the player. The operation button 120 is provided not only with a push button switch that can be pressed by the player, but also with a dial that can be rotated by the player. The player can perform a predetermined selection (for example, selection of effects) by rotating the dial.

  In this embodiment, a radio wave sensor 61 is provided on the back side of the game area 7 where the start winning opening 14 and the big winning opening are provided. In this embodiment, a magnet sensor 62 is provided on the back surface of the predetermined area of the game area 7. Note that the number and arrangement of the radio wave sensors 61 and the magnet sensors 62 shown in FIG. 1 are merely examples, and the radio wave sensors 61 and the magnet sensors 62 may be arranged at various numbers and positions depending on how the game area 7 is configured. Good. For example, the radio wave sensor 61 and the magnet sensor 62 are not the surface of the gaming machine or the gaming machine board surface other than the back surface of the gaming machine (for example, the back position corresponding to the winning opening, the production control board or the gaming control board). It may be provided on the frame. As shown in FIG. 1, in this embodiment, since the radio wave sensor 61 is provided, it is possible to detect an act of illegally detecting a prize using radio waves, and a magnet sensor 62 is provided. Thus, it is possible to detect an action that illegally guides the game ball to the winning opening using the magnet.

  Next, the structure of the back surface of the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a rear view of the gaming machine as seen from the back side. As shown in FIG. 3, on the back side of the pachinko gaming machine 1, a variable display control unit including an effect control board 80 on which an effect control microcomputer 100 for controlling the effect display device 9 is mounted, a game control microcomputer, and the like are provided. Various boards such as a mounted game control board (main board) 31, an audio output board 70, a lamp driver board 35, and a payout control board 37 mounted with a payout control microcomputer for performing ball payout control are installed. Yes. The game control board 31 is stored in the board storage case 200. Further, the effect control board 80 and the game control board (main board) 31 are provided with error notification LEDs 80A and 31A, respectively, in a manner visible from the back side.

  Further, on the back side of the pachinko gaming machine 1, a power supply substrate 910 and a touch sensor substrate 91 on which power supply circuits for generating various power supply voltages such as DC30V, DC21V, DC12V, and DC5V are mounted. The power supply board 910 is supplied with the game control board 31 and each electrical component control board (the effect control board 80 and the payout control board 37) in the pachinko gaming machine 1 and each electrical component (power is supplied) provided in the pachinko gaming machine 1. A power switch as a power supply permission means for executing or shutting off the power supply to the component), and a clear switch for clearing the RAM 55 of the game control microcomputer 560 of the game control board 31 are provided. ing. Further, a replaceable fuse is provided inside the power switch (inside the substrate).

  In this embodiment, the main board 31 is provided on the game board side, and the payout control board 37 is provided on the game frame side. Even in such a configuration, as will be described later, the communication between the main board 31 and the payout control board 37 is performed by serial communication, thereby facilitating the routing of the wiring when replacing the game board. .

  Each control board is equipped with control means including a control microcomputer. The control means is an electrical component (game device: ball payout device 97, effect display device 9, light emission from a lamp, LED, etc.) provided in the gaming machine according to a command signal (control signal) as a command from the game control means or the like. Body, speaker 27, etc.). Hereinafter, the main board 31 may be included in the control board for explanation. In that case, the control means mounted on the control board refers to each of the game control means and the means for controlling the electrical components provided in the gaming machine in accordance with a command signal from the game control means or the like. A substrate on which a microcomputer other than the main substrate 31 is mounted may be referred to as a sub-substrate. The ball payout device 97 is a device for paying out a game ball guided by a passage for guiding the game ball and a sprocket driven by a stepping motor or the like to an upper plate or a lower plate. A payout number counting switch for counting prize balls and rental balls is also configured as part of the unit. In this embodiment, the payout detection means is realized by the payout number count switch 301 and has a function of detecting that a winning ball or a lending ball is actually paid out from the ball payout device 97. In this case, the payout number count switch 301 outputs a detection signal every time one payout of prize balls or rental balls is detected.

  On the back side of the pachinko gaming machine 1, a terminal board 160 having terminals for outputting various information to the outside of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is installed above. The terminal board 160 has, for example, an information output signal such as jackpot information indicating the occurrence of a jackpot gaming state (symbol determination frequency 1 signal shown in FIG. 17, start port signal, jackpot 1 signal, jackpot 2 signal, jackpot 3 signal, hour An information output terminal for externally outputting a short signal, a winning signal, a security signal, a high-accuracy signal, and winning ball information) is provided.

  The game ball stored in the storage tank 38 passes through a guide rail (not shown), and reaches a ball payout device 97 covered with a payout case 40A through a curve rod. Above the ball payout device 97, a ball break switch 187 is provided as a game medium break detection means. When the ball break switch 187 detects a ball break, the payout operation of the ball payout device 97 stops. The ball break switch 187 is a switch for detecting the presence or absence of a game ball in the game ball passage, but the ball break detection switch 167 for detecting the shortage of supply balls in the storage tank 38 is also an upstream portion of the guide rail (in the storage tank 38). (Proximate part). When the ball break detection switch 167 detects a shortage of game balls, the game balls are replenished to the pachinko gaming machine 1 from the replenishment mechanism provided on the gaming machine installation island.

  When a large number of game balls as prizes based on winning a prize or a game ball based on a ball lending request are paid out and the hitting ball supply tray 3 is full, the game balls are guided to the surplus ball receiving tray 4 through the surplus ball guiding path. Further, when the game ball is paid out, a sensing lever (not shown) presses the full tank switch as the storage state detection means, and the full tank switch as the storage state detection means is turned on. In this state, the rotation of the payout motor in the ball payout device is stopped, the operation of the ball payout device is stopped, and the driving of the ball hitting device is also stopped.

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the circuit configuration of the main board (game control board) 31. FIG. 4 also shows a payout control board 37, an effect control board 80, and the like. On the main board 31, a game control microcomputer (corresponding to a game control means) 560 for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a program, a control clock generation circuit 111, and a random number clock generation circuit 112 are mounted. The game control microcomputer 560 includes a ROM 54 for storing a game control (game progress control) program and the like, a RAM 55 as storage means used as a work memory, a CPU 56 for performing control operations in accordance with the program, and an I / O port unit 57. including. In this embodiment, the ROM 54 and the RAM 55 are built in the game control microcomputer 560. That is, the game control microcomputer 560 is a one-chip microcomputer. The one-chip microcomputer only needs to include at least the RAM 55, and the ROM 54 may be external or internal. The I / O port unit 57 may be externally attached. Furthermore, a random number circuit 509 for generating hardware random numbers (random numbers generated by the hardware circuit) is incorporated.

  Here, the control clock generation circuit 111 generates a control clock CCLK that becomes an oscillation signal of a predetermined frequency outside the game control microcomputer 560. The control clock CCLK generated by the control clock generation circuit 111 is supplied to the clock circuit 502 via the control external clock terminal EXC of the game control microcomputer 560, for example. The random number clock generation circuit 112 generates a random number clock RCLK that is an oscillation signal having a predetermined frequency different from the oscillation frequency of the control clock CCLK, outside the game control microcomputer 560. The random number clock RCLK generated by the random number clock generation circuit 112 is supplied to the random number circuit 509 via the random number external clock terminal ERC of the game control microcomputer 560, for example. As an example, the oscillation frequency of the random number clock RCLK generated by the random number clock generation circuit 112 may be equal to or lower than the oscillation frequency of the control clock CCLK generated by the control clock generation circuit 111. Alternatively, the oscillation frequency of the random number clock RCLK generated by the random number clock generation circuit 112 may be higher than the oscillation frequency of the control clock CCLK generated by the control clock generation circuit 111.

  In the game control microcomputer 560, the CPU 56 executes control in accordance with the program stored in the ROM 54, so that the game control microcomputer 560 (or CPU 56) executes (or performs processing) hereinafter. Specifically, the CPU 56 executes control according to a program. The same applies to microcomputers mounted on substrates other than the main substrate 31.

  The game control microcomputer 560 reads numerical data from the random number circuit 509 as a random R when a start winning to the start port switch 14a occurs, and performs a specific display based on the random R at the start of the variation of the special symbol and the production symbol. It is determined whether or not to make a jackpot display result as a result, that is, whether or not to make a jackpot. Then, when it is determined to be a big hit, the gaming state is shifted to a big hit gaming state as a specific gaming state advantageous to the player.

  The game control microcomputer 560 has a built-in serial communication circuit 511 for inputting / outputting (transmitting / receiving) signals with the payout control board 37 (the payout control microcomputer 370) through serial communication. The payout control microcomputer 370 also includes a serial communication circuit for inputting / outputting signals through the game control microcomputer 560 through serial communication.

  In this embodiment, serial communication is performed between the game control microcomputer 560 and the payout control microcomputer 370, but a serial communication circuit is also mounted on the effect control board 80 side. In addition, the game control microcomputer 560 may be controlled to transmit the effect control command to the effect control microcomputer 100 using a serial communication method.

  The RAM 55 is a backup RAM as a non-volatile storage means, part or all of which is backed up by a backup power supply created on the power supply board. That is, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, a part or all of the contents of the RAM 55 is stored for a predetermined period (until the capacitor as the backup power supply is discharged and the backup power supply cannot be supplied). In particular, at least data corresponding to the game state, that is, the control state of the game control means (a special symbol process flag, a value of a reserved memory number counter for counting the number of reserved memories) and data indicating the number of unpaid winning balls ( Specifically, a value of a prize ball command output counter (to be described later) is stored in the backup RAM. The data corresponding to the control state of the game control means is data necessary for resuming the game based on the data when the power is restored after a power failure or the like occurs. Further, data corresponding to the control state and data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls are defined as data indicating the progress state of the game. In this embodiment, the backup RAM also stores a magnetic abnormality flag indicating that a magnetic abnormality described later has been detected, and a security signal information timer used for outputting a security signal.

  A reset signal from the power supply board is input to the reset terminal of the game control microcomputer 560. A reset circuit for generating a reset signal supplied to the game control microcomputer 560 and the like is mounted on the power supply board. When the reset signal becomes high level, the game control microcomputer 560 and the like are in an operable state, and when the reset signal becomes low level, the game control microcomputer 560 and the like are in an operation stop state. Therefore, an allowable signal that allows the operation of the game control microcomputer 560 or the like is output during a period when the reset signal is at a high level, and a game control microcomputer is output when the reset signal is at a low level. An operation stop signal for stopping the operation of 560 or the like is output. Note that the reset circuit may be mounted on each electric component control board (a board on which a microcomputer for controlling the electric parts is mounted).

  Further, a power-off signal indicating that the power supply voltage from the power supply board has dropped below a predetermined value is input to the input port of the game control microcomputer 560. That is, the power supply board monitors the voltage value of a predetermined voltage (for example, DC30V or DC5V) used in the gaming machine, and when the voltage value decreases to a predetermined value (the power supply voltage is reduced). A power supply monitoring circuit that outputs a power-off signal indicating that). Instead of mounting the power monitoring circuit on the power supply board, it may be mounted on a board that is backed up by a backup power supply (for example, the main board 31). A clear signal (not shown) indicating that the clear switch for instructing to clear the contents of the RAM is operated is input to the input port of the game control microcomputer 560.

  Also, an input driver circuit 58 for supplying the basic circuit 53 with detection signals from the gate switch 32a, the start port switch 14a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a and 30a is also mounted on the main board 31, and the variable winning ball device 15 Are mounted on the main board 31 to reset the game control microcomputer 560 when the power is turned on. The solenoid 16 for opening and closing the solenoid and the solenoid 21 for opening and closing the special variable winning ball apparatus according to a command from the basic circuit 53 are also mounted. A system reset circuit (not shown) for output, and an information output circuit 64 for outputting information output signals such as jackpot information indicating the occurrence of a jackpot gaming state to an external device such as a hall computer via the terminal board 160 Is also mounted on the main board 31.

  In addition, the game control microcomputer 560 includes a special symbol display 8 that variably displays special symbols, a normal symbol display 10 that variably displays normal symbols, a special symbol hold memory display 18, and a normal symbol hold memory display 41. Perform display control. The game control microcomputer 560 controls the lighting of the error notification LED 31A.

  In this embodiment, the effect control means (configured by the effect control microcomputer) mounted on the effect control board 80 receives the effect control command from the game control microcomputer 560 via the relay board 77. The display control of the effect display device 9 that receives and displays the effect symbol variably is performed.

  FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration example of the relay board 77, the effect control board 80, the lamp driver board 35, and the audio output board 70. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70 are not equipped with a microcomputer, but may be equipped with a microcomputer. Further, without providing the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70, only the effect control board 80 may be provided for effect control.

  The effect control board 80 includes an effect control CPU 101 and an effect control microcomputer 100 including a RAM for storing information related to effects such as effect symbol process flags. The RAM may be externally attached. In this embodiment, the RAM in the production control microcomputer 100 is not backed up. In the effect control board 80, the effect control CPU 101 operates in accordance with a program stored in a built-in or external ROM (not shown), and receives a capture signal from the main board 31 input via the relay board 77 ( In response to the (effect control INT signal), an effect control command is received via an input driver and an input port (not shown). Further, the effect control CPU 101 causes the VDP (video display processor) 109 to perform display control of the effect display device 9 based on the effect control command.

  In this embodiment, a VDP 109 that performs display control of the effect display device 9 in cooperation with the effect control microcomputer 100 is mounted on the effect control board 80. The VDP 109 has an address space independent of the production control microcomputer 100, and maps a VRAM therein. VRAM is a buffer memory for developing image data. Then, the VDP 109 outputs the image data in the VRAM to the effect display device 9 via the frame memory.

  The effect control CPU 101 outputs to the VDP 109 a command for reading out necessary data from a CGROM (not shown) in accordance with the received effect control command. The CGROM stores character image data and moving image data displayed on the effect display device 9, specifically, a person, characters, figures, symbols (including effect symbols), and background image data in advance. ROM. The VDP 109 reads image data from the CGROM in response to the instruction from the effect control CPU 101. The VDP 109 executes display control based on the read image data.

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 outputs a signal for driving the lamp to the lamp driver board 35 via the output port 105. Further, the production control CPU 101 outputs sound number data to the audio output board 70 via the output port 104.

  In the lamp driver board 35, a signal for driving the lamp is input to the lamp driver 352 via the input driver 351. The lamp driver 352 supplies current to light emitters provided on the frame side such as the top frame lamp 28a, the left frame lamp 28b, and the right frame lamp 28c based on a signal for driving the lamp. In addition, a current is supplied to the decorative lamp 25 provided on the game board side.

  In the voice output board 70, the sound number data is input to the voice synthesis IC 703 via the input driver 702. The voice synthesizing IC 703 generates voice or sound effect according to the sound number data, and outputs it to the amplifier circuit 705. The amplification circuit 705 outputs an audio signal obtained by amplifying the output level of the speech synthesis IC 703 to a level corresponding to the volume set by the volume 706 to the speaker 27. The voice data ROM 704 stores control data corresponding to the sound number data. The control data corresponding to the sound number data is a collection of data showing the output form of the sound effect or sound in a time series in a predetermined period (for example, the changing period of the effect design).

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 inputs a signal from the operation button 120 via the input port 106 in response to a pressing operation of the operation button 120 by the player. Further, the effect control CPU 101 performs lighting control of the error notification LED 80 </ b> A via the output port 105.

  FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of output port assignment in the game control means. As shown in FIG. 6, a payout control signal (in this example, a connection signal) transmitted to the payout control board 37 is output from the output port 0. Further, a solenoid (large winning port door solenoid) 21 for opening and closing a variable winning ball device 20 for opening and closing the big winning port, and a solenoid (ordinary electric accessory solenoid) 16 for opening and closing the variable winning ball device 15 are driven. The signal is also output from output port 0. Further, a high-accuracy signal is also output from signals output from the output port 0 to an external device (for example, a hall computer) via the terminal board 160.

  Note that the logic (for example, 0 is on) opposite to the “logic” (for example, 1 is on) shown in FIG. 6 may be used. In particular, for the connection signal, the main board 31 and the payout control board. The “logic” is determined so that the payout control microcomputer 370 always detects the off state when the signal line to the terminal 37 is disconnected or when the cable is disconnected (including no cable connection). . Specifically, generally, when disconnection or cable disconnection occurs, a high level is detected on the signal receiving side, so the high level on the signal line between the main board 31 and the payout control board 37 is the game control means. The “logic” is determined to be in the off state at the output port at. Therefore, if necessary, an output buffer circuit for logically inverting the signal is provided outside the output port on the main board 31.

  From the output port 1 to the external device (for example, hall computer) via the terminal board 160, various information output signals, that is, information related to the control (for example, symbol determination frequency 1 signal, start port signal, jackpot 1 signal, 2 jackpots, 3 jackpots, hourly signal, winning signal, security signal) are output. However, as already described, the high-accuracy intermediate signal among the signals output externally is output from the output port 0. In this embodiment, prize ball information (a signal outputted every time ten prize ball payouts are detected) is also outputted to an external device via the terminal board 160. In this case, on the payout control board 37 side, a prize ball payout is detected, and prize ball information is input to the main board 31. The prize ball information input to the main board 31 is output to the outside via the terminal board 160 via the main board 31 as it is without passing through the game control microcomputer 560. The prize ball information input to the main board 31 may be output to the outside via the terminal board 160 after temporarily passing through the game control microcomputer 560.

  Note that signals output to the outside via the terminal board 160 are not limited to those shown in this embodiment. For example, a door opening signal indicating that the gaming frame is in an open state, a prize ball signal 1 (a signal that is output every time one prize ball payout is detected), a gaming machine error status signal (a gaming machine is in an error state ( In this example, a signal indicating that the ball is out of error or full error) may also be output to the external device via the terminal board 160. In this case, on the payout control board 37 side, it is also detected that the gaming frame is in an open state, a prize ball payout, and an error state of the gaming machine, and the door opening signal, the prize ball signal 1, and the gaming machine error status signal are the main board. 31. The door opening signal, the prize ball signal 1, and the gaming machine error state signal input to the main board 31 are not transmitted through the game control microcomputer 560 but directly passed through the main board 31 to the terminal board 160. Output externally. Also in this case, the door opening signal, the prize ball signal 1 and the gaming machine error state signal input to the main board 31 pass through the gaming control microcomputer 560 once and then externally output via the terminal board 160. You may be made to do.

  In addition, for example, when a gaming machine is configured to include two special symbol display devices, a symbol determination number 2 signal is also added in addition to a symbol determination number 1 signal as a symbol determination number signal for notifying the number of changes in the special symbol. Alternatively, an external output may be made via the terminal board 160. In this case, for example, the symbol determination frequency 2 signal is externally output as a signal for notifying only the number of changes in one of the special symbols, and the symbol is determined as a signal for notifying the number of variations in both special symbols. What is necessary is just to comprise so that the frequency 1 signal may be output outside. With such a configuration, on the side of an external device such as a hall computer, in addition to the number of fluctuations of only one of the special symbols, the total number of fluctuations of both special symbols can be grasped.

  FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of bit assignment of input ports in the game control means. As shown in FIG. 7, the detection signals of the count switch 23 and the detection signals of the prize opening switches 29a and 30a are input to the bits 0, 2, and 3 of the input port 0, respectively. In addition, a radio wave sensor signal, a magnet sensor signal, a door opening signal, and prize ball information are input to the bits 4 to 7 of the input port 1, respectively. In addition, bits 0 and 2 to 4 of the input port 2 are input with a detection signal of the start port switch 14a, a detection signal of the gate switch 32a, a detection signal of the clear switch from the power supply board 910, and a power-off signal, respectively. .

  FIG. 8 is a circuit diagram showing an internal configuration of the terminal board 160. In the terminal board 160 shown in FIG. 8, the connectors CN-1 and CN-2 on the upper left side are connectors for connecting cables that transmit signals from the main board 31, and the connector CN-3 on the lower left side is This is a connector for connecting a cable for transmitting a signal from the payout control board 37 via the main board 31. The right connectors CN1 to CN10 are connectors for connecting cables that transmit signals to an external device such as a hall computer. The terminal board 160 is mounted with semiconductor relays (PhotoMOS relays) PC1 to PC10 as driver circuits.

  When the cable from the main board 31 is connected to the connectors CN-1 and CN-2, various signals are input to the terminal board 160 from the main board 31 (game control microcomputer 560). Specifically, the symbol determination number 1 signal is input to the terminal “2” of the connector CN-1, the start port signal is input to the terminal “3” of the connector CN-1, and the terminal “4” of the connector CN-1 is input. 1 signal is input to the terminal “5” of the connector CN-1, 2 signals are input to the terminal “6” of the connector CN-1, and 3 signals of the jackpot are input to the terminal “7” of the connector CN-1. To the terminal “8” of the connector CN-1, a winning signal is input to the terminal “9” of the connector CN-1, and a terminal “9” of the connector CN-2 is input. A high-accuracy signal is input.

  Further, when the cable from the payout control board 37 is connected to the connector CN-3 via the main board 31, a signal from the payout control board 37 (the payout control microcomputer 370) is input to the terminal board 160. The Specifically, the prize ball information is input to the terminal “9” of the connector CN-3.

  As shown in FIG. 8, in the terminal board 160, the signal line of the reference potential is connected to the terminal “1” of the connector CN-1, the connector CN-2, and the connector CN-3, the signal lines are branched, Are connected to the input terminal “1” of the semiconductor relays PC1 to PC10. The signal lines connected to the terminals “2” to “9” of the connector CN-1, the connector “9” of the connector CN-2, and the connector “9” of the connector CN-3 are each 1KΩ resistance R1. Are connected to the input terminal “2” of the semiconductor relays PC1 to PC10 via R10. The signal lines connected to the output terminals “4” of the semiconductor relays PC1 to PC10 are connected to the terminals “1” of the connectors CN1 to CN10, respectively. The signal lines connected to the output terminals “3” of the semiconductor relays PC1 to PC10 are connected to the terminals “2” of the connectors CN1 to CN10, respectively.

  In the semiconductor relays PC1 to PC10, when a signal current flows through the input terminal, the light emitting element (LED) on the input side emits light. The emitted light is applied to the photoelectric element (solar cell) provided opposite to the LED through the transparent silicon. The photoelectric element that has received the light is exchanged for voltage according to the amount of light, and this voltage passes through the control circuit to charge the MOSFET gate of the output section. When the MOSFET gate voltage supplied from the photoelectric element reaches the set voltage value, the MOSFET becomes conductive and turns on the load. When the signal current at the input terminal is cut off, the light emitting element (LED) stops emitting light. When the light emission of the LED stops, the voltage of the photoelectric element decreases, and when the voltage supplied from the photoelectric element decreases, the gate load of the MOSFET is rapidly discharged by the control circuit. With this control circuit, the MOSFET is turned off and the load is turned off.

  By the operation of the semiconductor relays PC1 to PC10 as described above, signals input from the input side connector CN-1, connector CN-2, and connector CN-3 are transmitted to the output side connectors CN1 to CN10, and a hall computer or the like. Output to an external device. Specifically, the design CN count 1 signal is output from the connector CN1, the start signal is output from the connector CN2, the jackpot signal is output from the connector CN3, the jackpot signal is output from the connector CN4, and the connector CN5 is output. Three jackpot signals are output, a time signal is output from the connector CN6, a winning signal is output from the connector CN7, a security signal is output from the connector CN8, a high-probability medium signal is output from the connector CN9, and a prize is output from the connector CN10. Sphere information is output. The assignment of connectors to each external output signal on terminal board 160 is not limited to that shown in this embodiment. For example, the security signal may be output from the end connector (for example, connector CN10) provided on the terminal board 160.

  The winning signal output from the connector CN7 indicates that a predetermined payout condition for paying out a predetermined number (in this embodiment, 10 balls) of winning balls is satisfied (start winning port 14, large winning prize). The winning prizes are generated at the mouths and the normal winning holes 29 and 30. The prize balls are not paid out. Specifically, the proximity switches (the winning hole switches 29a and 30a, the count switch 23, the start opening switch 14a). This is a signal indicating that it has been determined that a predetermined payout condition has been established on the condition that the detection signal from) is input. By confirming the winning signal, the expected number of prize balls to be paid out can be recognized by an external device such as a hall computer.

  Also, the prize ball information output from the connector CN10 is that a specific number (10 balls in this embodiment) of prize balls has been paid out (the ball payout device 97 is driven and the prize balls are actually paid out). This is a signal indicating that By confirming the prize ball information, the number of prize balls actually paid out can be recognized by an external device such as a hall computer. Also, by confirming the planned number of prize balls indicated by the winning signal and the number of prize balls already paid out indicated by the prize ball information, whether or not the prize balls have been paid out normally and the number of excess or insufficient prize balls are determined. It can be recognized by an external device such as a hall computer.

  The security signal output from the connector CN8 is a signal indicating the security state of the gaming machine. Specifically, as will be described later, when it is determined that a magnetic abnormality has occurred based on the detection result of the magnet sensor 62, a security signal is output to an external device such as a hall computer. With such a configuration, it is possible to recognize on the side of an external device such as a hall computer that a fraudulent act that illegally induces a game ball to the winning a prize using a magnet.

  In this embodiment, when the security signal is output externally based on the occurrence of the magnetic abnormality, the security signal based on the occurrence of the magnetic abnormality is not replayed until the game machine is turned on again and the initialization process is executed. External output continues. As will be described later, when the initialization process is performed, the security signal is externally output for a predetermined period (for example, 0.2 seconds), and more precisely, the power to the gaming machine is turned on again. When the initialization process is executed, the external output of the security signal based on the occurrence of the magnetic abnormality is terminated internally, and the external output of the security signal based on the initialization process is started for a predetermined period (for example, 0. The output of the security signal is continued until 2 seconds). Therefore, apparently, when external output of a security signal is started based on the occurrence of a magnetic abnormality, the power to the gaming machine is turned on again and the initialization process is executed, and then a predetermined period (for example, 0. 0). The external output of the security signal ends when 2 seconds) elapses.

  In this embodiment, when it is determined that a radio wave abnormality has occurred based on the detection result of the radio wave sensor 61, a security signal is output to an external device such as a hall computer for a predetermined period (for example, 0.2 seconds). Is done. With such a configuration, it is possible to recognize on the side of an external device such as a hall computer that a fraudulent act that erroneously misdetects a prize using radio waves is performed.

  Further, in this embodiment, when a winning of the game ball to the start winning port 14 is detected when the variable winning ball device 15 is not in the open state, or when the winning ball is not in the big hit game, It is determined that an abnormal winning has occurred, and a security signal is also output to an external device such as a hall computer for a predetermined period (for example, 0.2 seconds) when this abnormal winning is detected. With such a configuration, it is possible to notify that an abnormal winning has occurred due to an illegal act with respect to the variable winning ball device 15 or the grand prize opening. It can be surely prevented.

  Further, in this embodiment, the game opening of the game ball from the time when the winning opening of the game ball is detected in the start opening switch 14a, the count switch 23, the winning opening switch 29a, 30a or the gate switch 32a until the predetermined monitoring period elapses. When the number of times the passage is detected again becomes a predetermined number, or when it is determined that an abnormal winning has occurred when the state of detecting the winning of a game ball continues for a predetermined period, and this abnormal winning is detected In addition, the security signal is output to an external device such as a hall computer for a predetermined period (for example, 0.2 seconds). By determining that an abnormal winning has occurred when the number of times that the passing of the gaming ball is detected again from the time when the winning of the gaming ball is detected until the predetermined monitoring period elapses, for example, some device To enter the gaming machine, illegally manipulate the game ball that wins the start prize opening, etc. (for example, the same game ball repeatedly passes through the start prize slot) and pay the prize ball It is possible to detect a fraudulent act to be issued or a fraudulent act to output a signal output when a game ball is detected by irradiating a radio wave from the outside to cause the switch to malfunction. With such a configuration, it is possible to notify that an abnormal winning has occurred due to an illegal act on various switches, and as a result, it is possible to reliably prevent an illegal act on various switches. Further, by determining that an abnormal winning has occurred when the state of detecting the winning of a game ball continues for a predetermined period, for example, it can be detected that a ball is clogged at the start winning opening. . With such a configuration, it is possible to notify that an abnormality has occurred due to a clogged ball in various switches, and as a result, it is possible to detect a clogged ball in various switches.

  In this embodiment, even when the gaming machine is turned on and the initialization process is executed, the security signal is output to an external device such as a hall computer for a predetermined period (for example, 0.2 seconds). Is done. By configuring as such, it is recognized that the initialization process has been executed at an unnatural timing (for example, even after all the gaming machine power reset operations have been completed when the amusement store is opened). By making it possible, the external device such as a hall computer can recognize the possibility that an unauthorized act of illegally resetting the power of the gaming machine and aiming for a big hit at the power reset timing is performed. it can.

  In this embodiment, as described above, when a magnetic abnormality is detected, when a radio wave abnormality is detected, when an abnormal winning is detected, an initialization process (for example, to a gaming machine) When a process such as clearing the storage contents of the RAM 55 is executed based on the operation by the clear switch when the power is turned on, a common security signal is sent from the common connector CN8 of the terminal board 160 to the outside. Output. This is because the initialization process is usually performed only when the game machine power is reset when the amusement store is opened, so the terminal is used for a signal that is output only once a day. Providing a dedicated connector or semiconductor relay on the substrate 160 is not efficient and wasteful. Also, since magnetic abnormalities, radio wave abnormalities, and abnormal winnings do not occur unless some sort of fraud is performed, it is also efficient to provide dedicated connectors and semiconductor relays separately for magnetic abnormalities, radio wave abnormalities, abnormal winnings, etc. It is rather wasteful. Therefore, in this embodiment, the common connector CN8 is used when a magnetic abnormality is detected, when a radio wave abnormality is detected, when an abnormal winning is detected, and when an initialization process is executed. Since the security signal is output from the external signal line, waste of signal lines and circuit elements for external output is reduced. That is, it is possible to prevent an increase in the number of parts of a mechanism for outputting information to an external device such as a hall computer and complication of wiring work.

  The signal output from the common connector as a security signal is not limited to that shown in this embodiment. For example, in this embodiment, when it is controlled in a state where it is not possible to win, it is configured to detect an abnormal winning of both the start winning port 14 and the big winning port and to output a security signal externally. It may be configured to detect only the abnormal winning of either the start winning opening 14 or the big winning opening and to output the security signal to the outside.

  In addition, when an abnormality of various switches provided in the gaming machine is detected (for example, the number of times that the passing of the gaming ball is detected again from the time when the winning of the gaming ball is detected until the predetermined monitoring period elapses is a predetermined number of times. The terminal board 160 is detected when an occurrence of a short circuit or the like is detected by determining that the input value has exceeded the threshold value) Although it is configured so that it can be externally output as a security signal from the common connector CN8, a switch that is not controlled to externally output when an abnormality is detected may be provided.

