JP6037562B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a game machine in which a game ball is launched toward a game area by a launching device to advance the game.

Currently, attention is focused on next-generation game machines (electronic data type game machines) that can manage game results using electronic data, and the movement toward market introduction is about to begin in earnest.
Its core technology is summarized in the following contents.

(1) Being an enclosed game machine.
(2) As a game machine that is resistant to fraudulent activities, it must be a game machine that can be monitored for fraud by a third party.
(3) As a game machine that is resistant to fraudulent activities, it must be a game machine with enhanced anti-goto measures.
(4) The game machine must be a game machine in which the entry / exit (IN / OUT) of the game ball is digitized.
(5) Being an environmentally friendly gaming machine.

A gaming machine that satisfies all of the above requirements (1) to (5) can take a new step as a next-generation gaming machine.

Here, a launching device suitable for the enclosed type gaming machine of the above (1) is disclosed (for example, Patent Document 1).
The launching device of Patent Document 1 is formed so that the game ball passage from the game ball standby position where the game ball stands by to the launch port starts with an uphill slope and ends with a downhill slope.
Therefore, according to the launching device of Patent Document 1, it is considered that it is possible to provide a launching device in which a return ball (foul ball) is unlikely to be generated.

Japanese Patent No. 599644

The launcher of Patent Document 1 is a launcher in which a return ball is unlikely to occur because the game ball passage starts with an upslope and ends with a downslope, but there is an upslope in a part of the game ball passage. Therefore, there is a possibility that a return ball will occur depending on the situation.

That is, the launching device of Patent Document 1 hits a game ball with a hammer to launch the game ball, but the game ball hit by the hammer passes through the uphill slope of the game ball passage and then descends. Guided by a slope or passed over a downward slope, it is released into the game area.

At this time, if the force transmitted to the game ball is not sufficient for some reason, if the game ball reaches the downhill slope, the game ball will roll down the downhill slope and be released into the game area. If the game ball stops in the middle of the uphill slope, the game ball may revert to the uphill slope and a return ball may occur.

Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to provide a configuration in which a return ball is less likely to occur.

The present invention employs the following solutions to solve the above problems. The wording in parentheses below is merely an example, and the present invention is not limited thereto.
SOLUTION: The game machine of the present solution is arranged on the upper end side in the vertical direction of the game area formed on the game board surface, and is launched by a launching device for launching a game ball toward the game area and the launching device. A launch handle that determines the firing intensity of the game ball to be launched, a drive source that is driven based on the operation of the launch handle, a launch ball standby unit provided in the launch device that waits for the game ball before launch, and the like. A driven member provided in the launching device, which is reciprocally driven by the driving of the driving source and transmits the driving force of the driving source to a game ball waiting in the launching ball standby portion, and the launching device. The launch passage is provided with a launch passage through which the launch ball launched by the driven member passes, and a launch port provided at the end of the launch passage to send the launch ball to the game area. , When the passage for receiving the launch ball from the outbound terminal position of the driven member and guiding the launch ball to the launch port, and the force applied to the launch ball after receiving the launch ball is not sufficient. Is a game machine characterized in that it is composed of a free fall passage that discharges the launch ball into the game area by free fall.

The gaming machine of the present solution has, for example, the following configuration.
(1) A launching device for launching a game ball toward a game area formed on a game board surface is provided. When the game ball is launched by the launching device, the game ball is driven into the game area, and the game ball driven into the game area flows down the game area. The launcher is arranged on the upper end side in the vertical direction of the game area. Here, the upper end side means the upper side when the game area is divided into upper and lower parts. By arranging the launching device on the upper end side in the vertical direction of the game area, the path for the game ball to reach the game area can be shortened as compared with the case where the launching device is arranged on the lower end side, and the return is corresponding to that amount. It can be a launching device that does not easily generate a ball (foul ball). Here, the return ball is a game ball that is launched by the launcher, but does not reach the game area, or even if it reaches the game area, it is repelled by some obstacle and returns to the launcher again. That is.

(2) A launch handle for determining the launch intensity of the game ball launched by the launch device of (1) above is provided. By operating this firing handle, the player can determine the firing intensity of the gaming ball, and can launch the gaming ball at a desired position in the gaming area.

(3) A drive source (motor) that is driven based on the operation of the launch handle described in (2) above is provided. The drive source operates when the player touches the launch handle, and operates with different strengths according to the amount of operation of the launch handle.

(4) The launching device of (1) above includes a launching ball standby unit that waits for a game ball (launching ball) before launching. The game ball supplied to the launcher is sent to the launch ball standby unit, and waits there until the launch operation is performed.

(5) The launching device of the above (1) includes a driven member driven by the driving source of the above (3). The driven member is reciprocally driven by the drive of the drive source of (3), and transmits the drive force of the drive source of (3) to the game ball waiting in the launch ball standby portion of (4). Is.
When the driving force of the driving source is transmitted to the game ball, the driving force is used to launch the game ball. That is, when the driven member is stopped or decelerated at least near the final end on the outward path, the driven member and the game ball come into contact with each other, and the inertial force applied by the driven member causes the game ball to move toward the game area. Be fired.

(6) The launching device of (1) above includes a launching passage through which a launching ball launched by the driven member of (5) above passes. Therefore, the game ball passes through the launch passage and heads toward the game area.

(7) At the end of the launch passage of (6) above, a launch port for sending a game ball to the game area is provided. Therefore, the game ball to which the driving force of the driving source of the above (3) is transmitted by the driven member of the above (5) passes through the launch passage of the above (6), and finally the game is played from this launch port. Sent to the area.

(8) The launch passage of the above (6) is a passage that accepts the launch ball from the outward end position (or its vicinity) of the driven member of the above (5) and guides the launch ball to the launch port of the above (7). .. Further, the launch passage of (6) above is composed of a free fall passage that releases the launch ball to the game area by free fall when the force (flying force) given to the launch ball after receiving the launch ball is not sufficient. Has been done. The free fall passage can be, for example, a downhill passage.

In the present solution, the driven member moves from the start end of the outward path to the end of the outward path, but when the driven member reaches the end of the outward path, the minimum number of game balls hit or thrown at the driven member is However, it will move to the end of the outward path of the driven member.

Further, in the present solution, since the launch passage is composed of a free fall passage, even if the launch force of the game ball is not sufficient as long as the driven member moves to the end of the outward path, the game is played. The ball is released into the game area by free fall. Therefore, according to the present solution, it is possible to provide a launching device in which the game ball does not return to the launch standby position and the return ball is unlikely to occur.

Further, in the present solution, since the launch passage is composed of a free fall passage, the launch passage does not include an ascending slope. The longer the launch passage, the more unstable the path through which the game ball passes, which causes a decrease in launch accuracy. However, in this solution, the launch passage does not include an ascending slope, so that amount. The launch passage can be shortened, and the game ball can be launched with high accuracy.

Further, since the present solution can provide a launching device in which a return ball is unlikely to be generated, there is an effect that a complicated sensing mechanism for detecting the return ball becomes unnecessary.

SOLUTION: In the game machine of the present solution, in the solution 1, the driven member has a launch ball holding portion for holding the launch ball in a part thereof, and the launch ball holding portion is the launch ball. It also serves as a standby unit, and receives and holds the launch ball at the standby position located during the outbound drive standby, and is held by the launch ball holding unit at the outward end position of the reciprocating drive driven by the drive source. The game machine is characterized in that the launch ball is released into the space of the launch passage or the free fall passage to launch the game ball.

The following features are added to the gaming machine of the present solution.
(1) The driven member has a launch ball holding portion that holds the launch ball in a part thereof, and the launch ball holding portion also serves as a launch ball standby portion.
(2) The driven member receives and holds the launch ball at the standby position located during the outbound drive standby, and launches the above (1) at the outward end position (or its vicinity) driven reciprocally by the drive of the drive source. The launch ball held by the ball holding portion is released into the space of the launch passage or the free fall passage to launch the game ball.
The driven member provided with such a launch ball holding portion may release the game ball by rotationally reciprocating drive, or may release the game ball by linearly reciprocating drive.

Here, when the launch intensity of the game ball is strong, the game ball is launched without hitting the wall of the launch passage. That is, when the launch intensity of the game ball is normal intensity (greater than or equal to a predetermined intensity), the launch ball is emitted from the driven member (launch arm) to the game area without hitting the inner wall of the launch passage, so that the launch ball is launched more accurately. Is possible. Further, when the launch ball holding portion has a hemispherical hollow shape, the game ball is discharged to the game area along the upper side wall of the launch ball holding portion by centrifugal force, so that the upper side wall is substantially conventional. It acts as a launch rail in the game machine and can determine the launch vector (angle) of the game ball. On the other hand, when the firing intensity of the game ball is weak (less than a predetermined strength), the game ball freely falls along the lower side wall of the launch passage (free fall passage) and is released into the game area.

As described above, according to the present solution, since the launch ball holding portion also serves as the launch ball standby portion, each launch operation is stable and the accuracy of launch can be improved. That is, since the launch ball holding portion also serves as the launch ball standby portion, the driven member and the game ball can be brought into contact with each other and held before the launch, and the launch operation can be stabilized accordingly.

Solution 3: In the game machine of the present solution, in the solution 2, the outward end of the driven member is located in front of the entrance of the launch passage, and the free fall passage is the total length of the launch passage. It is a game machine characterized by being provided over.

The following features are added to the gaming machine of the present solution.
(1) The end of the outward path of the driven member is located in front of the entrance of the launch passage.
(2) The free fall passage is provided over the entire length of the launch passage.

As described above, in the present solution, since the outward end of the driven member is located before the entrance of the launch passage, the driven member enters the launch passage even if the driven member moves to the outward end. There is nothing to do. Therefore, a free fall passage can be formed over the entire length of the launch passage. Then, by forming the free fall passage over the entire length of the launch passage, it is possible to promote the free fall of the game ball in the entire area of the launch passage, and it is possible to completely avoid the return ball in the launch passage.

SOLUTION: In the game machine of the present solution, in the solution 1, the launch passage is formed so as to be connected to the launch ball standby portion, and the driven member is driven by the drive source to launch the launch. It is a gaming machine characterized in that a game ball waiting in a ball standby unit is hit and launched into the space of the launch passage, and the launch ball is delivered to a position where the launch ball reaches the free fall passage.

The following features are added to the gaming machine of the present solution.
(1) The launch passage is formed so as to be connected to (downstream side) the launch ball standby portion.
(2) The driven member hits a game ball waiting in the launch ball standby portion by the driving force of the drive source and launches the game ball into the space of the launch passage.
(3) The driven member is extended to a position where the launch ball reaches the free fall passage.

As described above, according to the present solution, since the launch passage is formed so as to be connected to the launch ball standby portion, the game ball moves from the launch ball standby portion to the launch passage by the launch operation.
Further, in the present solution, since the driven member launches the game ball by hitting the ball, the operating range of the driven member can be narrowed as compared with the pitching using the rotary reciprocating drive. As a result, the game ball can be launched in a space-saving manner, and a more compact launching device can be provided.
Further, in the present solution, since the driven member is extended to a position where the launch ball reaches the free fall passage, the launch ball standby portion that is inclined upward to the front side (outward path start end side) of the driven member from the outward path end side. Even if there is, the game ball will be pushed out beyond the end of the uphill slope. Therefore, it is possible to provide a launching device in which the game ball does not go back uphill and the return ball is unlikely to occur.

Solution 5: In any of the solutions 1 to 4, the game machine of the present solution includes a base as a base and a game ball launch detection sensor for detecting that the game ball has been launched. The drive source, the launch ball standby unit, the driven member, the launch passage, the launch port, the free fall passage, and the game ball launch detection sensor are mounted on the base and integrated. It is a game machine characterized by being made into a game.

The following features are added to the gaming machine of the present solution.
(1) The launcher is provided with a base as a base.
(2) The launching device includes a game ball launch detection sensor that detects that the game ball has been launched.
(3) The drive source, the launch ball standby unit, the driven member, the launch passage, the launch port, the free fall passage, and the game ball launch detection sensor of the above (2) are attached to the base of the above (1). It is integrated.

As described above, according to the present solution, since the parts related to the launch system in the launch device are integrated, it is possible to simplify the assembly and the simplification of the parts management.

Solution 6: The gaming machine of the present solution detects in solution 5 that a ball feeding device that supplies a game ball to the launching device and that the game ball is supplied from the ball feeding device to the launching device. The game machine further includes a game ball supply detection sensor, and the ball feeding device and the game ball supply detection sensor are attached to the base and integrated.

The following features are added to the gaming machine of the present solution.
(1) The game machine of the present solution includes a ball feeding device that supplies a game ball to the launching device.
(2) The game machine of the present solution includes a game ball supply detection sensor that detects that a game ball has been supplied from the ball feeding device of the above (1) to the launching device.
(3) The ball feeding device (1) and the game ball supply detection sensor (2) are mounted on a base and integrated.

As described above, according to the present solution, not only the parts related to the launch system in the launch device but also the parts related to the supply system in the launch device are integrated, so that the assembly and the parts management can be further simplified. Can be planned.

SOLUTION: In any of the solutions 1 to 6, the gaming machine of the present solution has a ball feeding device that supplies a game ball to the launching device, and the ball feeding device supplies the game ball to the launching device. The launching device further includes a game ball supply detection sensor that detects that, and the launching device detects the supply of game balls by the game ball supply detection sensor within a predetermined time after the supply operation by the ball feeding device is executed. If this is the case, the drive source is driven to execute the firing operation, while the supply of the game balls is detected by the game ball supply detection sensor within the predetermined time after the supply operation by the ball feeding device is executed. If this is not done, the game machine is characterized in that the firing operation is not executed and the supply operation is restarted.

The following features are added to the gaming machine of the present solution.
(1) The game machine of the present solution includes a ball feeding device that supplies a game ball to the launching device.
(2) The game machine of the present solution includes a game ball supply detection sensor that detects that a game ball has been supplied from the ball feeding device of the above (1) to the launching device.

(3) In the launching device, the supply of the game ball is detected by the game ball supply detection sensor within a predetermined time (for example, within about 0.1 to 0.3 seconds) after the supply operation by the ball feeding device is executed. In that case, the drive source is driven to execute the firing operation.
(4) On the other hand, if the supply of the game ball is not detected by the game ball supply detection sensor within a predetermined time after the supply operation by the ball feeding device is executed, the launcher does not execute the launch operation. Start over from the supply operation again.

Here, if the supply of the game ball is not detected by the game ball supply detection sensor within a predetermined time after the supply operation is executed, the supply operation is not executed normally, or the supply operation is normal. It means that the game ball was not supplied although it was executed.

Then, in this solution, since the firing operation is not executed in such a case and the supply operation is restarted, the situation in which the firing operation is executed even though the game ball is not supplied is avoided. be able to.

Solution 8: The gaming machine of the present solution includes, in any one of the solutions 1 to 7, a tank that receives a game ball launched by the launching device from an external gaming ball supply device, and the launching device is provided with the launching device. It is a game machine characterized by receiving a game ball as a launch ball from the tank.

The following features are added to the gaming machine of the present solution.
(1) A tank is provided to receive the game balls launched by the launching device from an external game ball supply device (island equipment, ball feeding device).
(2) Then, the launching device receives a game ball as a launching ball from the tank of the above (1). Therefore, the game ball to be the launch ball is directly supplied to the launch device from the tank of the above (1).

Therefore, according to this solution, the game ball before launch can be temporarily stored in the tank, and if the existing island equipment uses the tank, it has an affinity with the existing island equipment. Can be improved.

Here, the launching device of Patent Document 1 is suitable for an enclosed game machine, and is premised on launching by circulating the enclosed spheres, so that it has a low affinity with existing island equipment. There are challenges.
In this respect, in this solution, since the game balls before launch can be temporarily stored in the tank, not only can it provide a configuration in which return balls are less likely to occur, but also the affinity with the existing island equipment is enhanced. It is possible to provide a game machine.

Solution 9: In any of the solutions 1 to 7, the game machine of the present solution causes the game ball to be launched by the launching device from an external game ball supply device without going through a tank for storing the game ball. The launching device is provided with a game ball receiving port for receiving directly, and the launching device is a game machine characterized in that a game ball serving as a launching ball is received from the game ball receiving port.

The following features are added to the gaming machine of the present solution.
(1) A game ball receiving port is provided to directly receive the game ball launched by the launching device from an external game ball supply device (island equipment, ball feeding device) without going through a tank for storing the game ball. ..
(2) Then, the launching device receives the game ball to be the launch ball from the game ball receiving port of the above (1). Therefore, the game ball to be the launch ball is directly supplied to the launch device through the game ball receiving port of the above (1).

In the above-mentioned solution, an example in which a game ball is supplied to the launching device via the tank has been described, but since the tank has a property of storing the game ball, ball clogging rarely occurs.

Therefore, in the present solution, since the game ball to be the launch ball is directly supplied to the launching device through the game ball receiving port without passing through the tank, a bellows hose or the like is connected to the game ball receiving port, and there. Can accept launch balls directly from.

As described above, in the present solution, since the configuration does not go through the tank when accepting the game ball, a simpler configuration can be realized. In addition, since the configuration does not go through the tank, it is possible to create a state in which the game balls are arranged in a row from the beginning, and it is possible to reduce ball clogging. Further, by using a flexible bellows hose or the like without installing a tank in the game machine, the affinity with the existing island equipment can be maintained.

Here, the launching device of Patent Document 1 is suitable for an enclosed game machine, and is premised on launching by circulating the enclosed spheres, so that it has a low affinity with existing island equipment. There are challenges.
In this regard, in this solution, since the game ball to be the launch ball can be directly received through the game ball receiving port, not only can it be possible to provide a configuration in which a return ball is less likely to occur, but also the existing island equipment. It is possible to provide a game machine having an enhanced affinity with the player.

Solution 10: The gaming machine of the present solution detects launch detection in which a game ball is supplied to the launching device or a game ball is launched by the launching device in any one of the solutions 1 to 9. A means, a launch ball receiving device that receives a game ball launched by the launch device from an external game ball supply device and supplies the received game ball as a launch ball to the launch device, and a launch ball receiving device that is arranged in the game area. A ball entry detection means for detecting that a game ball has entered the winning opening, a launch ball management unit for managing the ball holding data indicating the number of game balls that can be launched by the launch device, and the entry ball management unit. When a prize is generated when a game ball is detected by the ball detection means, the game control unit that transmits the prize data indicating that the prize has been generated to the launching ball management unit, and the game ball. It is an interface for connecting to an external ball lending management device that controls ball lending, and at least when the ball lending management device executes ball lending of a game ball, communication for receiving ball lending data from the ball lending management device. A discharge device that discharges both the means, the game ball launched by the launching device and entering the winning opening, and the game ball launched by the launching device and not entering the winning opening. When the ball lending data is received from the ball lending management device provided in the launch ball lending management unit via the communication means, a quantity corresponding to the received ball lending data is added to the ball lending data. When the ball lending time holding ball data addition processing executing means for executing the process and the launch holding ball management unit are provided and the launch detecting means detects the supply of the game ball or the launch of the game ball, the ball is supplied or fired. Launch-time holding ball data subtraction processing execution means for executing a process of subtracting a quantity corresponding to the number of game balls from the holding ball data, and the launching holding ball management unit provided with the winning data from the game control unit. The game machine is further provided with a winning ball data addition processing execution means for executing a process of adding a quantity corresponding to the received winning data to the holding ball data.

The gaming machine of the present solution has the following features.
(1) A launch detection means for detecting that a game ball has been supplied to the launch device or that the game ball has been launched by the launch device is provided. Here, the reason why the present solution means "supplied" or "launched" is as follows. That is, since the launch detecting means only needs to be able to detect the launch of the game ball, it is basically sufficient to detect the launch of the game ball, but if "supply and launch" is regarded as a series of operations, Even if the supply is detected, it means that the launch is detected, so it is decided to detect "supplied" or "launched". Here, the launch detecting means can be, for example, a sensor that detects the passage of the game ball.

(2) A launching ball receiving device (storage) that receives the game ball launched by the launching device from an external game ball supply device (island equipment, ball feeding device) and supplies the received game ball as a launching ball to the launching device. A tank, a launch ball receiving port, a launch ball alignment passage, a launch ball supply passage, etc.) are provided. The game ball supplied from the external game ball supply device is once received by the launch ball receiving device, and then directly supplied to the launch device.

Normally, the game balls from the external game ball supply device are stored in the launch ball receiving device (storage tank) inside the game machine, and are discharged from there to the upper plate or the like via the payout device unit, and then. However, in the present solution, the game balls from the external game ball supply device are directly supplied to the launch device without passing through the payout device unit, the upper plate, or the like.

(3) A ball entry detecting means for detecting that a game ball has entered the winning opening is provided. When there are a plurality of types of winning openings such as a starting winning opening, a large winning opening, a normal winning opening, and the like, it is necessary to provide a winning ball detection means for each of the plurality of types of winning openings. Further, when there are a plurality of winning openings of the same type, such as four ordinary winning openings, only one winning ball detection means may be provided, or each winning opening may be provided.

(4) A launching ball management unit that manages ball holding data indicating the number of game balls that can be fired by the launching device is provided. The launch ball management unit is a unit that manages at least the ball possession data, and can also control the launch device. Here, the "holding ball data" is a variable that holds the number of game balls that can be fired (the number of right to fire), and is stored in a storage element in the game machine. For example, when "0" is stored in the holding ball data, no game ball can be fired, but when "10" is stored in the holding ball data, 10 game balls are fired. It will be in a state where it can be fired individually.

(5) When a prize is generated triggered by the detection of a game ball by the ball entry detection means of (3) above, the winning data indicating that the winning has occurred is transmitted to the launching holding ball management unit. A game control unit is provided. That is, the game control unit transmits the winning data to the launching ball management unit when the winning occurs. Here, the winning data is data according to the type of winning opening, for example, there are winning data corresponding to the starting winning opening, winning data corresponding to the large winning opening, winning data corresponding to the normal winning opening, and the like. doing.

Further, even if the entry of the game ball is detected, if it is a valid entry, it can be determined that no winning has occurred. An example of such a case is the detection of a ball entering at a big winning opening other than during a big hit game. Then, in such a case, the winning data is not transmitted to the launching ball management unit.

(6) A communication means that is an interface for connecting to an external ball lending management device (card unit) that controls the ball lending of the game ball is provided. When the ball lending management device executes the ball lending of the game ball, the communication means receives the ball lending data from the ball lending management device. The ball lending data includes information on the ball lending, and is the data transmitted when the ball is lent from cash or when the ball is lent from the stored ball. Here, the stored ball means a ball that is deposited in the amusement park as it is without exchanging the ball that was acquired by a big hit or the like for a predetermined prize or the like. By withdrawing the stored balls deposited in the amusement park, the player can play the game without using cash.

(7) A discharge device that discharges both the game ball that was launched by the launcher and entered the winning opening and the game ball that was launched by the launcher and did not enter the winning opening to the outside (outside the machine). (Out passage assembly) is provided. Therefore, all the game balls launched by the launching device are collected by the discharging device and discharged to the outside of the machine regardless of whether or not the balls have entered the winning opening. In addition, if a discharge sensor that detects the discharge ball is provided in this discharge device and the result of the number of game balls actually fired can be confirmed by comparing with the number of shots, the ball enters the winning opening without being fired. If this value does not match even after the elapse of a predetermined time, error detection (fraud detection) can be performed.

(8) When the ball lending management unit of the above (4) receives the ball lending data from the ball lending management device via the communication means of the above (6), the launching ball management unit has a quantity corresponding to the received ball lending data. Executes the process of adding to the data. For example, when the value of the ball holding data is "0" and the value of the ball lending data is "125", the process of adding "125" to "0" is executed, and finally the holding ball data The process of updating the value to "125" is executed.

(9) When the supply of the game ball or the launch of the game ball is detected by the launch detection means of the above (1), the launch holding ball management unit of the above (4) corresponds to the number of the supplied or launched game balls. Executes the process of subtracting the quantity to be performed from the sphere data. For example, if the value of the ball possession data is "125" and it is detected that "1" game ball has been fired, the process of subtracting "1" from "125" is executed, and finally. The process of updating the value of the ball possession data to "124" is executed.

(10) When the launching ball management unit of the above (4) receives the winning data from the game control unit of the above (5), the launching ball management unit executes a process of adding a quantity corresponding to the received winning data to the holding ball data. .. For example, when the value of the ball possession data is "124" and the value of the winning data is "3", the process of adding "3" to "124" is executed, and finally the value of the possession ball data. Is executed to update to "127".

In this way, according to the present solution, the game balls are directly received and fired from the external game ball supply device (island equipment, ball feed device), and all the fired game balls are collected by the discharge device. Since it is discharged to the outside of the machine, it is possible to provide a game machine (non-enclosed type game machine) in which the game ball is not enclosed. As a result, it is possible to eliminate the problems (harmful effects) that the enclosed type has, and it is possible to divert the existing island equipment as it is. Further, by adopting such a configuration, the player can proceed with the game without touching the game ball, and a clean and simple game form can be realized.

Here, the main issues of the enclosed game machine are as follows.
(A) In the enclosed game machine, not so many game balls are sealed (actually, about 60 game balls are circulated inside the game machine), so that the game is not interrupted. It is necessary to develop a mechanism that does not cause ball clogging.
However, as a practical matter, it is technically difficult, if not impossible, to develop a mechanism that does not cause ball clogging at all. For this reason, in the enclosed game machine, it is necessary to take measures such as stopping the game so that the player does not become disadvantaged in case of ball clogging, but this measure is troublesome. In addition, since it is necessary to constantly grasp the circulation status of whether or not the enclosed ball circulates normally, a large number of sensors are required, and it is hard to say that the cost will be reduced even if the amount without the prize ball device is subtracted. ..

(B) In the enclosed game machine, a mechanism for circulating the game balls and a mechanism for polishing the game balls are required for each game table, and the manufacturing cost increases accordingly. In particular, regarding the mechanism for polishing game balls, there is a problem that human cost increases because regular maintenance such as replacement of polishing cloth must be performed for all the units.

(C) In the enclosed game machine, since the game ball is enclosed inside the game machine, it is assumed that the enclosed ball is replaced with a small diameter ball to increase the winning rate, and it is necessary to take measures against the ball. It becomes.

(D) On the other hand, since the enclosed game machine is a system in which the game ball is circulated internally, there is an advantage that the existing island equipment (island reduction machine, etc.) is not required. Therefore, in theory, it would be okay to remove all existing island facilities, but in reality it is not so easy. This means that even if the enclosed gaming machine is introduced to the market in the future, the conventional gaming machine will not be completely removed at once, but will be gradually enclosed after a certain stage. Because it is expected to move to.

In this way, when the game machine is gradually replaced with the enclosed game machine, there will always be a stage in which the conventional game machine and the enclosed game machine coexist. And, in order to allow this mixed state, the existing island facilities cannot be completely removed. On the other hand, since the enclosed game machine is a system that circulates the game balls inside, even if the existing island equipment is left, it cannot be diverted to the enclosed game machine. When the enclosed game machine is introduced, there is a problem that the existing island equipment becomes an idle asset.

Further, in the present solution means, although it is an electronic data type gaming machine, it is a non-encapsulating type gaming machine, so that it is possible to solve all the problems that the enclosed type has. Further, by adopting such a configuration, the player can proceed with the game without touching the game ball, and a clean and simple game form can be realized. Further, since the game balls are constantly replenished from outside the machine as compared with the enclosed game machine, even if the ball is clogged on the game board surface or the like, the launch balls are not insufficient.

In addition, in this solution, the three elements required for the game machine, such as "number of loans", "number of launches", and "number of prize balls", are divided into "ball rental data", "launch data", and "winning data", respectively. Since the ball data is managed based on these data, the game result can be managed by electronic data. As a result, it is possible to eliminate the error sphere (mismatch of IN / OUT) of the game sphere, and it is possible to provide a game machine in which the game result is completely digitized.

In addition, by providing an electronic game machine, the work of transporting, counting, and checking the dollar box, which occupies most of the work of employees, becomes unnecessary, and labor costs can be significantly reduced.
Furthermore, since the game results are managed by electronic data, prize balls are not required, the number of game balls circulated and held in the entire island equipment can be reduced, and maintenance of the existing island equipment becomes easy.

Moreover, if the market introduction of the enclosed game machine is promoted, there will always be a stage where the conventional game machine and the enclosed game machine coexist, but the game machine of this solution means Although it is an electronic data type game machine, existing island equipment can be diverted, so it can serve as a bridge between the conventional game machine and the next-generation enclosed type game machine. It is possible to provide a game machine that is less likely to cause trouble at the time of introduction to the market.

Moreover, since the present solution means a game machine that manages the game result with electronic data, a launcher that does not easily generate a return ball is required. However, by using the launcher described in the above-mentioned solution, the launcher can be used. It is possible to provide an optimum launching device for such an electronic game machine.

According to the gaming machine of the present invention, it is possible to provide a configuration in which a return ball is less likely to occur.

It is a front view of a pachinko machine. It is a rear view of a pachinko machine. It is a front view which showed the game board unit alone. It is a front view which shows the part of the game board unit enlarged. It is a figure which shows the detail of the structure of the launching apparatus using the reciprocating rotary pitching mechanism. It is a figure which shows the detail of the operation of the launching apparatus using a reciprocating rotary pitching mechanism (the 1). It is a figure which shows the detail of the operation of the launching apparatus using a reciprocating rotary pitching mechanism (the 2). It is a figure which shows the detail of the structure of the launching apparatus using the reciprocating straight ball hitting mechanism. It is a figure which shows the detail of the operation of the launching apparatus using the reciprocating straight ball hitting mechanism (the 1). It is a figure which shows the detail of the operation of the launching apparatus using the reciprocating straight ball hitting mechanism (the 2). It is a figure which shows the 1st supply example at the time of supplying a game ball from a ball feeding device unit to a launching device. It is a figure which shows the details of the structure and operation of a ball feeding device. It is a figure which shows the 2nd supply example at the time of supplying a game ball from a ball feeding device unit to a launching device. It is a figure which shows the installation example of a launching apparatus. It is a figure which shows the connection relationship between a pachinko machine and a peripheral device. It is a figure which shows the relationship between a pachinko machine and an island facility. It is a block diagram which shows various electronic devices equipped in a pachinko machine. It is a flowchart (1/2) which shows the procedure example of a reset start process. It is a flowchart (2/2) which shows the procedure example of a reset start process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the power-off occurrence check process concretely. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of an interrupt management process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of a switch input event processing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the 1st special symbol memory update process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the 2nd special symbol memory update processing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the effect determination processing at the time of acquisition. It is a flowchart which shows the structure example of the special symbol game processing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the special symbol change preprocessing. It is a figure which shows an example of the variation pattern selection table at the time of disconnection. It is a figure which shows the constituent column of the 1st special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table. It is a figure which shows the constituent column of the 2nd special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table. It is a figure which shows an example of the big hit time fluctuation pattern selection table. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the special symbol storage area shift processing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the process during the special symbol stop display. It is a flowchart which shows the configuration example of the display output management process. It is a flowchart which shows the configuration example of the variable winning apparatus management process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the big prize opening opening pattern setting processing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the big prize opening opening and closing operation processing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the big prize opening closing process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the end processing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of a firing management process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the holding ball data addition processing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of a firing control process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the supply confirmation processing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of a card unit processing. It is a sequence diagram which shows the flow of the control process executed between a card unit, a firing ball management device, and a main control device. It is a continuous figure which shows the example of the effect image corresponding to the variable display and the stop display of a special symbol. It is a continuous figure which shows the flow of the reach production executed at the time of a big hit (winning). It is a continuous figure which partially shows the example of the big role middle production executed during the big hit game when it corresponds to "6 round probability variation symbol 1". It is a continuous figure which partially shows an example of a big role middle production executed during a big hit game when it corresponds to "15 round probability variation symbol". It is a continuous view which shows the flow of a game by a pachinko machine and a card unit (1/8). It is a continuous figure which shows the flow of the game by a pachinko machine and a card unit (2/8). It is a continuous figure which shows the flow of the game by a pachinko machine and a card unit (3/8). It is a continuous figure which shows the flow of the game by a pachinko machine and a card unit (4/8). It is a continuous figure which shows the flow of the game by a pachinko machine and a card unit (5/8). It is a continuous figure which shows the flow of the game by a pachinko machine and a card unit (6/8). It is a continuous figure which shows the flow of the game by a pachinko machine and a card unit (7/8). It is a continuous figure which shows the flow of the game by a pachinko machine and a card unit (8/8). It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the effect control processing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the working memory effect management process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the effect symbol management processing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure example of the effect symbol change pre-processing. It is a figure which shows the structure of the pachinko machine of 2nd Embodiment. It is a figure for demonstrating the flow of the game ball in the pachinko machine of 2nd Embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows various electronic devices equipped in the pachinko machine of 2nd Embodiment.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter, abbreviated as “pachinko machine”) 1. Further, FIG. 2 is a rear view of the pachinko machine 1. The pachinko machine 1 uses a game ball as a game medium, and the player borrows the game ball from the game hall operator and plays the game with the pachinko machine 1. Here, since the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment is an electronic data type gaming machine, the borrowed gaming ball does not directly reach the player's hand, and the holding ball data indicating the number of borrowed gaming balls is obtained. It is stored inside the gaming machine or in a valuable medium (for example, a general card such as a magnetic recording medium or a medium with a built-in storage IC or a membership card). Then, when the value of the possession ball data remains (when it is larger than 0), the player can launch the game ball and proceed with the game. However, when the value of the possessed ball data does not remain (when it becomes 0), it is necessary to lend the ball of the game ball or the like to increase the value of the possessed ball data. In the game of the pachinko machine 1, each of the game balls is a medium having a game value, and the privilege (profit) that the player enjoys as a result of the game is, for example, the game acquired by the player. It can be converted into a game value based on the number of balls. Hereinafter, the overall configuration of the game machine will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2.

[Overall configuration of the game machine]
The pachinko machine 1 mainly includes an outer frame unit 2, an integrated door unit 4, and an inner frame assembly 7 (plastic frame, game machine frame) as its main body. The integrated door unit 4 is located on the frontmost side thereof when viewed from the front facing the player. The inner frame assembly 7 is located on the back side (back side) of the integrated door unit 4, and the outer frame unit 2 is arranged so as to surround the outside of the inner frame assembly 7.

The outer frame unit 2 is a structure in which wood and metal materials are combined in a vertically long rectangular shape, and the outer frame unit 2 provides fasteners such as screws to island equipment (not shown) in the amusement park. It is fixed using. In the vertically long rectangular outer frame unit 2, wood is used for the parts corresponding to the upper and lower short sides, and metal material is used for the parts corresponding to the left and right long sides.

