JP5989069B2 - Slot machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention provides a variable display device that changes a display state by rotating a display band in which a plurality of types of symbols are arranged by a stepping motor, and derives and displays a display result by stopping the rotation of the display band. The present invention relates to a slot machine that can generate a predetermined prize according to the display result.

  A slot machine generally includes a variable display device having a plurality of (usually three) reels on which a plurality of types of symbols as identification information are drawn on the outer periphery, and first, a bet number is determined by a player's BET operation. The reels start to rotate when the start operation is performed with the set number of bets set, and the rotation is stopped by operating a stop button provided corresponding to each reel. When all reels stop rotating, a winning combination is generated when a predetermined winning symbol combination (for example, 7-7-7, hereinafter referred to as a symbol combination) is arranged on the winning line. To do. That is, the game is advanced by the player's operation.

  And, if any of the winning symbols is within a certain range when a winning operation is performed when any of the winning symbols is won in the internal lottery performed at the start of the game, it will be drawn in By stopping, it will be controlled so that the winning combination on multiple reels will be easy to align, and it will be controlled so that the symbols of the winning combination not winning in the internal lottery will not be aligned, and a winning will be generated according to the aligned winning combination Is common.

  As described above, the reels constituting these variable display devices must be controlled so that the winning combinations in the internal lottery are aligned, and controlled so that the winning combinations are not aligned. These reels are often driven by stepping motors because they must be stopped accurately.

  In this type of slot machine, even if the stop operation is performed at the same timing and the reel is stopped at the same position, the stop is performed by changing the pulse interval of the signal output to the stepping motor. There has been proposed one in which the time from when the operation is performed until the reel stops at the same position is changed (for example, see Patent Document 1).

  In addition, there is a slot machine that performs control to stop the reel by exciting all of the plurality of excitation phases of the stepping motor at the same time, that is, control to stop the reel by performing so-called all-phase excitation (see, for example, Patent Document 2). ).

JP 2007-195887 A

JP 2010-246694 A

  As in the slot machine described in Patent Document 1, when the time from when the stop operation is performed until the reel stops at the same position is changed, the technique described in Patent Document 2, that is, the reel is stopped by all-phase excitation. If the control to be applied is applied, the inertial force of the reels is different. Therefore, if all-phase excitation is performed at the same position, there is a possibility that the stop position may be shifted.

  The present invention has been made paying attention to such problems, and in the case of changing the time until the reel stops at the same position after the stop operation is performed by the control to stop the reel by all-phase excitation. However, it is an object of the present invention to provide a slot machine that can prevent the shift of the stop position.

In order to solve the above-described problem, a slot machine according to claim 1 of the present invention provides:
Provided with a variable display unit that can be displayed in a variable manner by rotating a display band in which a plurality of types of identification information are arranged with a stepping motor,
After variably displaying the variable display unit, the display result is derived by stopping the rotation of the display band, and in the slot machine that can generate a prize according to the display result,
Constant speed control means for performing constant speed rotation control for rotating the display band at a constant speed by changing an excitation pattern for a plurality of excitation phases of the stepping motor;
When a stop command is issued, after performing deceleration control to decelerate the rotation speed of the display band, perform stop control to stop the display band by performing all-phase excitation to excite all of the plurality of excitation phases. Stop control means;
With
The stop control means includes a first stop control for starting the deceleration control from a first deceleration start position before the stop position with respect to the rotation direction, and the first deceleration start position with respect to the rotation direction. It is possible to perform the second stop control that starts the deceleration control from a second deceleration start position that is further away from the stop position than
When performing the second stop control, the all stop phase is at a second all-phase start position closer to the stop position than the first all-phase start position at which the all-phase excitation is started in the first stop control. Start phase excitation,
The duration from the start to the end of all-phase excitation when the first stop control is performed is the same as the duration from the start to the end of all-phase excitation when the second stop control is performed. It is a feature.
The slot machine of means 1 of the present invention is:
The display band (reel 2L, 2C, 2R) on which multiple types of symbols are arranged is rotated by a stepping motor (reel motors 32L, 32C, 32R), and the display state is changed, and the rotation of the display band is stopped. A variable display device for deriving and displaying the display result by
The game can be started by setting a predetermined number of bets for one game using the gaming value, and one game is completed by displaying the display result of the variable display device. A slot machine (slot machine 1) in which a winning can be generated according to the display result of the variable display device,
Constant speed rotation control for rotating the display band (reels 2L, 2C, 2R) at a constant speed by changing excitation patterns for a plurality of excitation phases (φ1 to φ4) of the stepping motors (reel motors 32L, 32C, 32R). Constant speed control means to perform,
When a stop command is issued, all-phase excitation is performed to excite all of the plurality of excitation phases (φ1 to φ4) after performing deceleration control to reduce the rotation speed of the display bands (reels 2L, 2C, 2R). Stop control means for performing stop control to stop the display bands (reels 2L, 2C, 2R) by performing;
With
The stop control means includes a first stop control (normal stop control) for starting the deceleration control from a first deceleration start position (position 7 steps before the stop position) before the stop position in the rotation direction. ) And the second deceleration start position from the second deceleration start position (position 32 steps before the stop position) farther from the stop position than the first deceleration start position with respect to the rotation direction. Stop control (low speed stop control 1) can be performed,
In the case of performing the second stop control (low speed stop control 1), the first all-phase start position at which the all-phase excitation is started in the first stop control (normal stop control) (6 from the stop position). The all-phase excitation is started at a second all-phase start position (position two steps before the stop position) closer to the stop position than the position before the step).
According to this feature, even when stopping at the same position, when the second stop control is performed, the display is made after the deceleration is started as compared with the case where the first stop control is applied. The time required for the belt to stop becomes longer, and the mode from the start of deceleration to the stop can be diversified. When the second stop control is performed, all-phase excitation is performed in the first stop control. Since the all-phase excitation is started at the second all-phase start position that is closer to the stop position than the first all-phase start position to be started, the deceleration control is started earlier than the first stop control. Even when the second stop control in which the inertial force is weakened, the stop can be stopped at the same stop position as the first stop control.
Note that the predetermined number of bets is at least one bet number, and a game can be started by setting a bet number of two or more or setting a maximum bet number. good. Further, the game may be started by setting a bet amount determined according to the gaming state.
Further, the deceleration control may be a control for decelerating the rotation speed of the display band by extending the time to control to one excitation pattern than at the constant speed rotation, or the excitation pattern at the constant speed rotation. The rotation speed of the display band is reduced by changing the excitation pattern in a different order from the order of change, or by exciting with a pattern in which the excitation phase is excited with a pattern different from the excitation pattern performed at constant speed rotation. It is also possible to perform control.
The deceleration start position at which deceleration control is started is the timing at which control different from the excitation control at the time of constant speed rotation is actually started, and waiting for the start of deceleration with the same control as at constant speed rotation. State does not apply.

The slot machine according to means 2 of the present invention is the slot machine according to means 1,
In the case of performing the second stop control (low speed stop control 1), the stop control means performs a predetermined deceleration start position (32 steps before the stop position) after the stop command (stop operation) is made. The constant speed rotation control (control at the same step rate as during constant speed rotation) is continued until it reaches the position.
According to this feature, it is possible to perform the second stop control by common control even when the timing at which the stop operation is performed is different, and it is possible to prevent the control from becoming more complicated than necessary.

The slot machine of means 3 of the present invention is the slot machine according to means 1 or 2 ,
The variable display device is composed of a plurality of display bands (reels 2L, 2C, 2R),
The stop control means performs the second stop control (low speed stop control 1) only when stopping the display band (final stop reel) that stops last among the plurality of display bands.
According to this feature, control other than the display band that stops last is always controlled by the first stop control, and only the display band that stops last is controlled by the second stop control. Therefore, there is no variation in the time from when the player issues a stop command until the stop commands for the remaining display bands become valid, and the stop command is issued at a timing that is not intended by the player. It can be prevented from being broken.

The slot machine of means 4 of the present invention is the slot machine according to any one of means 1 to 3 ,
It has an advantage determination means (internal lottery) that makes decisions that affect the player's advantage,
The stop control means has a higher ratio when the specific determination advantageous to the player is made by the advantageous determination means (winning of the special role) at a higher rate than when the specific determination is not made. The second stop control (low speed stop control 1) is performed.
According to this feature, even when the player stops at the same stop position, if the second stop control in which the time required for the display belt to stop after the start of deceleration is longer than usual is performed, the player It can be expected that certain decisions that are advantageous to the user have been made.
Note that the specific determination advantageous to the player means, for example, that it is determined that the derivation of the display result accompanying the transition to the gaming state advantageous to the player is permitted, or the transition to the gaming state advantageous to the player. For example, it is determined that the derivation of the display result that is a lottery trigger for determining whether or not to do so is permitted. Further, when these display results are determined and an operation for deriving the display band is performed in an operation mode that satisfies the conditions for deriving these display results, the second rate is higher than that in the case where the display band is not. The stop control may be performed.

The slot machine of means 5 of the present invention is the slot machine according to any one of means 1 to 4 ,
In the second stop control (low speed stop control 1), when the display band is stopped, there is provided a stop time effect means for performing a special effect (reel stop effect different from the normal stop control).
According to this feature, the player can be surely recognized that the time required for the display band to stop after the deceleration is started by the second stop control is longer than usual.

The slot machine of means 6 of the present invention is the slot machine according to any one of means 1 to 5 ,
The stop control means includes second stop control prohibiting means for prohibiting the second stop control (constant speed stop control) in a specific gaming state advantageous to the player (after the announcement of a bonus or special role). It is characterized by.
According to this feature, it is possible to prevent the digestion efficiency of a specific gaming state from being reduced by performing the second stop control in a specific gaming state advantageous to the player.
In addition, if the specific gaming state is, for example, a gaming state in which an operation mode serving as a winning condition is informed or a state that may be missed according to the timing of the operation, that is, a state that requires pressing, the second game Due to variations in the time from when a player issues a stop command to when the stop command for the remaining display bands becomes valid due to the stop control being performed, the player stops at a timing that is not intended by the player in a specific gaming state. It is possible to prevent the instruction from being performed and disadvantageous for the player.

It is a front view of the slot machine to which the present invention is applied. It is an internal structure figure of a slot machine. It is a figure which shows the symbol arrangement | sequence of a reel. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of a slot machine. It is a figure which shows the structure of the combination defined as winning. It is a figure which shows the object combination of the internal lottery classified by game state. It is a figure which shows the structure of a reel motor. It is a figure which shows the step rate at the time of acceleration. It is a timing chart which shows the excitation situation of the reel motor at the time of acceleration. It is a figure which shows the step rate of normal stop control. It is a timing chart which shows the excitation condition of the reel motor of normal stop control. It is a figure which shows the relationship of the brake start position, all-phase start position, and stop position of normal stop control. It is a figure which shows the step rate of the low speed stop control 1. FIG. It is a timing chart which shows the excitation condition of the reel motor of the low speed stop control 1. It is a figure which shows the step rate of the low speed stop control 2. FIG. 6 is a timing chart showing an excitation state of a reel motor of low speed stop control 2; It is a figure which shows the relationship between the brake start position of the low speed stop control 1, an all-phase start position, and a stop position. It is a flowchart which shows the control content of the low speed stop determination process which determines whether to perform a low speed stop. It is a figure which shows the winning probability of a low speed stop lottery.

  Examples of the present invention will be described below.

  An embodiment of a slot machine to which the present invention is applied will be described with reference to the drawings. A slot machine 1 according to the present embodiment includes a housing 1a having an open front surface, and a pivotable pivot at a side end of the housing 1a. The front door 1b is supported.