  Further, for example, even when a communication error between the game control microcomputer 560 and the payout control microcomputer 370 is detected, it can be externally output as a security signal from the common connector CN8 of the terminal board 160. May be. In this case, for example, the game control microcomputer 560 determines that a communication error has occurred based on the failure to receive the payout control command from the payout control microcomputer 370, and from the common connector CN8 on the terminal board 160. It may be output externally as a security signal. Further, for example, the game control microcomputer 560 determines that a communication error has occurred based on the value of any error bit in the status register (not shown) of the serial communication circuit 511 being set. The security signal may be externally output from the common connector CN8 of the terminal board 160.

  In addition to the signal line and connector CN8 for security signals, a signal line and connector dedicated to communication errors between the game control microcomputer 560 and the payout control microcomputer 370 may be provided on the terminal board 160. When a communication error between the game control microcomputer 560 and the payout control microcomputer 370 is detected, an external device such as a hall computer is transmitted via the terminal board 160 as a signal different from the security signal. May be output.

  In addition to the signal line for security signal output, detection of execution of initialization processing, detection of magnetic abnormality, detection of radio wave abnormality, detection of abnormal winning at the start winning opening 14, detection of abnormal winning at the big winning opening Separate signal lines are provided for detection, detection of abnormal winnings in various switches, and detection of communication errors. From the terminal board 160, together with security signals, external output signals corresponding to the respective errors are also provided such as hall computers. You may make it output to an external device. With such a configuration, it is possible to recognize that an error has occurred by checking the security signal, and further, by checking the signal output for each type of error, the type of error can be determined on the amusement store side. Can be confirmed. Therefore, when an amusement store requires a confirmation of the type of error, an external output signal for each error type is provided separately from the security signal, so that an external output that better meets the needs of the amusement store can be provided. Can be done. On the other hand, in the case of a game shop that only requests confirmation that some kind of error has occurred, only the security signal out of the externally output signals is connected to an external device such as a hall computer. Check it.

  As described above, by providing the semiconductor relays PC1 to PC10 on the terminal board 160, signal input from the outside to the inside of the gaming machine can be prevented, and as a result, illegal acts can be reliably prevented. In the above example, the semiconductor relays PC1 to PC10 are provided on the terminal board 160. However, other relay elements such as a mechanical relay may be used instead of the semiconductor relays PC1 to PC10.

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the main processing executed by the CPU 56 of the game control microcomputer 560 in response to the start of power supply to the game machine and the reset signal to the game control microcomputer 560 becoming high level. It is. When the input level of the reset terminal to which the reset signal is input becomes high level, the CPU 56 of the game control microcomputer 560 confirms whether the contents of the program are valid according to the security check program 54A stored in the ROM 54. After executing the security check process, which is a process for that purpose, the main process after step S1 is started. In the main process, the CPU 56 first performs necessary initial settings.

  In the initial setting process, the CPU 56 first sets the interrupt prohibition (step S1). Next, an interrupt mode for maskable interrupts is set (step S2), and a stack pointer designation address is set for the stack pointer (step S3). In step S2, the address synthesized from the value (1 byte) of the specific register (I register) of the game control microcomputer 560 and the interrupt vector (1 byte: least significant bit 0) output from the built-in device is Set to the mode indicating the interrupt address. When a maskable interrupt occurs, the CPU 56 automatically sets the interrupt disabled state and saves the contents of the program counter in the stack.

  Next, the CPU 56 starts outputting a connection signal to the payout control microcomputer 370 (step S4). When the CPU 56 starts outputting the connection signal in step S4, the CPU 56 sends a connection signal to the payout control microcomputer 370 unless the power supply of the gaming machine is stopped or the output becomes impossible due to some communication error. Output continuously.

  Next, the built-in device register is set (initialized) (step S5). By the processing in step S5, the CTC (counter / timer) and PIO (parallel input / output port) which are built-in devices (built-in peripheral circuits) are set (initialized).

  The game control microcomputer 560 used in this embodiment also incorporates an I / O port (PIO) and a timer / counter circuit (CTC) 504.

  Next, the CPU 56 sets the RAM 55 in an accessible state (step S6), and proceeds to a clear signal check process.

  Note that a software delay process for delaying the start timing of the game device control process (game control process) for controlling the progress of the game by software may be executed. By such software delay processing, the start timing of the game control processing can be delayed as compared with the case where the software delay processing is not executed. When the delay process is executed, a situation occurs in which the microcomputer of the other control board cannot receive the command transmitted from the game control board (main board 31) to the other control board (for example, the payout control board 37). Can be prevented.

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the clear switch is turned on (step S7). Note that the CPU 56 may confirm the state of the clear signal only once via the input port 0, but may confirm the state of the clear signal a plurality of times. For example, if it is confirmed that the state of the clear signal is an off state, after a delay time of a predetermined time (for example, 0.1 seconds), the state of the clear signal is reconfirmed. If it is confirmed that the clear signal is in the on state at that time, it is determined that the clear signal is in the on state. Further, at this time, if it is confirmed that the state of the clear signal is the off state, after a delay time of a predetermined time, the state of the clear signal may be confirmed again. Here, the number of reconfirmations is not limited to once or twice, but may be three or more times. It is also possible to check twice and check again when the check results do not match.

  If the clear switch is not turned on in step S7, whether or not data protection processing of the backup RAM area (for example, power supply stop processing such as addition of parity data) has been performed when power supply to the gaming machine is stopped Confirm (step S8). In this embodiment, when power supply is stopped, a process for protecting data in the backup RAM area is performed. When it is confirmed that such power supply stop processing has been performed, the CPU 56 determines that the power supply stop processing has been performed, that is, the control state at the time of power supply stop is stored. . When it is confirmed that the power supply stop process is not performed, the CPU 56 executes an initialization process.

  Whether or not the power supply stop process has been performed is determined by the value of the backup monitoring timer stored in the backup RAM area in the power supply stop process corresponding to the execution of the power supply stop process (for example, 2). ) Is confirmed by whether or not. Note that such a confirmation method is an example. For example, a flag indicating that the power supply stop process has been executed is set in the backup flag area in the power supply stop process, and the flag is set in step S8. If it is confirmed that the power supply is stopped, it may be determined that the power supply stop process has been performed.

  If it is determined that the control state at the time of stopping power supply is stored, the CPU 56 performs data check (parity check in this example) in the backup RAM area (step S9). In this embodiment, clear data (00) is set in the checksum data area, and the checksum calculation start address is set in the pointer. Also, the number of checksum calculations corresponding to the number of data to be checksum is set. Then, the exclusive OR of the contents of the checksum data area and the contents of the RAM area pointed to by the pointer is calculated. The calculation result is stored in the checksum data area, the pointer value is incremented by 1, and the checksum calculation count value is decremented by 1. The above processing is repeated until the value of the checksum calculation count becomes zero. When the value of the checksum calculation count becomes 0, the CPU 56 inverts the value of each bit of the contents of the checksum data area and uses the inverted data as the checksum.

  In the power supply stop process, a checksum is calculated by the same process as described above, and the checksum is stored in the backup RAM area. In step S9, the calculated checksum is compared with the stored checksum. When the power supply is stopped after an unexpected power failure or the like, the data in the backup RAM area should be saved, so the check result (comparison result) is normal (matched). That the check result is not normal means that the data in the backup RAM area may be different from the data when the power supply is stopped. In such a case, since the internal state cannot be returned to the state when the power supply is stopped, the initialization process (the process of steps S10 to S14) executed when the power is turned on, not when the power supply is stopped is stopped. Run.

  If the check result is normal, the CPU 56 performs a hot start process for resuming the game using the data stored in the RAM 55 that has been backed up (step S91). Further, the CPU 56 sets the head address of the backup command transmission table stored in the ROM 54 as a pointer (step S92), and proceeds to step S15. In addition, after setting in step S92, a backup command is transmitted after serial communication circuit setting processing in step S15a described later is performed.

  In the initialization process, the CPU 56 first performs a RAM clear process (step S10). Note that the predetermined data may be left as it is without initializing the entire area of the RAM 55. Also, the initial address of the initialization setting table stored in the ROM 54 is set as a pointer (step S11), and the contents of the initialization setting table are sequentially set in the work area (step S12).

  Depending on the control state such as a normal symbol determination random number counter, a normal symbol determination buffer, a special symbol buffer, a special symbol process flag, an award ball flag, an out of ball flag, a magnetic abnormality flag, etc. An initial value is set in a flag for selectively performing processing. An initial value (clear data) is also set for each timer (security signal information timer or the like) used to output each external output signal described later.

  Further, the CPU 56 sets the start address of the initialization command transmission table stored in the ROM 54 as a pointer (step S13), and transmits an initialization command for initializing the sub board according to the contents to the sub board. Processing is executed (step S14). As an initialization command, a command indicating an initial symbol displayed on the effect display device 9, an initialization command to the payout control board 37, or the like can be used. After setting in step S13, an initialization command is transmitted after serial communication circuit setting processing in step S15a described later is performed.

  Further, the CPU 56 sets a predetermined time (in this example, 0.2 seconds) in the security signal information timer (step S14a). The security signal information timer is a timer for measuring the ON time of the security signal output from the terminal board 160. In this embodiment, an initialization process is performed when the gaming machine is turned on by executing an information output process (see S31), which will be described later, based on the fact that a predetermined time is set in the security signal information timer in step S14a. Is executed, a security signal is externally output for a predetermined time (in this example, 0.2 seconds).

  Further, the CPU 56 executes a random number circuit setting process for initially setting the random number circuit 509 (step S15). In this case, the CPU 56 performs setting according to the random number circuit setting program stored in the ROM 54 in advance, thereby setting the random number circuit 509 to update the random R value.

  Further, the CPU 56 executes a serial communication circuit setting process for initial setting of the serial communication circuit 511 (step S15a). In this case, the CPU 56 sets the data stored in the predetermined area of the ROM 54 in the serial communication circuit 511 according to the serial communication circuit setting program, so that the serial communication circuit 511 performs serial communication with the payout control microcomputer. I do.

  When the serial communication circuit 511 is initialized, the CPU 56 initializes the priority of interrupt processing executed in response to the interrupt request from the serial communication circuit 511 (step S15b). In this case, the CPU 56 initializes the priority of interrupt processing by executing processing according to the interrupt priority setting program 557.

  For example, the CPU 56 initializes the priority of each interrupt process according to a predetermined interrupt process priority table including the default priority of each interrupt process. In this embodiment, the CPU 56 performs initialization according to the interrupt processing priority table so as to preferentially execute an interrupt process that causes an interrupt to occur in the serial communication circuit 511. In this case, for example, the CPU 56 sets an interrupt priority execution flag at the time of communication error indicating that priority is given to an interrupt process whose cause is an interrupt.

  In this embodiment, when a timer interrupt and an interrupt request from the serial communication circuit 511 occur at the same time, the CPU 56 preferentially performs an interrupt process by the timer interrupt.

  In addition, the default priority of each interrupt process can be changed by the user. For example, the game control microcomputer 560 stores specification information for specifying an interrupt process set by a user (for example, a game machine manufacturer) in a predetermined storage area of the ROM 54 in advance. Then, the CPU 56 sets the priority of interrupt processing according to the designation information stored in a predetermined storage area of the ROM 54.

  In addition to steps S15 to S15b, a part of the setting process of the random number circuit 509 and the serial communication circuit 511 is also executed in the process of step S5. For example, in step S5, processing for setting initial values in the baud rate register, communication setting register, interrupt control register, and status register of the serial communication circuit 511 is executed as the built-in device register.

  Then, the CPU 56 executes a timer interrupt setting process for setting a CTC register built in the game control microcomputer 560 so that a timer interrupt is periodically taken every predetermined time (for example, 4 ms) ( Step S16). That is, a value corresponding to, for example, 4 ms is set as an initial value in a predetermined register (time constant register). In this embodiment, it is assumed that a timer interrupt is periodically taken every 4 ms.

  When the timer interrupt setting is completed, the CPU 56 first disables the interrupt (step S17), executes the initial value random number update process (step S18a) and the display random number update process (step S18b), The interrupt is permitted again (step S19). That is, the CPU 56 sets the interrupt disabled state when the initial value random number update process and the display random number update process are executed, and interrupts enable state when the initial value random number update process and the display random number update process are finished. To.

  The initial value random number update process is a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number. The initial value random number is a random number for determining the type of jackpot (for example, a jackpot symbol determining random number for determining a special symbol for generating a jackpot or whether to shift the gaming state to a probable state) Initial value of the count value such as a counter (determination random number generation counter) for generating a probability variation determining random number to determine whether or not to generate a hit based on a normal symbol It is a random number for determining the value. A game control process described later (a process in which a game control microcomputer controls itself a game device such as an effect display device 9, a variable winning ball device 15, a ball payout device 97 provided in the gaming machine, or When the count value of the determination random number generation counter makes one round in a process of transmitting a command signal to cause another microcomputer to control, or a gaming apparatus control process), an initial value is set in the counter.

  The display random number is a random number for determining the display of the special symbol display 8. In this embodiment, as a display random number, a random number for determining a variation pattern for determining a variation pattern of a special symbol, or a random number for determining a reach for determining whether or not to reach when a big hit is not generated, is used. Used. The display random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the display random number.

  In addition, when the display random number update process is executed, the interrupt disabled state is executed by the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process also in the timer interrupt process described later (that is, the timer This is because the same process is executed in steps S26 and S27 of the interrupt process), so as to avoid conflict with the process in the timer interrupt process. That is, if a timer interrupt is generated during the processing of steps S18a and S18b and the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number and the display random number is updated during the timer interrupt processing, The continuity of values may be impaired. However, such an inconvenience does not occur if the interrupt is prohibited during the processing of steps S18a and S18b.

  When the interrupt enabled state is set in step S19, the timer interrupt or the interrupt request from the serial communication circuit 511 is permitted until the processing in step S17 is executed and the interrupt disabled state is set next time. . When a timer interrupt occurs while the interrupt permission state is set, the CPU 56 of the game control microcomputer 560 executes a timer interrupt process to be described later. When an interrupt request is generated from the serial communication circuit 511 while the interrupt permission state is set, the CPU 56 of the game control microcomputer 560 causes each interrupt process (communication error interrupt process, reception time interrupt, Load processing, transmission completion interrupt processing). In this embodiment, priority is given to the interrupt process before the timer interrupt or the interrupt request is set to be permitted by executing step S15b before the loop process from step S17 to step S19. Processing for setting or changing the order is performed.

  Next, the timer interrupt process will be described. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the timer interrupt process. When a timer interrupt occurs during execution of the main process, specifically, in a period during which interruption is permitted during execution of the loop process of steps S17 to S19, the CPU 56 of the game control microcomputer 560 A timer interrupt process that is activated in response to the occurrence of a timer interrupt is executed. In the timer interrupt process, the CPU 56 first executes a power-off process (power-off detection process) for detecting whether or not a power-off signal is output (whether the power-on signal is turned on) (step S20). Then, the CPU 56 inputs the detection signals of the gate switch 32a, the start port switch 14a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a and 30a via the switch circuit 58, and detects the input of each switch (switches). Process: Step S21).