The integrated door unit 4 has a structure in which the operation display unit 6 is integrated at a lower position thereof. The integrated door unit 4 and the inner frame assembly 7 are attached to the island equipment via the outer frame unit 2, and each of them operates in an openable and closable manner via a hinge mechanism (not shown). The opening / closing axis of the hinge mechanism (not shown) extends in the vertical direction along the left end portion when viewed from the front of the pachinko machine 1.

A unified lock unit 9 is provided inside the right edge portion (left edge portion in FIG. 2) of the inner frame assembly 7 when viewed from the front in FIG. 1. Correspondingly, locking tools (not shown) are also provided on the right side edges (back side) of the integrated door unit 4 and the outer frame unit 2. As shown in FIG. 1, with the integrated door unit 4 and the inner frame assembly 7 closed to the outer frame unit 2, the unified lock unit 9 on the back side thereof together with the locking tool is the integrated door unit 4 and the inner frame assembly. It makes it impossible to open 7.

A cylinder lock 6a with a keyhole is provided on the right edge of the operation display unit 6. For example, when the manager of the amusement park inserts the dedicated key into the keyhole and twists the cylinder lock 6a clockwise, the unified lock unit 9 operates and the integrated door unit 4 can be opened together with the inner frame assembly 7. .. When all of these are opened from the outer frame unit 2 to the front side (moved like a door), the back side of the pachinko machine 1 is exposed on the front side.

On the other hand, when the cylinder lock 6a is twisted counterclockwise, only the lock of the integrated door unit 4 is released while the inner frame assembly 7 is locked, and the integrated door unit 4 can be opened. When the integrated door unit 4 is opened to the front side, the game board unit 8 is directly exposed, and in this state, the manager of the game field can remove obstacles such as ball clogging in the board surface. Further, when the integrated door unit 4 is opened, the operation display unit 6 is also opened to the front side.

Further, the pachinko machine 1 includes the above-mentioned game board unit 8 as a game unit. The game board unit 8 is supported by the inner frame assembly 7 above behind (inside) the integrated door unit 4. The game board unit 8 can be attached to and detached from the inner frame assembly 7 with the integrated door unit 4 opened to the front side, for example. A vertically elongated circular window 4a is formed in the central portion of the integrated door unit 4, and a glass unit (without reference numeral) is mounted in the window 4a. The glass unit is, for example, a combination of two transparent plates (glass plates) cut according to the shape of the window 4a. The glass unit is attached to the back side of the integrated door unit 4 via a fixture (not shown). A game area 8a (board surface) is formed on the front surface of the game board unit 8, and the game area 8a is visible to the player from the front side through the window 4a. When the integrated door unit 4 is closed, a space is formed between the inner surface of the glass unit and the board surface so that the game ball can flow down.

The operation display unit 6 is formed with a protruding portion 6b in a part thereof, and the protruding portion 6b has a shape protruding from the integrated door unit 4 to the front side. The pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment is a so-called CR machine (a model connected to the CR unit), but since it is an electronic data type game machine, the card unit 210 executes the ball lending process of the game ball. However, the game ball is not actually paid out to the player. Therefore, the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment does not have an upper plate, a lower plate, or the like.

Further, an effect switching button 45 is installed in the center of the upper surface of the protruding portion 6b of the operation display unit 6. The effect switching button 45 is, for example, a form in which a push-type circular button and a rotary joggling (jog dial) are combined around the push-type circular button. The player can switch the effect content (for example, the background screen displayed on the liquid crystal display 42) by pushing or rotating the effect switching button 45, for example, while the symbol is changing, the jackpot is confirmed, or It is possible to generate some kind of effect (notice effect, probabilistic promotion effect, promotion effect during a big role, etc.) during the jackpot game.

Further, a ball holding data display 123 is arranged on the front surface of the protruding portion 6b of the operation display unit 6, and the ball holding data display 123 has the remaining frequency of the valuable medium inserted in the card unit 210. And the value of the ball holding data stored in the pachinko machine 1 are displayed. In the illustrated example, "100" is displayed as the residual frequency, and "11500" is displayed as the value of the ball holding data.

A handle unit 16 (launch handle) is installed at the lower right of the operation display unit 6. By operating the handle unit 16, the player can operate the launch control board set 174 and launch (drive) the game ball toward the game area 8a (launching device). The launched game ball is thrown into the game area 8a from the vicinity of the upper left end portion of the game board unit 8. A large number of obstacle nails, windmills (without reference numerals in the figure) and the like are arranged in the game area 8a, and the thrown game ball flows down in the game area 8a while being guided and guided by the obstacle nails and the windmill. The configuration of the game area 8a (board surface) will be described later with reference to another drawing.

A card information display device 200 is arranged at the lower left of the operation display unit 6. The card information display device 200 is a unit operated by the player at the start and end of the game and at the break during the game.

At the bottom of the card information display device 200, a plurality of operation buttons such as a ball lending button 10, a holding ball button 11, a break button 12, and a clearing button 13 are provided.

When the player operates the ball lending button 10 with the valuable medium inserted in the card unit 210 (CR unit), the number of balls (for example, 125) corresponding to a predetermined frequency unit (for example, 5 degrees) is the ball data. Is added to. Further, when the player presses the holding ball button 11 in a state where the value of the holding ball data stored in the valuable medium is larger than "0", a part or all of the holding ball data stored in the valuable medium is displayed. , Transfers to the holding ball data stored in the pachinko machine 1. Further, when the player presses the break button 12, the break card is ejected from the card insertion slot 214. On the other hand, when the player operates the clearing button 13, the valuable medium in which the remaining frequency and the ball holding data are written can be returned. At this time, as the number corresponding to the unit frequency, the number obtained by deducting the consumption tax (for example, 112 pieces) may be added to the ball data. The deduction calculation may be performed on the card unit 210 side or on the game machine side (launching ball management device 92).

Further, above the card information display device 200, a data display unit 14 for displaying the remaining frequency of the valuable medium inserted in the card unit 210, the ball holding data, and the like is provided.
The data display unit 14 displays the remaining frequency of the valuable medium inserted in the card unit 210 and the value of the ball holding data stored in the valuable medium. The data display unit 14 may display information such as an advertisement for a game hall, a game method for a game machine, a display indicating a break, and a ball ejection graph.
Here, the card information display device 200 can also be a touch panel type input device. In this case, since the data display unit 14 has both the input function and the display function, a plurality of operation buttons are not required.

[Card unit]
A card unit 210 (ball lending management device) is installed on the left side of the pachinko machine 1.
The card unit 210 is an information processing device that takes in valuable media, returns valuable media, reads and writes various data to and from the valuable media, and the like. The card unit 210 is connected to the launch ball management device 92 of the pachinko machine 1 via the game ball rental device connection terminal plate 120 (communication means) of the pachinko machine 1 (see FIG. 17). Then, when the card unit 210 executes the ball lending of the game ball, the card unit 210 transmits the ball lending data command to the pachinko machine 1.

Further, a cash slot 212 is arranged above the card unit 210, and the player can insert, for example, banknotes from the cash slot 212. The type of the inserted banknote is determined inside the card unit 210, and the remaining frequency according to the type of banknote is written on the valuable medium.

Further, a card insertion slot 214 is arranged at the bottom of the card unit 210, and the player can insert a valuable medium into the card insertion slot 214, receive a valuable medium discharged from the card insertion slot 214, or the like. You can insert and remove break cards.

[Structure on the front of the frame]
The integrated door unit 4 is provided with a left top lens unit 47 and an upper right illumination unit 49 as components for directing. Of these, the left top lens unit 47 incorporates a glass frame top lamp 46 and a left glass frame decorative lamp 48, and the upper right lighting unit 49 incorporates a right glass frame decorative lamp 50. In addition, the integrated door unit 4 is provided with left and right glass frame decorative lamps 52 so as to be connected below the left top lens unit 47 and the upper right illumination unit 49, respectively. It extends from the left and right edges of the integrated door unit 4 to the protruding portion 6b of the operation display unit 6. In the integrated door unit 4, the glass frame top lamp 46, the left and right glass frame decorative lamps 48, 50, 52, etc. are arranged so as to surround the glass unit (without reference numeral).

The various lamps 46, 48, 50, and 52 described above execute the effect by, for example, emitting light from the built-in LED (lighting or blinking, change in luminance gradation, change in color tone, etc.). Further, in the upper part of the integrated door unit 4, the speakers 54 and 55 on the glass frame are incorporated in the left top lens unit 47 and the upper right illumination unit 49, respectively. On the other hand, the outer frame speaker 56 is incorporated in the lower left position of the handle unit 16. These speakers 54, 55, and 56 output sound effects, BGM, voice, and the like (general sound) to execute the effect.

[Backside configuration]
As shown in FIG. 2, on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, there are a power supply control unit 162, a main control board unit 170, a ball feeder unit 172, a launch ball alignment passage 173a, a launch ball supply passage 173b, and a launch control board. A set 174, a launch ball management board unit 176, a back cover unit 178, and the like are installed. In addition to this, on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, various electronic devices (including a control computer (not shown), a power cord (power plug) 164, and a ground wire (earth terminal) constituting the power system and control system of the pachinko machine 1 are provided. ) 166, connection wiring and the like (not shown) are installed. The electronic devices will be described later based on another block diagram (FIG. 17). The card unit is not shown.

The ball feeding device unit 172 has, for example, a storage tank 172a (launching ball receiving device) and a storage case (without reference numerals), of which the storage tank (launching ball receiving tank) 172a is the inner frame assembly 7. In the state of being installed on the upper edge (back side), the game balls replenished from the replenishment route (not shown) can be stored. The game balls stored in the storage tank 172a are guided to the launching device 300 (see FIG. 3) via the launching ball alignment passage 173a and the launching ball supply passage 173b.

The power cord 164 secures the power supply (electric power) required for the operation of the pachinko machine 1 by being connected to, for example, a power supply device (for example, AC24V) installed in the island equipment of the amusement park. Further, the ground wire 166 is connected to the ground terminal also installed in the island equipment to secure the ground (ground) of the pachinko machine 1.

[Construction of board]
FIG. 3 is a front view showing the game board unit 8 alone. In the game area 8a, a relatively large effect unit 40 is arranged at the center position thereof, and the game area 8a is largely divided into a left side portion, a right side portion, and a lower portion centering on the effect unit 40. Further, in the game area 8a, the upper start winning opening 26, the starting gate 20, the normal winning openings 22, 25, the variable starting winning device 28, the variable winning device 30, and the like are distributed and installed around the effect unit 40. There is. Of these, the upper start winning opening 26 and the variable starting winning device 28 are vertically arranged in the center of the lower portion of the game area 8a, and the starting gate 20 is arranged on the right side portion of the game area 8a. Further, the three ordinary winning openings 22 are arranged below the left side portion of the game area 8a. The remaining other ordinary winning opening 25 is arranged on the right side portion of the game area 8a. Further, the variable winning device 30 is arranged below the right side portion of the game area 8a.

The game ball thrown into the game area 8a passes through the start gate 20 in the process of its flow down, enters the upper start winning opening 26, the normal winning opening 22, 25, or is variable-started at the time of operation. The ball enters the winning device 28 or the variable winning device 30 at the time of opening operation. The game ball flowing down the left side area of the game area 8a may mainly enter the upper start winning opening 26 or the normal winning opening 22. The game ball flowing down the right side area of the game area 8a mainly passes through the start gate 20, enters the normal winning opening 25, enters the variable winning device 30 during the opening operation, or operates. There is a possibility of entering the variable start winning device 28 of. The game ball that has passed through the start gate 20 continuously flows down in the game area 8a, but the game ball that has entered the upper start winning opening 26, the normal winning opening 22, 25, the variable starting winning device 28, and the variable winning device 30 It is collected to the back side of the game board unit 8 through a through hole formed in the game board (plywood material, transparent board, etc. constituting the game board unit 8).

Here, the start gate 20 is arranged in the right side region of the game region 8a. Therefore, in the present embodiment, due to the configuration of the game area 8a (board surface), when the game ball is passed through the start gate 20, or when the game ball is inserted into the variable winning device 30, the variable starting winning device 28 is used for the game ball. It is necessary to hit the game ball into the area (right-handed area) of the right side portion in the game area 8a (perform so-called "right-handed").

In the present embodiment, the variable start winning device 28 operates when a predetermined operating condition is satisfied (when a normal symbol is stopped and displayed for a predetermined stop display time in a hit manner), and accordingly. Allows the ball to enter the lower start winning opening 28a (ordinary electric accessory). The variable start winning device 28 has, for example, a pair of left and right opening / closing members 28b, and these opening / closing members 28b reciprocate in the left-right direction along the board surface, for example, by the action of a link mechanism using a solenoid (not shown). That is, as shown by a solid line in FIG. 3, the left and right opening / closing members 28b are in the closed position with their tips facing upward, and at this time, it is impossible to enter the lower start winning opening 28a (the game ball is There is no gap for entering the ball). On the other hand, when the variable start winning device 28 is activated, the left and right opening / closing members 28b are displaced (expanded) from the closed position to the open position, respectively, and the opening width is expanded to the left and right to open the lower start winning opening 28a. During this time, the variable start winning device 28 is in a state where the game ball can be entered, and the lower start winning opening 28a can be generated (variable start winning means). At this time, the opening / closing member 28b also functions as a member for guiding the entry of the game ball into the starting winning opening 28a. Further, the arrangement of the obstacle nails installed in the game board unit 8 is basically a mode that does not extremely obstruct the flow of the game ball toward the variable start winning device 28 (lower start winning opening 28a when opened). However, the game ball does not always enter the variable start winning device 28 (lower start winning opening 28a) during the opening operation, and the winning balls occur randomly.

In addition, the variable winning device 30 operates when the specified conditions are satisfied (when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a mode other than non-winning), and the ball enters the large winning opening (without reference code). (Special electric accessory, special prize event generation means). The variable winning device 30 has, for example, one opening / closing member 30a, and the opening / closing member 30a reciprocates in the front-rear direction with respect to the board surface by the action of a link mechanism using, for example, a solenoid (not shown). As shown in the figure, the opening / closing member 30a is in the closed position (closed state) along the board surface, and at this time, it is impossible to enter the large winning opening (the large winning opening is closed). When the variable winning device 30 is activated, the opening / closing member 30a is displaced by using the lower end edge portion as a hinge so as to fall forward, and the large winning opening is opened (open state). During this time, the variable winning device 30 is in a state where the inflow of the game ball is not impossible, and the event of entering the large winning opening can be generated. At this time, the opening / closing member 30a also functions as a member for guiding the inflow of the game ball into the large winning opening.

In addition, an out opening 32 is formed in the game area 8a, and the game balls that have not entered each winning opening are finally collected to the back side of the game board unit 8 through the out opening 32. In addition, all the balls that have been driven into the game area 8a, including the game balls that have entered the normal winning openings 22 and 25, the variable starting winning device 28 (lower starting winning opening 28a), and the variable winning device 30 (large winning opening). The game ball is collected on the back side of the game board unit 8. The collected game balls are discharged from the back side of the pachinko machine 1 to the outside of the frame through an out-passage assembly (discharging device) (not shown), and further join the replenishment path of the island facility (not shown).

Further, a launching device 300 for launching a game ball toward the game area 8a is attached to the upper left portion of the game board unit 8. The launching device 300 is arranged on the upper end side of the game area 8a in the vertical direction, and launches the game ball substantially horizontally with respect to the game area 8a. The details of the configuration of the launcher 300 will be described later. Here, the substantially horizontal direction includes not only a completely horizontal direction but also a substantially horizontal direction. The extent to which it is included in the substantially horizontal direction depends on the arrangement and configuration of the launcher, but at least the range in which the game ball after launch can freely fall from the launcher (for example, about 40 degrees to the upper right). It is included in the substantially horizontal direction up to (preferably about 30 degrees above the right, more preferably about 15 degrees above the right).

[Other configurations of game board unit]
The effect unit 40 is provided with various decorative parts 40b, 40c, 40k, 40m inside the effect unit 40, in addition to the upper edge portion 40a functioning as a guide member for changing the flow direction of the game ball. The decorative parts 40b, 40c, 40k, and 40m enhance the decorativeness of the game board unit 8 by their three-dimensional modeling, and for example, by emitting transmitted light by a built-in light emitter (LED, etc.), they can perform a dramatic operation. can do. In addition, a liquid crystal display 42 (image display) is installed inside the effect unit 40, and various effect images including an effect symbol corresponding to a special symbol are displayed on the liquid crystal display 42. .. As described above, the game board unit 8 impresses the player with the characteristics of the pachinko machine 1 based on the structure of the board surface (the design of the cell board (not shown)) and the decorativeness of the effect unit 40.

A ball guide passage 40d is formed on the left edge portion of the effect unit 40, and a rolling stage 40e is formed on the lower edge portion thereof. The ball guide passage 40d opens diagonally upward to the left in the game area 8a, and when a game ball flowing down in the game area 8a randomly flows into the ball guide passage 40d, it passes through the inside and rolls. It is released onto the stage 40e. The rolling stage 40e is formed, for example, in two upper and lower stages, of which the upper stage is located at the back of the player and the lower stage is located at the front of the player. The upper surface of the rolling stage 40e has a smooth curved surface in both the upper and lower stages, and here the game ball can roll in the left-right direction. The game ball rolled on the rolling stage 40e eventually flows down into the game area 8a below the lower stage.

Further, an inflow passage 40g is formed at a substantially central position of the rolling stage 40e, and a game ball can randomly flow into the inflow passage 40g from the upper rolling stage 40e. The inflow passage 40g is formed by bending the lower edge portion of the effect unit 40 downward and then bending toward the front side in an L shape, and a ball discharge port 40h is formed at the end thereof. The ball discharge port 40h is open toward the front surface, and the opening position is located directly above the upper start winning opening 26. Therefore, the game ball that has flowed into the inflow passage 40g from above the rolling stage 40e is discharged from the ball discharge port 40h and easily passes through the upper start winning opening 26 directly below it (however, it does not always pass). Absent.).

In addition, the effect unit 40 is provided with a movable body 40f (for example, a heart-shaped ornament) for effect and a drive source (for example, a motor, a solenoid, etc.) (not shown). The movable body 40f for the effect can perform an effect accompanied by the operation of a tangible object in addition to the effect using the image by the liquid crystal display 42 and the effect by the light emitter. By such an effect using the movable body 40f, it is possible to exert an appealing power different from the effect using the two-dimensional image.

FIG. 4 is an enlarged front view showing a part of the game board unit 8 (lower right position in the window 4a). That is, the game board unit 8 is provided with, for example, a normal symbol display device 33 and a normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a at a lower right position in the window 4a, as well as a first special symbol display device 34 and a second special symbol display device. 35, a first special symbol operation storage lamp 34a, a second special symbol operation storage lamp 35a, and a game state display device 38 are provided (ordinary symbol display means, special symbol display means, lottery element storage means).

Of these, the ordinary symbol display device 33, for example, alternately lights two lamps (LEDs) to display the ordinary symbol in a variable manner, and turns on or off the lamps to stop and display the ordinary symbol. The normal symbol operation storage lamp 33a displays 0 to 4 storage numbers by, for example, a combination of turning off, turning on, and blinking two lamps (LEDs). For example, in the display mode in which both of the two lamps are turned off, 0 memory numbers are displayed, in the display mode in which one lamp is turned on, 1 memory number is displayed, and in the display mode in which the same one lamp is blinked. Two memorized numbers are displayed, three memorized numbers are displayed in the display mode in which one lamp is lit in addition to the blinking one lamp, and four memorized numbers are displayed in the display mode in which the two lamps are blinked together. The individual is displayed, and so on. Although two lamps (LEDs) are used here, four lamps (LEDs) may be used to form the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a. In this case, the number of working memories can be displayed by the number of lamps that are lit.

The normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a changes to the display mode after increasing one by one in the sense that each time the game ball passes through the start gate 20, the passage that triggers the operation lottery occurs. Then (up to 4), each time the fluctuation of the normal symbol is started with the passage as a trigger, the display mode is changed by 1 each. In the present embodiment, when the normal symbol operation storage lamp 33a is not lit (the number of stored items is 0), the game ball passes through the start gate 20 in a state where the normal symbol can already start changing (when the stop is displayed). However, the display mode does not change. That is, the number of storages (up to 4) represented by the display mode of the normal symbol operation storage lamp 33a represents the number of passages in which the fluctuation of the normal symbol has not yet started at that time.

Further, the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 35 can display, for example, a floating state and a stopped state of the special symbol by a 7-segment LED (with dots) (symbol display means, first). Symbol display means, second symbol display means). In addition, the special symbol display device 34 may have a form in which a plurality of dot LEDs are arranged geometrically (for example, in a circular shape).

Further, the first special symbol operation storage lamp 34a and the second special symbol operation storage lamp 35a are each 0 to 4 depending on the display mode composed of, for example, a combination of turning off or lighting the two lamps (LEDs) and blinking. (Memory number display means). For example, in the display mode in which both of the two lamps are turned off, the number of stored items is 0, in the display mode in which one lamp is turned on, the number of stored items is displayed, and in the display mode in which the same one lamp is blinked. Two memorized numbers are displayed, three memorized numbers are displayed in the display mode in which one lamp is lit in addition to the blinking of one lamp, and three memorized numbers are displayed in the display mode in which the two lamps are blinked together. It displays 4 pieces, and so on.

The first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a changes to the display mode after increasing one by one in the sense that each time a game ball enters the above-mentioned upper start winning opening 26, the occurrence of the entry is memorized. Every time the special symbol starts to change with the ball entering (up to 4), the display mode is changed by 1 each. Further, the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a is increased by one in the sense that each time a game ball enters the variable start winning device 28 (lower start winning opening), the occurrence of the winning ball is memorized. It changes to the later display mode (up to 4), and changes to the display mode after decreasing by 1 each time the change of the special symbol is started triggered by the entry of the ball. In the present embodiment, when the first special symbol operation storage lamp 34a is not lit (the number of stored items is 0), the upper start winning opening 26 is in a state where the first special symbol can already start fluctuating (when the stop is displayed). The display mode does not change even if the game ball enters the ball. Further, when the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a is not lit (the number of stored items is 0), the variable start winning device 28 (lower start winning opening) is in a state where the second special symbol can already start changing (when the stop is displayed). ) Does not change the display mode even if the game ball enters. That is, the number of storages (maximum of 4) represented by the display modes of the special symbol operation memory lamps 34a and 35a is that of the incoming ball for which the first special symbol or the second special symbol has not yet started to change. It represents the number of times.

Further, the game state display device 38 includes, for example, five LEDs corresponding to the probability fluctuation state display lamp 38a, the time saving state display lamp 38b, the jackpot type display lamps 38c and 38d, and the launch position designation display lamp 38e, respectively. There is. In the present embodiment, the above-mentioned ordinary symbol display device 33, ordinary symbol operation storage lamp 33a, first special symbol display device 34, second special symbol display device 35, first special symbol operation storage lamp 34a, second special The symbol operation memory lamp 35a and the game status display device 38 are mounted on the game board unit 8 in a state of being mounted on one integrated display board 89.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing details of the configuration of the launching device 300 using the reciprocating rotary pitching mechanism.
The launching device 300 is a device that launches a game ball into the game area by a reciprocating rotary pitching mechanism (swing arm method).
The launching device 300 includes a launching motor 302 as a drive source, and the launching motor 302 can be applied with a stepping motor, a rotary solenoid, a swing motor, or the like.
The firing motor 302 has a rotating shaft 304 that serves as an output shaft, and a firing arm 306 that serves as a driven member is connected to the rotating shaft 304.

The launch arm 306 is an arm-shaped member, and a rotating shaft 304 is connected to one end thereof, and a concave launch ball holding portion 308 for holding the launch ball is formed at the other end.
As shown in FIG. 5B, the launch ball holding portion 308 of the launch arm 306 has a bowl-shaped shape with a hollowed-out inside, and has an arc-shaped inner surface, and has one game ball. Can only be accommodated. Further, as shown by the alternate long and short dash line in FIG. 5 (A), when the launch arm 306 is upright, the lower side wall of the inner surface of the launch ball holding portion 308 is a continuous slope with a downward slope in order to promote the free fall of the game ball. The upper side wall of the inner surface of the launch ball holding portion 308 forms a smooth continuous curved surface so that the launch direction of the game ball is slightly upward. Since the launch ball holding unit 308 also serves as a launch ball standby unit that waits for the game ball before launch, each launch operation is stable and the accuracy of launch can be improved.
By driving the launch motor 302, the launch arm 306 can continuously rotate and reciprocate in the arc direction at intervals of, for example, 600 ms. The launch arm 306 receives and holds the launch ball at the standby position located during the outbound drive standby, and the launch ball holding unit is at the outward end position (the position indicated by the solid line in the figure) driven reciprocally by the drive of the launch motor 302. The launch ball held by the 308 is released into the space of the game ball passage 312 or the free fall passage 324 to launch the game ball.

A game ball supply hole 310 is formed at a lower left position in the center of the base 322 of the launcher 300 (a position above the launch ball holding portion 308), and one game ball is formed from the game ball supply hole 310. They are supplied one by one and sent to the launch ball holding unit 308.
Further, a game ball passage 312 (launch passage) through which the launch ball launched by the launch arm 306 passes is formed in the center on the right side of the launch device 300, and the game ball passage 312 is laterally placed in the base 322. It is hollowed out.
The game ball passage 312 is a passage that receives the launch ball from the outward end position of the launch arm 306 (the position corresponding to the arrow A in the figure) and guides the launch ball to the launch port 318. Further, the game ball passage 312 (lower side wall of the game ball passage 312) is a free fall passage that releases the launch ball to the game area by free fall when the force applied to the launch ball after receiving the launch ball is not sufficient. It is composed of 324.

Launch arm stop members 314 are arranged above and below the entrance of the game ball passage 312, and the launch arm stop member 314 is a member for stopping the rotation of the launch arm 306 and plays two types of roles. .. The first role is to receive the rotational force of the launch arm 306, and the second role is to accurately define (position) the stop position of the launch arm 306 in the rotational direction. Therefore, the lower side of the launch arm stop member 314 provided at two places is installed for shock buffering with a member such as rubber or sponge having excellent shock absorption performance, and the upper member is less deformed and the reference position is set. Necessary requirements can be satisfied by using hard rubber or the like that can be performed accurately and has excellent wear resistance. In this case, the lower impact absorbing member first contacts the launch arm 306 to weaken the rotational force, and then the launch arm stop member 314 abuts on the upper reference positioning launch arm stop member. It is preferable to consider the shape and arrangement. For example, the size of the shock absorbing member below the upper reference positioning launch arm stop member may be increased, or the shock absorbing member below the upper reference positioning launch arm stop member may be increased in size. The member can be arranged so as to protrude toward the launch arm 306. In the present embodiment, the launch motor 302 is rotated to abut the launch arm 306 against the launch arm stop member 314. However, if the launch arm 306 is configured to be completely stopped by the electromagnetic brake at the upright position, it may be configured. The firing arm stop member 314 can be omitted. Further, by arranging such a launch arm stop member 314, it is possible to realize the noise reduction of the launch device 300.

Further, near the center of the game ball passage 312, a game ball launch detection sensor 316 (launch detection means) for detecting that the game ball has been launched by the launch device 300 is arranged, and the game ball is ejected by the launch device 300. When fired, the game ball launch detection sensor 316 detects the launch of the game ball. Various sensors can be applied to the game ball launch detection sensor 316, and a photocoupler, a switch that detects the passage of the game ball by changing the impedance of the detection coil, and the like can be applied.

At the exit (terminal position) of the game ball passage 312, a launch port 318 for sending a launch ball to the game area is formed, and the launch port 318 opens to the right side of the launch device 300. Therefore, when the game ball is launched by the launching device 300, the game ball is launched in a substantially horizontal direction with respect to the game area.

Further, on the outside of the launch port 318, a return ball prevention valve 320 is arranged so as to close the launch port 318. The return ball prevention valve 320 prevents the game ball launched in the game area from returning to the launching device 300 (returning). The return ball prevention valve may be a return ball prevention valve 320 using a leaf spring as shown in FIG. 5 (A), or a return using a plate door as shown in FIG. 5 (C). It may be a ball prevention valve 321.

Further, the base 322 includes a launch motor 302, a launch arm 306, a game ball supply hole 310, a game ball passage 312, a launch arm stop member 314, a game ball launch detection sensor 316, a launch port 318, and a return ball prevention valve 320. Is attached, the launching device 300 can be unitized (partized).

Here, as shown in FIG. 5D, the launching device 300 can also be arranged at an angle with respect to the game area. Even in this way, the launching device 300 can launch the game ball in a substantially horizontal direction with respect to the game area. Since the launcher 300 is arranged on the upper end side in the vertical direction of the game area, if the shape of the launch ball holding portion 308 is a shape that allows the game ball to freely fall at the end of rotation, the return ball can be returned even if it is not horizontal. No launcher can be configured. That is, even if the launch direction vector is not horizontal (for example, even if it is about 30 degrees upward to the right), the game ball can be freely dropped at the rotation stop end due to the shape of the launch ball holding portion 308. The launching device 300 may be tilted up to about 40 degrees to the upper right, and if it is tilted to about 15 degrees to the upper right, the generation of the return ball can be further suppressed. Further, the launching device 300 may be tilted in the lower right direction. In this way, the free fall of the game ball can be further promoted.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, since the parts related to the launch system in the launch device 300 are integrated, it is possible to simplify the assembly and the simplification of the parts management.

Here, a free fall passage 324 is formed in a passage-formable region (a portion other than the space) between the end of the outward path of the launch arm 306 (the position corresponding to the arrow A in the figure) and the launch port 318. There is. The free fall passage 324 is a downwardly sloping passage that discharges the stagnant game ball to the game area when the game ball stagnates in the game ball passage 312 due to the free fall of the game ball. Further, the outward end of the launch arm 306 (the position corresponding to the arrow A in the figure) is located in front of the entrance of the game ball passage 312, and the free fall passage 324 is provided over the entire length of the game ball passage 312. There is.

6 and 7 are diagrams showing details of the operation of the launching device 300 using the reciprocating rotary pitching mechanism.
Here, FIG. 6 shows an example of a case where the game ball is launched from the launching device 300 in a normal intensity range, and FIG. 7 shows a case where the game ball is launched from the launching device 300 at the weakest intensity. Is shown as an example.

As shown in FIG. 6A, the launching arm 306 is in a collapsed state in the standby state before launching the game ball.
When the ball feeding device 500 (see FIG. 11) operates in this state, as shown in FIG. 6B, only one game ball is released from the game ball supply hole 310 and supplied to the launch ball holding unit 308. To.

Then, as shown in FIG. 6C, when the launch motor 302 is driven while the game ball is held by the launch ball holding portion 308, the launch arm 306 rotates 90 degrees clockwise together with the rotation shaft 304. It becomes an upright state, and the game ball jumps out from the launch ball holding portion 308 toward the game ball passage 312 with that momentum. The rotational speed of the launch motor 302 determines the initial velocity of the launch ball at the release point at which the launch arm 306 is vertical, which determines the launch intensity of the launch ball. Further, since the game ball passes through the game ball passage 312, the passage of the game ball is detected by the game ball launch detection sensor 316. The rotation speed of the launch motor 302, that is, the launch intensity is controlled by electric power control such as adjusting the duty ratio of the PWM drive of the launch motor 302.

After that, as shown in FIG. 6D, the game ball is discharged from the launch port 318 into the game area, but when it is released from the launch port 318, the return ball prevention valve 320 is pushed away to play the game. Proceed to the area. On the other hand, the launch arm 306 is held at an upright position (launch position) for a predetermined time (for example, about 0.1 to 0.3 seconds).
Here, after the launch arm 306 reaches the terminal position, the game ball is launched into the game area while maintaining its initial velocity, but when the launch intensity exceeds a certain level, the launch ball is launched. From the bottom of the launch ball holding portion 308 in the rotation direction of the 306, the launch ball holding portion 308 is released into the game area by centrifugal force while being pressed against the inner surface upper side wall of the launch ball holding portion 308 of the launch arm 306. That is, the vector of the launch direction is determined depending on the launch intensity (centrifugal force), the inclination angle of the launch device 300, and the shape of the inner surface upper side wall of the launch arm 306. As described above, since the shape of the launch arm 306 affects the launch direction of the game ball, it is desirable that a part or all of the launch arm 306 is made of a metal or the like having excellent wear resistance.

Then, when the predetermined holding time elapses, as shown in FIG. 6 (E), the firing arm 306 returns to the original standby position by its own weight due to the positional relationship of the center of gravity. The launch arm 306 may be returned to the original standby position by controlling the reverse rotation of the launch motor 302 instead of its own weight.
By repeating such an operation, the launching device 300 can continuously launch the game ball into the game area.

The above is an operation example when the game ball is launched from the launcher 300 in the normal strength range, but the rotational force of the launch motor 302 becomes insufficient and the game ball is launched from the launcher 300 at the weakest strength. The operation example when this is done is as follows.

As shown in FIG. 7A, the launching arm 306 is in a collapsed state in the standby state before launching the game ball.
When the ball feeding device 500 (see FIG. 11) operates in this state, as shown in FIG. 7B, only one game ball is released from the game ball supply hole 310 and supplied to the launch ball holding unit 308. To.

Then, as shown in FIG. 7C, when the launch motor 302 is driven while the game ball is held by the launch ball holding portion 308, the launch arm 306 rotates 90 degrees clockwise together with the rotation shaft 304. It will be in a standing state. However, in the illustrated example, since the rotational force of the launch motor 302 was insufficient, the game ball did not jump out of the launch ball holding portion 308 and remained in the launch ball holding portion 308.

However, as shown in FIG. 7D, since the inner surface of the launch ball holding portion 308 is arcuate, the game ball rolls on the arcuate slope and is guided to the game ball passage 312. Further, since the lower surface of the game ball passage 312 is a downwardly inclined free fall passage 324, the game ball is discharged from the launch port 318 into the game area by free fall. When the game ball is released from the launch port 318, the return ball prevention valve 320 is pushed away to advance to the game area. In this case, since the game ball passes through the game ball passage 312, the passage of the game ball is detected by the game ball launch detection sensor 316.

On the other hand, the launch arm 306 is held at an upright position (launch position) for a predetermined time (for example, about 0.1 to 0.3 seconds). In this way, the launch arm 306 is held in a vertical position for a predetermined time, and the game ball passage 312 is formed so that the launch ball can fall at least freely even when the launch intensity of the launch ball becomes weak again. , The launch ball does not remain in the launch ball holding portion 308. Further, if the already launched game ball is reflected (bounced) by an obstacle nail or the like and tries to flow back to the launch port 318, the return ball prevention valve 320 is pushed in the direction of the launch port 318 to the board surface of the launch ball. Even when a force is applied to prevent the release of the launching arm 306, the launching arm 306 is urged (held) at this vertical position with sufficient strength for a predetermined time, so that the launching ball is not pushed back and at least free fall. Is released to the board surface.