  Inside the casing 1a of the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, reels 2L, 2C and 2R (hereinafter referred to as a left reel, a middle reel and a right reel) in which a plurality of types of symbols are arranged on the outer periphery. ) Are juxtaposed in the horizontal direction, and as shown in FIG. 1, three consecutive symbols out of the symbols arranged on the reels 2L, 2C, 2R can be seen from the see-through window 3 provided on the front door 1b. Are arranged as follows.

  As shown in FIG. 3, on the outer periphery of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R, “black 7”, “net 7 (shaded 7 in the figure)”, “white 7”, “BAR”, “replay”, A plurality of types of mutually distinguishable symbols such as “watermelon”, “cherry”, “bell”, and “orange” are drawn in a predetermined order, 21 pieces each. The symbols drawn on the outer peripheries of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are displayed in the upper, middle, and lower three stages in the see-through window 3, respectively.

  The reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are provided in correspondence with each other and rotated by reel motors 32L, 32C, and 32R (see FIG. 4), so that the symbols of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are continuously formed in the see-through window 3. In addition to being displayed while changing, by stopping the rotation of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R, three consecutive symbols are derived and displayed on the fluoroscopic window 3 as display results.

  Inside the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are reel sensors 33L, 33C, and 33R that detect a reference position for each of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R, and a reel LED 55 that irradiates the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R from the back side. , Is provided. The reel LED 55 includes 12 LEDs corresponding to three consecutive symbols of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R, and can irradiate each symbol independently.

  At the position corresponding to each reel 2L, 2C, 2R on the front door 1b, a horizontally long rectangular see-through window 3 that allows the reels 2L, 2C, 2R to be seen through from the front side is provided. The reels 2L, 2C, 2R can be visually recognized from the player side.

  The front door 1b uses a medal insertion unit 4 into which medals can be inserted, a medal payout exit 9 from which medals are paid out, and credits (the number of medals stored as a player's own game value). The MAXBET switch 6 that is operated when setting the maximum bet number (3 in any game state in this embodiment) among the prescribed number of bets determined according to the game state, is stored as credits. Settlement switch 10 operated when paying out medals used for setting medals and betting numbers (returning medals used for setting credits and betting numbers), start switch operated when starting a game 7. Stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R operated when stopping the rotation of the reels 2L, 2C, 2R, and an effect switch 56 for use in effects. It is provided so as to be operated by the skill person.

  The front door 1b also displays a credit indicator 11 that displays the number of medals stored as credits, the number of medals paid out due to the occurrence of a prize, an error code indicating the contents when an error occurs, and the like. Game assist indicator 12, 1BETLED14 that notifies that the bet number is set by 1 by lighting, 2BETLED15 that notifies that the bet number is set by 2 and 2 that the bet number is set by 3 3BET LED 16 to notify, insertion request LED 17 to notify that a medal can be inserted by lighting, start effective LED 18 to notify that the game start operation by the operation of the start switch 7 is effective, wait (the previous game start) Waiting for the start of reel rotation because a certain period has not elapsed since Weight in LED19 for notifying by lighting a a is that during the game display section 13 in the replay LED20 is provided for informing is provided by lighting the effect that during replay game, which will be described later.

  Inside the MAXBET switch 6, there is provided a BET switch valid LED 21 (see FIG. 4) for notifying that the setting operation of the bet amount by the operation of the MAXBET switch 6 is valid, and stop switches 8L, 8C, The left, middle, and right stop valid LEDs 22L, 22C, and 22R (see FIG. 4) are provided inside the 8R to notify that the reel stop operation by the corresponding stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R is valid by lighting. It has been.

  Inside the front door 1b, there is a reset switch 23 for detecting a reset operation for releasing an error state described later and a stop state described later by a predetermined key operation, while changing a set value and confirming a set value described later. The set value display 24 that displays the set value at that time, and the validity / invalidity of the stop function for controlling the stop state at the end of the BB, which will be described later (a state in which the progress of the game is restricted until a reset operation is performed) A check switch 36a for selecting the automatic settlement function that controls automatic settlement at the end of BB, which will be described later (processing to settle (return) medals stored as credits regardless of the player's operation). An automatic settlement switch 36b for selecting invalidity, and a flow path for medals inserted from the medal insertion unit 4 are provided in a hopper tank 34a (described later with reference to FIG. 2) provided inside the housing 1a. And a medal having a insertion medal sensor 31 for detecting a medal that has been inserted from the medal insertion unit 4 and flowed down to the hopper tank 34a side. A selector (not shown) and a door open detection switch 25 (see FIG. 4) for detecting the open state of the front door 1b are provided.

  As shown in FIG. 2, a reel sensor 33L that can detect the reel reference positions of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R, the reel motors 32L, 32C, and 32R, and the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R, as shown in FIG. , 33C, 33R (see FIG. 4), an external output board 1000 for outputting an external output signal, a hopper tank 34a for storing medals inserted from the medal insertion section 4, and a hopper tank 34a. A hopper unit 34 including a hopper motor 34b for paying out medals from the medal payout opening 9, a payout sensor 34c for detecting medals paid out by driving the hopper motor 34b, and a power supply box 100 are provided.

  On the side of the hopper unit 34, an overflow tank 35 is provided for storing medals overflowing from the hopper tank 34a. Inside the overflow tank 35, a full sensor 35 a made up of a pair of electrically conductive members spaced apart from each other and provided at a height capable of detecting a predetermined amount of stored medals is provided. It is possible to detect that the medal storage amount stored in the inside when it is conductive by contacting through the medal stored in the inside exceeds a predetermined amount, that is, that the overflow tank is full. It has become.

  The front side of the power supply box 100 functions as a setting key switch 37 for switching to a setting change state or a setting confirmation state, and functions as a reset switch for canceling an error state or a stop state in a normal state. There are provided a reset / setting switch 38 that functions as a setting switch for changing a setting value of a winning probability (outtake rate) of internal lottery to be described later, and a power switch 39 that is operated when the power is turned on / off. .

  When a game is played in the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, first, medals are inserted from the medal insertion unit 4 or a bet number is set using credits. To use the credit, the MAXBET switch 6 may be operated. When a predetermined number of bets determined according to the gaming state are set, the pay lines L1 to L5 (see FIG. 1) become effective, and the operation of the start switch 7 is effective, that is, the game can be started. It becomes a state. In the present embodiment, when the prescribed number of bets is set to three regardless of the gaming state and the prescribed number of bets is set, the pay lines L1 to L5 become valid. In addition, when a medal is inserted exceeding the maximum number out of the prescribed number corresponding to the gaming state, the amount is added to the credit.

  The winning line is a line that is set to determine whether a combination of symbols displayed on the perspective windows 3 of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R is a winning symbol combination. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the winning line L1 set across the symbols arranged in the middle of each reel 2L, 2C, 2R and the symbols arranged in the upper row of each reel 2L, 2C, 2R are straddled. The winning line L2, the winning line L3, the upper stage of the reel 2L, the middle stage of the reel 2C, the lower stage of the reel 2R, that is, the lower side of the reel 2R, that is set across the symbols arranged in the lower stage of each reel 2L, 2C, 2R. There are five types of winning lines L4 set across straddling symbols, the lower line of reel 2L, the middle part of reel 2C, the upper part of reel 2R, that is, the winning line L5 set straddling the symbols lined up to the right. It is defined as.

  When the start switch 7 is operated in a state where the game can be started, the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R rotate, and the symbols of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R continuously vary. When any one of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R is operated in this state, the rotation of the corresponding reels 2L, 2C, 2R is stopped, and the display result is derived and displayed on the fluoroscopic window 3.

  Then, when all the reels 2L, 2C, 2R are stopped, one game is completed, and a combination of symbols (hereinafter also referred to as roles) that are validated and predetermined on the winning line is each reel 2L, 2C, 2R. When the display result is stopped, a winning occurs, and a predetermined number of medals are awarded to the player and added to the credit. Further, when the credit reaches the upper limit number (50 in this embodiment), medals are paid out directly from the medal payout opening 9 (see FIG. 1). In addition, when a combination of symbols with payout of medals is arranged on a plurality of winning lines that are activated, the number of payouts determined for each of the combinations of symbols that are activated and aligned on the winning line is totaled, The total number of medals will be awarded to the player. However, an upper limit (15 in this embodiment) is set for the number of medals to be awarded in one game, and when the total number of medals exceeds the upper limit, the upper limit number of medals is awarded. It will be. In addition, when the combination of symbols accompanied by the transition of the gaming state is stopped as a display result of each reel 2L, 2C, 2R on the winning line, the gaming state is shifted according to the combination of symbols. ing.

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the slot machine 1. As shown in FIG. 4, the slot machine 1 is provided with a game control board 40, an effect control board 90, and a power supply board 101. The game state is controlled by the game control board 40, and the game state is controlled by the effect control board 90. The production according to the control is controlled, and the power supply board 101 generates the drive power for the electrical components constituting the slot machine 1 and supplies them to each part.

  The power supply board 101 is supplied with AC100V power from the outside, and from this AC100V power supply, a DC voltage necessary for driving electrical components constituting the slot machine 1 is generated, and the game control board 40 and the game control board 40 are generated. It is supplied to the production control board 90 connected through the.

  Further, the above-described hopper motor 34b, payout sensor 34c, full sensor 35a, setting key switch 37, reset / setting switch 38, and power switch 39 are connected to the power supply board 101.

  On the game control board 40, the above-described MAXBET switch 6, start switch 7, stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R, settlement switch 10, reset switch 23, stop switch 36a, automatic settlement switch 36b, insertion medal sensor 31, door open The detection switch 25 and reel sensors 33L, 33C, and 33R are connected, and the above-described payout sensor 34c, full sensor 35a, setting key switch 37, and reset / setting switch 38 are connected via the power supply board 101. Detection signals from these connected switches are input.

  Further, the game control board 40 includes the credit indicator 11, the game auxiliary indicator 12, 1-3 BET LEDs 14-16, the insertion request LED 17, the start valid LED 18, the waiting LED 19, the replaying LED 20, the BET switch valid LED 21, the left The middle and right stop valid LEDs 22L, 22C and 22R, the set value display 24, the flow path switching solenoid 30, the reel motors 32L, 32C and 32R are connected, and the hopper motor 34b described above is connected via the power supply board 101. These electrical components are connected, and are driven based on control of a main control unit 41 (described later) mounted on the game control board 40.

  The game control board 40 includes a microcomputer having a main CPU 41a, ROM 41b, RAM 41c, and I / O port 41d. The main control unit 41 controls the game, and random numbers in a predetermined range (0 to 65535 in this embodiment). A random number circuit 42 for generating a signal, a pulse oscillator 43 for supplying a clock signal of a constant frequency to the random number circuit 42, and a detection signal input from a switch connected directly to the game control board 40 or via the power supply board 101. Switch detection circuit 44, motor drive circuit 45 that controls the drive of the reel motors 32L, 32C, and 32R, solenoid drive circuit 46 that controls the drive of the flow path switching solenoid 30, various displays and LEDs connected to the game control board 40 LED drive circuit 47 for controlling the driving of the power supply power supplied to the slot machine 1 When a voltage drop is detected, a power interruption detection circuit 48 that outputs a voltage drop signal indicating that to the main control unit 41, when the power is turned on or when an initialization command is not input from the main CPU 41a In addition, a reset circuit 49 for supplying a reset signal to the main CPU 41a and other various devices and circuits are mounted.