  Next, the CPU 56 executes display control processing for performing display control of the special symbol display 8, the normal symbol display 10, the special symbol hold storage display 18, and the normal symbol hold storage display 41 (step S22). For the special symbol display 8 and the normal symbol display 10, control for outputting a drive signal to each display is executed according to the contents of the output buffer set in steps S36 and S37.

  Next, when the CPU 56 detects that the game ball has won the big winning opening at a time other than the regular time, or when it detects that the game ball has won the start winning opening 14 at a time other than the regular time Then, when an abnormality is detected in the various switches, an abnormal winning determination process for notifying the abnormal winning is performed (step S23).

  Next, the CPU 56 executes sensor error determination processing for performing magnet sensor error notification and radio wave sensor error notification based on the detection signals input from the magnet sensor 62 and the radio wave sensor 61 (step S24).

  Next, the CPU 56 performs a process of updating the count value of each counter for generating a random number for determination such as a random number for determination per ordinary symbol used for game control (determination random number update process: step S25). Further, the CPU 56 performs a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number (initial value random number update process: step S26). Further, the CPU 56 performs a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the display random number (display random number update process: step S27).

  Next, the CPU 56 performs special symbol process processing (step S28). In the special symbol process, the corresponding process is selected and executed according to a special symbol process flag for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 in a predetermined order according to the gaming state. The value of the special symbol process flag is updated during each process according to the gaming state. Further, normal symbol process processing is performed (step S29). In the normal symbol process, the corresponding process is selected and executed according to the normal symbol process flag for controlling the display state of the normal symbol display 10 in a predetermined order. The value of the normal symbol process flag is updated during each process according to the gaming state.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs a process of sending an effect control command related to the effect symbol synchronized with the variation of the special symbol to the effect control microcomputer 100 (effect symbol command control process: step S30). It should be noted that the fact that the variation of the effect symbol is synchronized with the variation of the special symbol means that the variation time (variable display period) is the same.

  Next, the CPU 56 outputs, for example, data such as a symbol determination number 1 signal, a start opening signal, a jackpot signal 1-3, a time reduction signal, a winning signal, a security signal, and a high accuracy signal supplied to the hall management computer. Information output processing is performed (step S31).

  Next, the CPU 56 executes a process of transmitting / receiving (input / output) signals to / from the payout control microcomputer 370 via the serial communication circuit 511. When a winning occurs, the start port switch 14a and the count switch 23 are processed. Then, a winning ball process for setting the number of winning balls based on the detection signals from the winning opening switches 29a, 30a, etc. is executed (step S32).

  In addition, a test terminal process, which is a process for outputting a test signal for enabling the control state of the gaming machine to be confirmed outside the gaming machine, is executed (step S33). In this embodiment, a RAM area (output port buffer) corresponding to the output state of the output port is provided. However, the CPU 56 relates to the connection signal and the contents related to the solenoid in the RAM area of the output port 0. Is output to the output port (step S34: output processing). And CPU56 performs the memory | storage process which checks the increase / decrease in a pending | holding memory | storage number (step S35).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs special symbol display control processing for setting special symbol display control data for effect display of the special symbol in the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data according to the value of the special symbol process flag ( Step S36). Further, the CPU 56 performs a normal symbol display control process for setting normal symbol display control data for effect display of the normal symbol in an output buffer for setting the normal symbol display control data according to the value of the normal symbol process flag ( Step S37).

  Next, the CPU 56 performs a status display lamp display process for setting status display control data for displaying each status display lamp in an output buffer for setting the status display control data (step S38). In this case, when the gaming state is the short time state, the state display control data for displaying the state indicator lamp indicating the short time state is set in the output buffer. When the gaming state is also controlled to a high probability state (for example, a probability variation state), state display control data for displaying a state indicator lamp indicating the high probability state is set in the output buffer. You may do it.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs a frame state output process for transmitting a frame state display command in which information indicating the error state of the gaming machine is set to the effect control microcomputer 100 in order to display the error state of the gaming machine. Execute (Step S39).

  Thereafter, the interrupt permission state is set (step S40), and the process ends.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a special symbol process (step S26) program executed by the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) mounted on the main board 31. As described above, in the special symbol process, the special symbol display 8 or the special symbol display 8 and a process for controlling the special winning opening are executed. In the special symbol process, if the start opening switch 14a for detecting that a game ball has won the start winning opening 14 is turned on, that is, if a start winning to the start winning opening 14 has occurred. Then, the start port switch passing process is executed (steps S311 and S312). Then, any one of steps S300 to S310 is performed. If the start port switch 14a is not turned on, any one of steps S300 to S310 is performed according to the internal state.

  The processes in steps S300 to S310 are as follows.

  Special symbol normal processing (step S300): Executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is zero. When the game control microcomputer 560 is in a state where variable display of the special symbol can be started, the game control microcomputer 560 confirms the number of numerical data stored (the number of reserved memories) stored in the reserved memory number buffer. The number of numerical data stored in the reserved memory number buffer can be confirmed by the count value of the reserved memory number counter. If the count value of the pending storage number counter is not 0, the game control microcomputer 560 executes a jackpot determination process to determine whether or not to display the special symbol variable display result as a jackpot. In the case of a big hit, a big hit flag is set. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (1 in this example) according to step S301. The jackpot flag is reset when the jackpot game ends.

  Fluctuation pattern setting process (step S301): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 1. Also, the variation pattern is determined, and the variation time in the variation pattern (variable display time: the time from the start of variable display until the display result is derived and displayed (stop display)) is defined as the variation display variation time of the special symbol. Decide to do. Also, a variable time timer for measuring the special symbol variable time is started. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (2 in this example) corresponding to step S302.

  Display result designation command transmission process (step S302): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 2. Control for transmitting a display result designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 is performed. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (3 in this example) corresponding to step S303.

  Special symbol changing process (step S303): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 3. When the variation time of the variation pattern selected in the variation pattern setting process elapses (the variation time timer set in step S301 times out, that is, the variation time timer value becomes 0), the design control microcomputer 100 determines the symbol. Control to transmit the specified command is performed, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (4 in this example) corresponding to step S304. The effect control microcomputer 100 controls the effect display device 9 to stop the fourth symbol when receiving the symbol confirmation designation command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560.

  Special symbol stop process (step S304): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 4. When the big hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (5 in this example) corresponding to step S305. If the small hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (8 in this example) corresponding to step S308. If neither the big hit flag nor the small hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S300 (in this example, 0). In this embodiment, based on the value of the special symbol process flag being 4, special symbol display control data for stopping and displaying the special symbol stop symbol in the special symbol display control process of step S36 is provided. The special symbol display control data is set in the output buffer, and the special symbol stop symbol is actually stopped and displayed according to the setting contents of the output buffer in the display control processing in step S22.

  Preliminary winning opening opening process (step S305): This is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 5. In the pre-opening process for the big prize opening, control for opening the big prize opening is performed. Specifically, a counter (for example, a counter that counts the number of game balls that have entered the big prize opening) is initialized and the solenoid 21 is driven to open the big prize opening. Also, the execution time of the special prize opening opening process is set by the timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S306 (6 in this example). The pre-opening process for the big winning opening is executed for each round, but when the first round is started, the pre-opening process for the big winning opening is also a process for starting the big hit game.

  Large winning opening opening process (step S306): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 6. A control for transmitting a presentation control command for round display during the big hit gaming state to the microcomputer 100 for the presentation control, a process for confirming that the closing condition for the big prize opening is satisfied, and the like are performed. Note that the “close condition of the big prize opening” is that the number of winning game balls to the big prize opening detected by the upstream count switch 23 in the big prize opening reaches a predetermined number (10 in this example). It is established based on what has been done. If the closing condition for the special prize opening is satisfied and there are still remaining rounds, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (5 in this example) corresponding to step S305. When all the rounds are completed, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S307 (7 in this example).

  Big hit end process (step S307): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 7. Control is performed to cause the microcomputer 100 for effect control to perform display control for notifying the player that the big hit gaming state has ended. In addition, a process for setting a flag indicating a gaming state (for example, a probability change flag or a time reduction flag) is performed. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (0 in this example) corresponding to step S300.

  Small hit release pre-processing (step S308): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 8. In the pre-opening process for small hits, control is performed to open the big prize opening. Specifically, a counter (for example, a counter that counts the number of game balls that have entered the big prize opening) is initialized and the solenoid 21 is driven to open the big prize opening. Also, the execution time of the special prize opening opening process is set by the timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (9 in this example) corresponding to step S309. Note that the pre-opening process for small hits is executed every time the big winning opening during the small hit game is opened. It is also a process to start.

  Small hit release processing (step S309): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 9. Processing to confirm the establishment of the closing condition of the big prize opening is performed. Note that the “close condition of the big prize opening” is that the number of winning game balls to the big prize opening detected by the upstream count switch 23 in the big prize opening reaches a predetermined number (10 in this example). It is established based on what has been done. When the closing condition of the big prize opening is satisfied and the number of opening of the big prize opening still remains, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is set to a value (8 in this example) corresponding to step S308. Update. When all rounds are completed, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S310 (in this example, 10 (decimal number)).

  Small hit end process (step S310): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 10. Control is performed to cause the microcomputer 100 for effect control to perform display control for notifying the player that the small hit gaming state has ended. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (0 in this example) corresponding to step S300.

  Next, the normal symbol process (step S29) executed by the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) will be described. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the normal symbol process. In the normal symbol process, when detecting that the game ball has passed through the gate 32 and the gate switch 32a is turned on (step S111), the CPU 56 executes a gate switch passage process (step S112). Then, the CPU 56 executes any one of the processes shown in steps S100 to S103 according to the value of the normal symbol process flag.

  Gate switch passage processing (step S112): The CPU 56 checks whether or not the count value (gate passage storage number) of the gate passage storage counter has reached the maximum value ("4" in this example). If the maximum value has not been reached, the count value of the gate passage storage counter is incremented by one. Note that the LED of the normal symbol storage memory display 41 is turned on according to the value of the gate passage storage counter. Then, the CPU 56 performs processing for extracting the value of the random number for normal symbol determination (random 4) and storing it in the storage area (normal symbol determination buffer) corresponding to the value of the number of passages through the gate.

  Normal symbol normal processing (step S100): The CPU 56 is in a state where normal symbol variation can be started (for example, when the value of the normal symbol process flag is a value indicating step S100, specifically, the normal symbol process). When the display 10 does not display the change of the normal symbol and when the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is not in the open / close operation based on the normal symbol display 10 having been derived and displayed) Check the memory count value. Specifically, the count value of the gate passing memory number counter is confirmed. If the gate passing memory number is not 0, it is determined whether or not to win (whether or not to stop the normal symbol as a winning symbol). Then, the normal symbol variation time is set in the normal symbol process timer, and the timer is started. Then, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically “1”) indicating the normal symbol variation process (step S101).

  Normal symbol variation processing (step S101): The CPU 56 confirms whether or not the normal symbol process timer has timed out. Set the symbol stop symbol display time and start the timer. Then, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically “2”) indicating the normal symbol stop process (step S102).

  Normal symbol stop process (step S102): The CPU 56 checks whether or not the normal symbol process timer has timed out. If it has timed out, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the normal symbol stop symbol is a winning symbol. If it is not a winning symbol (if it is a missing symbol), the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically, “0”) indicating the normal symbol normal processing (step S100). On the other hand, if the stop symbol of the normal symbol is a winning symbol, the normal electric accessory operating time is set in the normal symbol process timer, and the timer is started. Further, it is confirmed whether or not the current gaming state is a high base state, and if it is a high base state, an opening pattern of the ordinary electric accessory (variable winning ball device 15) in the high base state is selected, If in the low base state, the release pattern of the ordinary electric accessory (variable winning ball apparatus 15) in the low base state is selected, and the selected release pattern is set. Then, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically “3”) indicating the normal electric accessory operation processing (step S103).

  Normal electric accessory actuating process (step S103): The CPU 56 is based on the condition that the normal symbol process timer has not timed out, and the number of game balls to be awarded to the normal electric accessory (variable winning ball apparatus 15) (start winning prize opening). 14 is performed, and the ordinary electric accessory is counted with the set opening pattern (the opening / closing operation of the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is performed). The electric accessory release pattern process is executed. When the normal symbol process timer times out, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically “0”) indicating the normal symbol normal process (step S100).

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the abnormal winning determination process in step S23. In the abnormal winning determination process, the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) checks whether or not the value of the special symbol process flag is 5 or more (step S250). When the value of the special symbol process flag is 5 or more (Y in Step S250), the game is in the big hit game or the small hit game. If it is in such a state, there is a possibility that a game ball may win the big winning opening, so the process proceeds to the process of step S255 without performing the abnormal winning confirmation process to the big winning opening.

  The state where the value of the special symbol process flag is less than 5 is a state where neither a big hit game nor a small hit game is played. In this state, if there is a game ball winning at the big winning opening, it can be determined that the winning is an abnormal winning. Therefore, an abnormal winning confirmation process for the special winning opening shown below is performed.

  That is, if the value of the special symbol process flag is less than 5 (N in Step S250), the CPU 56 loads the contents of the switch-on buffer 0 (the switch-on buffer corresponding to the input port 0) into the register (Step S251). . Then, the CPU 56 calculates the logical product of the contents of the loaded switch-on buffer 0 and the count switch input bit determination value (01 (H), see FIG. 7) (step S252). When the content of the switch-on buffer 0 is 01 (H), that is, when the count switch 23 is on, the logical product operation result is 01 (H). When the count switch 23 is not turned on, the operation result of the logical product is 0 (00 (H)).

  If the result of the logical product is not 0 (N in step S253), that is, if the count switch 23 is on, the CPU 56 determines that an abnormal winning in the big winning opening has occurred, and an error has occurred. 1 is added to the signal output number counter indicating the number of times determined to be subtracted (subtracted when the security signal is output based on the determination result) (step S254). In this embodiment, when an abnormal winning to the big prize opening is detected by executing the information output process (see S31) based on the addition of 1 to the signal output number counter in step S254. The security signal is output externally for a predetermined time (in this example, 0.2 seconds).

  In step S255, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the normal symbol process flag is 3 (step S255). The state where the value of the normal symbol process flag is 3 is a state where it is determined that the ordinary electric accessory (variable winning ball device 15) is in the open state (when the variable winning ball device 15 is physically open). And when the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is physically closed until a predetermined interval period elapses). If it is in such a state (Y in Step S255), there is a possibility that a game ball will win the start winning opening 14, so the process proceeds to Step S259a without performing the abnormal winning confirmation process to the starting winning opening 14. To do.

  The state where the value of the normal symbol process flag is not 3 (N in Step S255) is a state in which the normal electric accessory (variable winning ball device 15) is determined to be in a state other than the open state. If there is a game ball winning in the start winning opening 14 in such a state, there is a possibility that the winning is an abnormal winning. Accordingly, the abnormal winning confirmation process for the start winning opening 14 shown below is performed.

  That is, if the value of the normal symbol process flag is not 3 (N in step S255), the CPU 56 loads the contents of the switch-on buffer 2 (the switch-on buffer corresponding to the input port 2) into the register (step S256). Then, the CPU 56 calculates the logical product of the content of the loaded switch-on buffer 2 and the start port switch input bit determination value (01 (H), see FIG. 7) (step S257). When the content of the switch-on buffer 2 is 01 (H), that is, when the start port switch 14a is on, the logical product operation result is 01 (H). When the start port switch 14a is not turned on, the logical product operation result is 0 (00 (H)).