Then, when the predetermined holding time elapses, the firing arm 306 returns to the original standby position as shown in FIG. 7 (E).

As described above, in the present embodiment, the inner surface of the launch ball holding portion 308 has an arc shape, and the lower surface of the game ball passage 312 is a downwardly inclined free fall passage 324. Even if the firing power is not sufficient, the game ball is released into the game area by free fall. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to provide a launching device 300 in which a return ball is unlikely to occur.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing details of the configuration of the launching device 400 using the reciprocating straight-ahead ball striking mechanism.
The launching device 300 described above has been described with an example of a device for launching a game ball by a reciprocating rotary pitching mechanism, but here, an example of a device for launching a game ball by a reciprocating straight-ahead pitching mechanism will be described.

The launching device 400 includes a straight-moving solenoid 402, a driven member 404, a game ball supply hole 406, a game ball passage 408, a game ball launch detection sensor 410, a launch port 412, a return ball prevention valve 414, and a base 416. ..

The linear solenoid 402 is an actuator that operates with a driving force corresponding to the amount of rotation when the handle unit 16 is rotated beyond the play angle, and is fixed near the center of the base 416 (drive source).

The driven member 404 is a cylindrical rod-shaped member, and by operating the linear solenoid 402, it is possible to continuously advance and retreat in a substantially horizontal direction (straight reciprocating motion), for example, at intervals of 600 ms.
A cushioning material 404a is attached to the front end portion of the driven member 404, and a stopper 404b is attached to the rear end portion. The cushioning material 404a is used as a hammer for hitting (horizontally hitting) the game ball in the game ball standby unit 405 when the driven member 404 moves forward. The stopper 404b is a member that regulates the amount of movement of the driven member 404. The game ball hit by the driven member 404 is discharged to the game area through the game ball passage 408 and the launch port 412.

A game ball supply hole 406 is formed diagonally upward to the right of the game ball standby unit 405, and game balls are supplied one by one from the game ball supply hole 406 and sent to the game ball standby unit 405.

The game ball passage 408 is a launch passage for a game ball connecting the game ball standby unit 405 to the launch port 412, and is formed by being laterally hollowed out in the base 416.
The game ball passage 408 (launch passage) is a passage that receives the launch ball from the outward terminal position (position corresponding to the arrow A in the figure) of the driven member 404 and guides the launch ball to the launch port 412. Further, the game ball passage 408 (lower side wall of the game ball passage 408) is a free fall passage that releases the launch ball to the game area by free fall when the force applied to the launch ball after receiving the launch ball is not sufficient. It is composed of 418. The free fall passage 418 can be a downhill (downhill) passage. An uphill (uphill) game ball standby portion 405 is formed on the upstream side (left side in the figure) of the game ball passage 408, and the free fall passage 418 is formed so as to be connected to the game ball standby portion 405. .. This ascending inclination plays a role of stably stationary the game ball with respect to the game ball standby unit 405. On the other hand, the downward inclination of the game ball passage 408 plays a role of free-falling the game ball into the game area (free-fall passage 418). The game ball standby unit 405 is a position where the game ball immediately before being hit by the driven member 404 stands by. The driven member 404 hits the game ball waiting in the game ball standby unit 405 and launches it into the space of the game ball passage 408 by driving the linear solenoid 402, and the launch ball reaches the free fall passage 418. It is extended to the position (the position corresponding to the arrow A in the figure). In this way, since the driven member 404 is extended to the position where the launch ball reaches the free fall passage, the game ball does not go back uphill and the generation of the return ball can be avoided. Although the game ball standby unit 405 has been described with the example of being configured by an ascending inclination, for example, a magnet or a small recess is provided to appropriately hold the supplied game ball, and thereafter (magnet or recess). Downstream) can also be constructed in a horizontal plane. Further, the game ball standby unit 405 exerts a function of making the game ball stand by before being launched, and is different from the launch passage through which the game ball bounced by the driven member 404 passes.

The game ball launch detection sensor 410 is a sensor that detects the passage of the game ball at a position in front of the launch port 412. The game ball launch detection sensor 410 comprises a reflective photocoupler provided on the base 416 so as to surround the game ball passage 408 at a position beyond the apex of the uphill inclination of the game ball passage 408, and allows the game ball to pass through. Can be detected. The game ball launch detection sensor 410 is not limited to such a reflective photocoupler, and may be a switch that detects the passage of the game ball by changing the impedance of the detection coil.

The launch port 412 is formed at the end of the game ball passage 408 and is opened on the right side surface of the base 416. Therefore, the launch port 412 sends out the game ball in the substantially horizontal direction with respect to the game area.

The return ball prevention valve 414 is arranged outside the launch port 412 and so as to block the launch port 412. The return ball prevention valve 414 prevents the game ball launched in the game area from returning to the launching device 400. The return ball prevention valve may be a return ball prevention valve 414 using a leaf spring as shown in FIG. 8 (A), or a return using a plate door as shown in FIG. 8 (B). It may be a ball prevention valve 415.

Further, a straight-moving solenoid 402, a driven member 404, a game ball supply hole 406, a game ball passage 408, a game ball launch detection sensor 410, a launch port 412, and a return ball prevention valve 414 are attached to the base 416. Therefore, the launcher 400 can be unitized (partized).

As described above, according to the present embodiment, since the parts related to the launch system in the launch device 400 are integrated, it is possible to simplify the assembly and the simplification of the parts management.

As described above, the game ball passage 408 (launch passage) is composed of the free fall passage 418. The free fall passage 418 is a downwardly sloping passage that discharges the stagnant game ball to the game area due to the free fall of the game ball when the game ball stagnates in the game ball passage 408.
The outward end of the driven member 404 (the position corresponding to the arrow A in the figure) is located before the apex of the ascending inclination (here, the end of the game ball standby portion 405 and the start of the free fall passage 418). , The free fall passage 418 is provided between the apex of the uphill slope and the launch port 412.

9 and 10 are diagrams showing details of the operation of the launching device 400 using the reciprocating straight-ahead ball striking mechanism.
Here, FIG. 9 shows an example of a case where the game ball is launched from the launching device 400 in a normal intensity range, and FIG. 10 shows a case where the game ball is launched from the launching device 400 at the weakest intensity. Is shown as an example.

As shown in FIG. 9A, the driven member 404 is in a retracted state in the standby state before launching the game ball.
When the ball feeding device 500 (see FIG. 9) operates in this state, as shown in FIG. 9B, only one game ball is released from the game ball supply hole 406, and the game ball is released from the game ball standby unit 405. Will be sent to.

Then, as shown in FIG. 9C, when the linear solenoid 402 is driven while the game ball is waiting on the game ball standby unit 405, the driven member 404 is in a state of protruding forward (on the right side in the figure). , The game ball is played with that momentum. Further, since the game ball passes through the game ball passage 408, the passage of the game ball is detected by the game ball launch detection sensor 410.

After that, as shown in FIG. 9D, the game ball is discharged from the launch port 412 into the game area, but when it is released from the launch port 412, the return ball prevention valve 414 is pushed away to play the game. Proceed to the area. On the other hand, the driven member 404 is held at a protruding position (launching position) for a predetermined time (for example, about 0.1 to 0.3 seconds).

Then, when the predetermined holding time elapses, the driven member 404 returns to the original standby position as shown in FIG. 9 (E).
By repeating such an operation, the launching device 400 can continuously launch the game ball into the game area.

The above is an operation example when the game ball is launched from the launcher 400 in the normal strength range, but the driving force of the straight solenoid 402 becomes insufficient and the game ball is launched from the launcher 400 at the weakest strength. An example of operation when fired is as follows.

As shown in FIG. 10A, the driven member 404 is in a retracted state in the standby state before launching the game ball.
When the ball feeding device 500 (see FIG. 11) operates in this state, as shown in FIG. 10B, only one game ball is released from the game ball supply hole 406, and the game ball is released from the game ball standby unit 405. Will be sent to.

Then, as shown in FIG. 10 (C), when the linear solenoid 402 is driven while the game ball is waiting on the game ball standby unit 405, the driven member 404 is in a state of protruding forward, and the cushioning material 404a and the cushioning material 404a. Contact with the game ball. However, in the illustrated example, the driving force of the straight-moving solenoid 402 was insufficient, so that the game ball was not vigorously flipped and was only pushed forward.

However, as shown in FIG. 10 (D), since the game ball passage 408 is composed of a downwardly inclined free fall passage 418, the game ball is discharged from the launch port 412 into the game area by free fall. When the game ball is released from the launch port 412, the return ball prevention valve 414 is pushed away to advance to the game area. In this case, since the game ball passes through the game ball passage 408, the passage of the game ball is detected by the game ball launch detection sensor 410.

On the other hand, the driven member 404 is held at a protruding position (launching position) for a predetermined time (for example, about 0.1 to 0.3 seconds). In this way, the driven member 404 is held at the launch position for a predetermined time, and the free fall passage 418 is formed so that the driven member 404 can fall at least freely even when the launch strength of the launch ball becomes weak again. Therefore, the launching ball does not remain in the launching device 400.

Then, when the predetermined holding time elapses, the driven member 404 returns to the original standby position as shown in FIG. 10 (E).

As described above, in the present embodiment, since the game ball passage 408 (launch passage) is composed of the free fall passage 418, even if the launch force of the launch device 400 is not sufficient, the game ball can be used. It is released into the game area by free fall. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to provide a launching device 400 in which a return ball is unlikely to occur.

Further, in the present embodiment, the driven member 404 is extended to a position where the launch ball reaches the free fall passage 418 at the outward drive end, so that the game ball standby portion is inclined upward to the upstream of the game ball passage 408. Even if the 405 is present, the game ball will be pushed beyond the end of the uphill slope. Therefore, it is possible to provide the launching device 400 in which the game ball does not go back uphill and the return ball is unlikely to occur. Further, if the already launched game ball is reflected (bounced) by an obstacle nail or the like and tries to flow back to the launch port 412, the return ball prevention valve 414 is pushed in the direction of the launch port 412 to the board surface of the launch ball. Even when a force that prevents the release of the ball is exerted, the driven member 404 is urged (held) at this feeding position (outward path end position) with sufficient strength for a predetermined time, so that the launch ball is not pushed back. At a minimum, it is released to the board by free fall.

Here, the shapes of the free fall passage 324 included in the launching device 300 and the free fall passage 418 included in the launching device 400 are not limited to the above examples, and the degree of freedom regarding the shape is expanded by the following method. Can be (improved).
For example, if the sensor as the launch detection means is composed of only the game ball supply detection sensor 106 and the game ball launch detection sensor 316 and the game ball launch detection sensor 410 are removed, the shape of the free fall passage 324 (free fall passage 418) can be changed. The degree of freedom is further expanded. In this case, a part or all of the downward slope can be a vertical shape (shape of a cliff), or a shape that is cut vertically or higher (a shape that has a slope of 90 degrees or more with respect to the vertical line, the inside of the launcher). It can also be a shape having an intruded slope). By adopting such a configuration, the free fall passage 324 (free fall passage 418) can have a shorter length from the start end to the end, and as a result, the launcher can be made smaller. Can be done.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a first supply example when a game ball is supplied from the ball feeding device unit 172 to the launching device 300.
The first supply example is an example in which a game ball is supplied from an external island facility via a storage tank 172a of the ball feeding device unit 172.
Here, in the first supply example, the launching device 300 is arranged on the left side of the game board unit 8, and the ball feeding device unit 172 is arranged on the back side of the game board unit 8 and the launching device 300.

Further, in the first supply example, the game ball is supplied to the storage tank 172a of the ball feeding device unit 172 from an island facility (not shown). The game balls supplied to the storage tank 172a are sent to the launch ball alignment passage 173a, and are aligned in a row in this passage.

The ball feed device 500 of the ball feed device unit 172 supplies the game balls aligned in the launch ball alignment passage 173a one by one to the launch device 300 at the timing of launch. The details of the ball feeding device 500 will be described later.

The game ball from the ball feeding device 500 passes through the launch ball supply passage 173b and reaches the launch ball holding portion 308 of the arm-shaped launch arm 306. The launch ball supply passage 173b is an L-shaped passage extending in the vertical direction and then toward the front side of the game board unit 8.
A game ball supply detection sensor 106 (launch detection means) is provided in the launch ball supply passage 173b, and the game ball is supplied from the ball feed device 500 to the launch device 300 by the game ball supply detection sensor 106. Is detected.

The launching device 300 and the ball feeding device 500 can be separately attached to the game board unit 8 and the ball feeding device unit 172, but by assembling both to the base 322 and unitizing them, the launching device 300 and the ball feeding device 500 can be attached to the game board unit 8. Installation can be simplified.

As described above, according to the first supply example, the game ball before launch can be temporarily stored in the storage tank 172a, so that the existing island equipment uses a game machine equipped with a tank corresponding to the storage tank 172a. If it has been done, the affinity with the existing island facilities can be improved.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing details of the configuration and operation of the ball feeding device 500.
The ball feeding device 500 is a device that supplies a game ball to the launching device 300, and has a ball feeding rotating body 504 that is rotationally driven by a ball feeding motor 502 (see FIG. 11).
The ball feed rotating body 504 is formed with a notch portion 506 that can accept only one game ball in a part thereof.

As shown in FIG. 12A, the game balls from the storage tank are aligned in a row at the launch ball alignment passage 173a. Then, in the state before the ball feed device 500 supplies the game balls, the leading game balls lined up in the launch ball alignment passage 173a are in contact with the side surface of the ball feed rotating body 504.

When the ball feeding operation of the ball feeding device 500 is started, as shown in FIG. 12B, the ball feeding rotating body 504 rotates counterclockwise, and the notch 506 makes a direction of the launch ball alignment passage 173a. Since it faces, the leading game ball enters the notch 506.

Then, as shown in FIG. 12C, when the ball feed rotating body 504 rotates clockwise, the game ball that has entered the notch 506 is released into the launch ball supply passage 173b, and then supplied to the launch device. To.
The ball feeding device 500 can supply the game balls one by one to the launching device by repeating such an operation.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a second supply example when the game ball is supplied from the ball feeding device unit 172 to the launching device 300. Here, FIG. 13A shows a plan view of the launching device 300, the ball feeding device 500, and the like, and FIG. 13B shows a side view of the launching ball alignment passage 173a, the bellows hose 510, and the like. Shown.
The second supply example is an example in which the game ball is directly supplied without passing through the storage tank 172a of the ball feeding device unit 172.
In the illustrated example, a launch ball receiving port 173c (launch ball receiving device, game ball receiving port) for receiving the launch ball is formed at the right end of the launch ball alignment passage 173a.

Then, in the second supply example, as shown in FIG. 13B, a bellows hose 510 (spring passage), which is a part of the supply passage of the island equipment (not shown), is connected to the launch ball receiving port 173c. The game ball is sent to the launch ball alignment passage 173a. Since the other configurations are the same as those of the first supply example described above, the description thereof will be omitted.

As described above, in the second supply example, the configuration does not go through the storage tank when the game ball is received, so that a simpler configuration can be realized. Further, since the configuration does not pass through the storage tank, it is possible to create a state in which the game balls are aligned in a row from the beginning in the launch ball alignment passage 173a, and it is possible to reduce ball clogging.

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of mounting the launcher.
The launching device 300 can be attached to the game board unit 8 as described above, but can also be attached to the game machine frame as shown in FIG. In the example shown in FIG. 14, the launcher 300 is attached to the upper left upper portion of the inner wall of the inner frame assembly 7.

By attaching the launching device 300 to the inner frame assembly 7 in this way, it is not necessary to replace the launching device 300 when replacing the game board unit 8. That is, when replacing only the game board unit 8 without replacing the inner frame assembly 7 at the time of replacing the new stand, the launching device 300 attached to the inner frame assembly 7 can be used as it is. There are advantages.

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a connection relationship between the pachinko machine and peripheral devices.
In the pachinko machine 1A shown in FIG. 15A, the card unit 210 and the card information display device 200 are integrated. Therefore, the integrated card unit 210 and the card information display device 200 can be separated from the pachinko machine 1A. Further, the handle unit 16 can also be separated from the pachinko machine 1A. However, the handle unit 16 may be integrated with the pachinko machine 1A. By making each part separable from the pachinko machine 1A in this way, in the event of a failure of each part, each part can be replaced individually, and maintainability can be improved. In the description after FIG. 15, the connection form of the pachinko machine 1A is premised.

In the pachinko machine 1B shown in FIG. 15B, the card unit 210 and the card information display device 200 are not integrated. Therefore, the card unit 210 can be separated from the pachinko machine 1B, and the card information display device 200 can be separated. Further, the handle unit 16 can also be separated from the pachinko machine 1B.

In the pachinko machine 1C shown in FIG. 15C, the card unit 210 and the card information display device 200 are integrated, and the card information display device 200 is attached to the front surface of the card unit 210. Therefore, the integrated card unit 210 and the card information display device 200 can be separated from the pachinko machine 1C. Further, the handle unit 16 can also be separated from the pachinko machine 1C. Moreover, since the card information display device 200 is not arranged in the area A shown in FIG. 15 (C), it can be used as a utility space. As a method of utilizing the utility space, for example, it can be used as a storage place for small items of a player or as an ashtray space.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing the relationship between the pachinko machine and the island equipment.
Although the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment is an electronic data type gaming machine, the existing island equipment can be used as it is.
In the upper part of the island equipment 600, an upper tank 602 (game ball supply device) for storing game balls, an illegal ball detection device 606 for detecting illegal balls, and a supply passage 608 for supplying game balls to each pachinko machine 1 ( A game ball supply device) is arranged.

Further, in the lower part of the island facility 600, a collection device 610 for collecting the game balls, a collection passage 612 for passing the game balls collected by the collection device 610, and a lower tank 614 for storing the collected game balls are arranged. There is.
A lifting polishing device 616 (lifting passage) for raising the game ball while polishing the game ball is installed between the upper tank 602 and the lower tank 614.

Next, the flow of the game ball will be described.
The game ball stored in the upper tank 602 is sent to the illegal ball detection device 606, and whether or not it is an illegal ball (whether or not it is a game ball having a ball diameter smaller than the specified ball diameter) is detected there. To.

The game ball that is not determined to be an illegal ball by the illegal ball detection device 606 is sent to the storage tank 172a of the pachinko machine 1 through the supply passage 608, and is sent from the storage tank 172a to the launching device 300.
The game ball launched from the launcher 300 flows down the game area, is then discharged to the outside of the machine via the out aisle assembly 250, and is sent to the lower tank 614 through the recovery device 610 and the recovery passage 612.
The game ball sent to the lower tank 614 is sent to the upper tank 602 while being polished by the lifting polishing device 616 to remove dirt, dust, and the like.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the game balls are directly received from the island facility 600 and fired, and all the fired game balls are collected by the out-aisle assembly 250 and discharged to the outside of the machine. , A pachinko machine 1 that does not enclose a game ball can be provided. As a result, it is possible to eliminate the problems (harmful effects) that the enclosed type has, and it is possible to use the existing island equipment such as the circulation mechanism of the game ball, the polishing device 604, the fraudulent ball detection device 606, and the like as they are.
Further, by adopting such a configuration, the player can proceed with the game without touching the game ball, and a clean and simple game form can be realized.

Further, in the present embodiment, since the launching device 300 is arranged on the upper end side of the pachinko machine 1, the launching ball can be easily received from the supply passage 608, and the existing island equipment 600 can be used as it is. Not only can this be achieved, but the launcher 300 can be made with improved consistency with the existing island equipment 600.

[Control configuration]
Next, the configuration related to the control of the pachinko machine 1 will be described. FIG. 17 is a block diagram showing various electronic devices mounted on the pachinko machine 1. The pachinko machine 1 includes a main control device 70 (main control computer, game control unit) that is the center of control operation, and the main control device 70 mainly functions to control the progress of the game in the pachinko machine 1. have. The main control device 70 is built in the main control board unit 170.

Further, the main control device 70 is equipped with a circuit board (main control board) on which a main control CPU 72, which is a central arithmetic processing unit, is mounted, and the main control CPU 72 includes a ROM 74 and a RAM (main control board) together with a CPU core and registers (not shown). It is configured as an LSI in which semiconductor memories such as RWM) 76 are integrated. Further, the main control device 70 is equipped with a random number generator 75 and a sampling circuit 77. Of these, the random number generator 75 generates a hardware random number (for example, 0 to 65535 in decimal notation) for a big hit determination of a special symbol lottery or a hit determination of a normal symbol lottery, and the random number generated here. Is input to the main control CPU 72 through the sampling circuit 77. In addition, the main control device 70 is equipped with peripheral ICs such as an input / output (I / O) port 79, a clock generation circuit (not shown), and a counter / timer circuit (CTC), which are circuits together with the main control CPU 72. It is mounted on the board. A signal transmission path, a power supply path, a control bus, and the like are formed as wiring patterns on the circuit board (or inner layer portion).

Further, the semiconductor memory of the main control device 70 can store ID information of the main control CPU 72, ID information of the pachinko machine 1, security information for confirming the authenticity of the main control CPU 72, and the like (game). Control unit identification information storage means, security information storage means, game machine identification information storage means). Then, these information become information forming a part of the game machine state information command, and are transmitted from the pachinko machine 1 to the card unit 210.

The start gate 20 described above is integrally provided with a gate switch 78 for detecting the passage of the game ball. Further, the game board unit 8 has an upper start winning opening switch 80 (ball winning detection means) and a lower starting winning opening switch 82 (corresponding to the upper starting winning opening 26, the variable starting winning device 28, and the variable winning device 30, respectively. A ball entry detection means) and a count switch 84 (ball entry detection means) are provided. The starting winning opening switches 80 and 82 are for detecting the winning of the game ball to the upper starting winning opening 26 and the variable starting winning device 28 (lower starting winning opening 28a). Further, the count switch 84 is for detecting the winning of the game ball to the variable winning device 30 (large winning opening) and counting the number thereof. Similarly, the game board unit 8 is equipped with a winning opening switch 86 for detecting the winning of a game ball into the ordinary winning openings 22 and 25. Here, a configuration in which a common winning opening switch 86 is used for all the ordinary winning opening 22 and 25 is given as an example, but for example, separate winning opening switches 86 are installed on the left and right sides of the board, and the winning opening switch on the left side is installed. The 86 may detect the winning of the game ball for the ordinary winning opening 22 located on the left side of the board, and the right winning opening switch 86 may detect the winning of the game ball for the ordinary winning opening 25 located on the right side of the board. ..

In any case, the winning detection signals of the switches 78 to 86 are input to the main control CPU 72 via an input / output driver (not shown). Due to the configuration of the game board unit 8, in the present embodiment, the winning detection signals from the gate switch 78, the count switch 84, and the winning port switch 86 are transmitted via the panel relay terminal board 87, and the panel relay terminal board 87. Is provided with a wiring pattern, a connection terminal, and the like for relaying each winning detection signal.

The above-mentioned ordinary symbol display device 33, ordinary symbol operation memory lamp 33a, first special symbol display device 34, second special symbol display device 35, first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a, and game. The status display device 38 controls the display operation based on the control signal from the main control CPU 72. The main control CPU 72 outputs control signals for the display devices 33, 34, 35, 38 and the lamps 33a, 34a, 35a according to the progress of the game, and controls the lighting state of each LED. Further, these display devices 33, 34, 35, 38 and lamps 33a, 34a, 35a are installed in the game board unit 8 in a state of being mounted on one integrated display board 89 as described above, and the integrated display devices 33, 34, 35, 38 and lamps 33a, 34a, 35a are installed in the game board unit 8. A control signal is transmitted from the main control CPU 72 to the display board 89 by relaying the panel relay terminal board 87.

Further, the game board unit 8 is provided with a normal electric accessory solenoid 88 and a large winning opening solenoid 90 corresponding to the variable start winning device 28 and the variable winning device 30, respectively. These solenoids 88 and 90 operate (excite) based on the control signal from the main control CPU 72, and open / close (operate) the variable start winning device 28 and the variable winning device 30, respectively. The solenoids 88 and 90 are also relayed by the panel relay terminal plate 87, and a control signal is transmitted from the main control CPU 72.

Further, the game board unit 8 is provided with a magnetic sensor 202 (magnetic detection means), a vibration sensor 204 (vibration detection means), and a radio wave sensor 206 (radio wave detection means), of which the magnetic sensor 204 is installed. The magnetic flux flying to the game board unit 8 is detected at the position, and a detection signal corresponding to the density (magnetic strength) is output. Further, the vibration sensor 206 detects the acceleration (vibration) applied to the game board unit 8 at the installation position, and outputs a detection signal according to the magnitude thereof. Further, the radio wave sensor 206 detects the radio wave that reaches the game board unit 8 at the installation position, and outputs a detection signal according to the reception strength of the radio wave. The detection signals of the magnetic sensor 202, the vibration sensor 204, and the radio wave sensor 206 are input to the main control device 70 (main control CPU 72) through the panel relay terminal plate 87, respectively.

In addition, the glass frame opening switch 91 (operation detecting means) is installed in the integrated door unit 4, and the plastic frame opening switch 93 (operation detecting means) is installed in the inner frame assembly 7. There is. When the integrated door unit 4 is independently opened, a contact signal from the glass frame opening switch 91 is input to the main control device 70 (main control CPU 72), and the inner frame assembly 7 is released from the outer frame unit 2. Then, the contact signal from the plastic frame release switch 93 is input to the main control device 70 (main control CPU 72). The main control CPU 72 can detect the open state of the integrated door unit 4 and the inner frame assembly 7 from these contact signals. When the main control CPU 72 detects the open state of the integrated door unit 4 and the inner frame assembly 7, it generates a door open information signal as an external information signal.

The back side of the pachinko machine 1 is equipped with a launch ball management device 92 (launch ball management unit). The launch ball management device 92 is equipped with a circuit board on which a launch control CPU 94 is mounted, and the launch control CPU 94 is configured as an LSI in which semiconductor memories such as ROM 96 and RAM 98 are integrated together with a CPU core (not shown). .. The launch ball management device 92 controls the operation of the launch device 300 and manages the ball possession data indicating the number of game balls that can be launched by the launch device 300.

A ball holding ball data display board 122 is connected to the launch ball management device 92, and a ball holding ball data display 123 (LED display) is connected to the ball holding ball data display board 122. From the card unit 210, frequency data or the like representing the remaining frequency of the valuable medium is transmitted to the ball holding data display board 122 via the game ball rental device connection terminal plate 120 and the launch ball management device 92. A display circuit (not shown) on the holding ball data display board 122 drives the holding ball data display 123, and numerically displays the remaining frequency of the valuable medium and the holding ball data stored in the launching ball management device 92. Further, the valuable medium is not inserted into the card unit 210, the remaining frequency of the inserted valuable medium becomes 0, or the value of the holding ball data stored in the launch ball management device 92 becomes 0. In this case, the display circuit of the holding ball data display board 122 can also drive the holding ball data display 123 to perform a demo display (display prompting the input of valuable media).

Further, on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, a launch motor 302 and a ball feed motor 502 are installed together with a launch control board 108. The launch control board 108 is provided with drive circuits for the launch motor 302 and the ball feed motor 502. Of these, the launch motor 302 throws the game balls sent out to the launch position, and continuously (intermittently) throws the game balls one by one toward the game area 8. The firing interval of the game balls is, for example, an interval of about 0.6 seconds (within 100 balls in 1 minute). When a launching device 400 (see FIG. 8) that launches a game ball by a reciprocating straight-moving ball striking mechanism is adopted, a straight-moving solenoid 402 is installed instead of the launch motor 302, and the game is played instead of the game ball launch detection sensor 316. The ball launch detection sensor 410 will be installed. Further, the ball feed motor 502 operates to send the game balls stored in the launch ball supply passage 173b one by one to the launch device 300.

In addition, a supply path ball out switch 104 is installed at an upstream position of the storage case, and a game ball supply detection sensor 106 is installed at a downstream position of the launch ball supply passage 173b, near the launch port of the game ball. A game ball launch detection sensor 316 is installed in the.

When the ball breaks at the upstream position of the storage case, the contact signal from the supply path ball break switch 104 is input to the firing control board 108. Further, each time a game ball is supplied to the launch device 300 by driving the ball feed motor 502, a detection signal from the game ball supply detection sensor 106 is input to the launch control board 108. Further, each time the game ball is launched from the launch device 300 by driving the launch motor 302, the detection signal from the game ball launch detection sensor 316 is input to the launch control board 108. Further, each time the game ball is collected in the out-passage assembly, the detection signal from the discharge sensor 107 is input to the launch control board 108. The launch control board 108 transmits the input detection signal and contact signal to the launch ball management device 92. The launch holding ball management device 92 can grasp the actual number of launches and the out-of-ball state based on the signal received from the launch control board 108. Further, since the launch ball management device 92 can grasp the number of launches and the number of emissions based on these input signals, it is possible to detect an error state in which the number of launches and the number of emissions do not match. In this embodiment, the detection signals from the game ball supply detection sensor 106, the game ball launch detection sensor 316, and the discharge sensor 107 are input to the launch control board 108 and then transmitted to the launch ball management device 92. However, these sensors may be directly connected to the launch ball management device 92 without going through the launch control board 108 to manage the launch ball (holding ball data) and error detection.

On the other hand, the handle unit 16 located on the front side of the pachinko machine 1 is provided with a firing lever volume 112, a touch sensor 114, and a firing stop switch 116. Of these, the firing lever volume 112 generates an analog signal proportional to the amount of operation (so-called stroke) of the firing handle by the player. Further, the touch sensor 114 detects that the player's body is touching the handle unit 16 (launching handle) from the change in capacitance, and outputs the detection signal. Then, the launch stop switch 116 generates a launch stop signal (contact signal) according to the operation of the player.

Further, a launch relay terminal plate 118 is installed on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, and each signal from the launch lever volume 112, the touch sensor 114, and the launch stop switch 116 is launched via the launch relay terminal plate 118. It is transmitted to the control board 108. When the player operates the firing handle, an analog signal (which may be an encoded digital signal) is generated by the firing lever volume 112 according to the amount of operation, and the firing motor 302 is driven based on the signal at this time. As a result, the strength with which the game ball is launched is adjusted according to the amount of operation by the player. In the drive circuit of the launch control board 108, when the detection signal from the touch sensor 114 is off (low level), when the launch stop signal is input from the launch stop switch 116, the launch holding ball data is "0". In some cases, driving the launch motor 302 is prohibited. In addition to this, when the game ball rental device connection terminal plate 120 is connected to the launch relay terminal plate 118 and the card unit 210 is not connected to the game ball rental device connection terminal plate 120, the same firing control is performed. The drive circuit of the substrate 108 prohibits the drive of the launch motor 302.

Further, the gaming machine of the present embodiment is not provided with an external terminal plate. Therefore, the game ball rental device connection terminal plate 120 takes on the role of an external terminal plate. Specifically, the game ball rental device connection terminal plate 120 serves to connect the pachinko machine 1 to the external management device 260 (for example, a data display device, a hall computer, a network management device, etc.) via the card unit 210. From this game ball rental device connection terminal plate 120, various external information signals (for example, prize ball information, door opening information, symbol confirmation count information, jackpot) indicating the game progress state, maintenance state, etc. of the pachinko machine 1 are achieved. Information, start port information, etc.) are output by serial signals, etc.

Further, the card information display device 200 is connected to the game ball or the like lending device connection terminal plate 120 via the card unit 210. The card information display device 200 is equipped with switch modules connected to the ball lending button 10, the holding ball button 11, the break button 12, and the clearing button 13, respectively, and when these buttons are operated, the operation signal is signaled. Is transmitted to the card unit 210. Further, the card unit 210 includes a CPU and the like that control the card unit 210, and the card information display device 200 includes a CPU that controls the card information display device 200 and a VDP and the like that are display processors.

Further, the pachinko machine 1 is provided with an effect control device 124 (effect control computer) as a control configuration. The effect control device 124 controls the effect as the game progresses in the pachinko machine 1. The effect control device 124 is also equipped with a circuit board (composite sub-control board) on which the effect control CPU 126, which is a central arithmetic processing unit, is mounted. The effect control CPU 126 includes a semiconductor memory such as a ROM 128 or a RAM 130 as a main memory together with a CPU core (not shown). The effect control device 124 is provided on the back side of the pachinko machine 1 at a position covered by the back cover unit 178.

Further, the effect control device 124 is equipped with an input / output driver (not shown) and various peripheral ICs, as well as a lamp drive circuit 132 and an acoustic drive circuit 134. The effect control CPU 126 controls the effect based on the command for the effect transmitted from the main control CPU 72, gives commands to the lamp drive circuit 132 and the acoustic drive circuit 134, and emits various lamps 46 to 52 and the board lamp 53. The processing is performed so that the speakers 54, 55, 56 actually output sound effects, voices, and the like.

The effect control device 124 and the main control device 70 are connected to each other via, for example, a communication harness (not shown). However, communication between them is performed in only one direction from the main control device 70 to the effect control device 124, and communication in the opposite direction is not performed. The communication harness may adopt a parallel format according to the bus width of various commands transmitted from the main control device 70 to the effect control device 124, or each driver IC (I / O). The serial format may be adopted according to the hardware configuration of.

The lamp drive circuit 132 includes switching elements such as PWM (pulse width modulation) ICs and MOSFETs (not shown), and the lamp drive circuit 132 switches (or duty switches) the drive voltage applied to various lamps including LEDs. ), And manage the operation such as light emission and blinking. In addition to the above-mentioned glass frame top lamp 46 and glass frame decorative lamps 48, 50, 52, the various lamps include a board surface lamp 53 for decoration and production installed in the game board unit 8. The board lamp 53 corresponds to the LED built in the above-mentioned effect unit, the variable start winning device 28, the variable winning device 30, and the like.

Further, the acoustic drive circuit 134 is, for example, a sound generator having a built-in sound ROM, an acoustic control IC, an amplifier, etc. (not shown), and the acoustic drive circuit 134 drives the upper speaker 54 and the lower speaker 56 to output acoustics. ..

In the present embodiment, the glass frame illuminated substrate 136 is installed on the inner surface of the integrated door unit 4, and the drive signals from the lamp drive circuit 132 and the acoustic drive circuit 134 pass through the glass frame illuminated substrate 136 and various lamps 46. It is applied to ~ 52 and speakers 54, 55, 56. Further, the above-mentioned effect switching button 45 is connected to the glass frame illuminated board 136, and when the player operates the effect switching button 45, the contact signal is transmitted to the effect control device 124 through the glass frame illuminated board 136. Entered. Further, the above-mentioned jog dial 45a is connected to the glass frame illuminated substrate 136, and when the player rotates the jog dial 45a, the rotation signal is input to the effect control device 124 through the glass frame illuminated substrate 136. ..