  The main CPU 41a has an interrupt function (including an interrupt prohibition function) such as a timekeeping function and a timer interrupt, executes a program (described later) stored in the ROM 41b, and performs processing related to the progress of the game. Each part of the control circuit mounted on the game control board 40 is controlled directly or indirectly. The ROM 41b stores fixed data such as programs executed by the main CPU 41a and various tables. The RAM 41c is used as a work area when the main CPU 41a executes a program. The I / O port 41d inputs / outputs a control signal to / from each circuit connected via a signal input / output terminal included in the main control unit 41.

  Further, the main control unit 41 is supplied with backup power even during a power failure, and the data stored in the RAM 41c is held while the backup power is being supplied.

  The main CPU 41a repeatedly loops the process according to the control state until the detection state of the various switches connected to the game control board 40 is changed as a basic process, and step by step according to the change of the detection state of the various switches. Execute the process to move to. Further, the main CPU 41a has an interrupt function as described above, and can interrupt the basic process by the occurrence of the interrupt and execute the interrupt process. The voltage output from the power interruption detection circuit 48 The power interruption interrupt process (main) is executed in response to the input of the decrease signal, and the timer interrupt process (main) is executed at regular time intervals (about 0.56 ms in this embodiment). In addition, the execution interval of the timer interrupt process (main) is set to a time longer than the sum of the time required to complete the repeated process according to the control state in the basic process and the execution time of the timer interrupt process (main) Therefore, the process that is repeated according to the control state between the current and next timer interrupt processes (main) is completed at least once.

  The main CPU 41a transmits various commands to the effect control board 90 via the I / O port 41d. A command transmitted from the game control board 40 to the effect control board 90 is sent in only one direction, and no command is sent from the effect control board 90 to the game control board 40. The transmission line of the command transmitted from the game control board 40 to the effect control board 90 is composed of a strobe (INT) signal line, a data transmission line, and a ground line, and is connected via the effect relay board 80. The game control board 40 and the effect control board 90 are not directly connected.

  In this embodiment, the game control board 40 and the effect control board 90 are connected via the effect relay board 80, but the game control board 40 and the effect control board 90 may be directly connected. .

  An effect switch 56 is connected to the effect control board 90, and a detection signal of the effect switch 56 is input.

  The effect control board 90 includes a liquid crystal display 51 (see FIG. 1) disposed on the front door 1b of the slot machine 1, an effect LED 52, speakers 53 and 54 (see FIG. 2), the reel LED 55 described above, and the like. Production devices are connected, and these production devices are driven based on control by a later-described sub-control unit 91 mounted on the production control board 90.

  In this embodiment, the sub-control unit 91 mounted on the effect control board 90 controls the output of the effect devices such as the liquid crystal display 51, effect effect LED 52, speakers 53 and 54, and reel LED 55. However, in addition to the sub-control unit 91, an output control unit that directly controls the output of the effect device is mounted on the effect control board 90 or another board, and the sub-control unit 91 is based on a command from the main control unit 41. The output control unit may determine the output pattern of the effect device, and the output control unit may control the output of the effect device based on the output pattern determined by the sub control unit 91. In such a configuration, the sub control unit 91 and the output control may be performed. The output control of the rendering device is performed by both of the units.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the liquid crystal display 51, the effect effect LED 52, the speakers 53 and 54, and the reel LED 55 are exemplified as the effect device, but the effect device is not limited to these, for example, a mechanically driven display. A device or a mechanically driven item may be applied as the effect device.

  Similar to the main control unit 41, the effect control board 90 includes a sub CPU 91a, ROM 91b, RAM 91c, and a microcomputer provided with an I / O port 91d. A display control circuit 92 that performs display control of the liquid crystal display 51 connected to the LED, an LED driving circuit 93 that performs drive control of the effect LED 52 and the reel LED 55, an audio output circuit 94 that controls audio output from the speakers 53 and 54, When the power is turned on or when an initialization command from the sub CPU 91a is not input for a certain period of time, a reset circuit 95 that gives a reset signal to the sub CPU 91a and a detection signal input from the effect switch 56 connected to the effect control board 90 are detected. The switch detection circuit 96 outputs time information including date information and time information. The power supply voltage supplied to the timepiece device 97 and the slot machine 1 is monitored, and when a voltage drop is detected, a power drop detection circuit 98 that outputs a voltage drop signal to that effect to the sub CPU 91a, other circuits, etc. , And the sub CPU 91a receives various commands transmitted from the game control board 40 and performs various controls for performing effects, and directly controls each part of the control circuit mounted on the effect control board 90. To control automatically or indirectly.

  Similar to the main CPU 41a, the sub CPU 91a has an interrupt function (including an interrupt prohibition function). One of the interrupt terminals of the sub control unit 91 is connected to a strobe (INT) signal line that is output when the main control unit 41 transmits a command, among the command transmission lines, and the sub CPU 91a receives the strobe signal. An interrupt is generated based on the input to acquire a command from the main control unit 41 and execute a command reception interrupt process to be stored in the buffer. Further, the sub CPU 91a executes an interrupt process (sub) to be described later by generating an interrupt every time the number of clock inputs reaches a certain number, that is, every certain interval. One of the interrupt terminals of the sub-control unit 91 is connected to the power interruption detection circuit 98, and the sub CPU 91a responds to the input of the voltage drop signal output from the power interruption detection circuit 98. Execute processing (sub). Further, when an unused interrupt occurs in the sub CPU 91a, an unused interrupt process for immediately returning to the original process is executed.

  The sub-control unit 91 is also supplied with backup power at the time of a power failure, and the data stored in the RAM 91c is held while the backup power is supplied.

  In the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, the medal payout rate changes according to the set value. Specifically, the medal payout rate is changed by using a winning probability corresponding to a set value in an internal lottery described later. The set value is composed of 6 levels of 1 to 6, with 6 being the highest payout rate and the payout rate being lower as the value is decreased in the order of 5, 4, 3, 2, 1. That is, when 6 is set as the set value, the advantage is highest for the player, and as the value decreases in order of 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, the advantage decreases stepwise.

  In order to change the setting value, it is necessary to turn on the power of the slot machine 1 after the setting key switch 37 is turned on. When the setting key switch 37 is turned on and the power is turned on, the setting value read from the RAM 41c is displayed on the setting value display 24 as a display value, and the setting value can be changed by operating the reset / setting switch 38. Transition to the setting change state. When the reset / setting switch 38 is operated in the setting change state, the display value displayed on the setting value display 24 is updated one by one (when further operation is performed from the setting 6, the display returns to the setting 1). . When the start switch 7 is operated, the display value is determined as the set value. Then, when the setting key switch 37 is turned OFF, the determined display value (setting value) is stored in the RAM 41c of the main control unit 41, and the state shifts to a state in which the game can proceed.

  In order to confirm the set value, after the game is over, the setting key switch 37 may be turned on with no bet amount set. When the setting key switch 37 is turned on in such a situation, the setting value read out from the RAM 41c is displayed on the setting value display 24, thereby shifting to a setting confirmation state in which the setting value can be confirmed. In the setting confirmation state, the game cannot be progressed, and by turning the setting key switch 37 to the OFF state, the setting confirmation state is ended and the state in which the game can proceed is returned.

  In the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, when the main CPU 41a detects a voltage drop signal from the power interruption detection circuit 48, a power interruption interrupt process (main) is executed. In the power interruption interrupt processing (main), the register is saved in a stack of a RAM 41c, which will be described later, and data for destructive diagnosis (in this embodiment, 5AH) in which any bit becomes 1, that is, a specific value other than 0 In addition to storing data, the RAM parity adjustment data is calculated so that the RAM parity based on the data stored in all areas of the RAM 41c is 0, and the RAM 41c is stored. The RAM parity is a value calculated as an exclusive OR of values stored in each bit of the corresponding area (all areas in this embodiment) of the RAM 41c. Therefore, if the RAM parity based on the data stored in all areas of the RAM 41c is 0, the RAM parity adjustment data is 0, and the RAM parity based on the data stored in all areas of the RAM 41c is 1. In this case, the RAM parity adjustment data is 1.

  The main CPU 41a calculates the RAM parity based on the data stored in all areas of the RAM 41c at the time of activation, confirms the value of the destructive diagnosis data, the RAM parity is 0, and the destructive diagnosis The processing state of the main CPU 41a is restored to the state before the power interruption based on the data stored in the RAM 41c on the condition that the value of the data for use is correct, but the RAM parity is not 0 (in the case of 1) or is destroyed. If the value of the diagnostic data is not correct, it is determined that the RAM is abnormal, and the RAM abnormal error code is set in the register to control the RAM abnormal error state so that the progress of the game is disabled. Unlike the other error states, the RAM abnormal error state is not canceled even if the reset switch 23 or the reset / setting switch 38 is operated, and a new set value is set in the setting change state described above. It will not be released until

  In this embodiment, all the data stored in the RAM 41c is held by the backup power source even in the event of a power failure, and when the main CPU 41a determines that the data in the RAM 41c is normal when the power is turned on. Although the configuration is such that the control state before power interruption is restored based on the data stored in the RAM 41c, only the data necessary for the restoration of the control state in the event of a power failure is backed up among the data stored in the RAM 41c. It may be configured to return to the control state before power interruption based on the backed up data.

  In addition, when returning to the control state before the power interruption when the power is turned on, it is not necessary to return all the control states to the control state before the power interruption, and the minimum control state that does not disadvantage the player For example, it is not necessary to restore the state of all input ports to the state before power interruption.

  In addition, when the sub CPU 91a detects the voltage drop signal from the power interruption detection circuit 98, the sub CPU 91a also executes a power interruption interrupt process (sub). In the power interruption interrupt processing (sub), the register is saved in a stack of a RAM 91c described later, and destructive diagnosis data in which any bit is 1 is stored in the RAM 91c, and data stored in all areas of the RAM 91c. The RAM parity adjustment data is calculated so that the RAM parity based on 0 becomes 0 and stored in the RAM 91c.

  Then, the sub CPU 91a calculates the RAM parity based on the data stored in all areas of the RAM 91c at the time of activation, and based on the data stored in the RAM 91c on the condition that the RAM parity is 0. The processing state of the sub CPU 91a is restored to the state before the power interruption. If the RAM parity is not 0 (1), it is determined that the RAM is abnormal and the RAM 91c is initialized. In this case, unlike the sub CPU 91a, the execution of the performance is not disabled only by initializing the RAM 91c.

  In this embodiment, all data stored in the RAM 91c is held by the backup power source even during a power failure, and the sub CPU 91a determines that the data in the RAM 91c is normal when the power is turned on. Although the configuration is such that the control state before power interruption is restored based on the data stored in the RAM 91c, only the data necessary for restoration of the control state is backed up in the event of a power failure out of the data stored in the RAM 91c. It may be configured to return to the control state before power interruption based on the backed up data.

  In addition, when returning to the control state before the power interruption when the power is turned on, it is not necessary to return all the control states to the control state before the power interruption, and the minimum control state that does not disadvantage the player It is not necessary to restore the state of the input port or the progress in the middle of the production when it is interrupted. For example, while backing up only data indicating the gaming state such as whether it is in the BB or the normal gaming state, other than the effect corresponding to the gaming state (the effect during the BB during the BB, the normal effect when in the normal gaming state) If a power outage occurs during the execution of a specific production (such as a small role announcement), it will be backed up when the power is turned on instead of resuming the specific production that was being performed at the next power-on. An effect corresponding to the gaming state being played may be executed from the beginning.