  If the operation result of the logical product is not 0 (N in step S258), that is, if the start port switch 14a is turned on, the CPU 56 determines that an abnormal winning has occurred in the start winning port 14, and outputs a signal. The number counter is incremented by 1 (step S259), and the process proceeds to step S259a. In this embodiment, when an abnormal winning to the start winning opening 14 is detected by executing the information output process (see S31) based on the addition of 1 to the signal output number counter in step S259. In addition, the security signal is externally output for a predetermined time (in this example, 0.2 seconds).

  When the count switch 23 is turned on in the state where neither big hit game nor small hit game is performed by the above processing, it is determined that an abnormal winning is made to the big winning opening, and information output processing (step S31). The security signal is output to the outside in (see FIG. 4). In addition, when the start opening switch 14a is turned on when the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is not opened or closed (when the start winning opening 14 is in the state other than the open state), an abnormal winning to the starting winning opening 14 has occurred. The security signal is externally output in the information output process (see step S31).

  In the process of step S250, the CPU 56 determines whether or not an abnormal winning to the big winning opening has occurred based on the value of the special symbol process flag. Therefore, since it can be determined whether or not an abnormal winning has occurred based on one data, the determination process can be simplified. Further, as described above, since the big hit end process or the small hit end process is executed for a predetermined time after the special variable winning ball apparatus 20 is closed, the special variable winning ball apparatus 20 has won a big winning opening immediately before closing. The game ball is prevented from being detected by the count switch 23 after the value of the special symbol process flag returns to 0, and a security signal is output to the outside or an error is notified in spite of the regular winning. There is no such thing.

  In the process of step S255, the CPU 56 determines whether or not an abnormal winning to the start winning opening 14 has occurred based on the value of the normal symbol process flag. Therefore, since it can be determined whether or not an abnormal winning has occurred based on one data, the determination process can be simplified. In addition, as described above, as a method of delaying the timing for determining an abnormal prize from the timing for closing the variable winning ball apparatus 15, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is set a predetermined time before the value of the normal symbol process flag is switched from 3 to 0. Is closed, and when the value of the normal symbol process flag is switched from 3 to 0, the abnormal winning determination is made. Therefore, the game ball that won the start winning opening 14 immediately before the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is closed. However, it is prevented from being detected by the start switch 14a after the value of the normal symbol process flag returns to 0, and a security signal is output to the outside or an error is notified in spite of the regular winning. There is no such thing.

  At the same time that the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is closed, the value of the normal symbol process flag is switched from 3 to 0, and the abnormal winning determination is made after a predetermined time has elapsed since the value of the normal symbol process flag is switched from 3 to 0. May be. Also, in the determination of the abnormal winning to the big winning opening, the timing for determining the abnormal winning by the same method may be delayed from the timing for closing the big winning opening (special variable winning ball apparatus 20).

  In step S259a, the CPU 56 performs a start port switch determination process for determining whether an abnormality has occurred in the start port switch 14a. Thereafter, the CPU 56 determines whether or not an abnormality has occurred in the prize opening switches 29a and 30a (step S259b), and counts to determine whether or not an abnormality has occurred in the count switch 23. A switch determination process (step S259c) and a gate switch switch determination process (step S259d) for determining whether or not an abnormality has occurred in the gate switch 32a are performed. When the processes of steps S259a to 259d are finished, the abnormal winning determination process is finished. In addition, the process of step S259a-259d may be performed in arbitrary orders not only in the example shown in FIG. Moreover, not only the example shown in FIG. 13 but you may make it perform only the process in step S259a-259d or only some processes.

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the start port switch determination process in step S259a. In the winning opening switch determination process (step S259b), the count switch determination process (step S259c), and the gate switch determination process (step S259d), the process for confirming the start port switch in the start port switch determination process is the switch to be determined. Since it is realized by replacing with a process for confirming, the description is omitted. Also, in this embodiment, when it is determined that another error has newly occurred during the period in which the security signal is output in the information output process described later (for example, it is determined in the determination process of another switch). In addition, in order to be able to output a security signal based on a newly generated error, a signal output number counter indicating the number of times it is determined that an error has occurred is commonly used. The signal output number counter is incremented by 1 when it is determined that an error has occurred, and is decremented by 1 when a security signal is output based on the determination result. However, a start port monitoring timer, a continuous detection timer, and a redetection number counter, which will be described later, are provided for each switch.

  In the start port switch determination process, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the start port switch 14a is on (step S2501). In this process, the CPU 56 loads the contents of the switch-on buffer 2 (the switch-on buffer corresponding to the input port 2) into the register, and the contents of the loaded switch-on buffer 2 and the start port switch input bit determination value (01 (H), see FIG. 7), and when the logical product operation result is 01 (H), it is determined that the start port switch 14a is on. Further, when the operation result of the logical product is 0 (00 (H)), it is determined that the start port switch 14a is not turned on.

  When determining that the start port switch 14a is not on, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the period during which the start port switch 14a is on has reached a predetermined specific period (for example, 2 seconds). The continuous detection timer for determination is reset (step S2515). The continuous detection timer is used to determine whether or not the start port switch 14a is on for a specific period (for example, 2 seconds) (that is, a ball clogging has occurred at the start port). The continuous detection timer is determined to be in an on state in the previous start port switch determination process, and is set for a specific period (for example, 2 seconds) when it is determined to be in an on state this time (step S2502, which will be described later). S2506), subtraction is performed when the ON state continues (steps S2502 and S2503 described later). The continuous detection timer is reset when it is determined that the start-up switch determination process is in an ON state (steps S2501 and S2515) or when a time-out occurs (steps S2504 to S2504a).

  Further, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the start port monitoring timer for determining whether or not the start port switch 14a is turned on again after a predetermined monitoring time has elapsed since the start port switch 14a was turned on (step S2516). ). The start port monitoring timer is used to determine whether or not the number of times the start port switch 14a is turned on in a predetermined period reaches a predetermined number (whether an abnormal prize due to an illegal act described later has occurred). That is, although the start port switch 14a is not continuously turned on, the number of detections within a predetermined period exceeds the predetermined number (that is, more than the interval at which the normal game ball can pass through the start port). This is used to determine whether or not the vehicle is passing at a short interval. When it is determined that the start port monitoring timer is in the on state in the start port switch determination process, the start port monitoring timer is set to a monitoring time determined for the start port switch 14a (step S2510 described later) and is in the off state. It is subtracted if determined. If the start port monitoring timer has not been set (that is, if no winning has been made (the start port switch 14a has not been turned on)), the process of step S2516 is omitted.

  In this embodiment, different monitoring times are determined according to the type of switch. FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram showing the monitoring time determined for each switch type. As shown in FIG. 15, the monitoring time is set to 0.03 seconds for the gate switch 32a, the monitoring time is set to 0.05 seconds for the start port switch 14a, and the winning port switches 29a and 30a are set. The monitoring time is determined to be 0.04 seconds, and the monitoring time for the count switch 23 is determined to be 0.06 seconds. In this embodiment, a state in which the number of detections within the monitoring time exceeds a predetermined number (that is, a state in which a normal game ball is passing at a shorter interval than can be passed through the winning opening) is illegal. It is determined that an abnormal winning due to an action has occurred. As shown in FIG. 15, by setting different monitoring times depending on the switch type, it is possible to cope with the difference in the interval at which the normal game ball can pass due to the difference in the shape or the like of the winning opening. That is, by setting a different monitoring time according to the shape of the winning opening, etc., it is possible to prevent erroneous determination of abnormal winning despite no fraud.

  When determining that the start port switch 14a is on, the CPU 56 determines whether the value of the start port monitoring timer is the monitoring time set for the start port switch (0.05 seconds in the example of FIG. 15). It is determined whether or not (step S2502). That is, a start port monitoring timer set in step S2510 described later when it is determined that the start port switch 14a has been previously turned on is determined that the start port switch 14a has not been turned on thereafter (N in step S2501). In S2516, it is determined whether or not subtraction is performed. In other words, in step S2502, it is determined whether it has been determined to be on again without being determined to be off once after it has been determined that the start port switch 14a was on previously. It is confirmed whether or not the mouth switch 14a is kept on. In addition to the example shown in FIG. 14, for example, a specific flag is set when it is determined that the start port switch is on, and the specific flag is reset when it is determined that the start port switch is off. For example, by checking the state of the specific flag, it can be confirmed whether or not the start port switch 14a is kept on.

  If it is determined in step S2502 that the value of the start port monitoring timer is the monitoring time set for the start port switch (that is, if the start port switch 14a is kept on), the CPU 56 Subtracts 1 from the continuous detection timer (step S2503), and determines whether the continuous detection timer has timed out (step S2504). That is, it is determined whether or not the period during which the start port switch 14a is on has reached a predetermined specific period (for example, 2 seconds). If it is determined that the continuous detection timer has timed out (Y in step S2504), the CPU 56 resets the continuous detection timer (step S2504a), determines that a ball clogging has occurred, and outputs a signal output number counter. 1 is added (step S2505). On the other hand, when it is determined in step S2502 that the value of the start port monitoring timer is not the monitoring time set for the start port switch (that is, the start port switch 14a is not kept on and is once turned off). In the case where it is turned on after turning on, the CPU 56 sets the continuous detection timer again (for example, for 2 seconds), and proceeds to step S2507. As described above, in this embodiment, by performing the processing of steps S2502 to S2505, when the start-up switch 14a is kept on for a specific period (for example, 2 seconds), an abnormal winning (ball clogging) occurs. By determining that it has occurred and adding 1 to the signal output number counter, a security signal can be output in the information output process. Therefore, the administrator can detect the occurrence of a clogged ball in the winning area based on the security signal.

  In step S2507, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the start port monitoring timer has timed out (step S2508). And when it has timed out, CPU56 counts the frequency | count of having turned on again after monitoring time (0.04 second shown in FIG. 15) passes since the start port switch 14a was turned on. The redetection counter is incremented by 1 (step S2508), and if the timeout has not occurred, the redetection counter is reset (step S2509). Thereafter, the CPU 56 sets the monitoring time (0.04 seconds shown in FIG. 15) determined for the start port switch 14a in the start port monitoring timer (step S2510). In step S2508, when the start port monitoring timer is not set (that is, at the time of the first winning prize), control is performed so as to proceed to step S2509. In this embodiment, if the start port monitoring timer has timed out, the re-detection number counter is reset. May be counted.

  Next, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the value of the re-detection number counter is equal to or greater than a predetermined value (for example, 50 times) (step S2511), and if it is equal to or greater than the predetermined value, an abnormal winning occurs at the start port switch 14a. The signal output number counter is incremented by 1 (step S2512). In step S2511, it is confirmed whether or not the number of times the start port switch 14a is turned on again from when the start port switch 14a is turned on has reached a predetermined number of times. That is, although the start port switch 14a is not continuously turned on, the number of detections in the predetermined period exceeds the predetermined number (that is, shorter than the interval at which the normal game ball can pass through the start port). Fraudulent acts such as illegally operating a game ball that wins the starting opening (for example, operating the same gaming ball repeatedly through the starting opening) It is determined that an abnormal prize has occurred due to an illegal act of outputting a signal to be output when a game ball is detected by irradiating a radio wave from the switch and causing the switch to malfunction. Thus, in this embodiment, by executing the processing of steps S2511 to S2514, the number of times the monitor is turned on again from when the start port switch 14a is turned on until the monitoring time elapses becomes a predetermined number. If it has been reached, it is determined that an abnormal prize has occurred due to an illegal act of illegally operating a game ball to be won at the start opening or an illegal act of radiating radio waves from the outside, and the signal output number counter is incremented by 1. Thus, the security signal can be output in the information output process. Therefore, the manager can detect the occurrence of abnormal winning in the winning area based on the security signal.

  Thereafter, the CPU 56 resets the re-detection number counter (step S2513), performs control to transmit an error notification designation command for executing the error notification to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S2514), and starts the start switch. The determination process ends.

  As described above, the winning opening switch determination process (step S259b), the count switch determination process (step S259c), and the gate switch determination process (step S259d) determine the process for confirming the start port switch in the start port switch determination process. This is realized by replacing the target switch with a process for confirming the target switch. Specifically, the signal output number counter is commonly used in the determination processing of each switch, but the start port monitoring timer, the continuous detection timer, and the re-detection number counter are provided for each switch, as in the flow of FIG. Controls such as timer monitoring, re-detection count, and error information designation command output are performed. Although it is determined that an error has occurred when the number of re-detections has reached a predetermined value (step S2511), the predetermined value used for determination in the determination process of each switch may be the same. Although it may be different for each switch, it is desirable to set a value according to the winning opening and the board design.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the sensor error determination process in step S24. In the sensor error determination process, the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) checks whether or not the magnet sensor signal from the magnet sensor 62 has been input (step S260). Specifically, the CPU 56 loads the contents of the switch-on buffer 1 (switch-on buffer corresponding to the input port 1) into a register, and loads the contents of the loaded switch-on buffer 1 and the magnet sensor signal input bit determination value (20 ( H), and the logical product of FIG. 7), and if the result of the logical product is 20 (H), it is determined that the magnet sensor signal has been input.

  If a magnet sensor signal is input (that is, if magnetism is detected by the magnet sensor 62), the CPU 56 determines that a magnetic abnormality has occurred, and sets a magnetic abnormality flag indicating that the magnetic abnormality has been detected. (Step S261). In this embodiment, when a magnetic abnormality is detected by executing an information output process (see S31) based on the magnetic abnormality flag being set in step S261, a security signal is sent to the gaming machine. Is output externally until the power is turned on again and initialization processing is executed.

  Further, the CPU 56 turns on the error notification LED 31A to notify that a magnetic abnormality has occurred (step S262), and produces an error notification designation command that specifies that an error (magnetic abnormality) has occurred. Control to transmit to the control microcomputer 100 is performed (step S263). In this embodiment, the error notification designation command is transmitted regardless of the error type. However, a different command is transmitted for each error type, and the production control microcomputer 100 performs different notification. May be. For example, when it is designated to notify that a magnetic abnormality has occurred, a magnetic error notification designation command may be transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100.

  Next, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the radio wave sensor signal from the radio wave sensor 61 is input (step S264). Specifically, the CPU 56 loads the contents of the switch-on buffer 1 (switch-on buffer corresponding to the input port 1) into a register, and loads the contents of the loaded switch-on buffer 1 and the radio wave sensor signal input bit determination value (10 ( H) and the logical product of FIG. 7), and if the result of the logical product is 10 (H), it is determined that the radio wave sensor signal has been input.

  If a radio wave sensor signal is input (that is, if a radio wave is detected by the radio wave sensor 61), the CPU 56 determines that radio wave abnormality has occurred, and adds 1 to the signal output number counter (step S265). In this embodiment, when a radio wave abnormality is detected by executing an information output process (see S31) based on the addition of 1 to the signal output number counter in step S265, a security signal is predetermined. Time (in this example, 0.2 seconds) is output externally.

  FIG. 17 is a block diagram showing various signals output to the terminal board 160. As shown in FIG. 17, in this embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 mounted on the main board 31 sends a symbol determination number of times 1 signal, a start port signal, a jackpot signal, a jackpot to the terminal board 160. Two signals, three jackpot signals, a time reduction signal, a winning signal, a security signal, and a high probability signal are output by the information output process (see step S31) on the game control microcomputer 560 side. In this embodiment, the prize ball information is sent from the payout control microcomputer 370 mounted on the payout control board 37 to the terminal board 160 via the main board 31. It is output by the information output process on the 370 side.