In addition, a panel illumination board 138 is installed on the game board unit 8, and a movable body solenoid 57 is connected to the panel illumination board 138 in addition to the board lamp 53. The movable body solenoid 57 drives the movable body 40f, for example, via a link mechanism (not shown). The drive signal from the lamp drive circuit 132 is applied to the board lamp 53 and the movable body solenoid 57 via the panel illumination board 138, respectively.

The liquid crystal display 42 is installed on the back side of the game board unit 8, and its display screen can be visually recognized through a substantially rectangular opening formed in the game board unit 8. Further, an inverter board 158 is installed on the back side of the game board unit 8, and the inverter board 158 generates an AC power supply applied to the backlight (for example, a cold cathode tube) of the liquid crystal display 42. Further, an effect display control device 144 is installed on the back side of the game board unit 8, and the display operation by the liquid crystal display 42 is controlled by the effect display control device 144. The effect display control device 144 is equipped with a circuit board (effect display control board) on which a display processor VDP152 is mounted, together with a display control CPU 146 which is a general-purpose central processing unit. Of these, the display control CPU 146 is configured as an LSI in which semiconductor memories such as ROM 148 and RAM 150 are integrated together with a CPU core (not shown). Further, the VDP 152 is configured as an LSI in which semiconductor memories such as an image ROM 154 and a VRAM 156 are integrated together with a processor core (not shown). The VRAM 156 can use a part of its storage area as a frame buffer.

A basic program related to the control of the effect is stored in the ROM 128 of the effect control CPU 126, and the effect control CPU 126 executes the control of the effect according to this program. The control of the effect includes the control of the effect using various lamps 46 to 53 and the speakers 54, 55, 56 as described above, and the control of the effect by displaying the image using the liquid crystal display 42. .. The effect control CPU 126 transmits basic information (for example, an effect number) related to the effect to the display control CPU 146, and the display control CPU 146 receiving this transmits a concrete image for effect based on the basic information. Control the display.

The display control CPU 146 outputs a more detailed control signal to the VDP 152. Upon receiving this, the VDP 152 accesses the image ROM 154 based on the control signal, reads out necessary image data from the image ROM 154, and transfers the necessary image data to the VRAM 156. Further, the VDP 152 expands the image data on the VRAM 156 for each frame (still image per unit time) in the frame buffer, and based on the image data buffered here, each pixel (full color pixel) of the liquid crystal display 42 is displayed. Drive individually.

In addition, a power supply control unit 162 (power supply control means) is provided on the back side of the inner frame assembly 7. The power supply control unit 162 has a built-in switching power supply circuit, and when external power (for example, AC24V, etc.) is taken from the island equipment through the power cord 164, necessary power (for example, DC + 34V, + 12V, etc.) can be generated from the external power. The electric power generated by the power supply control unit 162 is distributed to the main control device 70, the launch ball management device 92, the effect control device 124, and the inverter board 158. Further, electric power is supplied to the launch control board 108, the launch motor 302, and the ball feed motor 502 via the launch ball management device 92, and the card unit 210 is supplied via the game ball rental device connection terminal plate 120. Is being supplied with power. The low-voltage power for logic (for example, DC + 5V) is generated by a power supply IC (3-terminal regulator or the like) built in each device. Further, as described above, the power supply control unit 164 is grounded (grounded) to the island equipment through the ground wire 166.

The above is a configuration example relating to the control of the pachinko machine 1. Subsequently, the control processing executed by the main control CPU 72 of the main control device 70 will be described.

[Reset start (main) processing]
When the power is turned on to the pachinko machine 1, the main control CPU 72 starts the reset start process. The reset start process prepares the initial state of the pachinko machine 1 by restoring the game state (so-called power recovery) based on the backup information saved when the power was cut off last time, or by clearing the backup information. It is a process for. Further, the reset start process is positioned as a main process (main control program) for guaranteeing a stable gaming operation of the pachinko machine 1 after adjusting the initial state.

18 and 19 are flowcharts showing a procedure example of the reset start process. Hereinafter, the processing performed by the main control CPU 72 will be described step by step.

Step S101: The main control CPU 72 first sets the start address of the stack area in the stack pointer.

Step S102: Subsequently, the main control CPU 72 sets the vector interrupt mode (mode 2), and modifies the default RST interrupt mode (mode 0). As a result, after that, the main control CPU 72 can refer to an arbitrary address (however, the least significant bit is 0) as an interrupt vector and execute the designated interrupt handler.

Step S103: The main control CPU 72 executes a reset standby process here. This process is for securing a certain standby time (for example, about several thousand ms) at the time of reset start (for example, turning on the power), and checking the main power cutoff detection signal during that time. Specifically, when the main control CPU 72 sets the loop counter for the standby time, it bit-checks the input port of the main power supply disconnection detection signal while decrementing the value of the loop counter. The main power supply cutoff detection signal is input from, for example, a power supply monitoring IC which is a peripheral device. Then, if the input of the main power supply cutoff detection signal is confirmed before the loop counter becomes 0, the main control CPU 72 restarts the processing from the beginning. Thereby, for example, it is possible to protect the system when the operation of turning on and off the main power switch (not shown) is repeatedly performed within a short time (about 1 to 2 seconds).

Step S104: Next, the main control CPU 72 permits access to the work area of the RAM 76. Specifically, the RAM protect setting value of the work area is reset (00H). As a result, after that, access to the work area of the RAM 76 is permitted.

Step S105: Further, the mask register is initially set in order to set the main control CPU 72 and the interrupt mask. Specifically, the value that enables the CTC interrupt is stored in the mask register.

Step S106: The main control CPU 72 refers to the input signal from the RAM clear switch saved earlier, and confirms whether or not the RAM clear switch has been operated (switch ON). If the RAM clear switch is not operated (No), step S107 is then executed.

Step S107: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the backup information is stored in the RAM 76, that is, whether or not the backup valid determination flag is set. If the backup is normally completed in the previous power cutoff process and the backup valid determination flag (for example, "A55AH") is set (Yes), then the main control CPU 72 executes step S108.

Step S108: The main control CPU 72 executes a thumb check for the backup information of the RAM 76. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 thumb-checks all the work areas (user work areas including the prohibited area and the stack area) of the RAM 76 except for the backup validity determination flag and the thumb check buffer. If the result of the sum check is normal (Yes), then the main control CPU 72 executes step S109.

Step S109: The main control CPU 72 resets the backup valid determination flag (for example, “0000H”).
Step S110: Further, the main control CPU 72 clears the command waiting for transmission immediately before the previous power failure occurs.

Step S111: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes the effect control return process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sends a return command (for example, a model designation command, a special symbol probability state designation command, a special symbol destination determination effect command, an operation memory number increase effect command, and an operation memory number) to the effect control device 124. (Decrease production command, count cut counter remaining number command, special game state specification command, etc.) are sent. In response to this, the effect control device 124 receives the effect state (for example, the internal probability state, the display mode of the effect symbol, the effect display mode of the number of working memories, the acoustic output content, and various lamps) that were being executed when the power was cut off last time. The light emitting state, etc.) can be restored.

Step S112: The main control CPU 72 executes the state return process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets various values in the work area of the RAM 76 based on the backup information, and the game state (for example, the display mode of the special symbol, the internal probability state, etc.) that was being executed when the power was cut off last time. The operation memory contents, various flag states, random number update states, etc.) are restored. Further, the main control CPU 72 restores the backed up PC register value.

On the other hand, when the RAM clear switch is operated when the power is turned on (step S106: Yes), when the backup valid determination flag is not set (step S107: No), or when the backup information is not normal. (Step S108: No), the main control CPU 72 shifts to step S113.

Step S113: The main control CPU 72 clears the stored contents other than the prohibited area of the RAM 76. As a result, the work area and the stack area of the RAM 76 are all initialized, and even if valid backup information is saved, the contents are erased.
Step S114: Further, the main control CPU 72 performs the initial setting of the RAM 76.

Step S115: The main control CPU 72 executes the effect control output process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 outputs a command (command required for the effect control) to be transmitted to the effect control device 124 after the initial setting.

Step S116: The main control CPU 72 executes the holding ball management start process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 outputs an instruction command for starting management of the holding ball data to the launching holding ball management device 92.

Step S117: The main control CPU 72 executes the CTC initial setting process and performs the initial setting of the CTC (counter / timer circuit) which is a peripheral device. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets the interrupt vector register and sets the interrupt count value (for example, 4 ms) in the CTC. As a result, when a CTC interrupt occurs next time, the main control CPU 72 can continue processing from the backed up program address of the PC register.

When the above procedure is executed in the reset start process, the main control CPU 72 shifts to the main loop shown in FIG. 19 (connection symbol A → A).

Step S118, Step S119: The main control CPU 72 prohibits interruption and then executes a power failure occurrence check process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 bit-checks the input port of the main power supply cutoff detection signal and monitors the occurrence of power supply cutoff (decrease in drive voltage). When the power is cut off, the main control CPU 72 clears the output port buffer corresponding to the normal electric accessory solenoid 88, the grand prize opening solenoid 90, etc., and the entire work area of the RAM 76 excluding the backup valid judgment flag and the thumb check buffer. Back up the contents of and save the sum result value in the sum check buffer. Then, the main control CPU 72 stores the above valid value (for example, “A55AH”) in the backup valid determination flag area, prohibits access to the RAM 76, and stops the process (NOP). On the other hand, if the power cutoff does not occur, the main control CPU 72 then executes step S120. There is also a known programming example in which the CPU is made to execute such a process when a power failure occurs as an non-maskable interrupt (NMI) process.

Step S120: The main control CPU 72 executes the initial value update random number update process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 increments the random numbers for updating (changing) the initial values of various software random numbers. In the present embodiment, various random numbers other than the jackpot determination random number (hardware random number) and the hit determination random number (hardware random number) corresponding to the ordinary symbol (for example, jackpot symbol random number, reach determination random number, fluctuation pattern determination random number, etc.) Is generated on the program. These software random numbers are updated by the loop counter within a predetermined range in another interrupt process (step S201 in FIG. 21), but the initial values of the loop counter (all) are updated every time the random number value makes one cycle in this process. Random numbers do not have to be the target). The initial value update random number is used to randomly change the initial value, and in step S120, the initial value update random number is updated. It should be noted that the reason why the step S120 is executed after the interrupt is prohibited in the step S118 is that the same process is executed in another interrupt management process (step S202 in FIG. 21), so that there is duplication (conflict) with this. ) To prevent. As described above, in the present embodiment, the big hit determination random number and the hit determination random number are hardware random numbers generated by the random number generator 75, and the update cycle thereof is even faster than the timer interrupt cycle (for example, several ms). Since it is (for example, several μs), it is not necessary to update the initial values of the big hit determination random number and the hit determination random number.

Step S121, Step S122: The main control CPU 72 permits interruption and executes other random number update processing. The random numbers updated by this process are random numbers (reach determination random numbers, fluctuation pattern determination random numbers, etc.) that are not related to the determination of the winning type (winning type) among the software random numbers. This process is performed with the remaining time when a timer interrupt occurs during execution of the main loop and the main control CPU 72 executes another interrupt management process (FIG. 21). The contents of the interrupt management process will be described later.

[Power failure check process]
FIG. 20 is a flowchart specifically showing an example of the procedure for the power failure occurrence check process.
Step S130: Here, first, the main control CPU 72 sets a condition for checking the occurrence of power failure. This check condition can be set as an on-counter value for confirming that the main power supply cutoff detection signal is continuously output, for example.

Step S132: Next, the main control CPU 72 reads the main power supply disconnection detection switch input port, and confirms whether or not the main power supply disconnection detection signal is output (checks a specific bit). Although not particularly shown, the main power supply disconnection detection switch is mounted on, for example, the main control device 70, and the main power supply disconnection detection switch monitors the drive voltage supplied from the power supply control unit 162 and determines the voltage level. When the voltage falls below the reference voltage, a main power failure detection signal is output. The main power supply disconnection detection switch may be built in the power supply control unit 162. When the main control CPU 72 confirms that the main power supply cutoff detection signal has not been output at this time (No), the main control CPU 72 exits this process and returns to the reset start process. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the main power supply cutoff detection signal is output (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S134.

Step S134: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the above check condition is satisfied. Specifically, the on-counter value set in the previous step S130 is subtracted by, for example, 1, and it is confirmed whether or not the result is 0. If the on-counter value is not 0 (No) at this point, the main control CPU 72 returns to step S132 and reconfirms the main power supply disconnection detection switch input port. Then, when the check condition is satisfied by repeating the loop from step S134 to step S132 (step S134: Yes), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S136.

Step S136: The main control CPU 72 clears the test signal terminal and the output port buffer corresponding to the command control signal in addition to the output port corresponding to the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88 and the grand prize opening solenoid 90 as described above.

Step S138, Step S140: Next, the main control CPU 72 adds the entire contents of the work area of the RAM 76 excluding the backup valid determination flag and the thumb check buffer in 1-byte units, and repeats the addition for the entire area until the addition is completed. ..
Step S142: When the calculation of the sum for the entire area is completed (step S140: Yes), the main control CPU 72 saves the sum result value in the sum check buffer.

Step S144: Next, the main control CPU 72 stores a valid value in the backup valid determination flag area as described above.
Step S146: Further, the main control CPU 72 stores “01H” indicating access prohibition in the protect value of the RAM 76, and prohibits access to the work area (including the prohibited area and the stack area) of the RAM 76.
Step S148: Then, the main control CPU 72 enters the standby loop and stops all other processes in preparation for shutting off the main power supply. After the main power supply is cut off, backup power is supplied from a backup power supply circuit (for example, a circuit including a capacitive element mounted on the main control device 70) (not shown), so that the stored contents of the RAM 76 are lost even after the main power supply is cut off. Retained without doing. The backup power supply circuit may be built in, for example, the power supply control unit 162.

Through the above processing, all the information stored in the work area of the RAM 76, which is the backup target (sum addition target), is stored in the RAM 76 even after the main power supply is cut off. Further, the retained memory is restored as backup information when the power is turned off after confirming the normality of the checksum in the previous reset start process (FIG. 18).

[Interrupt management process (timer interrupt process)]
Next, the interrupt management process (timer interrupt process) will be described. FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the interrupt management process. The main control CPU 72 executes the interrupt management process every predetermined time (for example, several ms) based on the interrupt request signal from the counter / timer circuit. Hereinafter, each procedure will be described step by step.

Step S200: First, the main control CPU 72 saves the values of the registers (accumulator A, flag register F, and general-purpose registers B to L pairs) used during execution of the main loop in the save area of the RAM 76. Another value can be written to the registers (A to L) after the value is saved in the interrupt management process.

Step S201: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes the lottery random number update process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 updates the value of the counter for generating various random numbers for lottery. The value of each counter is incremented in the counter area of the RAM 76, and each loops within a specified range. The various random numbers include, for example, a jackpot symbol random number and the like.

Step S202: The main control CPU 72 also executes the initial value update random number update process. The content of the process is the same as that described above.

Step S203: The main control CPU 72 executes the input process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 inputs various switch signals from the input / output (I / O) ports 79. Specifically, the input state (ON / OFF) of the passage detection signal from the gate switch 78 and the winning detection signal from the upper start winning opening switch 80, the lower starting winning opening switch 82, the count switch 84, and the winning opening switch 86. To lead.

Step S203a: The main control CPU 72 executes security management processing (fraud detecting means, game error detecting means). In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not an illegal prize has occurred and excessive prizes based on the input state (ON / OFF) of the prize detection signal read in the previous input process (step S203). Is determined whether or not is occurring. Further, the main control CPU 72 monitors the fraudulent activity by the magnetic sensor 202, the vibration sensor 204, and the radio wave sensor 206. Then, when it is determined that the fraudulent act has been executed, the main control CPU 72 generates an fraudulent error command or a firing prohibition command. The main control CPU 72 subsequently executes the fraudulent response process. The fraud handling process is, for example, a process of rewriting the bit of a winning detection signal due to an illegal winning from ON to OFF, a process of generating a warning, a process of stopping a game, and the like.

Step S204: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes switch input event processing. In this process, among the switch signals input in the previous input process, the determination of the event that occurred during the game is determined based on the winning detection signals from the gate switch 78, the upper start winning opening switch 80, and the lower starting winning opening switch 82. Then, another process is executed according to the event that has occurred. The specific contents of the switch input event processing will be described later using a further flowchart.

In the present embodiment, when a winning detection signal (ON) is input from the upper start winning opening switch 80 or the lower starting winning opening switch 82, the main control CPU 72 performs an internal lottery corresponding to the first special symbol or the second special symbol, respectively. It is determined that an event that triggers (lottery trigger) has occurred. Further, when the passage detection signal (ON) is input from the gate switch 78, the main control CPU 72 determines that an event that triggers a lottery corresponding to the normal symbol has occurred. When it is determined that any of the events has occurred, the main control CPU 72 executes processing according to each event. The process executed when the winning detection signal is input from the upper starting winning opening switch 80 or the lower starting winning opening switch 82 will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

Step S205, Step S206: The main control CPU 72 executes the special symbol game process and the normal symbol game process during the interrupt management process. These processes are for specifically advancing the game in the pachinko machine 1. Among them, in the special symbol game processing (step S205), the main control CPU 72 controls the execution of the internal lottery corresponding to the first special symbol or the second special symbol described above, or the first special symbol display device 34 and the first special symbol display device 34 and the first. 2 The variable display and the stop display by the special symbol display device 35 are controlled, and the operation of the variable winning device 30 is controlled according to the display result. The details of the special symbol game processing will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

Further, in the normal symbol game processing (step S206), the main control CPU 72 controls the fluctuation display and the stop display by the normal symbol display device 33 described above, and operates the variable start winning device 28 according to the display result. To control. For example, the main control CPU 72 stores a random number (a random number determined per normal symbol) acquired in the previous switch input event process (step S204) triggered by the passage of the start gate 20, and is in the normal symbol game process. Reads a random number value from the memory and determines whether or not it falls within a predetermined hit range (operation lottery execution means). When the random value falls within the hit range, the normal symbol display device 33 fluctuates the normal symbol, displays the stop display of the normal symbol in a predetermined hit mode, and then the main control CPU 72 presses the normal electric accessory solenoid 88. The variable start winning device 28 is activated by excitation (movable piece operating means). On the other hand, if the random number value is out of the hit range, the main control CPU 72 performs a stop display of the normal symbol in a disengaged manner after the fluctuation display.

Step S207: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes the winning data command generation process. In this process, a prize data command to be transmitted to the launch ball management device 92 is generated based on the prize detection signals input from the various switches 80, 82, 84, 86 in the previous input process (step S203). Execute the process to be performed. For example, when the winning detection signal from the upper start winning opening switch 80 or the lower starting winning opening switch 82 is confirmed, the value of "3" corresponding to the winning ball in the upper starting winning opening switch 80 or the lower starting winning opening switch 82 Generate a winning data command that includes. Further, when the winning detection signal from the count switch 84 is confirmed, the winning data command including the value of "15" corresponding to the winning ball at the count switch 84 is generated. Further, when the winning detection signal from the winning opening switch 86 is confirmed, the winning data command including the value of "10" corresponding to the winning ball at the winning opening switch 86 is generated. The winning data command generated here is transmitted to the launch ball management device 92 in the launch ball management device output process (step S212a) described later.

Step S208: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes external information processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sends external information signals (for example, prize ball information, door opening information, symbol confirmation count information, jackpot information) to the hall computer of the game hall through the game ball rental device connection terminal plate 120 and the card unit 210. , Start port information, etc.), the external information signal is stored in the port output request buffer.

In the present embodiment, among various external information signals, for example, by outputting "big hit 1" to "big hit 5" as big hit information to the outside, an external electronic device (data display) connected to the pachinko machine 1 It is possible to provide various jackpot information to a vessel or a hall computer (external information signal output means). That is, by outputting the jackpot information by dividing it into a plurality of "big hit 1" to "big hit 5", the jackpot type (winning type) can be aggregated and managed by a hall computer (not shown) from these combinations, or internally. Occurrence of small hits (hits where the condition device does not operate) that are not classified as "big hits" even if they recognize changes in the probability state (low probability state or high probability state) and the shortened state of the symbol fluctuation time Can be aggregated and managed. In addition, based on the jackpot information, for example, a data display device (not shown) counts and displays the number of jackpot occurrences within the past several business days for each pachinko machine 1, and recognizes whether or not each machine is currently hit. Or, it is possible to recognize whether or not the symbol fluctuation time is currently shortened for each machine. In this external information processing, the main control CPU 72 controls each output state (ON or OFF set) of "big hit 1" to "big hit 5" in detail.

Step S209: Further, the main control CPU 72 executes the test signal processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates various test signals representing its own internal state (for example, normal symbol game management state, special symbol game management state, big hit, probability fluctuation function operating, time shortening function operating). And store these in the port output request buffer. With this test signal, for example, the internal state of the main control CPU 72 can be tested outside the main control device 70.

Step S210: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes the display output management process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 has a normal symbol display device 33, a normal symbol operation storage lamp 33a, a first special symbol display device 34, a second special symbol display device 35, a first special symbol operation storage lamp 34a, and a second special symbol. It controls the lighting state of the working memory lamp 35a, the game status display device 38, and the like. Specifically, the drive signal stored in the port output request buffer is output to the port in the special symbol game processing (step S205) and the normal symbol game processing (step S206). The drive signal is stored in the port output request buffer as byte data applied to each LED. As a result, each LED is driven in a predetermined display mode (a mode in which a symbol variation display, a stop display, an operation memory number display, a game state display, etc.) is performed.

Step S211: Further, the main control CPU 72 executes the output management process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 port outputs the external information signal (byte data) stored in the port output request buffer in the previous external information processing (step S208). Further, the main control CPU 72 together outputs the drive signals, test signals, and the like of the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88 and the grand prize opening solenoid 90 stored in the port output request buffer to the port.

Step S212: The main control CPU 72 executes the effect control output process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not there is a command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124 (command required for effect control) in the command buffer, and if there is an untransmitted command, the command to be output is output. Output to port.

Step S212a: The main control CPU 72 executes the launching ball management device output process. In this process, it is confirmed whether or not there is a command (winning data command, illegal error command, launch prohibition command, game machine status information command, etc.) that the main control CPU 72 should send to the launch ball management device 92 in the command buffer. However, if there is an untransmitted command, the output target command is output to the port. Although the details of the contents included in the game machine state information command will be described later, the main control CPU 72 generates the game machine state information command as necessary and transmits it to the launching ball management device 92.

Step S213: Then, the main control CPU 72 clears the port output request buffer stored in the CTC interrupt this time.

In the present embodiment, an example in which the processes (game control program module) of steps S205 to S212a are executed as timer interrupt processes is given, but these processes may be incorporated into the main loop of the CPU and executed. it can.

Step S214: When the above processing is completed, the main control CPU 72 stores the value (01H) for specifying the interrupt end in the interrupt program counter, and ends the CTC interrupt.

Step S215, Step S216: Then, the main control CPU 72 restores the saved values of the registers (A to L) and permits the next CTC interrupt. After that, the main control CPU 72 returns to the main loop (program address indicated by the stack pointer).

[Switch input event processing]
FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the switch input event processing (step S204 in FIG. 21). Hereinafter, each procedure will be described step by step.

Step S10: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal has been input (a first event has occurred) from the upper start winning opening switch 80 corresponding to the first special symbol. When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S12 to execute the first special symbol storage update process (lottery element storage means). The specific contents of the processing will be described later using another flowchart. On the other hand, if there is no input of the winning detection signal (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S14.

Step S14: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal has been input (a second event has occurred) from the lower start winning opening switch 82 corresponding to the second special symbol. When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S16 to execute the second special symbol storage update process (lottery element storage means). Similarly, the specific contents of the processing will be described later with reference to another flowchart. On the other hand, when there is no input of the winning detection signal (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S18.

Step S18: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the winning detection signal has been input from the count switch 84 corresponding to the large winning opening. When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S20 to execute the large winning opening counting process. In the big winning opening counting process, the main control CPU 72 counts the number of winning balls to the variable winning device 30 for each round during the big hit game. On the other hand, if there is no input of the winning detection signal (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S22.

Step S22: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a passage detection signal has been input from the gate switch 78 corresponding to the normal symbol. When the input of the passage detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S24 to execute the normal symbol storage update process. In the normal symbol memory update process, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current number of normal symbol operation memories is less than the upper limit (for example, 4), and if it does not reach the upper limit, acquires a random number per normal symbol. To do. Further, the main control CPU 72 increments the number of normal symbol operation memories by one. Then, the main control CPU 72 stores the acquired random number value per normal symbol in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. On the other hand, when there is no input of the winning detection signal (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the interrupt management process (FIG. 21).

[1st special symbol memory update process]
FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the first special symbol memory update process (step S12 in FIG. 22). Hereinafter, the procedure of the first special symbol memory update process will be described step by step.

Step S30: Here, first, the main control CPU 72 refers to the value of the first special symbol operation memory number counter, and confirms whether or not the operation memory number is less than the maximum value (for example, 4). The working memory number counter represents the number (number of sets) of the big hit determination random number, the big hit symbol random number, etc. stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. That is, the random number storage area of the RAM 76 is divided into four sections (for example, 2 bytes each) for each symbol (first special symbol, second special symbol), and the jackpot determined random number and the jackpot symbol random number are stored in each section. It can be stored as a set (set) one by one. At this time, if the value of the working memory counter corresponding to the first special symbol reaches the upper limit (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event processing (FIG. 22). On the other hand, if the value of the working memory counter is less than the maximum value (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S31.

Step S31: The main control CPU 72 adds one first special symbol operation memory number. The first special symbol operation storage number counter is stored in, for example, the operation storage number area of the RAM 76, and the main control CPU 72 increments (+1) the value. Based on the value of the counter added here, the lighting state of the first special symbol operation storage lamp 34a is controlled in the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 21).

Step S32: Then, the main control CPU 72 acquires the jackpot determination random number value corresponding to the first special symbol from the random number generator 75 through the sampling circuit 77 (acquisition of the first lottery element, lottery element acquisition means). The random number value is acquired by designating the pin address of the random number generator 75. When the main control CPU 72 performs 8-bit processing, the address is specified twice for each byte at the upper and lower levels. When the main control CPU 72 reads the jackpot determination random number value from the designated address, it saves this as the jackpot determination random number corresponding to the first special symbol at the transfer destination address.

Step S33: Next, the main control CPU 72 acquires the jackpot symbol random number value corresponding to the first special symbol from the jackpot symbol random number counter area of the RAM 76. The acquisition of this random number value is also performed by designating the address of the jackpot symbol random number counter area. When the main control CPU 72 reads the jackpot symbol random number value from the designated address, it saves this as a jackpot symbol random number corresponding to the first special symbol at the transfer destination address.

Step S34: Further, the main control CPU 72 sequentially acquires a reach determination random number and a variation pattern determination random number as random numbers related to the variation condition of the first special symbol from the variation random number counter area of the RAM 76 (acquisition of variation pattern determination element). means). Similarly, the acquisition of these random number values is performed by designating the address of the random number counter area for fluctuation. Then, when the main control CPU 72 acquires the reach determination random number and the variation pattern determination random number from the designated address, they save them at the transfer destination address.

Step S35: The main control CPU 72 transfers the saved jackpot determination random number, jackpot symbol random number, reach determination random number, and fluctuation pattern determination random number to the random number storage area corresponding to the first special symbol, and transfers these random numbers to an empty section in the area. To memorize as a set (memory means). An order (for example, first to fourth) is set for the plurality of sections, and if all the first to fourth sections are empty at this stage, each random number is stored in order from the first section. Alternatively, if the first section is already filled and the other second to fourth sections are empty, each random number is stored in order from the second section. The random number storage area is read out in a FIFO (First In First Out) format.

Step S36: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current game management state (internal state) is operating the time saving function or whether or not the jackpot is being hit. If the time saving function is not activated except during the jackpot (No), the main control CPU 72 executes the following steps S37 and S38. If either the time saving function is operating or the jackpot is in progress (Yes), the main control CPU 72 skips steps S37 and S38 and proceeds to step S38a. The reason why this determination is made in the present embodiment is that the pre-reading effect is not performed during the big hit. In addition, when both the working memory of the first special symbol and the working memory of the second special symbol remain except during the big hit, the change of the second special symbol is prioritized over the first special symbol (the second special symbol). This is because the variable start winning device 28 is frequently operated, especially during the time saving function operation. In addition to shortening the fluctuation time of the special symbol while the time reduction function is operating, the winning probability of the normal symbol becomes high (for example, 25/251 → 249/251 with a low probability), and also. , The fluctuation time of the normal symbol is shortened (for example, about 10 seconds when not in operation → about 1 second) and the opening time of the variable start winning device 28 is extended (for example, about 0.3 seconds when not in operation → 2). Since it is extended to about .5 seconds and the number of times it is opened increases (for example, it increases from 1 time to 2 times when it is not activated), the game ball is fired for a long time (all the working memories of normal symbols are lost and variable). As long as the start winning device 28 is not interrupted for a period of time), even if the change of the second special symbol is prioritized, the operation memory is not easily interrupted (so-called electric chew support). However, the first special symbol and the second special symbol may be hit and judged (variated) in the order in which the prizes are generated without setting a priority. Note that step S36 may be divided into, for example, step S36a for determining "time reduction function is in operation" and step S36b for determining "big hit".

Step S37: When the time saving function is not activated (step S36: No), the main control CPU 72 executes the acquisition-time effect determination process for the first special symbol. In this process, the result of the internal lottery is determined in advance (before the start of fluctuation) based on the big hit determination random number and the big hit symbol random number of the first special symbol acquired in the previous steps S32 to S34, respectively, and the effect content is determined accordingly. It is for making a judgment (so-called "look-ahead"). The specific contents of the processing will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

Step S38: After returning from the acquisition-time effect determination process, the main control CPU 72 then sets the upper byte (for example, “B8H”) of the special figure destination determination effect command for the first special symbol. This high-order byte data describes that the command type is "for special figure destination determination effect regarding the first special symbol". Since the lower byte of the special figure destination determination effect command is set in the previous acquisition effect determination process (step S37), here, by synthesizing the upper byte with the lower byte, for example, a command having a length of one word. Will be generated.

Step S38a: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets an effect command when the number of operating memories increases with respect to the first special symbol. Specifically, the one-word length obtained by adding the increased working memory number (for example, "01H" to "04H") to the lower byte with respect to the preceding value (for example, "BBH") of the upper byte indicating the type of the command. Generate a production command. At this time, for the lower byte, by setting the second digit to "0" by default, the value indicates that the value is "the result (change information) due to the increase in the number of working memories". That is, if the lower byte is "01H", it means that the number of working memories this time is "01H" as a result of increasing by one from the number of working memories "00H" up to the previous time. Similarly, if the lower byte is "02H" to "04H", it is increased by one from the previous working memory numbers "01H" to "03H", and as a result, the working memory number this time is "02H" to "04H". It means that it became "04H". The preceding value "BBH" is a value indicating that the effect command this time is a working memory number command for the first special symbol.

Step S39: Then, the main control CPU 72 executes the effect command output setting process with respect to the first special symbol. This process is for transmitting the special figure destination determination effect command generated in step S38, the operation memory increase effect command generated in step S38a, and the start opening winning sound control command to the effect control device 124. It is a thing (memory number notification means).

When the above procedure is completed or the number of first special symbol operation memories has reached 4 (step S30: No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event processing (FIG. 22).

[Second special symbol memory update process]
Next, FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the second special symbol memory update process (step S16 in FIG. 22). Hereinafter, the procedure of the second special symbol memory update process will be described step by step.

Step S40: The main control CPU 72 refers to the value of the second special symbol operation memory number counter, and confirms whether or not the operation memory number is less than the maximum value. Similarly to the above, the second special symbol operation storage number counter represents the number (number of sets) of the jackpot determination random number, the jackpot symbol random number, etc. stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. At this time, if the value of the second special symbol operation memory counter reaches the maximum value (for example, 4) (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event processing (FIG. 22). On the other hand, if the value of the second special symbol operation memory counter is still less than the maximum value (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S41 or later.

Step S41: The main control CPU 72 adds one second special symbol operation memory number (increments the value of the second special symbol operation memory number counter). Similar to the previous step S31 (FIG. 23), the lighting state of the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a is controlled in the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 21) based on the value of the counter added here. Will be.

Step S42: Then, the main control CPU 72 acquires the jackpot determination random number value corresponding to the second special symbol from the random number generator 75 through the sampling circuit 77 (acquisition of the second lottery element, lottery element acquisition means). The method of acquiring the random number value is the same as that of step S32 (FIG. 23) described above.

Step S43: Next, the main control CPU 72 acquires the jackpot symbol random number value corresponding to the second special symbol from the jackpot symbol random number counter area of the RAM 76. The method of acquiring the random number value is the same as that of step S33 (FIG. 23) described above.

Step S44: Further, the main control CPU 72 sequentially acquires the reach determination random number and the variation pattern determination random number related to the variation condition of the second special symbol from the variation random number counter area of the RAM 76 (variation pattern determination element acquisition means). The acquisition of these random numbers is also performed in the same manner as in step S34 (FIG. 23) described above.

Step S45: The main control CPU 72 transfers the saved jackpot determination random number, jackpot symbol random number, reach determination random number, and fluctuation pattern determination random number to the random number storage area corresponding to the second special symbol, and transfers these random numbers to an empty section in the area. To memorize as a set (memory means). The storage method is the same as in step S35 (FIG. 23) described above.

Step S45a: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current game management state (internal state) is a big hit. Then, if it is not during the jackpot (No), the main control CPU 72 executes the following steps S46 and S47. On the contrary, if the jackpot is in progress (Yes), the main control CPU 72 skips steps S46 and S47 and proceeds to step S48. The reason why this determination is made in this embodiment is that the pre-reading effect is not performed during the big hit.

Step S46: When it is not during the jackpot (step S45a: No), the main control CPU 72 then executes the acquisition-time effect determination process for the second special symbol. In this process, the result of the internal lottery is determined in advance (before the start of fluctuation) based on the big hit determination random number and the big hit symbol random number of the second special symbol acquired in the previous steps S42 to S44, respectively, and the effect content is determined accordingly. It is for judging. Here, in the previous step S45a, only whether or not the jackpot is being hit is determined, and the operating state of the time saving function is not determined. As described above, in the present embodiment, the first special is in the game other than the jackpot. Since the second special symbol is changed with priority over the symbol, the result of the internal lottery is judged in advance for the second special symbol regardless of the operating state of the time saving function except during the big hit, and the result is pre-readed. Because it can be used for. The details of the specific processing will be described later.

Step S47: After returning from the acquisition-time effect determination process, the main control CPU 72 then sets the upper byte (for example, “B9H”) of the special figure destination determination effect command. This high-order byte data describes that the command type is "for special figure destination determination effect regarding the second special symbol". Similarly, in this case as well, the lower byte of the special figure destination determination effect command is set in the previous acquisition effect determination process (step S46), so here, for example, one word is combined with the lower byte. A long command will be generated.