  Next, initialization of the RAM 41c of the main control unit 41 will be described. The storage area of the RAM 41c of the main control unit 41 is divided into an important work, a general work, a special work, a set value work, a stop phase work, a non-saved work, an unused area, and a stack area.

  The important work is a work in which data that is inconvenient to be initialized at the end of the BB, such as various display devices and LED display data, input / output data of the I / O port 41d, and a game time clock counter, is stored. The general work is a work that stores data that can be initialized at the end of the BB, such as a stop control table, a stop symbol, the number of medals paid out, and the total number of medals paid out in the BB. The special work is a work that stores data to be initialized only before the start of setting, such as data for transmitting a command to the effect control board 90 and various software random numbers. The set value work is a work in which a set value used when performing a lottery in the internal lottery process is stored. After initializing 0 before setting is started (before shifting to the setting change mode), 1 is stored. The set value that is corrected and newly set at the end of the setting (when the setting change mode is ended) is stored. The stop phase work is a work in which data indicating the stop phase of the reel motors 32L, 32C, 32R is stored, and data indicating the stop phase is stored when the reel motors 32L, 32C, 32R are stopped. The Rukoto. The unsaved work is a work that holds the state of various switches, and a value is always set regardless of whether or not the data in the RAM 41c is destroyed at the time of activation. The unused area is an unused area in the storage area of the RAM 41c, and is initialized if any one of a plurality of initialization conditions described later is satisfied. The stack area is an area in which data saved from the register of the main CPU 41a is stored, and the unused stack area is established by any one of a plurality of initialization conditions to be described later, like the unused area. In this case, the used stack area is not initialized because the program continues.

  In this embodiment, the main CPU 41a operates when the setting key switch 37 and the reset / setting switch 38 are both ON, when a RAM error occurs, when starting only when the setting key switch 37 is ON, BB At the end, when the setting key switch 37 and the reset / setting switch 38 are both OFF, when the data in the RAM 41c is not destroyed, the six initialization conditions at the end of one game are satisfied In addition, five types of initialization are performed in different regions to be initialized according to each initialization condition.

  Initialization 0 is performed when the setting key switch 37 and the reset / setting switch 38 are both ON at the time of start-up, and initialization is performed before the transition to the setting change mode or when a RAM abnormality error occurs. In initialization 0, all areas (including the unused area and the unused stack area) of the storage area of the RAM 41c other than the used stack area are initialized. Initialization 1 is an initialization performed only when the setting key switch 37 is in an ON state at the time of start-up and shifts to the setting change mode. In the initialization 1, in the storage area of the RAM 41c, All areas (including the unused area and the unused stack area) other than the in-use stack area and the stop phase work are initialized. Initialization 2 is initialization performed at the end of the BB. In initialization 2, the general work, the unused area, and the unused stack area are initialized in the storage area of the RAM 41c. Initialization 3 is an initialization performed when both the setting key switch 37 and the reset / setting switch 38 are in an OFF state at the time of activation, and the data in the RAM 41c is not destroyed. The stored work, unused area, and unused stack area are initialized. Initialization 4 is initialization performed at the end of one game. In initialization 4, an unused area and an unused stack area in the storage area of the RAM 41c are initialized.

  In this embodiment, initialization 0 and initialization 1 are performed before transition to the setting change mode. However, they may be performed at the end of the setting change mode, that is, after the setting is confirmed. In this case, if the set value work is initialized, the determined set value is lost. Therefore, the set value work is not initialized.

  In the slot machine 1 according to the present embodiment, the prescribed number of bets that can be set according to the gaming state is determined as described above, and the prescribed number of bets that are determined according to the gaming state is set. It becomes possible to start the game on the condition. In the present embodiment, as will be described later, there are a regular bonus (hereinafter referred to as RB) and a normal gaming state as a gaming state, and 3 is defined as the prescribed number of bets in any gaming state. Regardless of the gaming state, when 3 is set as the bet number, the game can be started. In the present embodiment, all of the pay lines L1 to L5 are activated when a specified number of bets corresponding to the gaming state are set.

  In the slot machine 1 of this embodiment, when all the reels 2L, 2C, 2R are stopped, a winning combination is obtained when a combination of symbols called “comb” is arranged on the activated winning line (hereinafter simply referred to as a winning line). It becomes. The combination may be a combination of the same symbols or a combination including different symbols. The type of winning combination is determined according to the game state, but it can be roughly divided into a small role with payout of medals and a replay that can start the next game without the need to set the number of bets. There are a game combination and a special combination with a transition of the game state. Below, a small role and a re-playing role are collectively called a general role. In order for winning of each combination determined according to the gaming state to occur, it is necessary to win an internal lottery to be described later and set a winning flag of the combination in the RAM 41c.

  Of the winning flags for each of these combinations, the winning flag for the small role and the re-playing role is valid only in the game in which the flag is set, and is invalid in the next game. It is valid until a combination of combinations permitted by the flag is completed, and is invalid in a game having a combination of combinations permitted. In other words, once the special combination winning flag is won, even if the combination of the combination permitted by the flag cannot be made, the winning flag is not invalidated and is carried over to the next game. It becomes.

  As the role in this slot machine 1, as shown in FIG. 5, a regular bonus as a special role (hereinafter, the regular bonus is RB), a big bonus (1) (2) (hereinafter, a big bonus is BB (1) (2)), watermelon, cherry, and bell are defined as small roles, and replay is defined as a replay role.

  In any gaming state, a cherry is placed on any of the winning lines on the left reel when a combination of “cherry-ANY-bell” or “cherry-ANY-replay” is aligned, that is, on the left reel. When the “Cherry” symbol is derived and the “Bell” or “Replay” symbol is derived on the winning line of the right reel where “Cherry” is stopped on the left reel, it becomes a prize and two medals are paid out. .

  The watermelon is awarded when the combination of “watermelon-watermelon-watermelon” is aligned on any of the winning lines in any gaming state, and 15 medals are paid out.

  The bell is awarded when a combination of “bell-bell-bell” is arranged on any of the winning lines in any gaming state, and 12 medals are paid out.

  Replay is awarded when the combination of “Replay-Replay-Replay” is aligned on the winning line in the normal gaming state. When the replay wins, no medals are paid out, but the next game can be started without setting the number of wagers again, so that three medals corresponding to the number of wagers that are not required to be set in the next game are paid out. Is essentially the same.

  RB is awarded when a combination of “net 7-net 7-black 7” is aligned on any of the winning lines in a gaming state other than RB, and the gaming state shifts to RB. The RB is a gaming state that is advantageous to the player over other gaming states by increasing the winning probability of the small role, especially the bell, and when the 12 games are digested after the RB starts, or a 4-game winning ( When the type of a combination is allowed), it ends either whichever comes first.

  BB (1) is awarded when a combination of “black 7-black 7-black 7” is aligned on any of the winning lines in a gaming state other than RB. BB (2) wins when a combination of “network 7-network 7-network 7” is aligned on any of the winning lines in a gaming state other than RB.

  When BB (1) (2) wins, the gaming state shifts to BB and simultaneously shifts to RB. When RB ends, if BB has not ended, it shifts to RB again and BB ends. Control is repeated until RB. That is, during BB, it is always controlled to RB. The BB ends when the total number of medals paid out to the player in the BB exceeds 480. At the end of the BB, the RB is also ended regardless of whether or not the RB end condition is satisfied.

  Hereinafter, the internal lottery of the present embodiment will be described. In the internal lottery, it is determined whether or not the above winning combination is permitted before the display results of all the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are derived and displayed (actually, when the start switch 7 is detected). To do. In the internal lottery, first, a random number for internal lottery (an integer from 0 to 65535) is acquired. Then, for each combination determined according to the gaming state and whether or not the special combination is carried over, the acquired random number for internal lottery and the number of judgment values for each combination determined according to the gaming state, the number of bets and the set value Is done according to.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, the role is subject to internal lottery depending on whether the gaming state is the normal gaming state or RB (BB), and in the normal gaming state, the special role is different. The target of the internal lottery also varies depending on whether or not it is being carried over (normal: normal gaming state in which special roles are not carried over, winning: normal gaming state in which special roles are carried over).

  RB, BB (1), BB (2), RB + watermelon, RB + cherry, BB (1) + watermelon, BB (1) if the gaming state is the normal gaming state and the special role is not carried over + Cherry, BB (2) + Watermelon, BB (2) + Cherry, Replay, Watermelon, Cherry, and Bell are sequentially read out as the subject combination of the internal lottery.

  If the gaming state is the normal gaming state and the special combination is carried over, the replay, watermelon, cherry, and bell are sequentially read out as the target combinations for the internal lottery.

  If the gaming state is RB (BB), watermelon, cherry, and bell are sequentially read out as the subject combination of the internal lottery.

  In the internal lottery, the number of determination values determined corresponding to the role to be subject to the internal lottery, the current gaming state and the set value are sequentially added to the random number for the internal lottery, and when the result of addition overflows, It is determined that the winning combination has been won. For this reason, a winning combination will be won with a probability (number of determination values / 65536) according to the number of determination values.

  In the internal lottery, when any winning combination is determined, a winning flag corresponding to the winning combination is set in the internal winning flag storing work assigned to the RAM 41c. The internal winning flag storage work consists of a 2-byte storage area, of which the upper byte is assigned as the special role storing work in which the winning flag for the special role is set, and the lower byte is the winning of the general role It is assigned as a general role storage work for which a flag is set. Specifically, when a special combination is won, a special combination winning flag indicating that the special combination is won is set in the special combination storing work, and the winning flag set in the general combination storing work is cleared. When a general combination is won, a winning flag for the general combination indicating that the general combination is won is set in the general combination storing work. If no winning combination is selected, only the general winning combination work is cleared.

  Next, stop control of the reels 2L, 2C, 2R will be described.

  The main CPU 41a refers to the table index and the table creation data stored in the ROM 41b when the rotation of the reel starts and when the reel stops and the reel that is still rotating still remains. Create a stop control table for each reel. When any of the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R corresponding to the rotating reel is effectively detected, the stop control table of the corresponding reel is referred to and the slip of the referred stop control table is referred to. Based on the number of frames, control is performed to stop the rotation of the reels 2L, 2C, 2R corresponding to the operated stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R.

  In the table index, an index that indicates the start address of the area in which the data for table creation is stored, from the reference address when referring to the table index, according to the setting state of the winning flag by internal lottery (hereinafter referred to as the internal winning state) Differences up to the address where the data is stored are registered. As a result, a difference corresponding to the internal winning state is acquired, and the corresponding index data can be acquired by adding the difference to the reference address. Even when the winning combinations are different, when the same control is applied, the same address is stored as the index data. In such a case, the same table creation data is referred to. Thus, a stop control table is created.

  The table creation data includes a stop control table indicating the number of sliding frames according to the stop operation position, and an address of the stop control table to be referred to according to the reel stop status.

  The stop control table referred to according to the reel stop status is whether all reels are rotating, only the left reel is stopped, only the middle reel is stopped, only the right reel is stopped, It may vary depending on whether the middle reel is stopped, the left and right reels are stopped, the middle and right reels are stopped, and if any reel is stopped, stop Since there may be differences depending on the stop position of the reels already completed, the address of the stop control table to be referenced for each situation is registered for each rotating reel, and based on the top address of the table creation data, It is possible to specify the address of the stop control table that should be referred to according to the status of each, and it is necessary according to each status from this specified address. And to be able to identify the stop control table. Even when the reel stop status and the stopped position of the stopped reel are different, when the same stop control table is applied, the same address may be registered as the address of the stop control table. In such a case, the same stop control table is referred to.