  The symbol determination number 1 signal is a signal for notifying the number of changes in the special symbol. The start port signal is a signal for notifying the number of winnings to the start winning port 14. The jackpot 1 signal is a signal for notifying that the jackpot game (during the operation of the special variable winning ball apparatus) is in progress. The jackpot 2 signal is a signal for notifying that the jackpot game (during the operation of the special variable winning ball apparatus) or that the special symbol variation time shortening function is in operation (during the short-time state). The jackpot 3 signal is a signal for notifying that a 15-round jackpot game is in progress. The time reduction signal is a signal for notifying that the special symbol variation time reduction function is operating (in the time reduction state).

  In addition, as described above, the winning signal indicates that a predetermined payout condition for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls (10 balls in this embodiment) has been established (starting prize opening 14, large prize winning). The winning prizes are generated at the mouths and the normal winning holes 29 and 30. The prize balls are not paid out. Specifically, the proximity switches (the winning hole switches 29a and 30a, the count switch 23, the start opening switch 14a). This is a signal indicating that it has been determined that a predetermined payout condition has been established on the condition that the detection signal from) is input.

  The security signal is a signal indicating the security state of the gaming machine. Specifically, when it is determined that a magnetic abnormality has occurred based on the detection result of the magnet sensor 62, an external device such as a hall computer is used until the security signal is turned on again and the initialization process is executed. Is output. When it is determined that a radio wave abnormality has occurred based on the detection result of the radio wave sensor 61, a security signal is output to an external device such as a hall computer for a predetermined period (for example, 0.2 seconds). Also, when an abnormal prize is detected at the big prize opening or the start prize opening 14, or when an abnormality is detected at various switches, the security signal is displayed for a predetermined period (for example, 0.2 seconds) such as a hall computer. Output to an external device. Also, when the gaming machine is turned on and the initialization process is executed, a security signal is output to an external device such as a hall computer for a predetermined period (for example, 0.2 seconds).

  The high probability signal is a signal indicating that the gaming state is controlled to a high probability state (probability change state). In this embodiment, the high-accuracy signal is externally output through the terminal board 160 until a predetermined condition is satisfied after the power failure is restored (specifically, until the first big hit occurs).

  Further, as described above, the prize ball information is a signal that is output every time a specific number (10 in this example) of prize ball payouts is detected. In this embodiment, a predetermined payout condition for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls (10 balls in this embodiment) is satisfied (start winning opening 14, large winning opening, normal winning prize) A winning has occurred in the mouths 29 and 30. Specifically, on the condition that detection signals from the proximity switches (the winning mouth switches 29a and 30a, the count switch 23, and the start port switch 14a) are input, Based on the determination that the payout condition has been established), a winning signal is output to the outside, and the number of winning balls can be grasped on the hall side based on the winning signal. Therefore, the prize ball information may be configured not to be output externally.

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the information output process of step S31. In the example shown in FIG. 18, the process of externally outputting the security signal is shown in the process executed in the information output process, and the description of the other processes is omitted. In the processing, in addition to the processing shown in FIG. 18, processing for externally outputting a symbol determination number 1 signal, a start signal, a jackpot signal, a jackpot signal, a jackpot signal, a time signal, a winning signal, and a high accuracy signal Is also executed.

  In the information output process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the magnetic abnormality flag is set (step S1001). If the magnetic abnormality flag is set (that is, if occurrence of a magnetic abnormality is detected), the CPU 56 clears the value of the security signal information timer if it is set (step S1002), and the information buffer security is set. The signal output bit position (bit 7 of output port 1 in the example shown in FIG. 6) is set (step S1003). When the security signal output bit position of the information buffer is set, in step S1014, the information buffer is set to the output value, and the output value is output to the output port 1 in step S1015. Is output (turns on).

  If a magnetic abnormality is detected by the processing in steps S1001 to S1003 described above, a security signal based on the magnetic abnormality is output until the game machine is powered on again and the initialization process is executed.

  As described above, the magnetic abnormality flag is stored in the backup RAM and is retained even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped. Therefore, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, the power failure is interrupted. When the recovery process (see steps S91 and S92) is executed, security based on the magnetic abnormality again after the power failure is recovered by executing the processes of steps S1001 to S1003 based on the holding of the magnetic abnormality flag. The external output of the signal will be resumed. When the power supply to the gaming machine is started, the magnetic abnormality flag is reset based on the execution of the initialization process (see step S10), and the external output of the security signal based on the magnetic abnormality ends. (However, in this case, an external output of the security signal based on the execution of the initialization process is executed for a predetermined period (for example, 0.2 seconds) by executing the processes of steps S1004 to S1015 described later. )

  If the magnetic abnormality flag is not set (N in step S1001), the CPU 56 determines whether or not the security signal information timer has timed out (step S1004). Specifically, the CPU 56 loads the security signal information timer, reflects the state of the security signal information timer in the flag register, and determines whether the security signal information timer has timed out. In this embodiment, when a winning of a game ball to the start winning port 14 is detected when the variable winning ball device 15 is not in the open state, or when a winning of the game ball to the big winning port is detected when the big hit game is not being played. In such a case, it is determined that an abnormal winning has occurred when an abnormality occurs in various switches, and the signal output number counter is incremented by one. In this embodiment, the signal output number counter is incremented by 1 even when a radio wave abnormality is detected. Then, a predetermined time (0.2 seconds in this example) is set in the security signal information timer based on the signal output number counter (step S1013 described later), and when the predetermined time has not elapsed, the security signal information timer Is determined to have not timed out, and when the predetermined time has elapsed (when the value of the security signal information timer is 0), it is determined that the security signal information timer has timed out.

  Also, in this embodiment, when the power supply to the gaming machine is started and the initialization process is executed, a predetermined time (0.2 seconds in this example) is set in the security signal information timer (main When the predetermined time has not elapsed, it is determined that the security signal information timer has not timed out, and the predetermined time has elapsed (when the value of the security signal information timer is 0). In addition, it is determined that the security signal information timer has timed out.

  If the security signal information timer has not timed out (N in step S1004), the security signal information timer is decremented by 1, and the calculation result is stored in the security signal information timer (step S1005). Then, the security signal output bit position of the information buffer (bit 7 of the output port 1 in the example shown in FIG. 6) is set (step S1006). When the security signal output bit position of the information buffer is set, in step S1014, the information buffer is set to the output value, and the output value is output to the output port 1 in step S1015. Is output (turns on). If the security signal information timer times out (Y in step S10064), the security signal is turned off as a result of the processing in step S1006 not being executed.

  When the security signal output bit position of the information buffer is set in step S1006, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the security signal information timer has timed out and the signal output number counter> 0 (step S1007). If the information timer has timed out and the signal output number counter> 0, a standby period timer for temporarily stopping the output of the security signal is set (step S1008). In step S1007, at the end of the security signal output period, it is determined that an error has occurred by checking whether the signal output number counter is 0 or more, but the security signal has not yet been transmitted. The number is confirmed. That is, it is confirmed whether or not it has been determined that a new error has occurred during the security signal output period (or standby period). If the signal output number counter> 0 after the security signal output period ends and the signal output number counter> 0 during the next interrupt processing, a waiting period may not be provided. Therefore, the signal output number counter> Regardless of whether or not it is 0, a standby period timer may be set.

  If the security signal information timer has timed out (Y in step S1004), the CPU 56 checks whether or not the standby period timer has timed out (step S1009). (Step S1010), the process proceeds to Step S1014. If the standby period timer has timed out, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the signal output number counter (step S1012), and sets a predetermined time (0.2 seconds in this example) to the security signal information timer (step S1012). S1013), the process proceeds to step S1014.

  After the abnormal winning is detected in the various switches until 0.2 seconds elapses after the abnormal winning to the start winning opening 14 or the big winning opening is detected by the processing of the steps S1004 to S1006 described above, 0. Until 2 seconds elapse, until 0.2 seconds elapses after the initialization process is executed at the start of power supply to the gaming machine, or until 0.2 seconds elapse after the radio wave abnormality is detected. A security signal is output using the common connector CN8 of the board 160.

  In addition, a standby period is provided after the output of the security signal is completed by the processing of steps S1007 to S1010 described above. If it is determined that an error has newly occurred, the security signal is output after the standby period has elapsed. Done. In addition, even if it is determined that a new error has occurred during the security signal output period (waiting period) by the processing of steps S1012 to S1013 described above, the security signal is output without exception based on the determination result. can do.

  Also, after starting the security signal output based on the detection of abnormal winnings, the detection of radio wave abnormality, and the initialization process being executed, the magnetic abnormality is detected when the security signal is still being output. In this case, the security signal output control based on the abnormal winning detection, the radio wave abnormality detection, and the initialization process is switched to the security signal output control based on the magnetic abnormality. Specifically, the security signal information timer is set based on the detection of abnormal winnings, the detection of radio wave abnormality, and the execution of initialization processing, whereby the processing of steps S1004 to S1013 is executed and the security signal is output to the outside. When a magnetic abnormality is detected, a magnetic abnormality flag is set in the sensor error determination process (see steps S260 and S261). Thereafter, since the magnetic abnormality flag is set, the process switches to steps S1001 to S1003, the security signal information timer is cleared (see step S1002), and the magnetic abnormality flag is reset by the initialization process. Until then, a security signal is externally output based on the fact that the magnetic abnormality flag is set (see step S1003). Even when a magnetic abnormality is detected, the security signal may be output only for a predetermined period, as in the case of detecting an abnormal prize or over the radio wave, or the security signal output period based on other error determinations. In the case where the security period is set, the security signal may be output after the output period has elapsed and the standby period has elapsed.

  In this embodiment, for each timer interrupt, the output bit position of the corresponding signal is set in the information output process shown in FIG. 18 (see steps S1003 and S1009), and steps S1014 and S1015 are executed to output port. 1 shows an example of processing in which an external output is output (in this embodiment, a high-accuracy medium signal is externally output from output port 0, see FIG. 6). Does not change unless the bit value changes from the previous setting. For example, if the value of the corresponding output bit is set to “1”, the signal continues to be output while it is set.

  Next, the security signal output timing will be described. 19 and 20 are explanatory diagrams showing the output timing of the security signal. In this embodiment, when initialization processing is executed at the start of power supply to the gaming machine (see steps S10 to S14), a predetermined time (0.2 seconds in this example) is set in the security signal information timer. (See step S14a), information output processing (see step S31) performs steps S1004 to S1008, S1014, and S1015, and as shown in FIG. A security signal is output from CN 8 to an external device such as a hall computer for a predetermined time (in this example, 0.2 seconds).

  In addition, when it is determined that an abnormal winning at the big winning opening has occurred (see steps S250 to S253) or when it is determined that an abnormal winning at the starting winning opening 14 has occurred (see steps S255 to S258). When it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in various switches (steps S259a to S259d), the information output process (see steps S254, S259, S2505, and S2512) is based on the addition of 1 to the signal output number counter (see steps S254, S259, S2505, and S2512). In steps S1004 to S1013, S1014, and S1015, a predetermined time (in this example, 0.2 seconds) is set in the security signal information timer (see step S1013), and FIG. ), The connector CN8 on the terminal board 160 is connected to the hall computer. (In this example, 0.2 seconds) the predetermined time to an external device such as a data security signal is output.

  Also, when it is determined that a radio wave abnormality has occurred (see step S264), based on the addition of 1 to the signal output number counter (see step S265), the information output process (see step S31) performs step S1004. To S1013, S1014, and S1015, a predetermined time (in this example, 0.2 seconds) is set in the security signal information timer, and the connector CN8 of the terminal board 160 as shown in FIG. Therefore, a security signal is output to an external device such as a hall computer for a predetermined time (in this example, 0.2 seconds).

  Also, when it is determined that a magnetic abnormality has occurred (see step S260), based on the magnetic abnormality flag being set (see step S261), the information output process (see step S31) performs steps S1001 to S1003. , S1014, S1015 are executed, and as shown in FIG. 19 (B), until the game machine is turned on again and the initialization process is executed, the connector CN8 of the terminal board 160 is connected to the hall. A security signal is output to an external device such as a computer.

  As described above, in this embodiment, when the initialization process is executed at the start of power supply to the gaming machine, abnormal winnings are detected at the start winning port 14 and the grand winning port or various switches are detected. When a radio wave abnormality is detected and when a magnetic abnormality is detected, a security signal is externally output from the common connector CN8 of the terminal board 160.

  Also, in this embodiment, when a magnetic abnormality is newly detected while the security signal is being output externally, the security signal based on the execution of initialization processing, detection of abnormal winnings, detection of radio wave abnormality is The output control can be switched to security signal output control based on detection of a magnetic abnormality. For example, when the output of the security signal is started based on the fact that the initialization process is executed when the power supply to the gaming machine is started, or the abnormal winning at the start winning opening 14 or the big winning opening is detected. When security signal output is started, security signal output is started based on detection of radio wave abnormality, as shown in FIG. 19 (A), in principle, security is continued until 0.2 seconds elapse. Signal output should continue. However, as shown in FIG. 19C, there is a possibility that it is determined that a magnetic abnormality has occurred due to the input of the magnet sensor signal from the magnet sensor 62 even before 0.2 seconds have elapsed. is there. In this case, when the occurrence of magnetic abnormality is detected and the magnetic abnormality flag is set (see steps S260 and S261), the information output process (see step S31) is changed from the process of steps S1004 to S1013 to the process of steps S1001 to S1003. After switching, as shown in FIG. 19C, the output of the security signal is continued until the gaming machine is turned on again and the initialization process is executed.

  In this embodiment, when an initialization process is executed at the start of power supply to the gaming machine, when an abnormal winning at the start winning opening 14 or the big winning opening is detected, or when a radio wave abnormality is detected, Although the case where the security signal is output over 0.2 seconds is shown, the output time of the security signal is not limited to that shown in this embodiment. For example, when the initialization process is executed, the security signal is output for 0.2 seconds. On the other hand, when an abnormal winning at the start winning opening 14 or the big winning opening or an abnormal winning at various switches is detected, the security signal is output. Is output for 0.5 seconds, or when a radio wave abnormality is detected, a security signal is output for 1 second, for example, when the initialization process is executed with different security signal output times. You may comprise so that it can be recognized whether it is a case where abnormal winning to the winning opening 14 or a big winning opening is detected, or it is a case where a radio wave abnormality is detected.

  Furthermore, the security signal output period may be different depending on whether an abnormal winning at the start winning opening 14 is detected, when an abnormal winning at the large winning opening is detected, or when an abnormal winning at various switches is detected. For example, a security signal is output for 0.4 seconds when an abnormal winning at the start winning opening 14 is detected, and a security signal is output for 0.5 seconds when an abnormal winning at the big winning opening is detected. When an abnormal winning in the switch is detected, a security signal may be output for 0.6 seconds. Also for the waiting period, the type of error that caused the security information being output (for example, radio wave abnormality, magnetic abnormality, abnormal winning, etc.) and / or during the period during which security information is output You may make it vary according to the kind of error which generate | occur | produced.