Step S48: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets an effect command when the number of operating memories increases with respect to the second special symbol. Here, a one-word length production command in which the number of operating memories after the increase (for example, "01H" to "04H") is added to the lower byte with respect to the preceding value (for example, "BCH") of the upper byte indicating the type of the command. To generate. Similarly, for the second special symbol, by setting the second digit of the lower byte to "0" by default, it is possible to indicate that the value is "the result (change information) due to the increase in the number of working memories". it can. The preceding value "BCH" is a value indicating that the current effect command is a working memory number command for the second special symbol.

Step S49: Then, the main control CPU 72 executes the effect command output setting process with respect to the second special symbol. As a result, preparations are made for transmitting the special figure destination determination effect command, the operation memory number increase effect command, the start opening winning sound control command, and the like to the effect control device 124 with respect to the second special symbol (memory number notification means). .. When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event processing (FIG. 22).

[Production judgment processing at the time of acquisition]
FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the effect determination process at the time of acquisition. The main control CPU 72 executes this acquisition-time effect determination process in the first special symbol memory update process and the second special symbol memory update process (step S37 in FIG. 23, step S46 in FIG. 24) (first determination). Execution means). As described above, this process is executed for each of the first special symbol (when winning the upper start winning opening 26) and the second special symbol (when winning the variable start winning device 28). Therefore, the following description may correspond to the process related to the first special symbol or the process related to the second special symbol. Hereinafter, the content of the process will be described according to each procedure.

Step S50: The main control CPU 72 sets the lower bytes (for example, “00H”) of the special figure destination determination effect command (first determination information). The byte data set here represents the standard value (at the time of deviation) of the command.

Step S52: Next, the main control CPU 72 loads the jackpot determination random number as the first determination random number value. The random number to be loaded here is stored in the RAM 76 in the first special symbol memory update process (step S35 in FIG. 23) or the second special symbol memory update process (step S45 in FIG. 24). ..

Step S54: Then, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the loaded random number is outside the range of the hit value (here, the lower limit value or less) (lottery result destination determination means). Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets a comparison value (lower limit value) in the A register, and subtracts the loaded random number value from this comparison value. The comparison value (lower limit value) is predetermined according to the winning probability of the internal lottery in the pachinko machine 1. Next, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the calculation result is 0 or a positive value from the value of the flag register, for example. As a result, if the loaded random number is out of the range of the hit value (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S80.

Step S80: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes the deviation pattern information pre-determination process (variation pattern destination determination means). In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates the above-mentioned fluctuation pattern destination determination command for the fluctuation time at the time of disconnection. The fluctuation pattern destination determination command generated here reflects prior determination information regarding the fluctuation time (or fluctuation pattern number) when the "time reduction function" is activated. For example, if the current state is when the "time reduction function" is activated, the main control CPU 72 corresponds to the "out-of-reach variation (non-reduction variation time)" based on the loaded reach determination random number. Determine if it exists. As a result, when the fluctuation time corresponds to the "out-of-reach fluctuation (non-shortening fluctuation time)", the main control CPU 72 generates a fluctuation pattern destination determination command corresponding to the "time reduction / medium non-shortening fluctuation time". In the case of reach variation, the "reach group (type of reach)" may also be determined from the reach mode random number, and the variation pattern destination determination command may be generated from the result. On the other hand, when the fluctuation time does not correspond to the "out-of-reach fluctuation (non-shortening fluctuation time)", the main control CPU 72 generates a fluctuation pattern destination determination command corresponding to the "time reduction / medium reduction fluctuation time". Alternatively, if the current state is when the "time reduction function" is not operating (low probability state), the main control CPU 72 corresponds to the "normally out-of-reach fluctuation" based on the loaded reach determination random number. Judge whether or not. As a result, when the fluctuation time corresponds to the "normally out of reach fluctuation", the main control CPU 72 generates a fluctuation pattern destination determination command corresponding to the "normally out of reach fluctuation time". On the other hand, when the fluctuation time does not correspond to the "normal deviation reach fluctuation", the main control CPU 72 generates a fluctuation pattern destination determination command corresponding to the "normal deviation fluctuation time". Further, the fluctuation pattern destination determination command generated here is set in the transmission buffer in the effect command output setting process (steps S39 and S49) as described above. In this process, the main control CPU 72 may generate a variation pattern destination determination command for the variation pattern at the time of small hit, in the same manner as the above-described processing at the time of loss.

When the above procedure is executed, the main control CPU 72 ends the acquisition-time effect determination process and returns to the caller's first special symbol memory update process (FIG. 23) or second special symbol memory update process (FIG. 24). On the other hand, in the determination in step S54 above, if the loaded random number is not outside the range of the hit value but within the range (step S54: No), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S56.

Step S56: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the probability state schedule flag based on the first determination result is set. The probability state schedule flag based on the pre-determination result is set when the winning value is among the jackpot determination random numbers stored so far, although the fluctuation has not been started yet. Specifically, if there is a winning value in the jackpot determination random numbers stored so far, and if the jackpot symbol random number that is paired with this corresponds to the "probability variation symbol", for example, the probability state schedule flag is set. "A0H" is set. This value represents a flag value for setting a high probability state as a schedule in the preliminary determination (pre-reading determination) of the jackpot determination random number acquired after the jackpot determination random number. On the other hand, if there is a winning value in the jackpot determination random numbers stored so far, and the jackpot symbol random number paired with this random number corresponds to the "non-probability (normal) symbol", the probability state For example, "01H" is set in the schedule flag. This value represents a flag value for setting a normal (low) probability state as a schedule in the pre-determination (pre-reading determination) of the jackpot-determined random number acquired after the jackpot-determined random number. If the winning value does not yet exist in the jackpot determination random numbers stored so far, the flag value is reset (00H). Further, the value of the probability state schedule flag is stored in the flag area of the RAM 76, for example. In addition, although an example in which the advance hit determination is strictly performed using the "probability state schedule flag" is given here, when the advance hit determination is simply performed based on the current probability state, this step S56 and subsequent steps. Step S58, step S60, step S62, step S76 and the like may be omitted.

If the probability state schedule flag is not yet set (step S56: No), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S66.

Step S66: In this case, the main control CPU 72 then sets the low probability (normal time) comparison value in the A register. The low-probability comparison value is also predetermined according to the low-probability winning probability of the pachinko machine 1.

Step S68: Next, the main control CPU 72 loads the “current probability state flag”. This probability state flag indicates whether or not the current internal state has a high probability (during probability change), and is stored in the flag area of the RAM 76. If the current probability state is high probability (during probability change), the value "01H" is set as the state flag, and if the current probability state is low probability (normal), the value of the state flag is reset ("00H"). ").

Step S70: Then, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the loaded current special symbol probability state flag does not represent a high probability (≠ 01H), and as a result, if it represents a high probability (No). ), Then step S64 is executed.

Step S64: The main control CPU 72 sets a comparison value for high probability. As a result, the low-probability comparison value set in step S66 above is rewritten. The high-probability comparison value is predetermined according to the high-probability winning probability of the pachinko machine 1.

In this way, when the probability state schedule flag based on the previous determination result has not been set yet and the current internal state has a high probability, the comparison value is rewritten for the high probability time, and then the next step S72. Will be executed. On the other hand, when it is confirmed in the previous step S70 that the current probability state flag does not represent a high probability (Yes), the main control CPU 72 skips step S64 and executes the next step S72.

Step S72: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the random number loaded in the previous step S52 is out of the range of the winning value (lottery result destination determination means). That is, the main control CPU 72 subtracts the jackpot determination random value from the comparison value set for each state. Then, the main control CPU 72 similarly determines from the value of the flag register whether or not the calculation result is a negative value (<0), and as a result, if the loaded random number is out of the range of the hit value (Yes). ), The main control CPU 72 executes the above-mentioned pre-determination process (step S80) of the variation pattern information at the time of deviation. On the other hand, if the loaded random number is not outside the range of the hit value but within the range (No), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S74.

Step S74: The main control CPU 72 executes the jackpot symbol type determination process. This process is for determining the jackpot type (winning type) at that time based on the jackpot symbol random number that is paired with the jackpot determination random number. For example, the main control CPU 72 loads the jackpot symbol random numbers for each symbol stored in the first special symbol storage update process (step S35 in FIG. 23) or the second special symbol memory update process (step S45 in FIG. 24). Then, the calculation using the comparison value is executed in the same manner as in step S54 above, and from the result, it is determined whether the jackpot type corresponds to the "non-probability (normal) symbol" or the "probability variation symbol". However, in this embodiment, the non-probability variation symbol is not set. The main control CPU 72 stores the determination result at this time as a special symbol destination determination value, and proceeds to the next step S76.

Step S76: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets the value of the probability state schedule flag based on the first determination result. Specifically, when the special symbol destination determination value stored in the previous step S74 represents a "non-probability (normal) symbol", the main control CPU 72 sets the value "01H" in the probability state schedule flag. On the other hand, when the special symbol destination determination value represents the "probability variation symbol", the main control CPU 72 sets the value "A0H" in the probability state schedule flag. As a result, in the next and subsequent processes, it is determined that "flag set has been completed" in step S56.

Step S78: The main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol destination determination value stored in the previous step S74 as a lower byte of the special symbol destination determination effect command. For the special symbol destination determination value, for example, "01H" is set when it corresponds to "non-probability (normal) symbol", and "A0H" is set when it corresponds to "probability variation symbol". In any case, by setting the data for the lower byte here, the standard lower byte data "00H" set in the previous step S50 is rewritten.

Step S79: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes the jackpot variation pattern information pre-determination process (variation pattern destination determination means). In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates the above-mentioned fluctuation pattern destination determination command for the fluctuation time at the time of a big hit. The fluctuation pattern destination determination command generated here reflects, for example, prior determination information regarding the reach variation time (or variation pattern number) at the time of a big hit. Further, the fluctuation pattern destination determination command generated here is set in the transmission buffer in the effect command output setting process (steps S39 and S49) as described above.

The above is the procedure before the probability state schedule flag is set based on the first determination result (before the internal first hit). On the other hand, when the probability state schedule flag is set through the previous step S76, the following procedure is executed. However, when the advance hit determination is performed only by the current probability state as described above, it is not necessary to execute the following steps S56, S58, step S60, step S62, and step S76.

Step S56: When the main control CPU 72 confirms that the value has already been set in the probability state schedule flag (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S58.

Step S58: The main control CPU 72 first sets the comparison value for low probability (normal time) in the A register.

Step S60: Next, the main control CPU 72 loads the “probability state schedule flag”. As described above, the probability state scheduled flag is for setting the probability state in a planned manner in the subsequent subsequent determination based on the immediately preceding determination result, and is stored in the flag area of the RAM 76. .. If the probability state based on the previous judgment result is scheduled to shift to a high probability (probability change), "A0H" is set as the value of the probability state schedule flag as described above, and conversely, the previous judgment result immediately before. If the probability state based on is scheduled to return to a low probability (normal), "01H" is set as the value of the probability state schedule flag.

Step S62: Then, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the loaded probability state schedule flag does not represent a high-probability schedule (≠ 01H), and as a result, if it represents a high-probability schedule (). No), then step S64 is executed, and the comparison value for high probability is set.

In this way, if the probability state schedule flag based on the first determination result has already been set and the value is for a high probability, the comparison value is rewritten for the high probability time, and then the next step S72 or later. Will be executed. On the other hand, when it is confirmed in the previous step S62 that the probability state schedule flag does not represent a high-probability schedule but represents a normal (low) probability schedule (Yes), the main control CPU 72 steps. S64 is skipped and the next step S72 and subsequent steps are executed. As a result, in the present embodiment, the jackpot determination in advance can be performed in consideration of the subsequent changes in the internal state (normal probability state → high probability state, high probability state → normal probability state) based on the first determination result. ..

When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the first special symbol memory update process (FIG. 23) or the second special symbol memory update process (FIG. 24).

[Special symbol game processing]
Next, the details of the special symbol game process executed in the interrupt management process (FIG. 21) will be described. FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of the special symbol game processing. The special symbol game process includes execution selection process (step S1000), special symbol change pre-process (step S2000), special symbol change process (step S3000), special symbol stop display process (step S4000), and variable winning device management process. (Step S5000) is a configuration including a group of subroutines (program modules). Here, first, the basic flow of the special symbol game processing will be described along with each processing.

Step S1000: In the execution selection process, the main control CPU 72 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (any of steps S2000 to S5000) from the “jump table”. For example, the main control CPU 72 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the special symbol game process in the stack pointer as the return destination address.

Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far (special symbol game management status). For example, if the special symbol has not yet started the variation display (special symbol game management status: 00H), the main control CPU 72 selects the special symbol variation preprocessing (step S2000) as the next jump destination. On the other hand, if the special symbol change preprocessing has already been completed (special symbol game management status: 01H), the main control CPU 72 selects the special symbol changing process (step S3000) as the next jump destination, and the special symbol is changing. If the processing is completed (special symbol game management status: 02H), the processing during display of special symbol stop display (step S4000) is selected as the next jump destination. In the present embodiment, the jump destination address is specified in the "jump table" to select the process, but apart from such a selection method, a "process flag", a "process selection flag", or the like is used. There is also a known programming example in which the CPU selects the process to be executed next. In such a programming example, the CPU performs each process as a whole, and in the first step thereof, the flag is referred to one by one for conditional branching (continuation / return). However, in the selection method of the present embodiment, the main control is performed. There is no need for the CPU 72 to call each process one by one.

Step S2000: In the special symbol variation preprocessing, the main control CPU 72 performs an operation of adjusting the conditions for starting the variation display of the special symbol. The specific contents of the processing will be described later using another flowchart.

Step S3000: In the special symbol changing process, the main control CPU 72 performs drive control of the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35 while counting the fluctuation timer. Specifically, an ON or OFF drive signal (1 byte data) is output for each segment and dot (No. 0 to No. 7) of the 7-segment LED. The pattern of the drive signal changes with the passage of time, thereby displaying the variation of the special symbol.

Step S4000: In the process during special symbol stop display, the main control CPU 72 controls the drive of the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35. Here as well, an ON or OFF drive signal is output for each segment and dot of the 7-segment LED, but the pattern of the drive signal is constant, and a stop display of a special symbol is performed.

Step S5000: The variable winning device management process is selected when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a hit mode (a mode other than non-winning mode) in the previous process during the special symbol stop display process. For example, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of a 15-round probability variation jackpot, an opportunity occurs to shift from the normal state up to that point to the jackpot gaming state (special gaming state advantageous for the player). During the jackpot game, the jump destination is set in the variable winning device management process in the previous execution selection process (step S1000), and the variable display of the special symbol is not performed. In the variable winning device management process, the large winning opening solenoid 90 is excited for a certain period of time (for example, for 29 seconds or until 9 winnings are counted) for a preset number of continuous operations (for example, 6 times or 15 times). As a result, the variable winning device 30 opens and closes in a fixed pattern (continuous operation of the special electric accessory). During this period, by intensively winning the game balls to the variable winning device 30, the player is given an opportunity to collectively obtain a large number of prize balls (special game execution means). It should be noted that the opening and closing operation of the variable winning device 30 at the time of a big hit is referred to as "round", and if the number of continuous operations is 15 times in total, these may be collectively referred to as "15 rounds". In the present embodiment, not only the 15-round jackpot but also a plurality of types of 6-round jackpots are provided as the types of jackpots. Further, for the 15-round jackpot and the 6-round jackpot, a plurality of winning types (winning symbols) may be provided therein.

Further, when the main control CPU 72 sets the large winning opening opening pattern (number of rounds, number of opening / closing operations per round, opening time, etc.) in the variable winning device management process, the opening / closing operation of the variable winning device 30 for one round is performed. The value of the round count counter is incremented by 1 each time it is completed. The value of the round number counter is stored in the count area of the RAM 76, for example, with the initial value set to 0. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a round number command indicating the value of the round number counter. The round number command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 21). When the value of the round number counter reaches the set number of continuous operations, the main control CPU 72 ends the jackpot game (major role) only for that round.

Then, when the jackpot game is completed, the main control CPU 72 changes the state (high probability state, time shortening state) after the jackpot game is completed based on the game status flag (probability fluctuation function activation flag, time reduction function activation flag) ( High probability time reduction state transition means). In the "high probability state", the probability fluctuation function is activated, and the winning probability in the internal lottery becomes, for example, about 10 times higher than usual (specific game state transition means, high probability state transition means, high probability state setting means). Further, in the "time reduction state", the time reduction function is activated, the operation lottery of the normal symbol becomes high probability as described above, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is shortened, and the opening time of the variable start winning device 28 is reduced. Is extended and the number of times of opening increases (so-called electric chew support is performed). It should be noted that the "high probability state" and the "time reduction state" may be shifted to only one of them in terms of control, or may be shifted according to both of them.

[Multiple winning types]
In the present embodiment, for the above "15 round jackpot", for example, (1) "15 round probability variation jackpot" is provided as a plurality of winning types (there may be more). In addition to this "15 round jackpot", (2) "6 round probability variation jackpot 1" and (3) "6 round probability variation jackpot 2" are provided as a plurality of winning types (there may be more than this). ).

The above-mentioned winning types correspond to the types of the first special symbol or the second special symbol that are stopped and displayed at the time of winning. For example, "15 round probability variation jackpot" corresponds to the jackpot of "15 round probability variation symbol", "6 round probability variation jackpot 1" corresponds to the jackpot of "6 round probability variation symbol 1", and "6 round probability variation jackpot 2" corresponds to the jackpot. Corresponds to the big hit of "6 round probability variation symbol 2". Therefore, in the following, the "winning type" will be appropriately referred to as the "winning symbol".

[15 round probability variation pattern]
If the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the mode of "15 round probability variation symbol" in the above processing during the special symbol stop display, an opportunity occurs to shift from the normal state up to that point to the jackpot game state (special game execution means). .. In this case, the big winning openings are opened once over a sufficiently long time (for example, an opening time of 29.0 seconds at the longest) from the first round, and this continues until the fifteenth round. In this "15-round probability variation symbol" jackpot game, 15 rounds of balls (prize balls) are given to the player. In addition, when a specified number of winnings (for example, 9 times = 9 game balls) occur in one round, the large winning opening is closed without waiting for the longest opening time to elapse. Then, for example, by activating the "probability fluctuation function" after the end of the big hit game, the player is given a privilege to shift to the "high probability state" as a result. In this case, even if the "time reduction function" is not activated in the previous game, the "time reduction function" is activated after the jackpot game is completed, so that the "time reduction function" is also entered. Benefits are given to the player.

[6 round probability variation symbol 1]
In addition, if the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the mode of "6 round probability variation symbol 1" in the processing during the previous special symbol stop display, an opportunity occurs to shift from the normal state up to that point to the jackpot game state (special game). Execution means). In this case, the big winning openings are opened once over a sufficiently long time (for example, an opening time of 29.0 seconds at the longest) from the first round, and this continues until the sixth round. In this "6 round probability variation symbol 1" jackpot game, 6 rounds of balls (prize balls) are given to the player. In addition, when a specified number of winnings (for example, 9 times = 9 game balls) occur in one round, the large winning opening is closed without waiting for the longest opening time to elapse. Then, for example, by activating the "probability fluctuation function" after the end of the big hit game, the player is given a privilege to shift to the "high probability state" as a result. In this case, even if the "time reduction function" is not activated in the previous game, the "time reduction function" is activated after the jackpot game is completed, so that the "time reduction function" is also entered. Benefits are given to the player.

[6 round probability variation symbol 2]
Further, if the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the mode of "6 round probability variation symbol 2" in the above processing during the special symbol stop display, an opportunity occurs to shift from the normal state up to that point to the jackpot game state for a short period of time. .. In this case, the 6-round jackpot game is completed within an extremely short time as compared with the 15-round jackpot game, so that the prize-winning opening is rarely generated. Therefore, the jackpot game of "6 round probability variation symbol 2" is completed within a short period of time without giving the player a substantial amount of balls (prize balls). Instead, if the winning type corresponds to "6 round probability variation symbol 2", for example, by operating both the "probability fluctuation function" and the "time reduction function" after the end of the jackpot game, as a result, "high probability" Along with the privilege to shift to the "state", the privilege to shift to the "time reduction state" is given to the player. Such a "six-round probability variation symbol 2" gives the impression that a "high probability state" and a "time reduction state" suddenly occur.

In any case, if the winning symbol corresponds to any of the above "15 round probability variation symbol", "6 round probability variation symbol 1" or "6 round probability variation symbol 2", the internal state is changed to "high probability state" after the big hit game is completed. ] And the privilege to shift to the "time reduction state" are given to the player. In addition, if the internal lottery is won in the "high probability state" and the winning symbol at that time corresponds to any of "15 round probability variation symbol", "6 round probability variation symbol 1" or "6 round probability variation symbol 2", that Even after the jackpot game ends, the "high probability state" continues (restarts).

[Small hit]
Further, in the present embodiment, a small hit is provided as a winning type other than the non-winning. When a small hit is won, a small hit game is performed separately from the big hit game, and the variable winning device 30 opens and closes (special game execution means). That is, in the above processing during the special symbol stop display, when the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in the small hit mode, the small hit game (variable winning device 30 operates) in the normal probability state or the high probability state. The game) is executed (note that in this embodiment, a small hit is not set for the second special symbol). In such a small hit game, the variable winning device 30 opens and closes a predetermined number of times (for example, twice), but a prize is hardly generated in the large winning opening. In addition, even if the small hit game is completed, the "probability fluctuation function" does not operate and the "time reduction function" does not operate, so that the "high probability state" or "time reduction state" No benefits will be granted to move to (it is not a prerequisite for this). Also, even if you win a small hit in the "high probability state", the "high probability state" does not end after the game of the small hit ends, and even if you win the small hit in the "time reduction state", that The "time reduction state" does not end after the small hit game ends (except when the maximum number of times is reached). In the present embodiment, the game specification is such that a small hit is set, but it is also possible to use a game specification in which a small hit is not set.

[Special symbol change pre-processing]
FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the special symbol change preprocessing. Hereinafter, each procedure will be described.

Step S2100: First, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the first special symbol operation memory number or the second special symbol operation memory number remains (is greater than 0). This confirmation can be performed by referring to the value of the working memory counter stored in the RAM 76. When the number of working memories of both the first special symbol and the second special symbol is 0 (No), the main control CPU 72 executes the demo setting process of step S2500.

Step S2500: In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates a demo effect command. The demo effect command is output to the effect control device 124 in the above effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 21). When the demo setting process is executed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process. When returning, it returns to the end address as described above (the same applies thereafter).

On the other hand, if the value of the working memory counter of either the first special symbol or the second special symbol is larger than 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S2200.

Step S2200: The main control CPU 72 executes the special symbol storage area shift process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 preferentially reads out the lottery random numbers (big hit determination random number, big hit symbol random number) stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76, which corresponds to the second special symbol. At this time, if random numbers are stored in two or more sections, the main control CPU 72 reads the random numbers in order from the first section, erases (consumes) them, and then moves (shifts) the remaining random numbers one by one to the previous section. ). The read random number is stored in another temporary storage area, for example. When the random number corresponding to the second special symbol is not stored, the main control CPU 72 reads out the random number corresponding to the first special symbol and stores it in the temporary storage area. Each random number stored in the temporary storage area is used for the internal lottery in the next jackpot determination process. As a result, in the present embodiment, the variable display of the second special symbol is given priority over the first special symbol. It should be noted that the program may simply read out random numbers in the order in which they are stored, without setting priorities for each special symbol. Further, in this process, the main control CPU 72 subtracts and subtracts one value of the working memory counter (the first special symbol or the second special symbol that shifts the random number) stored in the RAM 76. The latter value is set to "the number of working memories at the start of fluctuation". As a result, in the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 21), the display mode of the number of stored numbers by the first special symbol operation storage lamp 34a or the second special symbol operation storage lamp 35a is changed (decreased by 1). .. After completing the steps up to this point, the main control CPU 72 then executes step S2300.

Step S2300: The main control CPU 72 executes a jackpot determination process (internal lottery). In this process, the main control CPU 72 first sets a range of jackpot values, and determines whether or not the read random value is included in this range (internal lottery execution means). The jackpot value range set at this time differs between the normal probability state and the high probability state (when the probability fluctuation function is activated), and in the high probability state, the jackpot value range is expanded by about 10 times compared to the normal probability state. To. Then, if the random number value read at this time is included in the range of the jackpot value, the main control CPU 72 sets the jackpot flag (01H), and then proceeds to step S2400.

When the above jackpot flag is not set, the main control CPU 72 next sets a range of small hit values in the same jackpot determination process, and determines whether or not the read random value is included in this range (lottery execution). means). The "small hit" here is something other than non-winning (missing), but has a different property from the "big hit". That is, the "big hit" generates an opportunity (a turning point of the game) to shift to the above-mentioned "high probability state" or "time reduction state", but the "small hit" does not generate such an opportunity. However, the "small hit" is positioned as satisfying the condition for operating the variable winning device 30 as in the "big hit". The range of the small hit value set at this time may be different or the same between the normal probability state and the high probability state (when the probability fluctuation function is activated). In any case, if the read random number value is included in the small hit value range, the main control CPU 72 sets the small hit flag, and then proceeds to step S2400. As described above, in the present embodiment, the range of the big hit value and the small hit value is defined in advance in the program as the hit range corresponding to other than the non-winning, but the big hit judgment table and the small hit judgment table for each state are prepared in advance. Each of them may be written in the ROM 74, read out, and the big hit determination may be performed while comparing with the random number value.

Step S2400: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not a value (01H) has been set in the jackpot flag in the previous jackpot determination process. If the value (01H) is not set in the jackpot flag (No), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S2402.

Step S2402: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not a value (01H) has been set in the small hit flag in the previous big hit determination process. If the small hit flag is not set to the value (01H) (No), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S2404. The main control CPU 72 may determine the big hit (for example, 01H is set) or the small hit (for example, 0AH is set) according to the value of the common hit flag without preparing the big hit flag and the small hit flag separately.

Step S2404: The main control CPU 72 executes a stop symbol determination process at the time of disconnection. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets the stop symbol number data at the time of disconnection by the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command and a lottery result command (at the time of loss) for transmission to the effect control device 124. These commands are transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 21).

In this embodiment, since the 7-segment LED is used for the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 35, for example, the display mode of the stop symbol at the time of disconnection is always one segment (center). Only the lighting display of the bar "-") can be set, and the stop symbol number data can be fixed to one value (for example, 64H). In this case, the storage capacity used in the program can be reduced, the processing load of the main control CPU 72 can be reduced, and the processing speed can be improved.

Step S2405: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes the disconnection pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the variation pattern number at the time of disconnection for the special symbol (variation pattern selection means). The fluctuation pattern number distinguishes the type (pattern) of the fluctuation display of the special symbol, and corresponds to the fluctuation time required for the fluctuation display. Since the fluctuation time at the time of disconnection differs depending on whether or not it is in the above-mentioned "time reduction state", the main control CPU 72 loads the game state flag in this process, and the current state is in the "time reduction state". Check if it exists. In the "time shortened state", the fluctuation time at the time of disconnection is basically set to the shortened time (for example, about 2.0 seconds) except when the reach fluctuation is performed (reduced fluctuation time determining means). ). Further, even if it is not in the "time shortened state", the fluctuation time at the time of disconnection is based on, for example, the "number of working memories at the start of fluctuation display (0 to 3)" set in step S2200, except when the reach fluctuation is performed. It may be shortened (for example, the number of working memories at the start of variable display is 0 → about 12.5 seconds, the number of working memories at the start of variable display is about 1 → about 8 seconds, the number of working memories at the start of variable display is 2 → 5). About seconds, the number of working memories at the start of fluctuation display is 3 → about 2.5 seconds). It should be noted that the stop display time of the symbol at the time of detachment is constant (for example, about 0.6 seconds) regardless of the fluctuation pattern. The main control CPU 72 sets the value of the determined fluctuation time (at the time of disconnection) in the fluctuation timer, and sets the value of the stop display time at the time of disconnection in the stop symbol display timer.

In the present embodiment, when a non-winning result is obtained as a result of the internal lottery, control is performed such that, for example, a "reach effect" is generated and the result is lost, or a "reach effect" is not generated and the player is lost. It is supposed to be. Then, in the "disappearance fluctuation pattern selection table", fluctuation patterns corresponding to a plurality of types of effects, for example, "non-reach effect" and "reach effect", are defined in advance, and if a non-winning item is applicable, the variation pattern is defined in advance. One of the fluctuation patterns will be selected from the inside. The reach production includes various reach productions such as a normal reach production, a long reach production, and a super reach production.

[Example of variation pattern selection table at the time of loss]
FIG. 28 is a diagram showing an example of a variation pattern selection table at the time of disconnection.
This selection table is a table used at the time of non-winning in the internal lottery (special symbol lottery) (variable pattern defining means). Further, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, a "comparison value" and a "variation pattern number" are stored as a set of 1 byte each in order from the start address. The "comparison value" includes, for example, eight stepwise different values "101", "201", "211", "221", "231", "241", "251", and "255 (FFH)". It is provided, and "1" to "8" of "variation pattern number" are assigned to each "comparison value".

The fluctuation pattern numbers "1" to "5" correspond to the fluctuation patterns that are out of reach without the reach effect being performed, and the fluctuation pattern numbers "6" to "8" are the fluctuation patterns that are out of reach after reach. It corresponds. The fluctuation pattern selection table may have different table contents depending on the number of working memories at the start of fluctuation (hereinafter, the same applies).

Here, the length of the set fluctuation time differs greatly between the non-reach fluctuation pattern and the reach fluctuation pattern. That is, the "non-reach fluctuation pattern" basically corresponds to a short fluctuation time (for example, about 3.0 seconds to 12.0 seconds depending on the number of working memories), whereas the "reach fluctuation pattern" is It corresponds to a long fluctuation time (for example, about 30 seconds to 150 seconds) that is more than twice that.

Then, the main control CPU 72 compares the acquired fluctuation pattern determination random number value with the "comparison value" in the above fluctuation pattern selection table in order, and if the random number value is equal to or less than the comparison value, the comparison value is used. Select the corresponding variation pattern number (variation pattern determination means). For example, if the fluctuation pattern determination random number value at that time is "190", the main control CPU 72 has the next comparison value "101" because the random number value exceeds the comparison value when compared with the first comparison value "101". 201 ”and the random value are compared. In this case, since the random number value is equal to or less than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 selects “2” as the corresponding variation pattern number.

[See Fig. 27: Special symbol change preprocessing]
The above steps S2404 and S2405 are control procedures when the jackpot determination result is missed (when other than non-winning), but when the determination result is a jackpot (step S2400: Yes) or a small hit (step S2402: Yes). , The main control CPU 72 executes the following procedure. First, the case of a big hit will be described.

Step S2410: The main control CPU 72 executes a jackpot stop symbol determination process (winning type determination means). In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the type of the winning symbol (stop symbol number at the time of jackpot) for each special symbol (first special symbol or second special symbol) based on the jackpot symbol random number. The relationship between the jackpot symbol random value and the type of winning symbol is defined in advance in the special symbol determination data table (winning type determining means). Therefore, the main control CPU 72 can refer to the jackpot stop symbol selection table in the jackpot stop symbol determination process and determine the type of the winning symbol based on the jackpot symbol random number from the stored contents.

[Winning symbol at the time of big hit]
In this embodiment, three types of winning symbols, which are selectively determined at the time of a big hit, are prepared. The breakdown of the three types is "6 round probability variation symbol 1", "6 round probability variation symbol 2" and "15 round probability variation symbol". Each winning symbol of the three types of winning symbols may further include a plurality of winning symbols. For example, in the case of "6 round probability variation symbol 1", "6 round probability variation symbol 1a", "6 round probability variation symbol 1b", "6 round probability variation symbol 1c", and so on.

Further, in the present embodiment, the selection ratio of the winning symbols selected at the time of the big hit of the internal lottery corresponding to each of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is different. Therefore, the main control CPU 72 distinguishes the winning symbol to be selected depending on whether the result of the jackpot this time corresponds to the first special symbol or the second special symbol.

[First special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table]
FIG. 29 is a diagram showing a constituent column of the first special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table. When the result of the current jackpot corresponds to the first special symbol, the main control CPU 72 refers to the first special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table (winning type defining means) shown in FIG. 29 to select the type of the winning symbol. decide.

In the first special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table, the left column shows the distribution values for each winning symbol, and each distribution value "87", "8", "5" has the denominator as 100. Corresponds to the proportion of cases. Further, in the second column from the left, "6 round probability variation symbol 1", "6 round probability variation symbol 2", and "15 round probability variation symbol" corresponding to each distribution value are shown. That is, at the time of a big hit corresponding to the first special symbol, the ratio of selecting "6 round probability variation symbol 1" is 87/100 (= 87%), and the ratio of selecting "6 round probability variation symbol 2" is It is 8/100 (= 8%). In addition, the ratio of selecting "15 round probability variation symbol" is 5/100 (= 5%). The size of each distribution value corresponds to the selection ratio for each winning symbol using the jackpot symbol random number. Therefore, as a whole, the selection ratio of the probabilistic symbol for the first special symbol is 100%.

In any case, when the result of the current jackpot corresponds to the first special symbol, the main control CPU 72 performs a selection lottery based on the jackpot symbol random number, and the selection ratio shown in the first special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table. Selectively determine the winning symbol with. Further, in the first special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table, for example, 2-byte command data is defined as a stop symbol command at the time of winning as shown in the third column from the left. The stop symbol command is described by, for example, a combination of MODE value and EVENT value. Among them, the MODE value "B1H" of the upper byte means that the winning symbol this time is selected at the time of the big hit of the first special symbol. Represents. Further, the EVENT values "01H", "02H", and "03H" of the lower byte represent the types of winning symbols corresponding in the selection table, respectively. Therefore, for example, when the result of this big hit corresponds to the first special symbol and "6 round probability variation symbol 1" is selected as the winning symbol, the stop symbol command at the time of winning is described by "B1H01H". Will be.

As described above, when the main control CPU 72 selects the winning symbol from the stop symbol selection table at the time of the first special symbol jackpot, the main control CPU 72 generates the stop symbol command at that time. The generated stop symbol command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in, for example, the effect control output process described above. Further, the main control CPU 72 determines the jackpot stop symbol number for the first special symbol based on the selected winning symbol.

[Time reduction number]
In the right column of the first special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table, the value of the time reduction number (limit number of times) given after the end of the jackpot game is shown.

[Non-time saving]
If the time reduction function is not activated (during non-time reduction) and the "6 round probability variation symbol 1" is applicable, the time reduction number is given 8 times.
When the time reduction function is not activated (during non-time reduction) and the "6 round probability variation symbol 2" or "15 round probability variation symbol" is applicable, the number of time reductions is 100 times.