  The stop control table is data that can specify the number of sliding frames for each timing when the stop operation is performed. In this embodiment, as will be described later, stepping motors that make one turn at a cycle of 336 steps (0 to 335) are used for the reel motors 32L, 32C, and 32R. That is, when the reel motors 32L, 32C, and 32R are driven in 336 steps, the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R make one round. Then, 21 areas (frames) divided every 16 steps (the number of steps that one symbol moves) are defined for one reel, and these areas are areas 0 to 20 from the reel reference position. A number is assigned. On the other hand, the number of symbols arranged on one reel is 21, and symbol numbers 0 to 20 from the reel reference position are assigned to symbols on each reel, so symbols 0 to 20 are assigned to each reel. , Area numbers 0 to 20 are assigned in order. In the stop control table, the number of sliding symbols for each area number is compressed and stored according to a predetermined rule, and the number of sliding symbols for each area number can be acquired by expanding the stop control table. Yes.

  As described above, the stop control table created by referring to the table index and the table creation data corresponds to the area number, and the area corresponding to each area number is the stop reference position (in this embodiment, the perspective window 3). Sliding frame when an operation of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R is detected at a timing (a timing in which the number of steps from the reel reference position is included in the range of the number of steps of each region number). It is a table with each number set.

  Next, the procedure for creating the stop control table will be described. First, at the start of reel rotation, the top address of the table creation data corresponding to the internal winning state of the game is acquired. Specifically, the table index is first referred to, index data corresponding to the internal winning state is obtained, table creation data is identified based on the obtained index data, and all reels are identified from the identified table creation data. The address of the stop control table for each reel corresponding to the state of rotation is acquired, and the stop control table for each reel stored at the acquired address is expanded to generate a stop control table for all reels.

  Further, when any one reel stops or any two reels stop, the index data acquired at the start of reel rotation, that is, the top address of the table creation data corresponding to the internal winning state of the game The table creation data is identified based on the table creation data, and the stop control table address of the unreacted reel corresponding to the stopped reel and the area number of the stop position of the reel is obtained from the identified table creation data. The stop control table for each stored reel is expanded to create a stop control table for the unstopped reels.

  Next, when the main CPU 41a effectively detects any one of the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R corresponding to the rotating reel, the control when the display result is derived to the corresponding reel will be described. When one of the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R corresponding to the rotating reel is effectively detected, the stop operation position area is determined based on the number of steps from the reel reference position when the stop operation is detected. The number is specified, the stop control table of the reel where the stop operation is detected is referred, and the number of sliding symbols corresponding to the area number of the specified stop operation position is acquired. Then, control is performed to rotate and stop the reel by the number of acquired sliding frames. Specifically, from the number of steps from the reel reference position at the time when the stop operation is detected, the number of steps from the acquired number of sliding frames to the stop is calculated, and the reel is rotated and stopped by the calculated number of steps. Take control. As a result, the area corresponding to the area number that is the stop position ahead of the number of sliding frames from the area corresponding to the area number of the stop operation position where the stop operation is detected is the stop reference position (in this embodiment, the perspective window 3 It will stop in the lower symbol area).

  In the table index of this embodiment, only one address is stored as index data corresponding to one internal winning state in one gaming state, and further, one table creation data includes one reel. Only one address is stored as the address of the storage area of the stop control table corresponding to the stop status (and the stop position of the stopped reel). In other words, table creation data corresponding to one internal winning state in one gaming state and stop control tables corresponding to reel stop states (and stopped positions of stopped reels) are uniquely determined. The stop control table created with reference to is unique for one internal winning state in one gaming state and the reel stop status (and the stop position of the stopped reel). Therefore, when all of the gaming state, the internal winning state, and the reel stop status (and the stop position of the stopped reel) are the same, the reel is based on the same stop control table, that is, the same control pattern. The stop control is performed.

  Further, in this embodiment, a value of 0 to 4 is determined as the number of sliding frames, and it is possible to stop the reel by drawing in a maximum of 4 symbols after detecting a stop operation. In other words, the stop position of the symbol can be designated from a range of a maximum of 5 frames including the stop operation position where the stop operation is detected. In addition, since it is necessary to move one frame to move the reel for one symbol, it is possible to stop the reel by pulling in a maximum of four symbols after detecting the stop operation. The symbol stop position can be designated from a range of up to five symbols including the operation position.

  In this embodiment, when any of the winning combinations is won, the winning combination is drawn on the winning line to the maximum in the range of 4 frames, and the winning combination is aligned on any winning line. Create a stop control table that defines the number of sliding frames to be pulled in to prevent reels from being stopped, and if none of the winning combinations are selected, slipping that does not match any winning combination on the winning line A stop control table with a defined number of frames is created and reel stop control is performed. As a result, when a stop operation is performed, if a winning combination can be stopped on any winning line in a drawing range of a maximum of 4 frames, control is performed to align and stop them. In this case, the winning combination is controlled so that the winning combination is stopped within a drawing range of a maximum of 4 frames.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the “bell” on the left reel, the “bell” on the middle reel, and the “bell” on the right reel, which constitute the bell, are arranged at intervals of 4 frames each. Regardless of the timing at which the reels are stopped, the “bell-bell-bell” combination is always on the winning line, and the bell wins. In addition, the “replay” for the left reel, “replay” for the middle reel, and “replay” for the right reel, which are part of the replay, are arranged at intervals of 4 frames each. In any case, the combination of “replay-replay-replay” is always on the winning line and the replay wins.

  On the other hand, the “bell” and “replay” on the right reel that make up the cherry are arranged at intervals of 4 frames or less, but the “cherry” on the left reel that makes up the cherry has an interval exceeding 7 frames. When the cherry is won, the combination of “Cherry-ANY-Bell” or “Cherry-ANY-Replay” will be placed on the winning line if the left reel is stopped at the timing of the “Cherry” pull-in range. The cherries will be won all at once, but if the right reel is stopped at a timing that is outside the “cherry” pull-in range, the cherries will not be won and will be missed.

  In addition, the "watermelon" on the left reel, the "watermelon" on the middle reel, and the "watermelon" on the right reel, which make up the watermelon, are located at intervals of more than 4 frames. If the operation of stopping each reel is performed at the timing of the drawing range, the combination of "watermelon-watermelon-watermelon" will be aligned with the winning line, and the watermelon will win. If the stop operation is performed at a timing outside the range, the watermelon will not be won and will be lost.

  Also, BB (1) to (3) also have locations where the constituent symbols are arranged at intervals exceeding 4 frames, and even if any of BB (1) to (3) wins, the configuration of the winning BB If the reels are stopped at the timing of the symbol drawing range, the winning BB will win, but at any one of the reels, the stopping operation will be performed at a timing outside the winning BB component symbol drawing range. If you do, BB will not win and you will miss it. BB will be carried over to the next game even if it is missed as described above, so if you win BB once, for example, even if you miss it, you will be awarded by performing a stop operation at an appropriate timing after the next game Is possible.

  If the special role is elected while the special role has been carried over from before the previous game, or if the special role and the small role are elected at the same time when the special role is not carried over, the special role and the small role are won simultaneously. The number of sliding symbols is set so that the winning small role is drawn to the winning line within the range of 4 frames, and the winning small role is drawn to the winning line within the range of up to 4 frames. For stop operation positions that cannot be inserted, a stop control table in which the number of sliding symbols is determined so as to draw the selected special combination to the winning line in the range of 4 frames to the maximum is created, and reel stop control is performed. As a result, when a stop operation is performed, if it is possible to stop all the small roles that have been selected in the drawing range of up to 4 frames on the winning line and stop them, control is performed so that the winning combination is stopped. If you can't draw a small role that has been won in the drawing range of up to 4 frames on the line, if you can stop with a special role that has been won in the drawing range of up to 4 frames on the winning line, A control is performed to stop them in a uniform manner, and a winning combination that has not been won will be controlled to be stopped within a 4-frame pull-in range. That is, in such a case, priority is given to the control for aligning the small combination on the winning line over the special combination, and the special combination can be made effective only when the small combination cannot be drawn.

  In this embodiment, when a special role and a small role are simultaneously elected, the control for aligning the small role on the winning line is prioritized over the special role, and the special role is given only when the small role cannot be drawn. However, priority is given to the control of aligning the special role on the winning line over the small role, and it is possible to win the small role only when the special role cannot be drawn. It is good also as a structure.

  The special role and re-playing role are selected when the re-playing role is elected while the special role has been carried over from before the previous game, or when the special role and re-playing role are won at the same time without the special role being carried over. In the case of winning at the same time, when a stop operation is performed, control is performed so that the symbols of the re-gamer are aligned and stopped on the winning line within a drawing range of a maximum of 4 frames. In this case, the symbols constituting the re-playing combination are arranged within 5 symbols for each of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R, that is, with an interval of 4 frames or less. Therefore, if a special combination and a replaying player are elected at the same time, the replaying game will always be awarded regardless of the operation timing of the stop switches 8L, 8C and 8R by the player. Will be. That is, in such a case, the control for aligning the re-games on the winning line has priority over the special game, and the re-games will always win.

  In this embodiment, after the rotation of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R is started, the main CPU 41a continues to rotate the reels for which the stop operation has not been detected until the operation of the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R is detected. On the condition that the operation of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R is detected, control is performed to stop the display result on the corresponding reel. Even if the reel rotation temporarily stops due to the occurrence of a reel rotation error, the stop operation is still detected until the operation of the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R is detected after the reel rotation is restarted. Control is performed to stop the display result of the corresponding reels on the condition that the rotation of the reels that have not been continued is continued and the operation of the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R is detected.

  In this embodiment, control is performed to stop the display result on the corresponding reel on condition that the operation of the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R is detected. However, the rotation of the reel is started. When a predetermined automatic stop time has elapsed, even if the reel stop operation is not performed, it is assumed that the stop operation has been performed, and automatic stop control is performed to automatically stop each reel. May be. In this case, since the reels are stopped without the player's operation, it is preferable to derive a display result that does not constitute any combination even if any combination is won.

  Next, commands that the main CPU 41a transmits to the effect control board 90 will be described.

  In the present embodiment, the main CPU 41a sends a BET command, a credit command, an internal winning command, a reel rotation start command, a reel stop command, a winning determination command, a payout start command, a payout end command, a game state command to the effect control board 90. A plurality of types of commands including a standby command, an abort command, an error command, a return command, a setting start command, a confirmation start command, a confirmation end command, and an operation detection command.

  These commands are composed of 1-byte type data indicating the type of command and 1-byte extension data indicating the content of the command, and the sub CPU 91a can determine the type of command from the type data.

  The BET command is a command that can specify the number of inserted medals, that is, the number of medals used to set the bet number, and is a state from the end of the game (after setting change) to the start of the game. Sent when a medal is inserted or the MAXBET switch 6 is operated to set the number of bets in a state where is not set. Further, since the BET command is transmitted when the betting number setting operation is performed, it is possible to specify that the betting number setting operation has been performed by receiving the BET command.

  The credit command is a command that can specify the number of medals stored as credits, and is a state from the end of the game (after setting change) to the start of the game, and in a state where a predetermined number of bets is set, Sent when a medal is inserted and credits are added.

  The internal winning command is a command that can specify the winning status of the internal winning flag and the type of the internal winning flag that has been established, and is transmitted when the start switch 7 is operated to start the game. Further, since the internal winning command is transmitted when the start switch 7 is operated, it is possible to specify that the start switch 7 has been operated by receiving the internal winning command.

  The reel rotation start command is a command for notifying the start of reel rotation, and is transmitted when rotation of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R is started.