  Next, the timing for newly outputting a security signal based on the determination that another error has occurred during the output period (standby period) during which the security signal is output will be described. FIG. 20 is an explanatory diagram showing the output timing of the security signal. In this embodiment, when it is determined that the first abnormal winning has occurred in the start switch, 1 is added to the signal output number counter, and the information is output to the security signal information timer for a predetermined time (in this example). , 0.2 seconds), and as shown in FIG. 20A, security is provided from the connector CN8 of the terminal board 160 to an external device such as a hall computer for a predetermined time (in this example, 0.2 seconds). A signal is output. Here, when it is determined that the second abnormal prize has occurred in the prize opening switch within the output period, 1 is added to the signal output number counter, and the first abnormal prize has occurred in the information output process. After the output of the basic security signal is completed and the standby period (in this example, 0.1 second) elapses, the security signal is output based on the occurrence of the second abnormal winning. In addition, as shown in FIG. 20B, it is determined that a radio wave abnormality has occurred within an output period in which a security signal is output based on the determination that an abnormal winning has occurred in a predetermined switch. In this case, it is determined that the radio wave abnormality has occurred after the output of the security signal based on the determination that the abnormal winning has occurred and the standby period (in this example, 0.1 second) has passed. The security signal is output based on the fact. Further, as shown in FIG. 20C, it is determined that an abnormal winning has occurred in a predetermined switch within the output period in which the security signal is output based on the determination that the radio wave abnormality has occurred. In this case, it is determined that an abnormal winning has occurred after the output of the security signal based on the determination that the radio wave abnormality has occurred and after the waiting period (in this example, 0.1 second) has elapsed. The security signal is output based on the fact. Therefore, even when a new error occurs while outputting the security signal, the security signal based on the new error can be output using the common output means.

  Next, the operation of the effect control means will be described. FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing main processing executed by the effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) mounted on the effect control board 80. The effect control CPU 101 starts executing the main process when the power is turned on. In the main processing, first, initialization processing is performed for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, and initializing a timer for determining the activation control activation interval (for example, 2 ms) (step S701). .

  In this embodiment, an error notification prohibition flag is set in the RAM area in an error notification limit setting process (see step S704), which will be described later. Although it is possible to make a setting for prohibiting the execution of (abnormal winning notification), the RAM mounted in the production control microcomputer 100 is not backed up and the RAM area is cleared by the processing of step S701. Even if the setting for prohibiting execution of error notification is performed, the error notification prohibition flag is always cleared when the power is turned on, and the setting for prohibiting execution of error notification is always reset once when the power is turned on.

  The RAM installed in the production control microcomputer 100 is also configured to be backed up, and the initialization process is executed based on the operation of the clear switch when the power is turned on. If the clear switch is not operated, the RAM is backed up. You may comprise so that the presentation state before a power failure can be restored based on the memory content of RAM. Even when the RAM is configured to be backed up, it is configured to always reset the error notification prohibition flag when the power is turned on, and the setting for prohibiting the execution of error notification is always performed when the power is turned on. It may be reset once.

  Further, when the RAM mounted in the production control microcomputer 100 is also backed up as described above, the error notification prohibition flag is reset if the error notification restriction is set when the power is turned on. The error notification restriction release process is executed, and if the error notification restriction is not set even when the power is turned on, the error notification restriction release process is skipped without being executed. May be.

  Next, the production control CPU 101 sets the set value of the volume of the notification sound output from the speaker 27 in error notification (hereinafter referred to as the error volume set value) to the maximum value (step S702). In this embodiment, it is assumed that there are three types of sound volume for error notification: large, medium, and small, and in step S702, a value indicating high sound volume is set as an error sound volume setting value as an initial value. And For example, when the value indicating low volume is “0”, the value indicating medium volume is “1”, and the value indicating high volume is “2”, the error volume setting value is set to “2”. In this embodiment, the error sound volume setting value is stored in the RAM.

  As described above, by executing the processing of steps S701 and S702, the error notification prohibition flag is cleared and the error sound volume setting value is set to the maximum value. Is done.

  In this embodiment, the case where the error sound volume setting value is set to the maximum value in step S702 has been shown. However, the present invention is not limited to that shown in this embodiment, and for example, a default value other than the maximum value (for example, You may comprise so that it may set to (medium volume).

  Then, the effect control CPU 101 controls the effect display device 9 to display an error notification restriction release screen (see FIG. 24 (1) described later) indicating that the restriction of error notification execution has been released (step S703). ).

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 executes an error notification limit setting process for setting a limit of error notification execution (step S704).

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 proceeds to a loop process for monitoring a timer interrupt flag (step S705). When a timer interrupt occurs, the effect control CPU 101 sets a timer interrupt flag in the timer interrupt process. If the timer interrupt flag is set in the main process, the effect control CPU 101 clears the flag (step S706) and executes the effect control process.

  In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 first analyzes the received effect control command and executes a process of setting a flag according to the received effect control command (command analysis process: step S707). Next, the effect control CPU 101 executes effect control process processing (step S708). In the effect control process, a process corresponding to the current control state (effect control process flag) is selected from the processes corresponding to the control state, and display control of the variable display device 9 is executed. In addition, the effect control CPU 101 executes an error notification process for executing error notification (in this example, notification of magnetic abnormality or notification of abnormal winning in various switches) (step S709). The effect control CPU 101 also executes a random number update process for updating a counter value of a counter for generating a predetermined random number (for example, a random number for determining a stop symbol) (step S710). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S705.

  FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the error notification restriction setting process (step S704) in the main process shown in FIG. In the error notification restriction setting process, the effect control CPU 101 first confirms whether or not an operation signal is input from the operation button 120 (step S750). If the operation signal is not input from the operation button 120, the effect control CPU 101 adds 1 to the value of the measurement timer for measuring the elapse of the error notification limit setting possible period in which the error notification execution limit can be set ( In addition to step S751), it is checked whether or not the value of the measurement timer after addition is equal to or greater than a predetermined value (for example, a value corresponding to 10 seconds) (step S752). If the value of the measurement timer is not equal to or greater than the predetermined value (that is, if the error notification limit setting possible period has not elapsed), the process proceeds to step S750. If the value of the measurement timer is equal to or greater than a predetermined value (that is, if the error notification limit setting possible period has elapsed), the error notification limit setting process is terminated.

  If an operation signal is input from the operation button 120 (Y in step S750), the effect control CPU 101 controls the effect display device 9 to display an error notification limit setting screen for setting the error notification execution limit. Is performed (step S753). For example, the effect control CPU 101 performs control to display a setting screen (see FIG. 24 (3) described later) including options such as no error notification, error volume, and error volume low as the error notification restriction setting screen.

  Note that the error notification execution limit may be set as it is based on the detection of the operation by the operation button 120 without displaying the error notification limit setting screen. In this case, for example, an error notification prohibition flag (to be described later) is set as it is based on the detection of the operation by the operation button 120 without displaying the error notification restriction setting screen. You may make it perform.

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not an error notification prohibiting operation for designating prohibition of error notification is detected (step S754). For example, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not the option of no error notification is selected from the error notification limit setting screen based on the operation signal from the operation button 120. For example, the production control CPU 101 determines whether or not the option without error notification is selected based on the input of the rotation operation signal due to the rotation operation of the jog dial of the operation button 120 being performed. If the option without error notification is selected, it is determined that the option without error notification is selected based on the input of the pressing operation signal due to the pressing operation of the operation button 120 next time. When the error notification prohibiting operation is detected, the effect control CPU 101 sets an error notification prohibition flag indicating prohibition of error notification execution (step S755), and performs setting for prohibiting error notification execution.

  If the error notification prohibiting operation has not been detected, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not an error volume setting operation for specifying the volume of the notification sound in the error notification has been detected (step S756). For example, the CPU 101 for effect control determines whether or not an error volume / low error volume option has been selected from the error notification restriction setting screen based on an operation signal from the operation button 120. For example, the effect control CPU 101 is in a state in which the choice of error volume or error volume is selected based on the input of the rotation operation signal due to the rotation operation of the jog dial of the operation button 120 being performed. If the error volume is low or the error volume low option is selected, the error button is pressed based on the input of the pressing operation signal due to the operation button 120 being pressed next. It is determined that an option with a low error volume has been selected. When the error volume setting operation is detected, the effect control CPU 101 sets an error volume setting value according to the operation (step S757). For example, the production control CPU 101 sets “0” to the error volume setting value when detecting an operation for designating a low error volume, and sets the error volume setting value when an operation for designating an error volume is detected. Set “1” to.

  By executing the above error notification limiting process, when an operation from the operation button 120 is detected within the error notification limit setting possible period, the error notification is set not to be executed at all. Execution of error notification is limited by setting the volume of the notification sound to be lower or lower than the maximum value. In addition, error notification restriction settings (error notification presence / absence and notification sound volume settings) can be set for each error type (radio wave abnormality or winning abnormality) in addition to batch setting regardless of the type of error. It may be. For example, by setting so that error notification is performed when it is determined that a radio wave abnormality has occurred, and error notification is not performed when it is determined that a prize abnormality has occurred, only execution of error notification regarding a prize abnormality is limited. Is done.

  FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing the error notification process (step S709) in the main process shown in FIG. In the error notification process, the effect control CPU 101 first checks whether an error notification designation command has been received (step S3001). If an error notification designation command has been received (that is, when a magnetic abnormality or abnormal winning in various switches is detected), the production control CPU 101 turns on the error notification LED 80A to indicate that an error has occurred. Notification is made (step S3002). When different error notification designation commands are transmitted depending on whether a magnetic abnormality is detected or an abnormal winning is detected in various switches, different notification LEDs are turned on according to the type of the error notification designation command. You may make it make it.

  Next, the production control CPU 101 checks whether or not the error notification prohibition flag is set (step S3003). If the error notification prohibition flag is set (that is, if error notification prohibition is set), the error notification processing is terminated as it is, and control is performed so as not to execute the notification processing in steps S3004 and S3005.

  If the error notification prohibition flag is not set (that is, if the prohibition of error notification execution is not set), the effect control CPU 101 uses the effect display device 9 to display the screen displayed at that time. A command to superimpose an error notification screen (for example, a screen displaying a character string such as “magnetic abnormality” or “abnormal prize” according to the type of the error notification command) is output to the VDP 109 (step S3004). The VDP 109 superimposes and displays an error notification screen on the effect display device 9 in response to the command. Further, the production control CPU 101 outputs sound data indicating sound output corresponding to the error notification to the sound output board 70 (step S3005). In this case, the production control CPU 101 outputs sound data for sound output at a sound volume corresponding to the error sound volume setting value to the sound output board 70. For example, when a value indicating high volume is set as the error volume setting value (that is, when no error notification execution limit is set), sound data for sound output at high volume is output as audio data. Output to the output board 70. For example, when a value indicating medium volume is set as the error sound volume setting value, sound data for performing sound output in the sound volume is output to the sound output board 70. For example, when a value indicating low volume is set as the error volume setting value, sound data for performing sound output at low volume is output to the audio output board 70. The voice synthesis IC 703 mounted on the voice output board 70 reads data corresponding to the input sound data from the voice data ROM 704 and outputs a voice signal to the speaker 27 side according to the read data. Therefore, after that, sound output corresponding to the error notification is performed, and an error notification screen is superimposed on the effect display device 9.

  In this embodiment, the process of turning on the error notification LED 80A in step S3002 is always executed regardless of the presence / absence of the error notification prohibition flag and the setting state of the error sound volume setting value. With such a configuration, in this embodiment, regardless of the error notification execution limit setting, at least the lighting state of the error notification LED 80A of the effect control board 80 is checked, so that a game clerk can detect magnetic abnormalities and various Since an abnormal winning of the switch can be recognized, fraudulent acts can be prevented.

  In this embodiment, since the error notification is not particularly limited on the game control microcomputer 560 side, at least the game is set regardless of the error notification execution limit setting on the effect control microcomputer 100 side. By checking the lighting state of the error notification LED 31A on the control board (main board) 31 (see step S262) or by checking whether or not a security signal is externally output (S1001 to S1003, S1004 to S1013). , S1014 to S1015), a game shop clerk and the like can recognize magnetic anomalies and abnormal winnings of various switches, so that fraud can be prevented.

  Next, display examples of the error notification restriction cancellation screen and the error notification restriction setting screen will be described. FIG. 24 is an explanatory diagram for explaining display examples of an error notification restriction release screen and an error notification restriction setting screen. When the power to the gaming machine is turned on, the initialization process (see step S701) is executed and the error sound volume setting value is set to the maximum value (see step S702), all restrictions on error notification execution are once released. An error notification restriction cancellation screen is displayed on the effect display device 9. For example, as shown in FIG. 24 (1), the error notification execution restriction such as “error notification restriction has been released” is released together with a character string such as “initialization” indicating that the RAM has been initialized. A character string indicating that this has been done is displayed. Also, for example, on the error notification restriction release screen, as shown in FIG. 24 (1), a character string that prompts the user to set an error notification execution restriction such as “Please operate the button when resetting”. Is also displayed.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 24 (2), when the operation button 120 is operated within the error notification limit setting possible period (for example, 10 seconds), as shown in FIG. The error notification restriction setting screen is displayed (see steps S750 to S753). In this case, for example, as shown in FIG. 24 (3), a setting screen including options such as no error notification, error volume, and error volume is displayed as the error notification restriction setting screen.

  Then, for example, when the operation button 120 is pressed by rotating the jog dial of the operation button 120 to select the option without error notification, the error notification prohibition operation is performed, and error notification execution is completely prohibited. Is set (see steps S754 and S755). Further, for example, when the operation button 120 is pressed by rotating the jog dial of the operation button 120 to select the error volume low or the option in the error volume, the error volume setting operation is performed, and the notification sound in the error notification is displayed. Is set to a low volume or a medium volume (see steps S756 and S757).

  In this embodiment, the security signal is output over a common period when any abnormal winning or radio wave abnormality occurs. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the security signal output period is the error type. The error type can be identified by the security signal by making it different for each (radio wave abnormality, magnetic abnormality, abnormal prize winning, etc.) or by changing the output period of the security signal based on some error types, and a specific abnormality occurs When this occurs, a security signal indicating that may be output preferentially. For example, FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing a modification of the start port switch determination process. In the example shown in FIG. 25, if it is determined in step S2504 that the continuous detection timer has timed out (that is, a clogged ball has occurred), a priority signal output flag is set in step S2505a. The example shown in FIG. 25 is a modified example that preferentially outputs a security signal indicating that when a ball clogging occurs, but is not limited to this, for example, a priority signal output flag when a radio wave abnormality is detected. May be set so that the security signal is preferentially output.

  FIG. 26 is a flowchart illustrating a modification of the information output process. In the example shown in FIG. 26, steps S1001a to S1001c are added, and if the magnetic abnormality flag is not set (step S1001), the CPU 56 checks whether the priority signal output flag is set (S1001a). If it is set, the priority signal output flag is reset (S1001b), the security signal information timer is set to the priority signal time (for example, 1 second) (step S1001c), and the process proceeds to step S1014. By this processing, the security signal being output is stopped, and the security signal is output over the priority signal time in the next information output processing. In the example of FIG. 26, when the priority is not output, the security signal information timer is set to the normal signal time (for example, 0.2 seconds) (step S1013a). By doing so, it is possible to identify an error according to the output period of the security signal, and to preferentially output a security signal indicating that when a specific abnormality occurs.

  As described above, according to this embodiment, the first detection means (for example, the start port switch 14a) for detecting that the game medium has passed through the first winning area (for example, the start port) and , Whether or not an error has occurred in the second detection means (for example, the counter switch 23) for detecting that the game medium has passed through the second winning area (for example, the big prize opening) and the first detection means. A first error determination unit that determines whether an error has occurred in the second detection unit, and an error that outputs a security signal when it is determined that an error has occurred Information output means, and the error information output means uses a common output means for a predetermined output period regardless of which error determination means determines that an error has occurred. If the second error determination unit determines that an error has occurred within the output period in which the security signal is output and the security signal is output based on the determination of the first error determination unit, the output period is After a lapse of a predetermined standby period, a security signal is output over a predetermined output period using a common output means. Therefore, even when a new error occurs while outputting the security signal, it is possible to output the security signal based on the new error using the common output means. Further, in this embodiment, when any error occurs, a common period security signal is output using a common output means, so that the processing can be made common.