[Medium time saving]
When the time reduction function is operating (during time reduction), if any of "6 round probability variation symbol 1", "6 round probability variation symbol 2" or "15 round probability variation symbol" is applicable, the number of time reduction is 100. Granted times.

[Second special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table]
FIG. 30 is a diagram showing a constituent column of the second special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table. When the result of the current jackpot corresponds to the second special symbol, the main control CPU 72 refers to the second special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table (winning type defining means) shown in FIG. 30 to select the type of the winning symbol. decide.

Also in the second special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table, the distribution values for each winning symbol are shown in the left column, and the distribution values "95" and "5" are when the denominator is 100. Corresponds to the ratio. Similarly, in the second column from the left, "6 round probability variation symbol 1" and "15 round probability variation symbol" corresponding to each distribution value are shown. That is, at the time of a big hit corresponding to the second special symbol, the ratio of selecting "6 round probability variation symbol 1" is 95/100 (= 95%), and the ratio of selecting "15 round probability variation symbol". Is 5/100 (= 5%). Therefore, as for the second special symbol, the selection ratio of the probabilistic symbol is 100% as a whole. However, the distribution value for "6 round probability variation symbol 2" is not set in the second special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table.

When the result of this big hit corresponds to the second special symbol, the main control CPU 72 performs a selection lottery based on the big hit symbol random number, and selects the winning symbol by the selection ratio shown in the second special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table. To decide. Similarly, in the second special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table, for example, 2-byte command data is defined as the stop symbol command at the time of winning as shown in the third column from the left. Here, too, the stop symbol command is described by the combination of the above MODE value-EVENT value, and the MODE value "B2H" of the upper byte is the one selected when the winning symbol of this time is the big hit of the second special symbol. It represents that. Further, the EVENT values "01H" and "03H" of the lower byte represent the types of winning symbols corresponding to each other in the selection table. Therefore, for example, when the result of this big hit corresponds to the second special symbol and "6 round probability variation symbol 1" is selected as the winning symbol, the stop symbol command is described by "B2H01H". Become.

As described above, when the main control CPU 72 selects the winning symbol from the second special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command at that time. The generated stop symbol command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in, for example, the effect control output process described above. Further, the main control CPU 72 determines the jackpot stop symbol number for the second special symbol based on the selected winning symbol.

[Time reduction number]
The fourth column (right column) from the left of the second special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table shows the value of the number of time reductions given after the jackpot game is completed. In the present embodiment, the number of time reductions is given regardless of whether the "6 round probability variation symbol 1" or the "15 round probability variation symbol" is applicable. The number of time reductions given is the same as when a big hit is made with the first special symbol.

The reason why the selection ratio of the winning symbols differs between the first special symbol and the second special symbol as described above is, for example, for the following reasons. That is, when the state shifts to the "high probability state" or the "time reduction state", the variable start winning device 28 operates more frequently than in the normal time (when the time reduction function is not activated), so that the second special symbol The working memory of is less likely to be interrupted. Then, in the present embodiment, since the memory of the second special symbol is consumed with priority over the first special symbol, "6 round probability variation jackpot 2" should be excluded from the winning types of the second special symbol. For example, since it is difficult to correspond to "6 round probability variation jackpot 2" especially in the "high probability time shortened state", there is an advantage that it is possible to reduce the annoyance to the player.

[See Fig. 27: Special symbol change preprocessing]
Step S2412: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes the jackpot variation pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the variation pattern (variation time and stop display time) of the first special symbol or the second special symbol based on the variation pattern determination random number shifted in the previous step S2200. Further, the main control CPU 72 sets the determined value of the fluctuation time in the fluctuation timer, and sets the value of the stop display time in the stop symbol display timer. Generally, in the case of jackpot reach fluctuation, a fluctuation time longer than that at the time of loss is determined.

In the present embodiment, when the result of the internal lottery corresponds to a 15-round probability variation jackpot or a 6-round probability variation jackpot 1, for example, a "reach effect" is generated in the production to control the jackpot, or a "reach effect" is performed. It controls to make a big hit without generating it. Then, in the "big hit fluctuation pattern selection table", fluctuation patterns corresponding to a plurality of types of "reach effects" are defined, and if a 15-round probability variation jackpot or a 6-round probability variation jackpot 1 is applicable, among them. One of the fluctuation patterns will be selected. The reach production includes various reach productions such as a normal reach production, a long reach production, and a super reach production. Further, at the time of winning in the state where the time reduction function is activated, even if the fluctuation pattern having a short fluctuation time (the fluctuation pattern without the reach effect) is selected without selecting the fluctuation pattern having a long fluctuation time. Good.

[Example of jackpot fluctuation pattern selection table]
FIG. 31 is a diagram showing an example of a jackpot variation pattern selection table.
This selection table is a table used at the time of winning in the internal lottery (special symbol lottery) (variable pattern defining means). Further, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, a "comparison value" and a "variation pattern number" are stored as a set of 1 byte each in order from the start address. The "comparison value" includes, for example, eight stepwise different values "101", "201", "211", "221", "231", "241", "251", and "255 (FFH)". It is provided, and "13" to "20" of "variation pattern number" are assigned to each "comparison value".

The fluctuation pattern numbers "13" to "20" all correspond to fluctuation patterns that are hit by the reach effect.

The main control CPU 72 compares the acquired fluctuation pattern determination random number value with the “comparison value” in the above fluctuation pattern selection table in order, and if the random number value is equal to or less than the comparison value, it corresponds to the comparison value. Select the variation pattern number (variation pattern determination means). For example, if the fluctuation pattern determination random number value at that time is "190", the main control CPU 72 has the next comparison value "101" because the random number value exceeds the comparison value when compared with the first comparison value "101". 201 ”and the random value are compared. In this case, since the random number value is equal to or less than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 selects “14” as the corresponding variation pattern number.

[See Fig. 27: Special symbol change preprocessing]
Step S2414: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes other setting processing at the time of a big hit. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines that the type of winning symbol (stop symbol number at the time of big hit) determined in step S2410 is "6 round probability variation symbol 1", "6 round probability variation symbol 2", or "15 round probability variation symbol". In either case, the value (01H) of the probability variation function operation flag is set in the flag area of the RAM 76 as the game state flag (high probability state transition means, probability variation function operation means).

Further, in the main control CPU 72, the type of winning symbol (stop symbol number at the time of big hit) determined in the previous step S2410 is any of "6 round probability variation symbol 1", "6 round probability variation symbol 2", and "15 round probability variation symbol". In this case, the main control CPU 72 sets the value (01H) of the time reduction function operation flag as the game state flag in the flag area of the RAM 76 (time reduction state transition means, time reduction function operation means).

Further, in the process of step S2414, the main control CPU 72 determines the display mode of the stop symbol (big hit symbol) by the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35 based on the jackpot stop symbol number. At the same time, the main control CPU 72 generates a lottery result command (at the time of big hit) together with the above-mentioned stop symbol command (at the time of big hit). These stop symbol commands and lottery result commands are also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

Next, the processing at the time of a small hit will be described.
Step S2407: The main control CPU 72 executes a small hit stop symbol determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the type of winning symbol at the time of small hit (stop symbol number at the time of small hit) based on the random number of the big hit symbol. Here as well, the relationship between the big hit symbol random value and the type of winning symbol at the time of small hit is defined in advance in the special symbol selection table at the time of small hit (winning type defining means). In the present embodiment, the winning symbol at the time of small hit is determined by using the big hit symbol random number in order to reduce the load on the main control CPU 72, but a dedicated random number may be used separately.

[Winning symbol at the time of small hit]
In the present embodiment, there is only one type of winning symbol at the time of small hit, "double open small hit symbol". However, in addition to this, another type such as "1 time open small hit symbol" or "3 times open small hit symbol" may be prepared. As mentioned above, the "small hit" as a result of the internal lottery does not trigger the subsequent state to change to the "high probability state" or the "time reduction state", so it is essential for this type of pachinko machine. It is possible to provide a "one-time open small hit symbol" without being bound by the "two rounds (two-time opening) or more" rule.

Step S2408: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes the small hit time variation pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the variation pattern (variation time and stop display time) of the first special symbol or the second special symbol based on the variation pattern determination random number shifted in the previous step S2200 (variation pattern selection means). ). Further, the main control CPU 72 sets the determined value of the fluctuation time in the fluctuation timer, and sets the value of the stop display time in the stop symbol display timer. In the present embodiment, the reach fluctuation pattern can be selected in the case of a small hit, or the fluctuation pattern equivalent to that in the case of a normal fluctuation can be selected.

Step S2409: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes other setting processing at the time of small hit. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the display mode of the stop symbol (small hit symbol) by the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35 based on the small hit stop symbol number. At the same time, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command and a lottery result command (at the time of small hit) to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. These stop symbol commands and lottery result commands are also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

Step S2415: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a special symbol variation start process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 selects fluctuation pattern data based on the fluctuation pattern number (at the time of loss / at the time of hit). At the same time, the main control CPU 72 sets the fluctuation start flag of the special symbol in the flag area of the RAM 76. Then, the main control CPU 72 generates a fluctuation start command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. This fluctuation start command is also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process described above. When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol changing process (step S3000) as the next jump destination, and returns to the special symbol game process.

[Fig. 26: Processing during special symbol change, processing during special symbol stop display]
In the special symbol change processing, the main control CPU 72 loads the value of the change timer from the register to the timer counter as described above, and then the timer is changed according to the passage of time (the count number of clock pulses or the value of the interrupt counter). Decrement the value of the counter. Then, the main control CPU 72 controls the fluctuation display of the special symbol as described above until the value becomes 0 while referring to the value of the timer counter. Then, when the value of the timer counter becomes 0, the main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol stop display process (step S4000) as the next jump destination.

Further, in the special symbol stop display processing, the main control CPU 72 controls the stop display of the special symbol based on the stop symbol determined in the stop symbol determination process (step S2404, step S2407, step S2410 in FIG. 27). Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a symbol stop command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. The symbol stop command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process described above. When the stopped symbol is displayed for a predetermined time in the special symbol stop display processing, the main control CPU 72 erases the symbol changing flag.

[Special symbol storage area shift processing]
FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the above-mentioned special symbol storage area shift processing. In the previous special symbol change preprocessing, when the value of the operation storage counter corresponding to the first special symbol or the second special symbol is larger than "0" (step S2100: Yes in FIG. 27), the main control CPU 72 Executes this special symbol storage area shift process (second lottery element priority consumption means). Hereinafter, each procedure will be described.

Step S2210: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the working memory counter corresponding to the second special symbol that is preferentially consumed is “0”. At this time, if the value of the operation storage counter corresponding to the second special symbol is “1” or more (No), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S2212.

Step S2212: The main control CPU 72 designates a second special symbol as a special symbol to be shifted in the storage area. This designation is performed, for example, by setting "02H" as the target symbol designation value.

Step S2214: On the other hand, when the value of the operation storage counter corresponding to the second special symbol is "0" (step S2210: Yes), the main control CPU 72 uses the first special symbol as the special symbol to be shifted in the storage area. To specify. The designation in this case is performed, for example, by setting "01H" as the target symbol designation value.

Step S2216: The main control CPU 72 shifts the random number storage area of the RAM 76 with respect to the target special symbol specified in either step S2212 or step S2214. The specific contents of the processing are as described in the previous special symbol change preprocessing.

Step S2218: Next, the main control CPU 72 subtracts the value of the working memory counter for the target special symbol. For example, if the target for shifting the storage area this time is the second special symbol, the main control CPU 72 subtracts (-1) the value of the working memory counter corresponding to the second special symbol.

Step S2220: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets the “number of working memories at the start of fluctuation” from the value of the working memory counter after subtraction. Here, for both the first special symbol and the second special symbol, the "working memory number at the start of fluctuation" may be set after adding the values of the working memory counters.

Step S2222: Further, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the special symbol to be shifted the storage area this time is the second special symbol.
Step S2224: When the target is the second special symbol (step S2222: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets the operation memory number reduction effect command for the second special symbol. The effect command set here is also generated as a one-word length command, but its configuration is in contrast to the above-mentioned "effect command when the number of working memories is increased". That is, the effect command when the number of working memories is reduced is the value of the lower byte (for example, "00H" to "03H") indicating the number of working memories after the reduction, with respect to the preceding value (for example, "BCH") of the upper byte indicating the command type. ”) Is added, and the value of the lower byte is further added (logically) with an additional value (for example,“ 10H ”) meaning “decrease in the number of working memories due to consumption”. Therefore, for the lower byte, the second digit is "1" by ORing the added value "10H", and this value indicates that it is the "result (change information) due to the decrease in the number of working memories". It becomes a thing. In other words, if the lower byte of the command is "13H", it means that the number of working memories "4" (command notation is "14H") up to the previous time is reduced by one, and as a result, the number of working memories this time is "3" (command). The notation indicates that it has become "13H"). Similarly, if the lower byte is "12H" to "10H", it is the result of one decrease in the number of working memories "3" to "1" (command notation is "13H" to "11H") up to the previous time. , It means that the number of working memories this time is "2" to "0" (command notation is "12H" to "10H"). The above-mentioned preceding value "BCH" is a value indicating that the current effect command is a working memory number command for the second special symbol.

Step S2226: When the target of this time is the first special symbol (step S2222: No), the main control CPU 72 sets the operation memory number reduction effect command for the first special symbol. The command in this case is the same as the above except that the preceding value is a value (for example, "BBH") indicating that it is a working memory number command for the first special symbol.

Step S2228: Then, the main control CPU 72 executes the effect command output process. This process is for transmitting the operation memory number reduction effect command set in step S2224 or step S2226 to the effect control device 124 (memory number notification means).
When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol change preprocessing (FIG. 27).

[Processing during special symbol stop display]
Next, FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for processing during special symbol stop display. Hereinafter, each procedure will be described.

Step S4100: The main control CPU 72 subtracts the value of the stop symbol display timer (decrements by the interrupt cycle).

Step S4200: Then, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the stop display time has expired based on the value of the stop symbol display timer subtracted this time. Specifically, if the value of the stop symbol display timer is not 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 determines that the stop display time has not ended (No). In this case, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game processing, jumps from the execution selection process (step S1000 in FIG. 26) in the next interrupt cycle, and repeatedly executes the special symbol stop display processing.

On the other hand, if the value of the stop symbol display timer is 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 determines that the stop display time has ended (Yes). In this case, the main control CPU 72 then executes step S4250.

Step S4250: The main control CPU 72 generates a symbol stop command and a stop display time end command. The symbol stop command and the stop display time end command are transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the above effect control output process. Further, the main control CPU 72 erases the symbol changing flag here. The "stop display time end command" is a command indicating that the stop display time of the special symbol has ended (elapsed).

Step S4300: Here, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the jackpot flag (01H) is set. When the value of the jackpot flag (01H) is set (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S4350.

[At the time of winning]
Step S4350: The main control CPU 72 sets the jump destination of the jump table to "variable winning device management process". The main control CPU 72 executes a process of setting various functions to be inactive in this process. Specifically, the probability fluctuation function is deactivated and the time saving function is deactivated. As a result, before the special game (major role) is started, the state is shifted to the low probability non-time reduction state.
Step S4400: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets "start of big win (during big hit game)" as an internal state flag on control. Further, the main control CPU 72 sets the value of the continuous operation number status according to the type of the jackpot symbol. For example, when the type of the jackpot symbol is "15 round probability variation symbol", the value corresponding to "15 rounds" is set in the continuous operation count status. Further, when the type of the jackpot symbol is "6 round probability variation symbol 1" or "6 round probability variation symbol 2", a value representing "6 rounds" is set in the continuous operation count status. In addition, the main control CPU 72 generates a state command indicating that the jackpot is in progress. The state command indicating that the jackpot is in progress is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the above effect control output process.

Step S4500: Then, the main control CPU 72 generates a continuous operation number command. The continuous operation number command can be generated based on the type (stop symbol number) of the jackpot symbol determined in the previous jackpot stop symbol determination process (step S2410 in FIG. 27). For example, when the type of the jackpot symbol is "15 round probability variation symbol", the continuous operation count command is generated as a value representing "15 rounds". Further, when the type of the jackpot symbol is "6 round probability variation symbol 1" or "6 round probability variation symbol 2", the continuous operation count command is generated as a value representing "6 rounds". The generated continuous operation number command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the above effect control output process.

When the above procedure is completed at the time of the jackpot, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game processing.

[When not winning]
On the other hand, the following procedure is executed except at the time of big hit.
That is, when the main control CPU 72 determines in step S4300 that the value of the jackpot flag (01H) is not set (No), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S4600.

Step S4600: The main control CPU 72 next confirms whether or not the value of the small hit flag (01H) is set. Then, when the value of the small hit flag (01H) is not set and it is simply out of alignment (No), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S4602.

Step S4602: The main control CPU 72 sets the address of the special symbol change preprocessing as the jump destination address of the jump table.

Step S4605: On the other hand, when the value of the small hit flag (01H) is set (step S4600: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets the address of the variable winning device management process as the jump destination address of the jump table.

Step S4606: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets "small hit start (small hit in progress)" as an internal state flag on the control. In addition, the main control CPU 72 generates a state command indicating that a small hit is in progress. The state command indicating that the small hit is in progress is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the above effect control output process.

Step S4610: Next, the main control CPU 72 loads the value of the number-cutting counter. In the "count cut counter", the counter values are set in the probability variation count area and the time reduction count area of the RAM 76 in the "high probability state" and the "time reduction state", respectively. In the present embodiment, since the so-called number-cut probability change function is adopted, when shifting to the "high probability state" and the "time reduction state", the number-cut counter for the high-probability state is a predetermined numerical value (for example, 8 times). The number-of-times counter for the time reduction state is set to a predetermined value (for example, 8 times or 100 times).

Step S4620: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the loaded counter value is 0. At this time, if the number-of-count counter value is already 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game processing. On the other hand, if the number-of-times counter value is not 0 (No), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S4630 after generating the number-of-times counter value command.

Step S4630: The main control CPU 72 decrements (1 subtracts) the number-of-times counter value.
Step S4640: Then, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the subtraction result is not 0. As a result of the subtraction, if the value of the number-of-times cutting counter is not 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game processing. On the other hand, when the value of the number-cut counter becomes 0 (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S4650.

Step S4650: Here, the main control CPU 72 resets the flag when the number-cutting function is activated. In the present embodiment, since the number-of-count counter for the high probability state is set to a predetermined value (for example, 8 times), the probability fluctuation function operation flag is reset after the special symbol changes 8 times after the special game. Further, since the count cut counter related to the time reduction state is set to a predetermined value (for example, 8 times or 100 times), the time reduction function operation flag is reset after the special symbol fluctuates 8 times or 100 times after the special game. .. As a result, the time reduction state and the high probability state end after the stop display of the special symbol. After completing the above procedure, the process returns to the special symbol game processing.

[Display output management process]
Next, FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 21) executed in the interrupt management process. The display output management process includes special symbol display setting process (step S1200), normal symbol display setting process (step S1210), status display setting process (step S1220), working memory display setting process (step S1230), and continuous operation count display setting. The configuration includes a group of subroutines for processing (step S1240).

Of these, the special symbol display setting process (step S1200), the normal symbol display setting process (step S1210), and the working memory display setting process (step S1230) are described in the first special symbol display device 34 and the second. Generates a drive signal to be applied to each LED of the special symbol display device 35, the normal symbol display device 33, the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, and the second special symbol operation memory number display lamp 35a. And output processing.

The state display setting process (step S1220) and the continuous operation number display setting process (step S1240) are processes for generating and outputting a drive signal applied to each LED of the game state display device 38. First, in the state display setting process, the main control CPU 72 controls the lighting of the probability fluctuation state display lamp 38a and the time saving state display lamp 38b according to the values of the probability fluctuation function operation flag or the time reduction function operation flag, respectively. For example, if a value (01H) is set in the probability fluctuation function operation flag when the pachinko machine 1 is turned on, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the LED corresponding to the probability fluctuation state display lamp 38a. The probability fluctuation state display lamp 38a continues to light until the jackpot game related to the special symbol is started, or until the probability fluctuation function is turned off after the fluctuation display of the special symbol is performed a specified number of times, and then the lamp is not lit. The display can be switched (off). On the other hand, if the value (01H) is set in the time reduction function operation flag, the main control CPU 72 gives a lighting signal to the LED corresponding to the time reduction status display lamp 38b regardless of whether or not the power is turned on. Is output.

Further, the main control CPU 72 controls the lighting of the jackpot type display lamps 38c and 38d in the continuous operation number display setting process. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal for any of the jackpot type indicator lamps 38c and 38d based on the value of the continuous operation number status. At this time, the target for outputting the lighting signal is any of the indicator lamps 38c and 38d corresponding to the jackpot symbol specified by the value of the continuous operation count status. For example, if the value of the continuous operation count status specifies "15 rounds", the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the lamp 38c representing "15 rounds (15R)". If the value of the continuous operation count status specifies "6 rounds", the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the lamp 38d representing "6 rounds (6R)".

Further, in the state display setting process (step S1220), the main control CPU 72 also controls the launch position designation display lamp 38e of the game state display device 38. For example, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the LED corresponding to the firing position designation indicator lamp 38e when the special game is being executed or the time is shortened.

[Variable winning device management process]
Next, the details of the variable winning device management process will be described. FIG. 35 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of the variable winning device management process. The variable winning device management process includes the game process selection process (step S5100), the large winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S5200), the large winning opening opening / closing operation processing (step S5300), the large winning opening closing process (step S5400), and the end. The configuration includes a group of subroutines for processing (step S5500).

Step S5100: In the game process selection process, the main control CPU 72 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (any of step S5200 to step S5500). That is, the main control CPU 72 selects the program address of the process to be executed next from the jump table as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the variable winning device management process as the return destination address in the stack pointer. Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far. For example, if the variable winning device 30 has not yet started operating (opening / closing operation), the main control CPU 72 selects the large winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S5200) as the next jump destination. On the other hand, if the large winning opening opening pattern setting process has already been completed, the main control CPU 72 selects the large winning opening opening / closing operation process (step S5300) as the next jump destination, and has completed the large winning opening opening / closing operation process. Then, the large winning opening closing process (step S5400) is selected as the next jump destination. Further, when the large winning opening opening / closing operation process and the large winning opening closing process are repeatedly executed over the set number of continuous operations (number of rounds), the main control CPU 72 selects the end process (step S5500) as the next jump destination. .. Hereinafter, each process will be described in more detail.

[Large winning opening opening pattern setting process]
FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the large winning opening opening pattern setting process. This process is for setting conditions such as the number of times the variable winning device 30 is opened and closed at the time of a big hit or a small hit, and the opening time of each. Hereinafter, each procedure will be described.

Step S5202: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current gaming state is playing a major role, that is, whether or not the value of the jackpot flag (01H) is set in the flag area of the RAM 76. If the value of the jackpot flag is set (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S5204. On the other hand, if the value of the jackpot flag is not set (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S5212. Note that this procedure may be rewritten to refer to the value of the small hit flag (however, the logic of Yes / No is reversed).

[Procedure for big hit]
First, the procedure for a big hit is as follows.
Step S5204: The main control CPU 72 executes a symbol-specific open pattern setting process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the opening pattern of the winning opening (the number of opening for each round and the opening time for each round), the interval time between rounds, and the number of counts in one round (maximum) according to the corresponding winning symbol this time. Set the number of winnings). The opening pattern for each winning symbol is as described in the item [Multiple winning types] in the special symbol game processing (FIG. 26) above. Further, the interval time between rounds is set to about several seconds (for example, 2 seconds to 2.5 seconds) for "6 round probability variation symbol 1" and "15 round probability variation symbol", for example, "6 round probability variation symbol 2". Is set to about 1 second. The number of counts (maximum number of winnings) in one round is, for example, 9 for all winning symbols, but winnings rarely occur during opening for an extremely short time (about 0.1 seconds) (about 0.1 seconds). It's not impossible, but it's extremely difficult).

Step S5206: The main control CPU 72 sets the number of execution rounds in the current jackpot game based on the jackpot winning symbol selected in the previous jackpot stop symbol determination process (step S2410 in FIG. 27). Specifically, if the major classification "15 round probability variation symbol" is selected as the winning symbol, the main control CPU 72 sets the number of execution rounds to 15. If "6 round probability variation symbol 1" or "6 round probability variation symbol 2" is selected as the winning symbol, the main control CPU 72 sets the number of execution rounds to 6. The number of execution rounds set here is stored in the buffer area of the RAM 76 as a corresponding value (“5” for 6 times, “14” for 15 times) on the program.

Step S5208: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets the jackpot opening timer based on the jackpot opening pattern set in step S5204 above. The value of the timer set here is the opening time for each operation when the variable winning device 30 is operated. If a value of about 29.0 seconds is set as the value of the jackpot opening timer, the opening time is a sufficient time (for example, a launch control board) in which a prize is easily generated in the jackpot during one opening. The time for 10 or more game balls to be launched by the set 174, preferably 6 seconds or more). On the other hand, if 0.1 seconds is set as the value of the jackpot opening timer, the opening time is short (it becomes difficult) even if it is not impossible to win the big winning opening during one opening. The time (for example, a time shorter than 1 second, preferably a time shorter than the firing interval of the game ball by the firing control board set 174).

Step S5210: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets the jackpot interval timer based on the jackpot opening pattern set in step S5204 above. The value of the timer set here is the waiting time between rounds during the big hit.

Step S5220: When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the large winning opening opening / closing operation processing, and returns to the variable winning device management processing.

[Procedure for small hits]
Step S5212: On the other hand, in the case of a small hit (step S5202: No), the main control CPU 72 sets the “small hit opening pattern”. In the case of the present embodiment, for the "small hit opening pattern", for example, the opening pattern of "0.1 second opening" is set for the first time and the second time, respectively. Since there is no concept of "round" for "small hit", "opening pattern" is also described as "first opening" and "second opening".

Step S5214: The main control CPU 72 sets the number of times the large winning opening is opened to, for example, two, based on the large winning opening opening pattern set in the previous step S5212. The number of releases set here is stored in, for example, the buffer area of the RAM 76.

Step S5216: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets the small hit release timer. The value of the timer set here is the opening time for each operation when the variable winning device 30 is operated. In this embodiment, 0.1 seconds is set as the value of the small hit opening timer as described above, and in such an opening time, most of the prizes to the large winning opening occur during one opening. It is not (difficult) for a short time (for example, a time shorter than 1 second, preferably a time shorter than the firing interval of the game ball by the launcher unit).

Step S5218: The main control CPU 72 sets the small hit interval timer. The value of the timer set here is the waiting time for each time when the variable winning device 30 is opened and closed a plurality of times at the time of a small hit, and this timer value is set to, for example, about 2 seconds.

Step S5220: When the above procedure is completed at the time of small hit, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the large winning opening opening / closing operation processing, and returns to the variable winning device management processing. Then, the main control CPU 72 then executes the large winning opening opening / closing operation process.

[Large winning opening opening / closing operation processing]
FIG. 37 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the opening / closing operation process of the large winning opening. This process is mainly for controlling the opening / closing operation of the variable winning device 30. Hereinafter, the procedure will be described.

Step S5302: The main control CPU 72 opens the large winning opening. Specifically, the drive signal applied to the large winning opening solenoid 90 is output. As a result, the variable winning device 30 operates to shift from the closed state to the open state.

Step S5304: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes the release timer countdown process. In this process, the countdown of the open timer set in the previous large winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S5208 or step S5216 in FIG. 36) is executed.

Step S5306: Subsequently, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the opening time has expired. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the release timer after the countdown process is 0 or less, and if the value of the release timer is not yet 0 or less (No), the main control CPU 72 next steps S5308. To execute.

Step S5308: The main control CPU 72 executes the winning ball number counting process. In this process, the number of game balls that have won the variable winning device 30 (large winning opening during opening) within the opening time is counted. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 increments the value of the count number based on the winning detection signal input from the count switch 84 within the opening time.

Step S5310: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current count number is less than a predetermined number (9). As described above, this predetermined number defines the upper limit of the number of winning balls (the upper limit of the number of winning balls) allowed per opening (1 round during a big hit, 1 time during a small hit). If the count number has not reached the predetermined number (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process. Then, when the variable winning device management process is executed next, since the jump destination is set to the large winning opening opening / closing operation process at this stage, the main control CPU 72 repeatedly executes the above steps S5302 to S5310.

If it is determined in step S5306 that the opening time has ended (Yes), or if it is confirmed in step S5310 that the number of counts has reached a predetermined number (No), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S5312. Since the value of the release timer is set for a short time for opening at the time of small hit, normally, the main control CPU 72 takes step S5306 before confirming that the count number has reached a predetermined number in step S5310. In most cases, it is judged that the opening time has expired.

Step S5312: The main control CPU 72 closes the grand prize opening. Specifically, the output of the drive signal applied to the large winning opening solenoid 90 is stopped. As a result, the variable winning device 30 returns from the open state to the closed state.

Step S5314: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes the interval standby process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 executes the countdown of the interval timer set in the above-mentioned large winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S5210 or step S5218 in FIG. 36). Then, when the value of the interval timer becomes 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S5316. Although not particularly shown here, the main control CPU 72 manages the variable winning device that is the caller from step S5314 for each interrupt until the interval time elapses (until the interval timer value becomes 0). It returns to the end address of the process (FIG. 35). Then, when the large winning opening opening / closing operation process is executed in the next call, step S5314 is directly executed instead of starting from the first step S5302.

Step S5316: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not it is in a big role (during a big hit game). If the current game is playing a major role (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S5318. On the other hand, if the current game is a small hit (No), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S5322.

Step S5318: The main control CPU 72 increments the value of the open count counter. The value of the open count counter is stored in the count area of the RAM 76, for example, with the initial value set to 0.

Step S5320: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the open count counter after the increment has reached the number of times set in the current round. Here, the reason why the "number of times set in the current round" is determined is to correspond to the opening pattern of, for example, "opening the variable winning device 30 a plurality of times in one round during the big hit". .. Since such an opening pattern is not particularly adopted in the present embodiment, the "number of times set in the current round" is set to once in each round. Therefore, since the counter value normally reaches the set number of times in one opening / closing operation (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S5322.

When the pattern of repeating the opening / closing operation a plurality of times in one round is adopted as described above, the counter value has not yet reached the set number of times at the end of one opening (No). In this case, when the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process, the jump destination is set to the large winning opening opening / closing operation process at this stage, so the above steps S5302 to S5320 are repeatedly executed. As a result, the increment of the open count counter proceeds in step S5318, and when the counter value reaches the set number of times (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S5322.

Step S5322: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the large winning opening closing process, and returns to the variable winning device management process. Then, when the variable winning device management process is executed next, the main control CPU 72 then executes the large winning opening closing process.

[Large winning opening closing process]
FIG. 38 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for closing the large winning opening. This large winning opening closing process is for continuing the operation of the variable winning device 30 or ending the operation. Hereinafter, the procedure will be described.

Step S5401: First, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current game is in a big win (big hit game), and if it is in a big win (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S5402.

Step S5402: The main control CPU 72 increments the round number counter. As a result, for example, the value of the round number counter is "1" at the stage where the first round is completed and the second round is approached.

Step S5404: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the round number counter after increment has reached the set number of execution rounds. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 refers to the value (1 to 14) of the round number counter after incrementing, and if the value is less than the set number of execution rounds (1 to 14 after subtracting 1), (No). Then, step S5405 is executed.

Step S5405: The main control CPU 72 generates a round number command from the value of the current round number counter. This command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process as described above. The effect control device 124 can confirm the current number of rounds based on the received round number command.

Step S5406: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the large winning opening opening / closing operation process.

Step S5408: Then, the main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball number counter and returns to the variable winning device management process.

When the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, the main control CPU 72 executes the next jump destination, the large winning opening opening / closing operation process, in the game process selection process (step S5100 in FIG. 35). Then, after the execution of the large winning opening opening / closing operation process, the large winning opening closing process is executed, the main control CPU 72 executes the large winning opening closing process again, and the above steps S5402 to S5408 are repeatedly executed. As a result, the opening / closing operation of the variable winning device 30 is continuously executed until the actual number of rounds reaches the set number of execution rounds (6 or 15 times).

When the actual number of rounds reaches the set number of execution rounds (step S5404: Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S5410.

Step S5410, Step S5412: In this case, when the main control CPU 72 resets (= 0) the round number counter, the next jump destination is set to the end process.

Step S5408: Then, the main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball number counter and returns to the variable winning device management process. As a result, the next time the main control CPU 72 executes the variable winning device management process, the end process is selected this time.

[At the time of small hit]
On the other hand, in the case of a small hit, the procedure is as follows (special operation execution means).
Step S5411: When the main control CPU 72 confirms that the current game is not playing a major role (step S5401: No), the value of the opening count counter is incremented.

Step S5413: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the open count counter after increment has reached the set open count. The number of times of opening is set in the previous large winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S5214 in FIG. 36). If the value of the open count counter has not reached the set open count (No), the main control CPU 72 executes step S5416.

Step S5416: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the large winning opening opening / closing operation process.
Step S5408: Then, the main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball number counter and returns to the variable winning device management process.

When the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, the main control CPU 72 executes the next jump destination, the large winning opening opening / closing operation process, in the game process selection process (step S5100 in FIG. 35). Then, after the execution of the large winning opening opening / closing operation process, the large winning opening closing process is executed, and the main control CPU 72 again executes the large winning opening closing process, and goes through the above steps S5401 to S5413 (No) to step S5416. , Step S5408 is repeatedly executed. As a result, the opening / closing operation of the variable winning device 30 is repeatedly executed until the actual number of opening times reaches the set number of opening times (twice).

When the actual number of times of opening at the time of a small hit reaches the set number of times of opening (step S5413: Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S5414.

Step S5414, Step S5412: In this case, when the main control CPU 72 resets (= 0) the release count counter, the next jump destination is set to the end process.

Step S5408: Then, the main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball number counter and returns to the variable winning device management process. As a result, the next time the main control CPU 72 executes the variable winning device management process, the end process is selected this time.

〔End processing〕
FIG. 39 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for termination processing. This termination process is for adjusting the conditions for terminating the operation of the variable winning device 30. Hereinafter, a procedure example will be described.

Step S5502: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the jackpot flag (01H) is set, and if the value of the jackpot flag is set (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S5503. To do.

Step S5503, Step S5504: In this case, the main control CPU 72 resets the jackpot flag (00H). As a result, the jackpot game state ends on the control process of the main control CPU 72. Further, the main control CPU 72 erases "big hit" from the internal state flag here, and declares the end of the major role as the internal state in the control process. The main control CPU 72 resets the value of the continuous operation count status.

Step S5506: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value (01H) of the probability variation function operation flag is set. This flag is set in the big hit other setting process (step S2414 in FIG. 27) during the previous special symbol change preprocessing.