  The reel stop command is a command that can specify whether the reel to be stopped is the left reel, the middle reel, or the right reel, the area number of the corresponding reel stop operation position, and the area number of the corresponding reel stop position. And is transmitted each time stop control is performed in accordance with the stop operation of each reel. Since the reel stop command is transmitted when the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R are operated, it is possible to specify that the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R are operated by receiving the reel stop command. .

  The winning determination command is a command that can specify the presence / absence of winning, the type of winning, and the number of medals to be paid out at the time of winning, and is transmitted after all the reels are stopped and the winning determination is performed.

  The payout start command is a command for notifying the start of payout of medals, and is transmitted when the payout of medals is started by paying out a prize or credit (including medals used for setting the number of bets). The payout end command is a command for notifying the end of payout of medals, and is transmitted when the payout of medals by winning and winning a credit is completed.

  The game state command is a command that can specify the game state of the next game, and is transmitted when the setting change state ends and when the game ends.

  The standby command is a command indicating a transition to the standby state, and after one game is over, a credit (which was used for setting the bet number) is set when the transition to the standby state is made after a predetermined time without setting the bet number. (Including medals) is sent out after the medal payout is completed and the payout end command is sent.

  The stop command is a command indicating the occurrence or release of the stop state, and after the end of the BB, the stop command indicating the occurrence of the stop state is transmitted when the ending effect waiting time has elapsed, and the reset operation is performed. When the stop state is released, a stop command indicating the release of the stop state is transmitted.

  An error command is a command that indicates the occurrence or cancellation of an error condition and the type of error condition. When an error is determined and controlled to an error condition, an error command indicating the occurrence and type of the error condition is sent and reset. When the error state is canceled after the operation is performed, an error command indicating the cancellation of the error state is transmitted.

  The return command is a command indicating that the main CPU 41a has returned to the control state before power interruption, and is transmitted when the main CPU 41a returns to the control state before power interruption.

  The setting start command is a command indicating the start of the setting change state, and is transmitted when shifting to the setting change state. Further, since the control state of the main CPU 41a is initialized with the transition to the setting change state, it is possible to specify that the control state of the main CPU 41a has been initialized by the setting start command.

  The confirmation start command is a command indicating the start of the setting confirmation state, and is transmitted when shifting to the setting confirmation state. The confirmation end command is a command indicating the end of the setting confirmation state, and is transmitted when the setting confirmation state ends.

  The operation detection command is a command indicating the detection state (ON / OFF) of operation switches (MAXBET switch 6, start switch 7, stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R), and is transmitted at regular intervals.

  Among these commands, a setting start command, an error command indicating a RAM abnormality, and a return command are generated at a stage before an interrupt is permitted in the startup process and stored in a specific command transmission buffer assigned to a special work in the RAM 41c. And sent immediately.

  Commands other than a setting start command, an error command indicating a RAM abnormality, a return command, and an operation detection command are generated according to the progress of the game in the game process, and are temporarily stored in a normal command transmission buffer provided in a special work in the RAM 41c. Stored and transmitted in timer interrupt processing (main).

  In this embodiment, a command is generated in the game process and stored in the normal command transmission buffer. When an untransmitted command stored in the command transmission buffer is detected in the command transmission processing in the timer interrupt 2, the untransmitted command stored in the normal command transmission buffer is transmitted.

  In addition, the normal command transmission buffer has an area where a plurality of commands can be stored, so that newly generated commands can be stored without waiting for transmission of unsent commands stored in the normal command transmission buffer. Normally, it can be stored in an empty area of the command transmission buffer. That is, a plurality of commands can be stored in the normal command transmission buffer.

  In addition, when commands are stored in the normal command transmission buffer in the game process, these commands are stored in the order of generation, and in the command transmission process, the commands are transmitted in the order generated and stored in the normal command transmission buffer. It has become. That is, the commands stored in the normal command transmission buffer are transmitted in the order in which they are generated and stored.

  The operation detection command is generated every time the command transmission process is executed five times, stored in the aforementioned specific command transmission buffer, and immediately transmitted. In addition, when the operation detection command transmission time is reached with the unsent command stored in the normal command transmission buffer, priority is given to the transmission of the operation detection command and the normal command transmission buffer stores it. The untransmitted command is transmitted in the next command transmission process, and a plurality of commands are not transmitted in one command transmission process.

  Next, the control of the effect performed by the sub control unit 91 based on a command transmitted from the main CPU 41a to the effect control board 90 will be described.

  The sub CPU 91a executes a command reception interrupt process when a strobe signal indicating the transmission of a command from the main CPU 41a is input. In the command reception interrupt process, the command acquired from the command transmission line is stored in the reception buffer provided in the RAM 91c.

  In the timer interrupt process (sub), the sub CPU 91a determines whether or not an unprocessed command is stored in the reception buffer. If an unprocessed command is stored, the sub CPU 91a is the earliest stage. Based on the received command, the control pattern table stored in the ROM 91b is referred to. Based on the control contents registered in the control pattern table, various effects such as the liquid crystal display 51, the effect LED 52, the speakers 53 and 54, the reel LED 55, etc. Control the output of the device.

  In the control pattern table, the display pattern of the liquid crystal display 51 corresponding to the type of command, the lighting mode of the lighting effect LED 52, the output mode of the speakers 53 and 54, the lighting mode of the reel LED, etc. The control patterns of these effect devices are registered, and when the sub CPU 91a receives the command, the sub CPU 91a, among the control patterns registered corresponding to the effect patterns set in the RAM 91c in the game of the control pattern table, With reference to the control pattern corresponding to the type of command received, output control of the rendering device is performed based on the control pattern. Thereby, the production according to the production pattern and the progress of the game is executed.

  If the sub CPU 91a receives a new command during execution of an effect triggered by the reception of a certain command, the sub CPU 91a stops the effect based on the control pattern being executed, and responds to the newly received command. An effect based on the control pattern is executed. In other words, even if the production is not finished to the end, when a new command is received, the production that was being executed is canceled and a new command is canceled unless the received new command is not a command that triggers a new production. An effect based on the command is executed.

  In particular, in this embodiment, when an operation for setting the number of bets is performed during execution of an effect, that is, when the sub CPU 91a receives a BET command indicating that the number of bets has been set, the effect being executed is canceled. It is supposed to be. For this reason, if the player wants to proceed to the next game rather than seeing the production to the end, the production is canceled and the next game can be started. There is no. Further, when a credit or bet amount adjustment operation is performed during the performance, that is, after the sub CPU 91a receives a game state command indicating the end of the game, and before receiving an internal winning command indicating the start of the game. When the payout start command is received, the performance being executed is stopped. Credits and bets are settled when the game is terminated. In such a case, by terminating the performance that is being executed, there is an intention to end the game, but the performance continues unnecessarily. It is designed not to be overwhelmed.

  When the internal winning command is received, the effect pattern is selected at a selection rate corresponding to the result of the internal lottery indicated by the internal winning command, and is set in the RAM 91c. The selection rate of the effect pattern is registered in the effect table stored in the ROM 91b, and when the sub CPU 91a receives the internal winning command, the sub CPU 91a sets the level and the effect setting described later as a result of the internal lottery indicated by the internal winning command. Accordingly, the selection rate registered in the effect table is referred to, one of the effect patterns is selected from the plurality of types of effect patterns according to the selection rate, and the selected effect pattern is set in the RAM 91c as the effect pattern of the game. Even if the same command is received, a different control pattern is selected depending on the effect pattern selected when the internal winning command is received. As a result, different effects may be performed depending on the effect pattern.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the reel motors 32L, 32C, and 32R. The reel motors 32L, 32C, and 32R are, for example, hybrid type stepping motors, and include a stator 32b and a rotor 32a facing the stator 32b. The rotor 32a has a large number of gear-shaped salient poles (not shown), and permanent magnets magnetized in the same direction as the rotation shaft are incorporated therein.

  The main CPU 41a performs a process of updating the excitation state of each excitation phase φ1 to φ4 in the timer interrupt process (main) described above, and a pulse signal is output from the motor drive circuit 45 accordingly. The reel motors 32L, 32C, 32R receive this pulse signal, and the excitation phases φ1 to φ4 of the stator 32b are excited according to a predetermined procedure, so that each time one pulse is received, a predetermined angle (1 step = approx. The rotor 32a is rotated by 1.07 (360/336) degrees.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a step rate at the time of reel acceleration at the start of the reel motors 32L, 32C, 32R, and FIG. 9 is a timing chart at that time.

  One step is a unit to which one excitation pattern is applied. During constant speed rotation, the rotor 32a rotates by the predetermined angle (about 1.07 (360/336) degrees) described above for each step. Therefore, in the stepping motor of this embodiment, the reel makes one round with a cycle of 336 steps as described above, and since 21 symbols are arranged on the reel, 1 is made every 16 steps. The symbol will move. The excitation pattern is updated by the timer interrupt process (main) performed by the main CPU 41a. The count is the number of timer interrupt processes (main) until the next excitation pattern update. Yes, (count number) × 0.56 ms (timer interrupt processing (main) interval) is the excitation time (step rate) in which the excitation pattern of the step continues. The number of steps indicates the number of times that the corresponding excitation time is continuously applied. Further, φ1 to φ4 in the figure indicate the respective excitation phases, “ON” indicates the excited state, and “OFF” indicates the demagnetized state.

  As shown in FIG. 9, when starting the reel motors 32L, 32C, 32R, the main CPU 41a performs excitation in the rotational direction by the 1-2 phase excitation method described later from the state where each excitation phase φ1 to φ4 is demagnetized. Start. Specifically, (φ1, φ4) is excited in the first step, and (φ4), (φ4, φ3), (φ3), (φ3, φ2), (φ2), (φ2, In the order of φ1), (φ1)..., the excitation pattern is updated alternately for φ1-φ4 in two phases, one phase, and two phases.

  As shown in FIG. 8, the step rate of the first step is 20.16 ms, the step rate of the second step is 11.20 ms, the step rate of the third to ninth steps is 6.72 ms, and the step rate of the tenth step. Is 4.48 ms, and the step rate of each step is shortened so as to gradually approach the constant speed rotation step rate (2.24 ms). At this time, instead of reducing the step rate uniformly, the reel is smoothly accelerated by interlacing a long step rate and a short step rate and gradually increasing the short step rate. .

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9, the stop state is shifted to a constant speed state in 25 steps, and thereafter the 1-2 phase excitation method excitation pattern is updated at a step rate of 2.24 ms. The motor is driven to rotate each reel 2L, 2C, 2R. Specifically, along the rotation direction of the rotor 32a, (φ1, φ4), (φ4), (φ4, φ3), (φ3), (φ3, φ2), (φ2), (φ2, φ1), (φ1 ), (Φ1, φ4)... And the excitation pattern of φ1 to φ4 is alternately updated every two phases, one phase, two phases, one phase, two phases, and the rotor 32a is rotated. Thus, the reels 2L, 2C, 2R are rotated.

  Next, the control of the reel motor when the reel is stopped will be described. There are two types of control of the reel motor when the reel is stopped: normal stop control and low-speed stop control. The former is a control that stops the reel at the target stop position as soon as possible after detecting the stop operation. In this control, after the stop operation is detected, the reel is slowly stopped at the target stop position as compared with the normal stop control. In the latter case, even when the stop operation is performed at the same timing as the normal stop control and stopped at the same stop position, the time required for the reel to stop after the stop operation is increased.