  Further, according to this embodiment, the detection means (for example, start port switch) is provided for each winning area (for example, start port), but a plurality of winning areas (for example, the first start port and the second start port) are provided. The same detection means may detect the passage of the winning area with respect to the starting port.

  Further, according to this embodiment, the radio wave sensor capable of detecting radio waves and the radio wave abnormality determining means for determining that a radio wave abnormality has occurred when the radio wave sensor detects the radio waves, the error information output means includes a radio wave Based on the determination that an abnormality has occurred, a security signal is output over a predetermined output period using a common output means. Therefore, even when a radio wave abnormality occurs while outputting a security signal based on an abnormal winning, a security signal based on the occurrence of the radio wave abnormality can be output using a common output means.

  Further, when the production control means (in this example, the production control microcomputer 100) detects an abnormality related to the game (in this example, abnormal winning or magnetic abnormality) by the detection means (various switches, magnet sensor 62), Error notification (in this example, abnormal winning or magnetic abnormality notification) is performed using the production means (in this example, the production display device 9, the speaker 27). Further, the effect control means sets whether to limit the execution of error notification. In this case, the effect control means restricts the execution of error notification when a predetermined operation is performed by the operation means (in this example, the operation button 120) (in this example, prohibition of error notification execution, The volume of the notification sound in the notification is limited). On the other hand, the production control means does not limit the execution of error notification when power supply to the gaming machine is started (in this example, the setting of prohibition of error notification execution is cleared or the volume of the notification sound in error notification is set) Set to the maximum value). Therefore, even if the user forgets to set to limit the execution of error notification, it is possible to prevent an illegal act from being overlooked.

  For example, in general, some amusement stores may be located in an environment that is susceptible to the influence of radio waves or magnetism due to the reason that the store is under an overpass or near a steel tower. In such a store, if error detection using a radio wave sensor or a magnet sensor is performed as usual, errors are often reported due to erroneous detection, and the player may feel uncomfortable more than necessary. There is. Therefore, in this embodiment, the error notification execution limit can be set according to the situation of the amusement store, so that the error notification execution limit can be set. Therefore, for example, when there is a situation that is easily affected by radio waves and magnetism, error notification is performed even if no illegal act is performed (for example, a high volume notification sound is output, It is possible to prevent the player from feeling uncomfortable due to the fact that strong light is emitted from the light emitter of the LED or lamp.

  However, by simply configuring so that the execution of error notification can be restricted, once the setting is made to limit the execution of error notification, the restriction is not released until an initialization operation is performed. Therefore, after setting to limit the execution of error notification, if the game store forgets to set to limit the execution of error notification, there is a possibility that it will miss an illegal act. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the power supply to the gaming machine is started, the game store side is set to restrict the execution of the error notification by once releasing the restriction on the execution of the error notification. Even if you have forgotten, it is possible to prevent misbehavior from being missed.

  In this embodiment, the effect control microcomputer 100 side is configured to be able to execute abnormal winning notifications and magnetic abnormality notifications, and whether or not to restrict abnormal winning notifications and magnetic abnormality notifications collectively or individually. However, the error notification that can be executed on the production control microcomputer 100 side is not limited to the abnormal winning notification and the magnetic abnormality notification. For example, it may be configured such that the radio wave abnormality notification can be executed on the production control microcomputer 100 side, and whether or not the execution of the radio wave abnormality notification is restricted can be set. In this case, for example, when it is determined as Y in step S264 of the sensor error determination process and it is determined that the radio wave is abnormal, control for transmitting a radio wave abnormality notification designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 may be performed. . Then, based on the reception of the radio wave abnormality notification designation command, the production control microcomputer 100 may perform the same process as steps S3001 to S3005 of the abnormality notification process to execute the radio wave abnormality notification. In addition, regarding these radio wave abnormality notifications, the same processing as in steps S701 to S704 may be executed so that the execution limit can be set.

  In addition, as described above, in the case where a plurality of error notifications such as radio wave abnormality notifications can be executed in addition to abnormal winning notifications and magnetic abnormality notifications, it is possible to individually set error notification execution restrictions for each type of error notification. You may comprise as follows. As for the abnormal winning notification, the type of abnormal winning (based on the processing in steps S250 to S254 and the processing in steps S255 to S259, the gaming ball from the time when the winning of the gaming ball is detected until the predetermined monitoring period elapses. When the number of times the passage of the game is detected again becomes a predetermined number, the presence / absence of the error notification and the volume of the notification sound can be set for each case) Alternatively, the presence / absence of error notification and the volume of the notification sound may be set for each winning opening (switch).

  In this embodiment, a security signal is output for a predetermined period (for example, 0.2 seconds) for radio wave abnormalities and abnormal winnings, and for magnetic abnormalities, the gaming machine is turned on again and initialization processing is executed. However, the security signal output period is not limited to that shown in this embodiment. For example, the output of the security signal may be continued until the power to the gaming machine is turned on again for the radio wave abnormality or the abnormal winning, and the initialization process is executed. (0.2 seconds). For example, the predetermined period for outputting the security signal may be a period other than 0.2 seconds (for example, 0.5 seconds or 1 second). Also, the security signal based on the radio wave abnormality may be output without providing a standby period in the same manner as the output of the security signal based on the magnetic abnormality, or it may be given priority even if other security signals are output. You may make it output.

  Further, for example, when radio wave abnormality and magnetic abnormality are determined as Y in sensor error determination processing at steps S260 and S264 and it is determined as radio wave abnormality or magnetic abnormality, an error notification command is executed in the same process as in step S263. And a process similar to step S265 and a process for setting 0.2 seconds in the security signal information timer, or only one of them may be executed. May be.

  In this embodiment, an error notification screen (in this example, an abnormal winning notification screen or a magnetic abnormality notification screen) is displayed and a notification sound is output as a specific example of error notification. This method is not limited to that shown in this embodiment. For example, the error notification may be executed by executing only one of the error notification screen display and the notification sound output. Further, for example, the lamp 25, 28a, 28b, 28c may be turned on or blinked in a predetermined notification pattern to perform error notification, and further, an error notification screen is displayed, and sound output of notification sound is performed. The error notification may be executed by executing all or any combination of lighting / flashing of the lamps 25, 28a, 28b, and 28c.

  Further, in this embodiment, as a method of restricting the execution of the error notification, the case where the error notification is prohibited from being executed at all or the volume of the notification sound is limited to be smaller than the maximum value is shown. It is not limited to what is shown in the embodiment. For example, it may be configured that only one of the restriction of prohibiting the error notification from being executed at all and limiting the volume of the notification sound to be smaller than the maximum value can be set.

  Further, for example, as described above, when the lamps 25, 28a, 28b, and 28c are configured to be lit / flashable as error notification, the luminance of the lamps 25, 28a, 28b, and 28c in error notification is limited. You may enable it to set as follows. In this case, for example, the production control microcomputer 100 sets the error luminance setting value for setting the luminance of each lamp 25, 28a, 28b, 28c in the error notification to the maximum value in step S702 of the main process. In steps S756 and S757 of the error notification limiting process, a luminance value smaller than the maximum value may be set as the error luminance setting value in accordance with the error luminance setting operation. Then, in step S3005 of the error notification process, the error notification may be executed by lighting or blinking the lamps 25, 28a, 28b, and 28c with the luminance corresponding to the error luminance setting value.

  In this embodiment, not only the setting for completely prohibiting the execution of error notification is performed, but the volume of the notification sound is limited or each lamp 25 is set even if the execution of error notification is not completely prohibited. , 28a, 28b, and 28c can be limited to limit the execution of error notification. Therefore, it is possible to detect cheating while preventing the player from feeling uncomfortable due to false notification to some extent.

  Further, in this embodiment, a case has been shown in which the error notification execution restriction is set based on the operation of the operation button 120 having a jog dial as the operation means. However, the operation means used for the restriction setting is It is not limited to what is shown in the form. For example, if the gaming machine is provided with a stick controller or a cross key as an operation means, any of the error notification restriction setting screen shown in FIG. 24 (3) is selected based on the tilt operation of the stick controller or the input operation of the cross key. It is also possible to determine whether or not an option has been selected and set a limit according to the operation. Further, for example, it may be configured such that the restriction of abnormality notification can be set based on an operation from an operation means that can be operated only by a game shop clerk such as a switch provided on the back of the gaming machine.

  Further, according to this embodiment, regardless of the setting state of whether or not to limit the execution of abnormality notification, abnormality relating to the game (magnetic abnormality in this example) is detected by the detection means (in this example, the magnet sensor 62). When this is detected, an external output signal (in this example, a security signal) is output to an external device (in this example, a hall computer). Therefore, regardless of whether or not it is set to limit the execution of error notification, an abnormality can be recognized by the external device, so that fraud can be prevented. That is, even if the execution of error notification in the gaming machine is limited, an abnormality can be confirmed by an external device (in this example, a hall computer), so that the player who has performed the illegal action notices the error notification in the gaming machine. It is possible to monitor the occurrence of an abnormality while preventing escape.

  Further, according to this embodiment, the game control board (main board) 31 and the effect control board 80 are equipped with notification means (in this example, error notification LEDs 31A and 80A) for performing predetermined notification, When an abnormality relating to a game (in this example, a magnetic abnormality) is detected by the detection means (in this example, the magnet sensor 62), a predetermined notification is made using the notification means (in this example, the error notification LEDs 31A and 80A are lit). Execute. In this case, the predetermined notification is executed when an abnormality relating to the game is detected by the detection means, regardless of the setting state of whether or not to limit the execution of the error notification. Therefore, regardless of whether or not the execution of error notification is set to be restricted, it is possible to recognize an abnormality by checking the game control board (main board) 31 or the effect control board 80, so that an illegal act Can be prevented.

  In this embodiment, the case where the error notification LEDs 31A and 80A are mounted on both the game control board (main board) 31 and the effect control board 80 is shown, but the game control board (main board) 31 or the effect control is shown. The error notification LED 31 may be mounted only on one of the substrates 80.

  Further, according to this embodiment, a specific notification (in this example, FIG. 24 (1)) is set on condition that the error notification is set not to be restricted when power supply to the gaming machine is started. ) Is displayed. Therefore, it can be recognized that the setting has been made so as not to limit the execution of error notification when power supply to the gaming machine is started.

  In this embodiment, the case where the error notification restriction cancellation screen is displayed as the specific notification has been shown, but the specific notification mode is not limited to that shown in this embodiment. For example, the lamps 25, 28a, 28b, and 28c may be turned on or blinked in a predetermined pattern to notify that the error notification execution restriction setting has been released. Further, for example, by outputting a predetermined notification sound from the speaker 27, it may be notified that the setting of the restriction on execution of error notification has been released.

  In the above embodiment, the production control board 80, the audio output board 70, and the lamp driver board 35 are provided as the boards on which the circuit for controlling the production apparatus is mounted. You may mount on one board | substrate. Further, a first effect control board (display control board) on which a circuit for controlling the effect display device 9 and the like is mounted and a circuit for controlling other effect devices (lamps, LEDs, speakers 27, etc.) are mounted. You may make it provide two board | substrates with two production | presentation control boards.

  In the above-described embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 directly transmits a command to the effect control microcomputer 100. However, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits another command (for example, FIG. 3). The sound output board 70 and the lamp driver board 35 shown in FIG. 5 or the sound / lamp board having the function of the circuit mounted on the sound output board 70 and the function of the circuit mounted on the lamp driver board 35). A control command may be transmitted and transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100 on the effect control board 80 via another board. In that case, the command may simply pass through another board, or the sound output board 70, the lamp driver board 35, and the sound / lamp board are equipped with control means such as a microcomputer, and the control means receives the command. In response to this, control related to sound control and lamp control is executed, and the received command is changed as it is or, for example, to a simplified command to control the effect display device 9. You may make it transmit to. Even in that case, the effect control microcomputer 100 performs the display control in accordance with the effect control command directly received from the game control microcomputer 560 in the above-described embodiment. Display control can be performed in accordance with commands received from the board 35 or the sound / lamp board.

  In the above embodiment, a pachinko machine is taken as an example of the gaming machine. However, according to the present invention, a predetermined number of bets are set by inserting medals, and a plurality of types are set according to the operation of the operation lever by the player. When the symbol is rotated and the symbol is stopped according to the stop button operation by the player, if the combination of the stop symbol becomes a specific symbol combination, it applies to a slot machine in which a predetermined number of medals are paid out to the player It is also possible.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, the game machine uses a game medium as an example. However, the game machine according to the present invention is not limited to a game machine that pays out a predetermined number of game media, and a game ball It is also possible to apply the present invention to an enclosed game machine that encloses a game medium such as a prize and gives a score when a prize granting condition is satisfied.

  The present invention can be suitably applied to gaming machines such as pachinko gaming machines and slot machines.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 9 Production display device 14 Start winning opening 14a Start opening switch 15 Variable winning ball apparatus 23 Count switch 29 Winning opening (normal winning opening)
29a Prize opening switch 30 Prize opening (ordinary prize opening)
30a Award opening switch 31 Game control board (main board)
37 Dispensing control board 56 CPU
61 Radio sensor 62 Magnet sensor 80 Production control board 100 Production control microcomputer 101 Production control CPU
120 Operation buttons 160 Terminal board 560 Microcomputer for game control

Claims (1)

Operating means;
First detection means provided in a first winning area for detecting that a game medium has passed through the first winning area;
Second detection means provided in a second winning area for detecting that the game medium has passed through the second winning area;
First counting means for counting the number of times the first detection means again detects the passage of the game medium from the time when the first detection means detects the passage of the game medium until the first monitoring period elapses;
Second counting means for counting the number of times the second detection means detects again the passage of the game medium from the time when the second detection means detects the passage of the game medium until the second monitoring period elapses;
First error determination means for determining that an error has occurred when the number of times counted by the first counting means reaches a predetermined number;
Second error determination means for determining that an error has occurred when the number of times counted by the second counting means reaches a predetermined number of times;
Error information output means for outputting error information when it is determined that an error has occurred by at least one of the first error determination means and the second error determination means;
The error information output means includes
Regardless of which of the first error determination means and the second error determination means determines that an error has occurred, the common output means is used to output error information over a common predetermined output period,
When it is determined by the second error determination means that an error has occurred within the output period in which error information is output based on the determination of the first error determination means, the output period has elapsed, and further Error information is output over a predetermined output period using the common output means after the waiting period of
The first counting means initializes the counted number of times when the first error determining means determines that an error has occurred based on the counted number of times being a predetermined number of times,
The second counting means does not initialize the number of times counted during the initialization by the first counting means ,
First continuous detection error determination means for determining that a continuous detection error has occurred each time the first detection means detects the passage of a game medium for a predetermined period;
Second continuous detection error determination means for determining that a continuous detection error has occurred each time the second detection means detects the passage of a game medium for a predetermined period;
Continuous output of continuous detection error information over a specific period using the common output unit every time the first continuous detection error determination unit or the second continuous detection error determination unit determines that a continuous detection error has occurred. A gaming machine further comprising detection error information output means .

Images