Step S5508: When the value of the probability fluctuation function operation flag is set (step S5506: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets the number of probability fluctuations (for example, 8 times). The set value of the probability fluctuation number is stored in, for example, the probability variation counter area of the RAM 76 and becomes the above-mentioned number-cut counter value. The probability fluctuation number set here is the upper limit number of times that the special symbol variation (internal lottery) is performed in a high probability state in the subsequent games. In the present embodiment, since a practical upper limit is set in the high-probability state, the winning result may not be obtained in the high-probability state and the game may return to the low-probability state (so-called number-cut probability change machine; ST machine). .. If the value of the probability fluctuation function operation flag is not set (step S5506: No), the main control CPU 72 does not execute step S5508, but since the probability variation ratio is 100% in this embodiment, step S5508 is always performed. Will be executed.

Step S5510: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value (01H) of the time reduction function operation flag is set. This flag is also set in the big hit other setting process (step S2414 in FIG. 27) during the above-mentioned special symbol change preprocessing.

Step S5512: Then, when the value of the time reduction function operation flag is set (step S5510: Yes), the main control CPU 72 reduces the number of times (for example, 8 times) depending on the winning symbol and the presence or absence of the time reduction state at the time of winning. Or 100 times) is set. The value of the set time reduction number of times is stored in the time reduction count area of the RAM 76 as described above. The time reduction number set here is the upper limit number of times for shortening the fluctuation time of the special symbol in the subsequent games. If the value of the time reduction function operation flag is not set (step S5510: No), the main control CPU 72 does not execute step S5512.

Step S5514: Then, the main control CPU 72 generates a state specification command based on various flags. Specifically, when the jackpot flag is reset or the major winning combination ends, a state specification command indicating "normal" is generated as the game state. In addition, if the high probability state function operation flag is set, a state specification command indicating "high probability medium" is generated as the internal state, and if the time reduction function operation flag is set, the internal state is "time reduction". Generates a state specification command that represents "medium". These state designation commands are transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

The procedure up to this point is for a big hit, but in the case of a small hit (step S5502: No), the following procedure is executed.

Step S5520, Step S5522: In the case of a small hit, the main control CPU 72 resets the value of the small hit flag (00H), and also deletes "small hit in progress" from the internal state flag. In the case of a small hit, the internal condition device does not operate, so such a procedure is merely for the purpose of clearing the flag.

Step S5516: After the above procedure, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the large winning opening opening pattern setting process.

Step S5518: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets the jump destination in the execution selection process (step S1000 in FIG. 26) in the special symbol game process to the special symbol change pre-process. When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process.

[Launch management process]
FIG. 40 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the launch management process executed by the launch control CPU 94. This launch management process is executed, for example, in the timer interrupt process (interrupt management process) for launch control. The firing control CPU 94 generates a timer interrupt at a predetermined interrupt cycle (for example, several tens of μs to several ms cycle) during execution of the reset start process similar to the reset start process in the main control CPU 72, and the timer interrupt process. To execute.

The launch management process includes command reception process (step S6000), ball data addition process (step S6010), launch control process (step S6020), ball data display management process (step S6030), and command transmission process (step S6040). ) Is included in the subroutine group. Hereinafter, the basic flow of the launch management process will be described along with each process.

Step S6000: In the command reception process, the launch control CPU 94 receives the winning data command transmitted from the main control device 70 and the ball lending data command transmitted from the card unit 210. Further, the launch control CPU 94 analyzes the received commands and stores them in the command buffer area of the RAM 98 for each type.

Step S6010: In the holding ball data addition processing, the launch control CPU 94 executes the holding ball data addition processing based on the contents of the received winning data command and ball lending data command. The specific contents of the processing will be described later with reference to another drawing.

Step S6020: In the launch control process, the launch control CPU 94 executes a process of controlling the launch device 300, and also executes a subtraction process of holding ball data based on the supply signal of the game ball and the launch signal of the game ball. The specific contents of the processing will be described later with reference to another drawing.

Step S6030: In the holding ball data display management process, the launch control CPU 94 controls the display content of the holding ball data display 123. Specifically, the holding ball data is displayed based on the information of the holding ball data stored in the RAM 98, and the remaining number data is displayed based on the remaining number information transmitted from the card unit 210.

Step S6040: In the command transmission process, the launch control CPU 94 transmits a game stop command to the main control device 70 and a game machine state information command to the card unit 210.

Through the above launch management process, the launch control CPU 94 can comprehensively control the launch of the game ball in the pachinko machine 1 and the content of the possession ball data.

[Holding ball data addition processing]
FIG. 41 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the above-mentioned ball holding data addition process. Hereinafter, a procedure example will be described.

Step S6100: The launch control CPU 94 confirms whether or not the winning data command has been received from the main control CPU 72. Specifically, the launch control CPU 94 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 98 and confirms whether or not the winning data command is stored.

As a result, when it is confirmed that the winning data command is saved (Yes), the firing control CPU 94 executes step S6102. On the other hand, if it cannot be confirmed that the winning data command is saved (No), the firing control CPU 94 does not execute step S6102.

Step S6102: The launch control CPU 94 executes the launch ball data addition process. In this launch ball data addition process, the launch control CPU 94 executes a process of adding a quantity corresponding to the received winning data to the ball data (means for executing the ball data addition process at the time of winning). For example, if the value of the ball possession data is "124" and the value of the winning data included in the winning data command is "3", the process of adding "3" to "124" is executed, and finally. The process of updating the value of the ball data to "127" is executed. When this process is executed, the launch control CPU 94 executes a process of erasing the winning data command from the command buffer area of the RAM 98.

Step S6104: The launch control CPU 94 confirms whether or not the ball lending data command has been received from the card unit 210. Specifically, the launch control CPU 94 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 98 and confirms whether or not the ball lending data command is stored. As a result, when it is confirmed that the ball lending data command is saved (Yes), the launch control CPU 94 executes step S6106. On the other hand, if it cannot be confirmed that the ball lending data command is saved (No), the launch control CPU 94 does not execute step S6106.

Step S6106: The launch control CPU 94 executes the launch ball data addition process. In this launch ball data addition process, the launch control CPU 94 executes a process of adding a quantity corresponding to the received ball lending data to the possession ball data (ball lending time possession ball data addition processing execution means). For example, if the value of the ball lending data is "0" and the value of the ball lending data included in the ball lending data command is "125", the process of adding "125" to "0" is executed. Finally, the process of updating the value of the ball holding data to "125" is executed. When this process is executed, the launch control CPU 94 executes a process of erasing the ball lending data command from the command buffer area of the RAM 98.
Then, when the above processing is completed, the launch control CPU 94 returns to the launch management process (FIG. 40).

[Launch control process]
FIG. 42 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the above-mentioned launch control process. Hereinafter, a procedure example will be described.

Step S6200: The launch control CPU 94 confirms whether or not the value of the ball holding data is “0”. Specifically, the launch control CPU 94 accesses the data buffer area of the RAM 98 and confirms whether or not the value of the ball holding data is “0”.

As a result, when it is confirmed that the value of the holding ball data is "0" (Yes), the launch control CPU 94 returns to the launch management process (FIG. 40). On the other hand, when it cannot be confirmed that the value of the holding ball data is "0" (No), the launch control CPU 94 executes step S6202. When it is confirmed that the value of the holding ball data is "0", an effect (visual or auditory effect) for urging the player to add the holding ball data may be executed. ..

Step S6202: The launch control CPU 94 confirms whether or not the launch is permitted. Specifically, the firing control CPU 94 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 98, and when the firing prohibition command is not saved, it can be determined that the firing is permitted.

As a result, when it is confirmed that the firing is permitted (Yes), the firing control CPU 94 executes step S6204. On the other hand, if it cannot be confirmed that the launch permission state is established (No), the process returns to the launch management process (FIG. 40).

Step S6204: The launch control CPU 94 confirms whether or not the value of the launch status is “waiting for supply”. Here, the firing status is a variable indicating the operating state of the launching device 300 and is stored in the data buffer of the RAM 98. The values stored in the launch status include, for example, "waiting for supply (00H)", "confirming supply (01H)", "supplying (02H)", "waiting for launch (03H)", and "launching (launching (03H)". 04H) ”. The launch control CPU 94 can confirm the operating state of the launch device 300 by confirming the value of the launch status. In addition, "waiting for supply (00H)" is stored in the initial value of the firing status.

Then, when it is confirmed that the value of the firing status is "waiting for supply" (Yes), the firing control CPU 94 executes steps S6206 and S6208. On the other hand, when it cannot be confirmed that the value of the firing status is "waiting for supply" (No), the firing control CPU 94 executes step S6209 without executing steps S6206 and S6208.

Step S6206: The launch control CPU 94 executes the launch ball supply process. Specifically, the ball feed motor 502 is driven to execute a process of supplying a game ball to the launching device 300.

Step S6208: The launch control CPU 94 executes a process of storing "supply confirmation (01H)" in the launch status.

Step S6209: The launch control CPU 94 executes the supply confirmation process. This supply confirmation process is a process for confirming whether or not the game ball has been normally supplied to the launching device 300, and when it is confirmed that the game ball has been normally supplied, the launch control CPU 94 , Execute the process of storing "Supply (02H)" in the firing status. The specific contents of the processing will be described later using another flowchart.

Step S6210: The launch control CPU 94 confirms whether or not the value of the launch status is “supplying”.

As a result, when it is confirmed that the value of the firing status is "supplying" (Yes), the firing control CPU 94 executes step S6212. On the other hand, when it cannot be confirmed that the value of the firing status is "supplying" (No), the firing control CPU 94 executes step S6220 without executing step S6212 or the like.

Step S6212: The firing control CPU 94 executes the stable time timer countdown process. Specifically, when the module is called for the first time, the firing control CPU 94 sets an initial value to the value of the stabilization time timer here, and when the module is called for the first time or later, the firing control CPU 94 is already set and stable. Decrement the value of the time timer. The initial value of the stabilization time timer is the waiting time (for example, 0.1 to 0.3) from when the game ball supply detection sensor 106 detects the passage of the game ball until the game ball stably stops in the launching device 300. It can be set as (about seconds).

Step S6214: The launch control CPU 94 confirms whether or not the stable time has elapsed. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the stabilization time timer after the countdown process is 0 or less. If the value of the timer is not 0 or less (No), the firing control CPU 94 will execute step S6220 or later, but since the current firing status value is "supplying", the firing management process is performed as it is. Return to (FIG. 40). Then, when the launch control process is executed next, since the launch status is set to "supplying" at this stage, the launch control CPU 94 repeatedly executes the steps of step S6212 and step S6214 described above. Then, when it is determined in step S6214 that the stable time has elapsed (Yes), the launch control CPU 94 executes step S6216 and step S6218.

Step S6216: The launch control CPU 94 executes the holding ball data subtraction process. In this holding ball data subtraction process, the launch control CPU 94 executes a process of subtracting a quantity corresponding to the number of game balls supplied by the game ball supply detection sensor 106 from the holding ball data (subtraction of holding ball data at the time of launch). Processing execution means). For example, when the value of the possession ball data is "125" and it is detected that "1" of the game balls has been supplied, the process of subtracting "1" from "125" is executed, and finally. The process of updating the value of the ball possession data to "124" is executed.

Step S6218: The launch control CPU 94 executes a process of storing "waiting for launch (03H)" in the launch status.

Step S6220: The launch control CPU 94 confirms whether or not the value of the launch status is “waiting for launch”.

As a result, when it is confirmed that the value of the firing status is "waiting for firing" (Yes), the firing control CPU 94 executes step S6222. On the other hand, when it cannot be confirmed that the value of the firing status is "waiting for firing" (No), the firing control CPU 94 executes step S6226 without executing steps S6222 and S6224.

Step S6222: The launch control CPU 94 executes the launch output process. Specifically, the launching motor 302 is driven to execute a process of launching a game ball from the launching device 300.

Step S6224: The launch control CPU 94 executes a process of storing "launching (04H)" in the launch status. At this time, when the firing intensity is digitally controlled by the duty ratio of the PWM drive, the firing control CPU 94 sets the intensity here.

Step S6226: The launch control CPU 94 confirms whether or not the value of the launch status is “launching”.

As a result, when it is confirmed that the value of the firing status is "launching" (Yes), the firing control CPU 94 executes step S6228. On the other hand, when it cannot be confirmed that the value of the firing status is "launching" (No), the firing control CPU 94 returns to the firing management process (FIG. 40).

Step S6228: The firing control CPU 94 executes the holding time timer countdown process. Specifically, when the module is called for the first time, the firing control CPU 94 sets an initial value to the value of the holding time timer here, and when the module is called for the first time or later, the firing control CPU 94 holds the set. Decrement the value of the time timer. The initial value of the holding time timer is the waiting time (for example, 0.1 to 0.3) from the detection of the passage of the game ball by the game ball launch detection sensor 316 to the reliable discharge of the game ball from the launching device 300. It can be set as (about seconds).

Here, the holding ball data subtraction process in step S6216 may be executed when the passage of the game ball is detected by the game ball launch detection sensor 316.

Step S6230: The launch control CPU 94 confirms whether or not the holding time has elapsed. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the retention time timer after the countdown process is 0 or less. If the value of the timer is not 0 or less (No), the firing control CPU 94 returns to the firing management process (FIG. 40). Then, when the launch control process is executed next, since the launch status is set to "launching" at this stage, the launch control CPU 94 repeatedly executes the steps of step S6228 and step S6230 described above. Then, if it is determined in step S6230 that the holding time has elapsed (Yes), the launch control CPU 94 executes step S6232 and step S6234.

Step S6232: The launch control CPU 94 executes the evacuation position shift process. Specifically, the firing motor 302 is driven to execute a process of returning the firing arm 306 of the launching device 300 to the original standby position.

Step S6234: The launch control CPU 94 executes a process of storing "waiting for supply (00H)" in the launch status. As a result, a series of operations in one launch is completed, and the launching device 300 is in a state of waiting for the supply of the game ball.
Then, when the above processing is completed, the launch control CPU 94 returns to the launch management process (FIG. 40).

[Supply confirmation process]
FIG. 43 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the above supply confirmation process. Hereinafter, a procedure example will be described.

Step S6300: The launch control CPU 94 confirms whether or not the value of the launch status is “supply confirmation (01H)”.

As a result, when it is confirmed that the value of the firing status is “supply confirmation in progress” (Yes), the firing control CPU 94 executes step S6302. On the other hand, when it cannot be confirmed that the value of the firing status is "supply confirmation in progress" (No), the firing control CPU 94 returns to the firing control process (FIG. 42).

Step S6302: The launch control CPU 94 executes the supply time timer countdown process. Specifically, when the module is called for the first time, the firing control CPU 94 sets an initial value to the value of the supply time timer here, and when the module is called for the first time or later, the firing control CPU 94 sets the supply. Decrement the value of the time timer. The initial value of the supply time timer is set as a waiting time (for example, about 0.1 to 0.3 seconds) from driving the ball feed motor 502 to detecting the passage of the game ball by the game ball supply detection sensor 106. can do.

Step S6304: The launch control CPU 94 confirms whether or not the supply time has elapsed. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the supply time timer after the countdown process is 0 or less. If the timer value is not 0 or less (No), the firing control CPU 94 executes step S6308, but if the determination result in step S6308 is negative (No), the firing management is performed as it is. Return to the process (FIG. 42). Then, when the supply confirmation process is executed next, since the launch status is set to "supply confirmation in progress" at this stage, the launch control CPU 94 repeatedly executes the steps of step S6302 and step S6304 described above. Then, if it is determined in step S6304 that the supply time has elapsed (Yes), the launch control CPU 94 executes step S6306.

Step S6306: The launch control CPU 94 executes a process of storing "waiting for supply (00H)" in the launch status.

Here, it means that the supply of the game ball was not detected by the game ball supply detection sensor 106 within the above-mentioned supply time (within a predetermined time) after the game ball supply operation by the ball feed device 500 was executed. It means that the supply operation was not normally executed, or the supply operation was normally executed, but the game balls were not supplied because the game balls in the ball feeding device 500 happened to be insufficient.

Then, in such a case, in step S6306 described above, the process of storing "waiting for supply (00H)" in the firing status is executed. As a result, it is possible to restart from the supply operation without executing the launch operation, and it is possible to avoid a situation in which the launch operation is executed even though the game ball is not supplied.

Step S6308: The launch control CPU 94 confirms whether or not a passage detection signal has been input from the game ball supply detection sensor 106. When the input of the passage detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the launch control CPU 94 executes step S6310. On the other hand, when the input of the passage detection signal is not confirmed (No), the launch control CPU 94 returns to the launch management process (FIG. 42).

Step S6310: The launch control CPU 94 executes a process of storing "supplying (02H)" in the launch status. As a result, the launch control CPU 94 can end the confirmation process of whether or not the game ball has been normally supplied.
Then, when the above processing is completed, the launch control CPU 94 returns to the launch management process (FIG. 42).

[Card unit processing]
FIG. 44 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of card unit processing executed by the card unit CPU built in the card unit 210. This card unit process is executed in, for example, a timer interrupt process (interrupt management process) for controlling a card unit. The card unit CPU generates a timer interrupt at a predetermined interrupt cycle (for example, a cycle of several tens of μs to several ms) during the execution of the reset start process, and executes the timer interrupt process.

Step S7000: The card unit CPU executes the ball rental unit price setting process. The ball lending unit price setting process is a process of setting a unit price of a ball lending, and is a process of determining how many game balls are lent for one ball lending. For example, if one ball lending is a ball lending for 500 yen and the ball lending unit price is set to 4 yen, 125 game balls will be lent out. In addition, one ball lending is a ball lending for 500 yen, and if the ball lending unit price is set to 1 yen, 500 game balls will be lent out. The ball rental unit price setting process may be a process that can be executed only by a staff member who has the authority to change the setting of the card unit 210.

Step S7002: The card unit CPU confirms whether or not a membership card as a valuable medium has been inserted into the card insertion slot 214. The confirmation of the card type can be confirmed by reading the card type information stored in the card.

As a result, when it is confirmed that the membership card has been inserted (Yes), the card unit CPU executes step S7004. On the other hand, if it cannot be confirmed that the membership card has been inserted (No), the card unit CPU executes step S7006.

Step S7004: The card unit CPU confirms whether or not the membership card authentication is successful. Here, the membership card authentication means, for example, accepting a password input from an input button (not shown) provided on the card unit 210, and confirming whether the input password matches the pre-registered password. It is a process.

As a result, when it is confirmed that the membership card authentication is successful (Yes), the card unit CPU executes step S7010. On the other hand, if it cannot be confirmed that the membership card authentication has been successful (No), the launch control CPU 94 returns to step S7000 and repeats the processing so far.

Step S7006: The card unit CPU confirms whether or not a general card as a valuable medium has been inserted into the card insertion slot 214.

As a result, when it is confirmed that the general card has been inserted (Yes), the card unit CPU executes step S7010. On the other hand, if it cannot be confirmed that the general card has been inserted (No), the card unit CPU executes step S7008.

Step S7008: The card unit CPU confirms whether or not cash has been inserted into the cash slot 212.

As a result, when it is confirmed that the cash has been inserted (Yes), the card unit CPU executes step S7010. On the other hand, when it cannot be confirmed that the cash has been inserted (No), the card unit CPU returns to step S7000 and repeats the processing so far.

Step S7010: The card unit CPU executes the card information display process. Specifically, the card information display device 200 is subjected to a process of displaying the balance data and the ball holding data stored in the card.

Step S7012: The card unit CPU confirms whether or not the holding ball button 11 is pressed. Specifically, the card unit CPU determines that the holding ball button 11 has been pressed when a pressing signal is input from the holding ball button 11.

As a result, when it is confirmed that the holding ball button 11 is pressed (Yes), the card unit CPU executes step S7014. On the other hand, if it cannot be confirmed that the holding ball button 11 has been pressed (No), the card unit CPU executes step S7020.

Step S7014: The card unit CPU confirms whether or not the value of the ball holding data is larger than 0. The value of the ball possession data is stored in a general card or a membership card.

As a result, when it is confirmed that the value of the ball holding data is larger than 0 (Yes), the card unit CPU executes step S7016. On the other hand, when it cannot be confirmed that the value of the ball holding data is larger than 0 (No), the card unit CPU executes step S7020.

Step S7016: The card unit CPU executes a process of transmitting a ball lending data command to the launching ball management device 92. In the ball lending data command in this process, the total number of ball holding data of a predetermined unit (for example, 125 pieces) or the ball holding data less than the predetermined number of units is transmitted.

Step S7018: The card unit CPU executes a process of subtracting the value of the ball holding data transmitted by the ball lending data command from the value of the holding ball data stored in the general card or the membership card.

Step S7020: The card unit CPU confirms whether or not the ball lending button 10 is pressed. Specifically, the card unit CPU determines that the ball lending button 10 has been pressed when the pressing signal is input from the ball lending button 10.

As a result, when it is confirmed that the ball lending button 10 is pressed (Yes), the card unit CPU executes step S7022. On the other hand, if it cannot be confirmed that the ball lending button 10 has been pressed (No), the card unit CPU executes step S7028.

Step S7022: The card unit CPU confirms whether or not the value of the amount data is larger than 0. The value of the amount data is stored in a general card or a membership card.

As a result, when it is confirmed that the value of the amount data is larger than 0 (Yes), the card unit CPU executes step S7024. On the other hand, when it cannot be confirmed that the value of the amount data is larger than 0 (No), the card unit CPU executes step S7028.

Step S7024: The card unit CPU executes a process of transmitting a ball lending data command to the launching ball management device 92. In the ball lending data command in this process, a command including ball lending data corresponding to the settlement amount is transmitted. The ball lending data may include a function of transmitting data after deducting the consumption tax.

Step S7026: The card unit CPU executes a process of subtracting the amount of money corresponding to the value of the ball-holding data transmitted by the ball lending data command from the amount of money data stored in the general card or the membership card.

Step S7028: The card unit CPU confirms whether or not the break button 12 is pressed. Specifically, the card unit CPU determines that the break button 12 has been pressed when the press signal is input from the break button 12.

As a result, when it is confirmed that the break button 12 is pressed (Yes), the card unit CPU executes step S7030. On the other hand, if it cannot be confirmed that the break button 12 has been pressed (No), the card unit CPU executes step S7036.

Step S7030: The card unit CPU executes the break process. In this break process, a break-dedicated card is ejected from the card insertion slot 214, a break is displayed on the display screen of the card information display device 200, or a non-playable command is sent to the pachinko machine 1. It is possible to perform ingame impossible processing.

Step S7032: The card unit CPU confirms whether or not the break is completed. Specifically, when a break-only card is inserted into the card insertion slot 214, or when a break forced termination operation is executed by a clerk when a preset break time (for example, 30 minutes) has elapsed, the card unit The CPU determines that the break has ended.

Step S7034: The card unit CPU executes the break end process. In this break end process, it is possible to end the break during the break on the display screen of the card information display device 200, or to perform the game restart process by transmitting a game enable command to the pachinko machine 1.

Step S7036: The card unit CPU confirms whether or not the clearing button 13 has been pressed. Specifically, the card unit CPU determines that the clearing button 13 has been pressed when the pressing signal is input from the clearing button 13.

As a result, when it is confirmed that the clearing button 13 has been pressed (Yes), the card unit CPU executes step S7038. On the other hand, when it cannot be confirmed that the clearing button 13 has been pressed (No), the card unit CPU returns to step S7010 and repeats the processing so far.

Step S7038: The card unit CPU executes the clearing process. In this clearing process, the card unit CPU acquires the ball possession data from the launch ball management device 92 by communication, and executes a process of recording the ball possession data on a general card or a membership card. After that, the card unit CPU executes a process of ejecting a general card or a membership card by using a card ejection mechanism (not shown). The membership card is discharged unconditionally, but the general card is discharged when there is a balance or when there is ball data. Therefore, when there is no balance and there is no ball holding data, the general card is not ejected and is held inside the card unit 210. Then, when the clearing process is completed, the card unit CPU returns to step S7000 and repeats the previous processes.

FIG. 45 is a sequence diagram showing a flow of control processing executed between the card unit 210, the launch ball management device 92, and the main control device 70.

[F10: Ball lending process]
When the pachinko machine 1 starts the game machine, the card unit 210 executes the ball lending process.

[F12: Ball lending data command transmission]
When the ball lending process is executed, the card unit 210 transmits a ball lending data command to the launching ball management device 92.

[F14: Holding ball data addition processing]
The launching ball management device 92 that has received the ball lending data command executes the ball lending data addition process.

[F16: Launch processing]
When the handle unit 16 is operated by the player in a state where the value of the holding ball data is larger than 0, the firing holding ball management device 92 operates the launching device 300 to launch the game ball.

[F18: Holding ball data subtraction process]
When the game ball is fired, the launch ball management device 92 executes the ball data subtraction process according to the number of shots.

[F20: Winning a prize]
Here, it is assumed that the winning is generated by the gaming ball launched into the gaming area entering the predetermined winning opening.

[F22: Send winning data command]
When a prize is generated, the main control device 70 transmits a prize data command to the launch ball management device 92.

[F24: Holding ball data addition processing]
Upon receiving the winning data command, the launching ball management device 92 executes the holding ball data addition process according to the winning data.

[F26: Clearing process]
When the clearing button 13 is pressed by the player, the clearing process is started in the card unit 210.

[F28: Clearing command transmission]
When the clearing process is started, the card unit 210 sends a clearing request command to the launch ball management device 92.

[F30: Game machine status information command transmission]
Upon receiving the clearing request command, the launching ball management device 92 transmits the game machine status information command to the card unit 210.

[Details of game machine status information command]
The game machine state information command includes one generated by the main control device 70 and one generated by the launch ball management device 92. The game machine state information command generated by the main control device 70 is transmitted to the card unit 210 via the launch ball management device 92. The game machine state information command generated by the launch ball management device 92 is transmitted directly to the card unit 210 by the launch ball management device 92.

In addition, the game machine state information command includes launch information indicating that the game ball has been launched and possession ball data. Since the launch information and the possession ball data are the information managed by the launch possession ball management device 92, the game machine state information command including the launch information and the possession ball data is generated by the launch possession ball management device 92. .. In this way, by including the launch information in the game machine state information, it is possible to easily detect fraudulent acts such as increasing the possession ball data even though there is no fact of launch.

In addition, the game machine status information commands include "information on game results such as lottery results, number of fluctuations, and number of big hits", "information on cheating", "information on game errors", and "predetermined operations such as opening the door". At least one or more of "information", "ID information of the main control CPU", "authenticity information of a device or program based on security information", and "ID information of a game console" may be included. Since this information is the information managed by the main control device 70, the game machine state information command including the information is generated by the main control device 70. In this way, by including various information in the game machine status information, it is possible to make the pachinko machine 1 capable of fraud monitoring by a third party through an external card unit 210, and to enhance the measures against goto. It can be a pachinko machine 1.

Further, the transmission timing of the game machine state information command is not limited to this timing, and the game machine state information command can be transmitted at any timing. For example, when the game machine status information command includes "information about fraudulent activity", "information about game error", "information about a predetermined operation such as opening a door", etc., when the fraudulent activity is detected. You may send it with.

[F32: Command transmission processing]
The card unit 210 that has received the game machine state information command executes a process of transmitting the game machine state information to the hall computer or the like as needed.

[F34: Information writing process]
The card unit 210 executes a process of writing the holding ball data included in the received game machine status information command to a valuable medium (general card or membership card).

[F36: Card ejection process]
When the information writing process is completed, the card unit 210 executes a process of ejecting the valuable medium (general card or membership card).

As described above, in the present embodiment, the three elements necessary for the game machine, such as "the number of loans", "the number of shots", and "the number of prize balls", are "ball rental data command (F12)" and "launch processing (F16)". ) ”And“ Winning data command (F22) ”are supported respectively, and since the ball holding data is managed based on these data and events, the game result can be managed by electronic data. As a result, it is possible to eliminate the error sphere (mismatch of IN / OUT) of the game sphere, and it is possible to provide a game machine in which the game result is completely digitized.

[Example of production image]
Next, the effect image actually displayed on the liquid crystal display 42 in the pachinko machine 1 will be described with some examples. As described above, when the internal lottery of the jackpot is performed in the pachinko machine 1, the fluctuation pattern (variation time) is determined under the control of the main control CPU 72, and the fluctuation display by the first special symbol and the second special symbol is performed. (Design display means). However, as described above, since the first special symbol and the second special symbol itself are lit / blinking by the 7-segment LED, they lack the apparent appealing power. Therefore, in the pachinko machine 1, the variable display effect using the effect pattern is performed as described above.

The effect symbols include, for example, a left effect symbol, a middle effect symbol, and a right effect symbol, which are displayed side by side on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42 (see FIG. 1). ). Each production pattern is, for example, a design of a picture card with a character attached to the numbers "1" to "9". Of these, the left effect symbol constitutes a symbol sequence in which the numbers are arranged in ascending order from "1" to "9", and the middle effect symbol and the right effect symbol both have numbers "9" to "1". The symbols are arranged in descending order. Such a symbol sequence is displayed in a variable manner so as to flow (scroll) in the vertical direction in each of the left area, middle area, and right area on the screen.

FIG. 46 is a continuous view showing an example of an effect image corresponding to the variable display and the stop display of the special symbol. It should be noted that here, regarding the fluctuation of the special symbol at the time of non-winning (missing), an example of the variation display effect and the stop display effect (result display effect) performed by using the effect symbol is shown. This variable display effect is performed between the time when the special symbol (here, the first special symbol is used, but the second special symbol may be used) starts the variable display and the time when the stop display (including the fixed stop) is performed. It corresponds to a series of productions. Further, the stop display effect is an effect of expressing the stop display of the special symbol and the result of the internal lottery at that time as a combination of the effect symbols. Here, first, before explaining the specific contents of the control process, the basic flow of the variation display effect and the stop display effect for each variation adopted in the present embodiment will be described.

[Before fluctuation display]
In FIG. 46 (A): For example, in a state before the first special symbol starts to fluctuate (a state in which the demonstration effect is not in progress), a large row of three effect symbols is displayed on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42. ing. At this time, the effect symbol is also stopped and displayed in accordance with the stop display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol.

Further, at the lower part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42, markers (with reference numerals M1 and M2 in the figure) indicating the number of working memories of each of the first special symbol and the second special symbol are displayed. .. These markers M1 and M2 display the number of working memories of the first special symbol and the second special symbol (the number of displays of the first special symbol operating memory lamp 34a and the second special symbol operating memory lamp 35a) corresponding to the respective display numbers. It is represented, and the number of displayed items increases or decreases in accordance with the change in the number of working memories during the game. Further, in the markers M1 and M2, the marker M1 corresponding to the first special symbol is displayed as, for example, a circle (○) in order to facilitate visual discrimination, and the marker M2 corresponding to the second special symbol is, for example, a heart. It is displayed as a figure of. In the example of FIG. 46 (A), all four markers M1 are lit and displayed to indicate that the number of working memories of the first special symbol is four, and all the markers M2 are hidden (in a broken line). (Show) indicates that the number of working memories of the second special symbol is 0 (memory number display effect executing means).

Further, during the variable display of the effect symbols, for example, the fourth symbol (reference numerals Z1 and Z2 are attached in the figure) is displayed at the lower part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42. The fourth symbols Z1 and Z2 are "fourth effect symbols" following the above-mentioned left, middle, and right effect symbols, and are displayed in a variable manner in synchronization with the variable display of the effect symbols. It should be noted that the fourth symbols Z1 and Z2 are merely colored simple marks (for example, a figure of "□"), and for example, a variable display can be expressed by changing the display color. The fourth symbol Z1 corresponds to the first special symbol, and the fourth symbol Z2 corresponds to the second special symbol.

Further, the fourth symbols Z1 and Z2 are stopped and displayed in a mode corresponding to the detachment (for example, a white display color). This is for objectively clarifying that the stop display effect is correctly performed and that the pachinko machine 1 is operating normally. Therefore, if the result of the internal lottery is actually "6 round probability variation jackpot 1" or "15 round probability variation jackpot" instead of "missing", the corresponding modes (for example, blue display color, red display color, etc.) are used. The fourth symbols Z1 and Z2 are stopped and displayed.

[Start of variable display production]
In FIG. 46 (B): For example, in synchronization with the start of fluctuation of the first special symbol, the variation display effect is started by scrolling and fluctuating the three symbol rows on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42 (symbol effect). Execution means). That is, in synchronization with the start of fluctuation of the first special symbol, the row of the left effect symbol, the middle effect symbol, and the right effect symbol scrolls (flows) in the vertical direction on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42 to display the variation. The production starts. In the figure, the variable display of the effect symbol is simply indicated by a downward arrow. In addition, during the variable display, each effect symbol is displayed in a transparent state (transparent display), so that the background image (background image) of the effect symbol is displayed in an easily visible state on the display screen at this time. Has been done.

The background image in this case represents, for example, a landscape in which a female character dressed in a yukata sits on a chaise longue and relaxes as if it were cool in the evening. Such a background image expresses that the stay mode in the production is, for example, a "normal mode". In the present embodiment, the "normal mode" corresponds to a normal state in which the above-mentioned fluctuation time shortening function is inactive and the probability fluctuation function is also inactive. In addition to this, various modes are provided for the production, and background images with different landscapes and scenes are prepared for each mode (state display production execution means). The difference between these modes may correspond to an internal "time reduction state" or a "high probability state". The modes corresponding to each internal state will be described later. Although not particularly shown here, the advance notice effect may be performed by displaying an image of a character, an item, or the like on the display screen, for example.

Further, during the variable display of the effect symbol, the fourth symbol Z1 is variablely displayed at the lower part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and the fourth symbol Z1 expresses the variable display by changing the display color.

[Stop the left symbol]
In FIG. 46 (C): For example, when a certain amount of time (about half of the fluctuation time) elapses, the left effect symbol first stops fluctuating. In this example, it means that the effect symbol representing the number "8" has stopped at the middle position of the screen. Note that the background image is not shown here (the same applies thereafter).

[Example of production when the number of working memories decreases]
Here, as shown in FIG. 46 (B) above, the number of working memories of the first special symbol decreases by one as the fluctuation starts, so that the number of markers M1 displayed is increased accordingly. It has been reduced by one. For example, if there are four working memory numbers by then, only one of the earliest (oldest) stored number displays is hidden in the marker M1, and the effect consumed by the internal lottery is also performed. As a result, it is possible to teach the player that the number of working memories of the first special symbol has decreased in terms of production.

Then, in the example of FIG. 46 (C), since the working memory at the head in the memory order is consumed and the remaining three are, the three markers M1 remaining on the screen are one by one. The effect is to shift in the direction (here, to the left). As a result, it is possible to accurately express the context of the change in the number of working memories in the production, and to intuitively and easily teach the player that "the working memory has been consumed and decreased by one". it can.