  In the normal stop control, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, after the stop operation is detected, the constant speed rotation step rate (2.24 ms) is maintained until the brake start position corresponding to the stop position is reached. When the brake start position is reached, a step rate (3.36 ms) longer than the step rate (2.24 ms) during constant speed rotation is applied, the brake is applied to decelerate the rotor 32a, and the next step (4 In the step before step), all-phase excitation for exciting all excitation phases φ1 to φ4 is started. As a result, sudden braking is applied to the rotor 32a, and as a result of overshoot (step out), the rotor 32a stops at the stop position.

  In this embodiment, after all-phase excitation is performed in the normal stop control, it slips by overshooting by 6 steps. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 12, the brake is applied at a step 7 steps before the stop position in the rotation direction. And all-phase excitation is started 6 steps before the stop position.

  In the normal stop control, as shown in FIG. 10, a two-frame slip in which a later-described low-speed stop control is performed, that is, if a stop operation is performed at a timing 32 to 47 steps before the stop position, a three-frame slip, That is, among the cases where the stop operation is performed 48 to 63 steps before the stop position, in the case of two-frame slip, the same as the constant speed rotation for 25 to 40 steps after detection of the stop operation. 2. It is controlled to a step rate of 24 ms, and in the next step, it is controlled to a full-phase excitation after being controlled to a step rate of 3.36 ms, which is longer than the constant speed rotation. It takes 59.36 ms to 92.96 ms to complete, and in the case of a three-frame slip, the step of 2.24 ms is the same as the constant speed rotation for 41 to 56 steps after detection of the stop operation. Since it is controlled to full phase excitation after the step rate is controlled to 3.36 ms, which is longer than the constant speed rotation in the next step, 95. It takes 20 ms to 128.80 ms.

  The low-speed stop control further includes a low-speed stop control 1 and a low-speed stop control 2. Both the low-speed stop controls 1 and 2 are controls for slowly stopping the reel at a target stop position after detection of the stop operation, compared to the normal stop control. Even when the stop operation is performed at the same timing and stopped at the same stop position, the time required for the reel to stop after the stop operation is further increased.

  In this embodiment, the low speed stop control 1 is applied only when 2 or 3 frames are selected as the number of sliding frames when the stop operation is performed, and the low speed stop control 2 is performed when the stop operation is performed. Applicable only when 2 frames are selected as the number of sliding frames. This is because if the low speed stop control 1 or 2 is applied when the number of sliding tops is 1 or less, the rotation speed drops rapidly and the vibration of the reel becomes conspicuous. This is because, when applied with 4 frames or when the low speed stop control 2 is applied with 3 frames or 4 frames, the difference from the normal stop control becomes difficult to understand.

  In the low speed stop control 1, as shown in FIGS. 14 and 17, after the stop operation is detected, the constant speed rotation step rate (2) is reached until the brake start position corresponding to the stop position is reached as in the normal stop control. .24 ms), but a step rate (3.24 ms) longer than the step rate (2.24 ms) at constant speed rotation from the brake start position positioned further forward than the brake start position in the normal stop control. .36 ms) is applied and the brake is applied to start the deceleration of the rotor 32a. At this time, instead of increasing the step rate uniformly as shown in FIG. 13, by gradually interlacing a long step rate and a short step rate and gradually applying a long step rate, the rotor smoothly 32a is decelerated.

  Then, the step rate of 4.48 ms, which is twice the step rate of constant speed rotation (2.24 ms), is maintained until the step before the all-phase start position, and a longer step rate (5 .60 ms), and after further decelerating, all-phase excitation is started at the all-phase start position before the stop position (step two steps before) in the rotational direction. As a result, sudden braking is applied to the rotor 32a, and as a result of overshoot (step out), the rotor 32a stops at the stop position.

  In the low-speed stop control 1, since the rotational speed of the rotor 32a when starting full-phase excitation is slower and the inertial force is weaker than in the normal stop control, the all-phase start position of the low-speed stop control is the normal stop control. It is determined at a position closer to the stop position than the all-phase start position.

  In this embodiment, after all-phase excitation is performed in the low-speed stop control 1, since it slips by overshooting by two steps, as shown in FIG. 17, all phases are two steps before the stop position in the rotational direction. Excitation will be started.

  In the low-speed stop control 1, as shown in FIG. 13, in the case of two-frame slip, after the stop operation is detected, the step rate is controlled to the same step rate of 2.24 ms as the constant speed rotation for 0 to 15 steps. From 32 steps before the position, the step rate is controlled to 3.36 ms, 2.24 ms × 3, 3.36 ms × 2, 2.24 ms × 2, 3.36 ms × 4, 4.48 ms × 17, 5.60 ms. After that, since it is controlled to all-phase excitation, it takes 116.48 ms to 150.08 ms to detect all-phase excitation after detecting the stop operation. When stopping by two-frame slip in normal stop control, the time required for all-phase excitation after detection of the stop operation is 59.36 ms to 92.96 ms, even when stopping at the same stop position by the same two-frame slide As compared with the normal stop control, it takes a long time to stop after the stop operation is detected.

  In the case of three-frame sliding, after the stop operation is detected, the step rate is controlled to 2.24 ms, which is the same as the constant speed rotation for 16 to 31 steps, and 3.36 ms from 32 steps before the stop position. 2.24 ms × 3, 3.36 ms × 2, 2.24 ms × 2, 3.36 ms × 4, 4.48 ms × 17, 5.60 ms, and then controlled by all-phase excitation. After detecting the stop operation, it takes 150.08 ms to 185.92 ms until all phases are excited. When stopping by three-frame slip in normal stop control, the time required for all-phase excitation after detection of the stop operation is 95.20 ms to 128.80 ms, even when stopping at the same stop position with the same three-frame slide As compared with the normal stop control, it takes a long time to stop after the stop operation is detected.

  In the low speed stop control 2, as shown in FIG. 16, the step rate of constant speed rotation (2.24 ms) is detected after the stop operation is detected until the brake start position corresponding to the stop position is reached as in the normal stop control. However, the step rate is longer than the step rate (2.24 ms) during constant speed rotation from the brake start position positioned further in front of the rotation direction than the brake start position of the normal stop control, and further lower speed. A step rate (5.56 ms) longer than the step rate (3.36 ms) at the brake start position of stop control 1 is applied, and the brake is applied to start the deceleration of the rotor 32a. At this time, as shown in FIG. 15, the step rate is not uniformly increased, but a long step rate is gradually applied while alternately interlacing a long step rate and a short step rate, thereby smoothly rotating the rotor. 32a is decelerated.

  After maintaining the step rate of 4.48 ms, which is twice the step rate of constant speed rotation (2.24 ms), until the step just before the start position of all phases, the step rate is gradually increased toward the step of the stop position. Decelerate and start all-phase excitation at the stop position. Thus, the rotor 32a that is gradually decelerated stops at the stop position without overshooting (step out).

  In the low-speed stop control 2, the brake is started at the same timing as the low-speed stop control 1, but at a stage earlier than the low-speed stop control 1 by making the step rate at the start of the brake longer than the low-speed stop control 1. In addition to decelerating, the vehicle gradually decelerates toward the stop position and stops at the stop position without overshooting. Therefore, it takes a longer time from the brake start to the stop than the low-speed stop control 1.

  In the present embodiment, after all-phase excitation is performed in the low-speed stop control 2 as described above, all-phase excitation is started at the stop position in order to stop without overshoot.

  In the low speed stop control 2, as shown in FIG. 15, after the stop operation is detected, the step rate is controlled to 2.24 ms, which is the same as the constant speed rotation, for 0 to 15 steps. Controlled to step rates of .60 ms, 2.24 ms × 2, 3.36 ms × 2, 2.24 ms × 1, 3.36 ms × 3, 4.48 ms × 18, 5.60 × 3, 8.96 × 2 ms After that, since it is controlled to all-phase excitation, 144.48.48 ms to 170.08 ms are required until the all-phase excitation after detecting the stop operation. When stopping by two-frame slip in normal stop control, the time required for all-phase excitation after detection of the stop operation is 59.36 ms to 92.96 ms, even when stopping at the same stop position by the same two-frame slide As compared with the normal stop control, it takes a long time to stop after the stop operation is detected. Further, when stopping at the low-speed stop control 1 by two-frame sliding, the time required for all-phase excitation after detection of the stop operation is 116.48 ms to 150.08 ms, and the stop operation is detected more than the low-speed stop control 1. It will take a long time to stop.

  As described above, in this embodiment, even when the stop operation is performed at the same timing and the stop operation is performed at the same position, when the low speed stop control is performed, the reel is decelerated compared to the normal stop control. The time required from the start to the stop becomes longer, and the stop position is reached slowly, so that the stop mode can be diversified.

  In addition, the low-speed stop control further includes a plurality of types of low-speed stop controls with different time required for stopping after detection of a stop operation, and the stop mode can be further diversified.

  In addition, when performing low-speed stop control, all-phase excitation starts at a position closer to the position where all-phase excitation starts in normal stop control, so that deceleration starts earlier than in normal stop control. Even if low-speed stop control with weak inertia force is performed, it is possible to stop at the same stop position as normal stop control, and the stop position varies depending on whether normal stop control or low-speed stop control is performed. Can be prevented.

  Even when low-speed stop control is performed, control is performed at the same step rate as constant-speed rotation until the brake start position is reached after a stop operation is detected. Regardless of the number of steps in which the operation is detected, if the number of sliding frames is the same, it is possible to perform constant speed stop control with common control, and it is possible to prevent the control from becoming more complicated than necessary.

  The low-speed stop control shown in the present embodiment is a control method other than the above-excited control method as long as it is a control for slowly stopping the reel at a target stop position as compared with the normal stop control after detecting the stop operation. It may be performed by the control. For example, by making the excitation pattern different from the constant speed rotation at a stage earlier than the normal stop control, for example, by exciting the three excitation phases while keeping the excitation phase to be demagnetized originally excited, After decelerating the reel, it may be possible to lengthen the time required to stop than usual by performing all-phase excitation.

  In this embodiment, both the normal stop control and the low-speed stop control are configured to continue all-phase excitation for the same time after the start of all-phase excitation. The inertial force at the start of all-phase excitation is also weak, and the reel can be stopped reliably without continuing all-phase excitation for the same time as the normal stop control. The time until all the excitation phases are turned off after the start of all-phase excitation may be set shorter than the control. Moreover, if all phases are excited as in the case of the low speed stop control 2, it is sufficiently decelerated, and if it stops naturally, all phases are not excited and only all excitation phases are turned off. But it ’s okay.

  For example, when the hopper motor 34b is accompanied by a medal payout, the voltage is insufficient and the medal payout is waited until the all-phase excitation is released. As described above, the normal stop control is performed in the low speed stop control. By setting the all-phase excitation time shorter or not performing all-phase excitation, the time until the medal payout operation can be shortened when performing the low-speed stop control.

  The main CPU 41a applies the low-speed stop control described above to the reel stop control accompanying the stop operation only when the low-speed stop determination process is performed before the stop operation of each reel becomes effective and it is determined that the low-speed stop determination process is performed. To do.

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the control content of the low-speed stop determination process performed by the main CPU 41a.

  In the low-speed stop determination process, first, it is determined whether or not a bonus is in progress (S1) and whether or not a special combination is already notified (S2).

  If it is determined in step S1 that the bonus is being performed, or if it is determined in step S2 that the special combination has been confirmed, the process is terminated. Control does not apply.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1 that the bonus is not in progress and it is determined in step S2 that the special combination is not confirmed, whether the reel for which the stop operation is valid is the final stop reel or not is determined. (S3) and if it is determined that the reel is not the final stop reel, that is, at the first stop (all reels are not stopped) or second Even when the vehicle is stopped (the two reels are not stopped), the low-speed stop control is not applied.

  When it is determined in step S3 that the reel for which the stop operation is valid is the final stop reel, the low speed stop control 1 is performed with the probability shown in FIG. 17, the low speed stop control 2 is performed, or the normal stop is performed. A low speed stop lottery for determining whether to perform control is performed (S4), and it is determined whether the low speed stop control 1 or the low speed stop control 2 is won (S5).

  If the winning of the low speed stop control 1 is determined in step S5, a low speed stop control flag indicating the low speed stop control 1 is set. If the winning of the low speed stop control 2 is determined, the low speed stop control 1 is set. 2 is set (S6), and if neither the low speed stop control 1 nor the low speed stop control 2 is won, the low speed correction control flag is not set.

  When the low-speed stop control flag indicating the low-speed stop control 1 is set, the low-speed stop control 1 is applied when 2 or 3 is selected as the number of sliding frames when the reel is stopped by a stop operation thereafter. It becomes. When the low speed stop control flag indicating the low speed stop control 2 is set, the low speed stop control 2 is applied when 2 is selected as the number of sliding frames when the reel is stopped by a stop operation thereafter. It becomes. If the low-speed stop control flag indicating the low-speed stop control 2 is set, even if 2 is not selected as the number of sliding frames, if 3 is selected as the number of sliding frames, the low-speed stop control flag is set. Control 1 will be applied.

  When the low-speed stop control flag is not set, or when the low-speed stop control flag is set but 0, 1, or 4 is selected as the number of sliding frames, the reel is stopped by a stop operation. In addition, the normal stop control is applied.

  Thus, in this embodiment, the low speed stop control is applied only to the final stop reel, and the normal stop control is always applied when the first stop reel and the second stop reel are stopped. When the player performs a stop operation and stops at the same number of sliding frames, there is no variation in the time until the stop operation of the remaining reels becomes valid, and the stop operation is performed at a timing unintended by the player. Can be prevented.

  In addition, when the low speed stop control is applied only in the case of two-frame slip or three-frame slide as in this embodiment, the player stops aiming at a specific position where it is difficult to select the two-frame slide or the three-frame slide. When the operation is performed, even if the low-speed stop control is determined, the opportunity to apply the low-speed stop control is reduced. In general, the player pushes the first stop reel. However, there are few players who push up to the second stop reel and the third stop reel, and by applying the low speed stop control to the final stop reel as in this embodiment, the chances of applying the low speed stop control also increase. Can do.

  Note that the low speed stop control may be applied when the first stop reel or the second stop reel is stopped. With such a configuration, the player performs a stop operation and stops at the same number of sliding frames. Nevertheless, the variation in the time until the stop operation of the remaining reels becomes effective can give a sense of incongruity and allow the player to recognize that the low speed stop control has been applied. . Moreover, it is preferable to apply the low speed stop control when the first stop reel or the second stop reel is stopped only when the winning combination that does not require the pressing is selected, so that the stop operation of the remaining reels is effective. Thus, it is possible to prevent the time until the player from becoming inconsistent and the stop operation is performed at a timing different from the timing intended by the player, and as a result, the winning combination can be prevented from being missed.

  Further, in this embodiment, the low speed stop control is not performed in a game state advantageous to the player such as during a bonus, and the advantageous game is obtained by performing the low speed stop control in the advantageous game state. It can prevent that the digestion efficiency of a state falls.

  Also, when the special role is confirmed, the low speed stop control is not performed, and the special role is already shown. It is not necessary to suggest the possibility of winning, and by performing the low speed stop control, it is possible to prevent the digestion efficiency until the special combination is won.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, the low speed stop control is applied only to the final stop reel. However, if the low speed stop control is applied to the first stop reel or the second stop reel, the configuration is applied. Games that require pressing (display results that are advantageous or unfavorable for the player on the condition that they are operated at a specific timing, and these display results are not derived when operated at other timings. Game), games with a specified stop order (display results that are advantageous or unfavorable for the player on the condition that the player has operated in a specific stop order, and if these are operated in another stop order, these In games where the display result is not derived), it is preferable that the low speed stop control is not applied, and when the player performs a stop operation and stops at the same number of sliding frames, the remaining reels Without variations in the time to stop the operation is valid, that the unintentional stop operation of the player will take place, it is possible to prevent the player will suffer a disadvantage. For the same reason, games that require an eye-opening (display results that are advantageous or unfavorable for the player on the condition that they are operated at a specific timing are derived. It is preferable not to apply the low speed stop control even in a notification gaming state in which an operation mode (operation timing, stop order, etc.) advantageous to the player is notified in a game in which the display result is not derived) or a game in which the stop order is defined.

  FIG. 19 is a diagram showing the winning probability of the low speed stop lottery. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 19, the probability of winning one of the slow stop controls 1 and 2 when a special role is not won (simultaneous winning combination non-winning: 3%, simultaneous winning combination winning: 15 %), The probability of winning one of the slow stop controls 1 and 2 when winning a special role (non-winning simultaneous winning combination: 20%, winning simultaneous winning combination: 60%) is set higher. Furthermore, the probability of winning either of the low speed stop control 1 or 2 when the simultaneous winning combination (in this embodiment, watermelon, cherry) that is a general winning combination that can be won at the same time as the special winning combination is not selected (special winning combination) Non-winning: 3%, special role winning: 20%) If there is a simultaneous winning role, the probability of winning either of the slow stop control 1 or 2 (special role non-winning: 15%, special role winning) : 60%) is set high.

  For this reason, when low-speed stop control is applied, that is, when the reel stops more slowly than usual after the stop operation, the possibility of winning the special role increases, so the player for winning the special role Can raise the sense of expectation.

  In addition, when a simultaneous winning role that may be elected simultaneously with a special role is elected, low speed stop control is often applied, and the possibility of winning a special role is suggested by the simultaneous winning role winning After the stop operation, the reel often stops more slowly than usual, and the low-speed stop control can effectively increase the player's expectation for winning the special role.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 19, the probability of winning the low speed stop control 1 when the special role is not won (simultaneous winning role non-winning: 2%, simultaneous winning role winning: 10%) and the special role won. Probability of winning the slow stop control 2 if not (simultaneous winning combination non-winning: 1%, simultaneous winning combination winning: 5%) and the ratio of the latter to the total value (simultaneous winning combination non-winning: 1 / (3, simultaneous winning role winning: 1/3) and the probability of winning the low-speed stop control 1 when winning a special role (simultaneous winning role non-winning: 10%, simultaneous winning role winning: 30%) The probability of winning the low-speed stop control 2 when the special role is won (simultaneous winning role non-winning: 10%, simultaneous winning role winning: 30%) and the ratio of the latter to the total value (simultaneous winning role) Non-winning: 1/2, simultaneous winning combination winning: 1/2) is set high.

  For this reason, when the low speed stop control is applied, that is, when the reel stops more slowly than usual after the stop operation, the low speed stop control 2 is applied rather than the case where the low speed stop control 1 is applied. That is, if the reel stops more slowly, the possibility of winning the special role increases, and when the low-speed stop control is applied, the speed can be further noticed.

  In this embodiment, it is a configuration that suggests winning of the special role by performing the low speed stop control, but any configuration that suggests some information to the player by performing the low speed stop control may be used. The result of the internal lottery results in allowing the derivation of the display mode accompanied by the transition to the gaming state advantageous to the player, and the display serving as a lottery trigger for determining whether or not to shift to the advantageous gaming state It may be a configuration that suggests that the operation of deriving the mode is permitted, and that the reel is stopped in the operation mode that satisfies the conditions for deriving the display results. Furthermore, it may be configured to suggest that a setting value that is more advantageous to the player among a plurality of setting values is set for the player.

  In the present embodiment, when the sub CPU 91a receives a reel stop command indicating the stop of the reel from the main CPU 41a, a reel stop effect such as output of a reel stop sound is performed. On the other hand, it is possible to specify whether the main CPU 41a is the normal stop control, the low-speed stop control 1 or the low-speed stop control 2 from the reel stop command transmitted to the sub-control unit 91 when the reel is stopped. The sub CPU 91a receives a reel stop command, and when the low speed stop control 1 or 2 is specified from the received reel stop command, performs a reel stop effect different from the low speed stop control.

  In the reel stop effect, for example, in the case of the normal stop control, the first stop sound having a predetermined length is output, whereas in the case of the low speed stop control 1, the second longer than the predetermined length is output. It is sufficient to output a stop sound. In this case, in the case of the low speed stop control 2, it is preferable to output a second stop sound that is longer than the second stop sound output in the case of the low speed stop control 1. Also, in the case of low speed stop control, the same sound effect as in normal stop control may be extended and output slowly, and in this way, the time until stop at the same number of sliding frames becomes longer. Can be recognized intuitively.

  Further, these reel stop effects are not limited to voice effects, but may be such that it is recognized that the time until the stop at the same number of sliding frames has become longer depending on the image, the moving image, and the lighting state of the lamp.

  Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described with reference to the drawings, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and modifications and additions within the scope of the present invention are included in the present invention. Needless to say.

  In the above-described embodiment, the slot machine to which medals are applied as a game medium used for setting the number of bets and giving game value associated with winning is described as an example. However, the slot machine that embodies the present invention may be a slot machine to which a game ball used in a pachinko gaming machine is applied as a game medium. When using a game ball as a game medium, for example, one medal can correspond to five game balls, and when 3 is set as the number of bets in the above embodiment, 15 game balls are used. This is equivalent to setting the number of bets using.

In the above embodiment, the slot machine for setting bets using medals and credits is used. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and slots for setting bets using game balls are used. It may be a machine or a fully credit type slot machine that uses only credits to set bets.

  Further, in addition to the medal insertion mechanism such as the flow path switching solenoid 30 and the insertion medal sensor 31, a ball take-in device that takes in a game ball, and a take-in ball that detects a game ball taken in by the ball take-in device In addition to a medal payout mechanism, such as a hopper motor 34b and a payout sensor 34c, a ball payout device for paying out game balls, and a payout ball detection switch for detecting game balls paid out by the ball payout device It is possible to set a bet number using both medals and game balls and play a game, and the present invention may be applied to a slot machine in which medals and game balls are paid out by winning.

1 Slot machine 2L, 2C, 2R Reel 6 MAXBET switch 7 Start switch 8L, 8C, 8R Stop switch 41 Main control unit 91 Sub control unit

Claims (1)

Provided with a variable display unit that can be displayed in a variable manner by rotating a display band in which a plurality of types of identification information are arranged with a stepping motor,
After variably displaying the variable display unit, the display result is derived by stopping the rotation of the display band, and in the slot machine that can generate a prize according to the display result,
Constant speed control means for performing constant speed rotation control for rotating the display band at a constant speed by changing an excitation pattern for a plurality of excitation phases of the stepping motor;
When a stop command is issued, after performing deceleration control to decelerate the rotation speed of the display band, perform stop control to stop the display band by performing all-phase excitation to excite all of the plurality of excitation phases. Stop control means;
With
The stop control means includes a first stop control for starting the deceleration control from a first deceleration start position before the stop position with respect to the rotation direction, and the first deceleration start position with respect to the rotation direction. It is possible to perform the second stop control that starts the deceleration control from a second deceleration start position that is further away from the stop position than
When performing the second stop control, the all stop phase is at a second all-phase start position closer to the stop position than the first all-phase start position at which the all-phase excitation is started in the first stop control. Start phase excitation,
The duration from the start to the end of all-phase excitation when the first stop control is performed is the same as the duration from the start to the end of all-phase excitation when the second stop control is performed. Machine.

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