[Right production pattern stop]
In FIG. 46 (D): Following the left effect symbol, the right effect symbol stops fluctuating thereafter. In this example, it means that the effect symbol representing the number "3" has stopped at the middle position of the screen. Since it has already been confirmed that the reach state does not occur at this point, it is almost clear from the appearance that this fluctuation is a non-reach (normal) fluctuation. Here, reach fluctuations due to slip patterns, etc. are excluded. The "slip pattern" is, for example, once the production symbol representing the number "7" is stopped, then the symbol row slides by one symbol and the production symbol representing the number "8" is stopped, thereby developing into reach. It is to do. Alternatively, once the effect symbol representing the number "9" is stopped, the effect symbol representing the number "8" is stopped by sliding the symbol sequence in the opposite direction by one symbol, and as a result, a pattern that develops into reach is also possible. is there. In addition, when a character appears on the screen and the right effect symbol sequence is changed again after the effect symbol representing a completely distant number such as "5" is temporarily stopped, the number "8" is changed. There is also a pattern in which the production pattern to be represented stops and develops into reach.

[Stop display effect]
In FIG. 46 (E): The last middle effect symbol is stopped in synchronization with the stop display of the first special symbol. If the result of this internal lottery is non-winning and the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in the non-winning (missing) mode, the production symbol is also stopped and displayed in the non-winning (missing) mode. Will be That is, in the illustrated example, it means that the effect symbol representing the number "1" has stopped at the middle position of the screen. In this case, the combination of the effect symbols is "8"-"1"-"3". Since it is an outlier, it is expressed in the production that this change corresponds to the usual "outlier". At this time, the fourth symbol Z1 is stopped and displayed in a mode corresponding to the detachment (for example, a white display color).

The above is an example of a variable display effect and a stop display effect (at the time of non-winning) performed by using the effect symbol for each change. Through such an effect, the player can have a sense of expectation for winning, and finally, the result of the internal lottery can be clearly taught in the effect.

Further, although the above example is for a non-winning case, at the time of a big hit (winning), after the reach effect is executed during the variable display effect, the effect symbol is stopped and displayed in the mode of the big hit in the stop display effect. At this time, the stop display mode of the effect symbol basically corresponds to the winning symbol (stop display mode of the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35) internally selected by the main control CPU 72. Is selected.

[Example of production at the time of big hit]
FIG. 47 is a continuous diagram showing the flow of the reach effect executed at the time of a big hit (winning). Here, in addition to the reach effect, a variable display effect, a stop display effect, and a notice effect are included. In addition, an example of the advance notice effect (pre-reach advance notice effect, post-reach advance notice effect) executed during the variable display effect will be described.

In the following reach effect, after the first special symbol display device 34 (may be the second special symbol display device 35) displays the fluctuation according to the fluctuation pattern at the time of the jackpot, the first special symbol is "6 round probability variation jackpot 1". "And" 15-round probability variation jackpot "(for example, 7-segment LED" self "," yo "," mouth "," snake "," F "," E "," L "," Γ ", etc.) It is executed until it is stopped and displayed (reach effect execution means). In FIG. 47, each effect symbol is shown simply by a number. Further, the above markers M1 and M2 and the fourth symbols Z1 and Z2 are not shown here. Hereinafter, the explanation will be given along with the flow of the production.

[Variable display effect]
In FIG. 47 (A): The rows of the left effect symbol, the middle effect symbol, and the right effect symbol are vertically arranged on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42 in substantially synchronization with the start of fluctuation of the first special symbol (or the second special symbol). The variable display effect is started by scrolling in a direction (for example, from top to bottom).

[Preliminary notice before reach occurs (1st stage)]
In FIG. 47 (B): Next, in the relatively early stage of the variable display effect, the first stage pre-reach advance notice effect using the character's picture image (picture card) is performed. This pre-reach advance notice effect is a notice effect in which the mode changes stepwise from one stage to a plurality of stages (for example, 2 to 5 stages) according to a predetermined order. The pattern image used in this pre-reach advance notice effect is located in front of the effect pattern that is variablely displayed on the screen, and is displayed so as to appear from the left edge of the screen, for example (other modes of appearance). It may be.). In addition, the "pre-reach notice" here means to give a notice of the possibility of reach or the possibility of a big hit before any of the effect symbols is stopped and displayed. By executing such a "pre-reach advance notice effect", it is possible to obtain an effect that gives the player a sense of expectation that "it may develop into reach = the possibility of a big hit increases".

[Pre-reach notice production (second stage)]
In FIG. 47 (C): After the first stage mode of the pre-reach advance notice effect is executed, the change of the pre-reach advance notice effect mode is subsequently advanced to the second stage. Here, as the second stage notice effect before the occurrence of reach, an effect using a picture image of a character different from the previous one is performed. Specifically, another picture image additionally appears from the right edge of the screen, and is displayed so as to overlap the front of the previously displayed picture image. Further, the pattern image displayed at this time is larger in size than the previously displayed pattern image. Then, the character represented by the picture image emits a line (for example, "become a reach"), which is also produced by acoustic output.

The pre-reach advance notice effect (second stage) using such a second pattern image goes one step further from the pre-reach advance notice effect (first stage) performed in FIG. 47 (B) above. It's an advanced type. The mode of "pre-reach notice production" that develops in this way is generally referred to as "step-up notice" or the like. Here, an example is given in which the second-stage pattern image appears in the pre-reach advance notice effect, but in an effect mode in which the third-stage, fourth-stage, and fifth-stage pattern images appear one after another and are displayed. There may be. Further, for example, each time the third-stage, fourth-stage, and fifth-stage picture images appear and are displayed one after another, the size may be expanded. Even at this stage, the variable display of the effect pattern is continued. In any case, it is possible to suggest to the player that there is a high possibility (expectation) of a big hit due to this change by advancing the change of the mode of the pre-reach advance notice effect to more stages. (For example, progressing to the 5th stage suggests the maximum degree of expectation, etc.).

[Stop of left effect design]
In FIG. 47 (D): The variable display of the left effect symbol is stopped in the middle of the variable display effect. At this point, the effect symbol representing the number "5" is stopped at the position on the left side of the screen.

[Occurrence of reach state]
In FIG. 47 (E): Then, following the left effect symbol, for example, the variable display of the right effect symbol is stopped. At this point, since the effect symbol representing the number "5" is stopped at the position on the right side of the screen, the reach state of "5"-"changing"-"5" has occurred. Then, an image emphasizing one line in the reach state is also displayed on the screen. In addition, an effect such as "reach!" Is output at the same time.

After the reach state occurs, the reach effect at the time of winning is executed (however, the result of winning has not been displayed yet at this point). In the reach effect, only the effect symbols corresponding to the tempered numbers (here, "5") are displayed on the screen, and the others are not displayed. At this time, the effect symbols may be displayed in a reduced state at each of the four corners of the screen.

[Notice production after reach occurs (1st time)]
In FIG. 47 (F): After a while after the reach state occurs, for example, a post-reach notice effect (first time) is performed in which images representing "heart" figures form a group and pass diagonally on the screen. .. In this case, since the image of the "heart group" is suddenly displayed on the screen as if flowing, it is possible to enhance the visual appeal to the player. By executing the advance notice effect after the occurrence of such a visually lively reach, it is possible to obtain an effect of giving the player a greater sense of expectation.

[Progress of reach production]
In FIG. 47 (G): Following the advance notice effect after the first reach occurs, for example, images representing the numbers "2" to "8" are displayed on the screen in a state of forming a three-dimensional column, and the columns are displayed. From the beginning (front), the image of numbers is erased from the screen in the order of "2", "3", "4", and so on. Such an effect is also performed for the purpose of suggesting (implying) or reminding the player that the number "5" is a "big hit" if it remains unerased until the end. Further, when the number "4" is erased and "5" remains in front of the screen, it means a "big hit", and when the number "5" is also erased, it means "off". In the case of deviation, for example, the number "6" is displayed on the screen after the number "5" is erased. Therefore, during this period, the images are erased in the order of the numbers "2", "3", "4", and so on, and as the number "5" approaches, the player's tension and expectations The feeling will also increase. After that, for example, if the numbers up to "4" are erased on the screen, the possibility of "big hit" increases, and the tension of the player increases at once.

[Notice production after reach occurs (second time)]
In FIG. 47 (H): When the reach production is approaching the final stage, the image of the character is suddenly displayed on the screen as if it were split into a large copy, and the character utters some kind of dialogue (or silently). After the reach occurs (the content may be smiling), a notice production (second time) is performed (cut-in production). At this point, for example, the content of the reach effect is that "if the number" 4 "is erased, the possibility of a big hit of" 5 "-" 5 "-" 5 "increases". Therefore, by making a large image of the character appear at this timing, it is possible to obtain an effect that gives the player a sense of expectation that "it may be a big hit".

[Stop display effect]
In FIG. 47 (I): The last middle effect symbol is stopped substantially in synchronization with the stop display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol. In this example, since the winning symbol internally corresponds to "6 round probability variation jackpot 1", the effect symbol representing "5" is stopped and displayed in the center of the screen in the effect.

In FIG. 47 (J): Then, for example, in substantially synchronization with the fixed stop display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol, the fixed stop display is also performed for the stop display effect as the effect symbol. The final stop display of the effect symbol is performed, for example, in a state where the left, middle, and right effect symbols are restored to their initial sizes. By performing such a confirmation stop display, it is possible to teach the player that the final winning type has been confirmed in the production. Further, in this case, the fourth symbol Z1 or the fourth symbol Z2 is stopped and displayed in a mode (for example, red display color) corresponding to "6 round probability variation jackpot 1".

If the result of the internal lottery is non-winning, the first special symbol or the second special symbol is stopped and displayed as a missed symbol, so that the effect symbol is also stopped and displayed in the same manner (design effect). Execution means). In this case, by displaying numbers "4" and "6" other than "5" in the center of the screen, unfortunately, an effect is performed to inform that the change did not result in a big hit. It should be noted that such an effect is executed as an "outlier reach effect".

[Direction during a major role]
FIG. 48 is a continuous diagram partially showing an example of a big winning effect performed during a big hit game in the case of corresponding to “6 round probability variation symbol 1”.

[At the start of one round]
In FIG. 48 (A): When the first round of the jackpot game is started, for example, character information corresponding to the number of rounds of "ROUND1" is displayed on the screen, and a production image unique to the jackpot game (for example). Female character) is displayed. In addition, at the lower right corner of the screen, an effect symbol (here, the number "5") corresponding to the winning symbol is displayed. In this way, by continuously displaying the winning symbol (so-called "remaining eyes") even during the jackpot game, the player is informed that "the game is in the 6-round probability variation jackpot game". Can be communicated.

[6 rounds]
In FIG. 48 (B): After that, the jackpot game progresses smoothly, and the game shifts to the final 6 rounds. At this time, character information corresponding to the number of rounds of "ROUND 6" is displayed on the screen, and a unique effect image is displayed during the big hit game. Further, at the lower right corner position of the screen, the effect pattern (number "5") as the above-mentioned "remaining stitch" is displayed.

[At the end of the big role]
In FIG. 48 (C): At the timing when the jackpot game ends (during the termination process), the major winning combination end effect of the content that teaches the internal state to be shifted after this is executed. In this example, for example, the character information "entering the chance mode" is displayed on the screen. By executing such a big role end effect, it is possible to convey that the player shifts to a special state called "chance mode" as a privilege after the big hit game ends. The chance mode is a high-probability time reduction state limited to 8 fluctuations.

[Direction during a major role]
FIG. 49 is a continuous diagram partially showing an example of a big role playing effect executed during a big hit game in the case of corresponding to the “15 round probability variation symbol”. This large-feature effect is executed when the effect symbols are stopped and displayed in a three-set combination of "7"-"7"-"7" after the above reach effect.

[1 round]
In FIG. 49 (A): When the first round of the big hit game is started, the big hit production of the content corresponding to the progress of the game called "big hit" is executed. In the big role production, for example, character information corresponding to the number of rounds of "ROUND1" is displayed on the screen. In addition, at the lower right corner of the screen, an effect symbol (here, the number "7") corresponding to the winning symbol is displayed. In this way, by continuously displaying the winning symbol (so-called “remaining eye”) even during the big hit game, it is possible to continue to teach the player the information that “the winning symbol was won with 7 production symbols”. In addition, the characters "special bonus" are displayed in the lower left area of the display screen. Therefore, it is possible to convey to the player that the jackpot this time is a special jackpot different from the normal jackpot.

[15 rounds]
In FIG. 49 (B): After that, when the jackpot game progresses smoothly and the final 15 rounds are entered, the character information corresponding to the number of rounds of "ROUND15" is displayed on the screen and the jackpot game is in progress. An effect image unique to is displayed. In addition, the effect pattern (number "7") as the above-mentioned "remaining stitch" is continuously displayed at the lower right corner position of the screen.

[At the end of the big role]
In FIG. 49 (C): At the timing when the big hit game ends (during the end process), the big role end effect of the content that teaches the internal state to be transferred after this is executed. In this example, for example, the character information "Enter special chance mode" is displayed on the screen. By executing such a big role end effect, it is possible to teach the player to shift to the "special chance mode" as a privilege after the big hit game ends. The special chance mode is a mode in which the high-probability time shortening state continues for 8 fluctuations, and then the low-probability time shortening state continues for 92 fluctuations.

[Flow of the game]
50 to 57 are continuous views showing the flow of games played by the pachinko machine 1 and the card unit 210.

[Start of game]
In FIG. 50 (A): In the state before the game is started on the pachinko machine 1, there is no balance and no ball. Therefore, "0" is displayed as the remaining frequency on the holding ball data display 123, and "0" is displayed as the value of the holding ball data. Further, the data display unit 14 of the card information display device 200 displays "0 yen" as the remaining amount and "0" as the value of the ball holding data.

Then, when starting the game with the pachinko machine 1, it is first necessary to insert cash into the cash slot 212 of the card unit 210. In the illustrated example, an example of inserting a 1000-yen bill is shown.

In FIG. 50 (B): When cash is inserted into the card unit 210, the display of the holding ball data display 123 and the card information display device 200 is updated. In the illustrated example, "10" is displayed as the remaining frequency on the holding ball data display 123, and "1000 yen" is displayed as the remaining amount on the data display unit 14 of the card information display device 200.

In FIG. 50 (C): Then, it is assumed that the ball lending button 10 is pressed by the player in this state.

In FIG. 51 (D): Then, game balls (125 pieces) having a preset frequency (500 yen in this case) are lent to the player. In this case, the display of the holding ball data display 123 and the card information display device 200 is updated. In the illustrated example, "5" is displayed as the remaining frequency and "125" is displayed as the holding ball data on the holding ball data display 123. Further, "500 yen" is displayed as the remaining amount on the data display unit 14 of the card information display device 200.

In FIG. 51 (E): When the value of the holding ball data of the holding ball data display 123 becomes a value larger than 0, the game ball can be launched. When the player holds the handle unit 16 in this state, the game ball is launched from the launching device 300. In the illustrated example, five game balls are fired. Then, each time one game ball is fired, the possession ball data is subtracted one by one. Therefore, the holding ball data display 123 displays "120" as the holding ball data, which is a value obtained by subtracting "5" from "125". It is assumed that the player has released his hand from the handle unit 16 when five game balls have been fired.

In FIG. 51 (F): Then, it is assumed that one of the five fired game balls has entered the upper start winning opening 26. Then, the entry of the game ball is detected by the upper start winning opening switch 80, and the winning data command corresponding to the upper starting winning opening is transmitted from the main control device 70 to the launch holding ball management device 92. Then, the launch ball management device 92 executes a process of adding the value of the ball possession data according to the winning at the upper start winning opening. As a result, in the illustrated example, the ball holding data display 123 displays "123" as the ball holding data, which is a value obtained by adding "3" to "120".

In FIG. 52 (G): Then, it is assumed that the clearing button 13 is pressed by the player in this state.

In FIG. 52 (H): Then, the display of the holding ball data display 123 and the card information display device 200 is updated. In the illustrated example, the ball holding data display 123 displays "0" as the remaining frequency and "0" as the ball holding data. Further, the data display unit 14 of the card information display device 200 displays "500 yen" as the remaining amount and "123 pieces" as the ball holding data.

In FIG. 52 (I): After that, the information (remaining amount "500 yen", holding ball data "123 pieces") displayed on the data display unit 14 of the card information display device 200 is transferred to the general card 700 as a valuable medium. Written. Then, when the information writing process is completed, the general card 700 is ejected from the card insertion slot 214. The player shall take this general card 700 and resume the game on another pachinko machine 1.

[Resume game]
In FIG. 53 (J): When restarting the game with another pachinko machine 1, the game can be restarted by using the general card 700 ejected earlier. Here, it is assumed that the player inserts the general card 700 that has been ejected earlier into the card insertion slot 214.

In FIG. 53 (K): When the general card 700 previously ejected is inserted into the card insertion slot 214, the display of the holding ball data display 123 and the card information display device 200 is updated. In the illustrated example, the ball holding data display 123 displays "5" as the remaining frequency and "0" as the ball holding data. Further, the data display unit 14 of the card information display device 200 displays "500 yen" as the remaining amount and "123 pieces" as the ball holding data.

In FIG. 53 (L): Then, it is assumed that the break button 12 is pressed by the player in this state.

In FIG. 54 (M): In this case, the break-only card 710 is ejected from the card insertion slot 214. When the break-only card 710 is ejected, the break process is executed, and the display of the holding ball data display 123 and the card information display device 200 is updated. In the illustrated example, hyphens are all displayed in the display area of the holding ball data display 123, and the character information of "resting" is displayed on the data display unit 14 of the card information display device 200. At this time, instead of the break-only card 710, the remaining frequency data, the firing ball data, the break start data, the card unit identification information, the game console identification information, and the like may be stored and discharged in the membership card or the general card. In this case, the effect is basically the same as the settlement, but the break is released when the card is inserted into the same game table within a predetermined time. However, if the membership card or general card in this case is used on another game console, the game cannot be played. Of course, before the set break time elapses, cash insertion and other cards are not accepted, and the state of the break table (the state in which the game cannot be played) is maintained in which the game cannot be played except for the card that has undergone the break process.

In FIG. 54 (N): When the player finishes the break and inserts the break-only card 710 into the card insertion slot 214, the break end process is executed.

In FIG. 54 (O): When the break end process is completed, the display of the holding ball data display 123 and the card information display device 200 returns to the original state. In the illustrated example, the ball holding data display 123 displays "5" as the remaining frequency and "0" as the ball holding data. Further, the data display unit 14 of the card information display device 200 displays "500 yen" as the remaining amount and "123 pieces" as the ball holding data.

In FIG. 55 (P): Then, it is assumed that the holding ball button 11 is pressed by the player in this state.

In FIG. 55 (Q): Then, the value of the holding ball data stored in the general card is transferred to the holding ball data stored in the pachinko machine 1. Therefore, in the illustrated example, "5" is displayed as the remaining frequency and "123" is displayed as the holding ball data on the holding ball data display 123. Further, the data display unit 14 of the card information display device 200 displays "500 yen" as the remaining amount and "0" as the ball holding data.

In FIG. 55 (R): When the value of the holding ball data of the holding ball data display 123 becomes a value larger than 0, the game ball can be launched. When the player holds the handle unit 16 in this state, the game ball is launched from the launching device 300. In the illustrated example, five game balls are fired. Then, each time one game ball is fired, the possession ball data is subtracted one by one. Therefore, the holding ball data display 123 displays "118" as the holding ball data, which is a value obtained by subtracting "5" from "123". It is assumed that the player continues to hold the handle unit 16 and continues to launch the game ball.

In FIG. 56 (S): Then, it is assumed that a big hit occurs when the value of the ball holding data of the holding ball data display 123 reaches "20".

In FIG. 56 (T): In the present embodiment, since the jackpot game is digested by right-handed hitting, the player twists the handle unit 16 to the right and launches the game ball to the right side of the game area. During the big hit game, the variable winning device 30 is in the open state, so that the game ball enters the big winning opening of the variable winning device 30. Then, the entry of the game ball is detected by the count switch 84, and the winning data command corresponding to the large winning opening is transmitted from the main control device 70 to the launching holding ball management device 92. Then, the launch ball management device 92 executes a process of adding the value of the ball possession data according to the winning at the large winning opening. As a result, in the illustrated example, "610" is displayed as the holding ball data by the holding ball data display 123.

In FIG. 56 (U): Then, it is assumed that the jackpot game and the subsequent time reduction state are completed. In the illustrated example, the ball holding data display 123 displays "5" as the remaining frequency and "1200" as the ball holding data. Further, the data display unit 14 of the card information display device 200 displays "500 yen" as the remaining amount and "0" as the ball holding data. It is assumed that the player has released his hand from the handle unit 16 when the time reduction state is completed.

In FIG. 57 (V): Then, it is assumed that the clearing button 13 is pressed by the player in this state.

In FIG. 57 (W): Then, the display of the holding ball data display 123 and the card information display device 200 is updated. In the illustrated example, the ball holding data display 123 displays "0" as the remaining frequency and "0" as the ball holding data. Further, the data display unit 14 of the card information display device 200 displays "500 yen" as the remaining amount and "1200" as the ball holding data.

In FIG. 57 (X): After that, the information (remaining amount "500 yen", holding ball data "1200 pieces") displayed on the data display unit 14 of the card information display device 200 is transferred to the general card 700 as a valuable medium. Written. Then, when the information writing process is completed, the general card 700 is ejected from the card insertion slot 214. The player can go to the clearing counter of the game hall with this general card 700 and obtain a prize according to the value of the ball possession data.

Next, an example of a control method for concretely realizing the effect described above will be described. The above-mentioned variable display effect, reach effect, pre-reach advance notice effect, memory number display effect, major role effect, etc. are all controlled through the following control processes.

[Production control processing]
FIG. 58 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the effect control process executed by the effect control CPU 126. This effect control process is executed in a timer interrupt process (interrupt management process) separately from, for example, a reset start (main) process (not shown). The effect control CPU 126 generates a timer interrupt at a predetermined interrupt cycle (for example, a cycle of several tens of μs to several ms) during the execution of the reset start process, and executes the timer interrupt process.

The effect control process includes command reception process (step S400), working memory effect management process (step S401), effect symbol management process (step S402), display output process (step S404), lamp drive process (step S406), and acoustic drive. The configuration includes subroutines for processing (step S408), effect random number update processing (step S410), and other processing (step S412). Hereinafter, the basic flow of the effect control process will be described along with each process.

Step S400: In the command reception process, the effect control CPU 126 receives the effect command transmitted from the main control CPU 72. Further, the effect control CPU 126 analyzes the received commands and stores them in the command buffer area of the RAM 130 for each type. The command for effect transmitted from the main control CPU 72 includes, for example, a special symbol destination determination effect command, a (special symbol) operation memory increase effect command, a (special symbol) operation memory decrease effect command, and a start port. Winning sound control command, demo production command, lottery result command, fluctuation pattern command, fluctuation start command, stop symbol command, symbol stop command, status specification command, round number command, error notification command, jackpot end production command, number cut There are a counter value command, a fluctuation pattern destination judgment command, a stop display time end command, and the like.

Step S401: In the operation memory effect management process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the execution of the above-mentioned storage number display effect and the pre-reading advance notice effect using the markers M1 and M2. The contents of the working memory effect management process will be described later with reference to another drawing.

Step S402: In the effect symbol management process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the content of the variable display effect and the stop display effect using the effect symbol, and controls the effect content at the time of opening / closing operation of the variable winning device 30. Further, in this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects an effect pattern of various advance notice effects (pre-reach advance notice effect, post-reach advance notice effect, etc.). The contents of the effect symbol management process will be described later with reference to another drawing.

Step S404: In the display output process, the effect control CPU 126 receives the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) with respect to the basic control information of the effect content (for example, the number of working memories of each of the first special symbol and the second special symbol). , Working memory effect pattern number, look-ahead notice effect pattern number, change effect pattern number, change notice effect number, background pattern number, etc.) are instructed. As a result, the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146 and VDP152) controls the display operation by the liquid crystal display 42 based on the instructed effect content (effect execution means).

Step S406: In the lamp drive process, the effect control CPU 126 outputs a control signal to the lamp drive circuit 132. In response to this, the lamp drive circuit 132 drives various lamps 46 to 52, the board lamp 53, and the like (lighting or extinguishing, blinking, change in luminance gradation, etc.) based on the control signal.

Step S408: In the next acoustic drive process, the effect control CPU 126 transmits the effect content (for example, BGM during variable display effect, reach effect, mode transition effect, jackpot effect, etc.) to the sound drive circuit 134. Instruct. As a result, the speakers 54, 55, and 56 output sounds according to the content of the effect.

Step S410: In the effect random number update process, the effect control CPU 126 updates various effect random numbers in the counter area of the RAM 130. The production random numbers include, for example, random numbers used for advance notice selection, random numbers used for a normal background change lottery (production lottery), and the like.

Step S412: In other processing, for example, the effect control CPU 126 outputs a control signal to the driving IC of the movable body 40f. The movable body 40f operates using the movable body solenoid 57 as a drive source, and produces an effect in synchronization with the display of an image by the liquid crystal display 42 or independently.

Through the above-mentioned effect control process, the effect control CPU 126 can comprehensively control the effect content in the pachinko machine 1.

[Working memory production management process]
FIG. 59 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the working memory effect management process. Hereinafter, the contents will be described with reference to a procedure example.

Step S700: First, the effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not a effect command for increasing the number of operating memories has been received from the main control CPU 72. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not the effect command is saved when the number of working memories increases. When it is confirmed that the effect command for increasing the number of working memories is saved (step S700: Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S702. If it cannot be confirmed that the effect command for increasing the number of working memories is saved (step S700: No), the effect control CPU 126 does not execute step S702.

Step S702: The effect control CPU 126 executes the effect selection process when the number of working memories increases. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects an effect for displaying the markers M1 and M2 corresponding to the first special symbol and the second special symbol.

Step S704: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the effect control CPU 126 has received the effect command when the number of operating memories is reduced. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not the effect command is saved when the number of working memories is reduced. When it is confirmed that the effect command when the number of working memories is reduced is saved (step S704: Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S706. If it cannot be confirmed that the effect command for reducing the number of working memories is saved (step S704: No), the effect control CPU 126 does not execute step S706.

Step S706: The effect control CPU 126 executes the effect selection process when the number of working memories is reduced. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects an effect of erasing or sliding the markers M1 and M2 corresponding to the first special symbol and the second special symbol.
When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect control process (FIG. 58).

[Production design management process]
FIG. 60 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the effect symbol management process. The effect symbol management process includes execution selection process (step S500), effect symbol change pre-process (step S502), effect symbol change process (step S504), effect symbol stop display process (step S506), and variable winning device operation. The configuration includes a group of subroutines for processing (step S508). Hereinafter, the basic flow of the effect symbol management process will be described along with each process.

Step S500: In the execution selection process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (any of steps S502 to S508). For example, the effect control CPU 126 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the effect symbol management process in the "jump table" as the return destination address. Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far. For example, if the variation display effect has not been started yet, the effect control CPU 126 selects the effect symbol variation preprocessing (step S502) as the next jump destination. On the other hand, if the effect symbol change pre-processing has already been completed, the effect control CPU 126 selects the effect symbol change process (step S504) as the next jump destination, and if the effect symbol change process has been completed, the next step. Select the effect symbol stop display processing (step S506) as the jump destination of. Further, the variable winning device operating time process (step S508) is selected as the jump destination only when the variable winning device management process (step S5000 in FIG. 26) is selected in the main control CPU 72. In this case, steps S502 to S506 are not executed.

Step S502: In the effect symbol variation preprocessing, the effect control CPU 126 performs an operation of adjusting the conditions for starting the variation display effect using the effect symbol. Further, in this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the content of the reach effect according to various conditions (lottery result, winning type, fluctuation pattern, etc.), and the effect pattern for the advance notice effect (reach other than the look-ahead advance notice effect pattern). Select the pre-occurrence notice pattern, post-occurrence notice pattern, etc.). In addition, the effect control CPU 126 also controls the demonstration effect when the pachinko machine 1 is in a so-called customer waiting state. The specific contents of the processing will be described later using another flowchart.

Step S504: In the effect symbol changing process, the effect control CPU 126 generates control information instructed to the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) as needed. For example, when performing an effect using the effect switching button 45 during execution of a variable display effect using an effect symbol, the effect control CPU 126 monitors whether or not the effect button is operated by the player, and an effect according to the result. The control information of the content (button effect) is instructed to the display control CPU 146.

Step S506: In the process of displaying the stop display of the effect symbol, the effect control CPU 126 controls the content of the stop display effect using the effect symbol and the moving image in an manner according to the result of the internal lottery. That is, the effect control CPU 126 instructs the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) to end the variable display effect and execute the stop display effect. In response to this, the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) actually ends the variable display effect that has been executed so far in the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and executes the stop display effect. As a result, the stop display effect is executed substantially in synchronization with the stop display of the special symbol, and the result of the internal lottery can be instructed (disclosure, notification, notification, etc.) to the player in an effect (design effect execution). means). If the 6-round probability variation big hit 2 is applicable, the stop display effect is executed in a mode in which the special effect symbol is stopped and displayed, and in the case of a small hit, the stop display effect is executed in a manner similar to or similar to the loss.

Step S508: In the process when the variable winning device is operated, the effect control CPU 126 controls the effect content during the small hit or the big hit. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the content of the effect during the big role according to various conditions (for example, the winning type). For example, in the case of a 15-round probability variation jackpot or a 6-round probability variation jackpot 1, the effect control CPU 126 selects a 15-round or 6-round large-duty effect pattern as the effect content to be displayed on the liquid crystal display 42, and selects this effect display control device 144. (Display control CPU 146) is instructed. As a result, the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42 displays an image of the effect during the important role, and the content of the effect changes as the round progresses. On the other hand, when the 6-round probability variation jackpot 2 is applicable, the effect control CPU 126 selects a special effect pattern (for example, an effect pattern that directly shifts to the special chance mode) as the effect content to be displayed on the liquid crystal display 42, and displays the effect. Instruct the control device 144 (display control CPU 146).

[Pre-processing for effect pattern fluctuation]
FIG. 61 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the above-mentioned effect symbol change preprocessing. Hereinafter, a procedure example will be described.

Step S600: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not a demo effect command has been received from the main control CPU 72. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not the demo effect command is stored. As a result, when it is confirmed that the demo effect command is saved (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S602.

Step S602: The effect control CPU 126 executes the demo selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects a demo effect pattern. The demo effect pattern defines the content of the effect indicating that the pachinko machine 1 is in a so-called waiting state for customers.

When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the address at the end of the effect symbol management process. Then, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect control process as it is, and controls the content of the demo effect based on the demo effect pattern in the subsequent display output process (step S404 in FIG. 58) and the lamp drive process (step S406 in FIG. 58). To do.

On the other hand, if it is confirmed in step S600 that the demo effect command is not saved (No), the effect control CPU 126 next executes step S604.

Step S604: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the fluctuation this time is out of order (non-winning). Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not the lottery result command at the time of non-winning is saved. As a result, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of non-winning is saved (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S612. On the contrary, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of non-winning is not saved (No), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S606. It is also possible to confirm whether or not the fluctuation this time is out of order based on the fluctuation pattern command and the stop symbol command in addition to the lottery result command. That is, if the current fluctuation pattern command corresponds to the outlier normal variation or the outlier reach variation, it can be determined that the current variation is out of order. Alternatively, if the stop symbol command this time specifies a non-winning symbol, it can be determined that the fluctuation this time is out of order.

Step S606: If the lottery result command is other than non-winning (missing) (step S604: No), then the effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not this fluctuation is a big hit. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not the lottery result command at the time of a big hit is saved. As a result, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of the big hit is saved (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S610. On the contrary, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of big hit is not saved (No), only the lottery result command at the time of small hit remains. In this case, the effect control CPU 126 executes step S608. It is also possible to confirm whether or not the current fluctuation is a big hit based on the fluctuation pattern command or the stop symbol command. That is, if the current fluctuation pattern command corresponds to the jackpot fluctuation, it can be determined that the current fluctuation is a jackpot. Further, if the stop symbol command of this time corresponds to the jackpot symbol, it can be determined that the fluctuation of this time is a jackpot.

Step S608: The effect control CPU 126 executes the small hit time variation effect pattern selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 determines the effect pattern number at that time based on the variation pattern commands (for example, “C0H00H” to “D0H7FH”) received from the main control CPU 72. The effect pattern number is prepared in advance corresponding to the variation pattern command, and the effect control CPU 126 can refer to the effect pattern selection table (not shown) and select the effect pattern number corresponding to the variation pattern command at that time. it can. The effect pattern number may be prepared as a pair with the variation pattern command, or a plurality of effect pattern numbers may be prepared for one variation pattern command.

Further, when the effect pattern number is selected, the effect control CPU 126 refers to an effect table (not shown), and the variation schedule (variation time, reach type and reach occurrence timing) of the effect symbol corresponding to the variation effect pattern number at that time, and stop. Determine the display mode and the like. In addition, all the types of effect symbols determined here correspond to "combination of symbols at the time of small hit".

The above procedure corresponds to a "small hit", but when it corresponds to a big hit, the effect control CPU 126 confirms that it is a "big hit" in step S606 (Yes). In this case, the effect control CPU 126 executes step S610.

Step S610: The effect control CPU 126 executes the jackpot variation effect pattern selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 determines the effect pattern number at that time based on the variation pattern commands (for example, "E0H00H" to "F0H7FH") received from the main control CPU 72. In the jackpot effect pattern selection process, the process may be further branched according to the jackpot stop symbol.

In the case of non-winning, the following procedure is executed. That is, when the effect control CPU 126 confirms that it is out of alignment in step S604 (Yes), it then executes step S612.

Step S612: The effect control CPU 126 executes the effect time variation effect pattern selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 determines the effect pattern number at the time of disconnection based on the variation pattern commands (for example, "A0H00H" to "A6H7FH") received from the main control CPU 72. The effect pattern numbers at the time of disconnection are classified into "outlier normal fluctuation", "time saving outlier variation", "outlier reach variation", etc., and further, a fine reach variation pattern is defined in "outlier reach variation". Which effect pattern number the effect control CPU 126 selects is determined by the variation pattern command transmitted from the main control CPU 72.

When the effect pattern number at the time of disconnection is selected, the effect control CPU 126 refers to an effect table (not shown), and the variation schedule of the effect symbol corresponding to the variation effect pattern number at that time (variation time, presence / absence of reach occurrence, case of reach occurrence). Determines the reach type and reach occurrence timing) and the mode of stop display (for example, "7"-"2"-"4", etc.).

When any of the above steps S608, S610, and S612 is executed, the effect control CPU 126 next executes step S614.

Step S614: The effect control CPU 126 executes the advance notice selection process (notice effect execution means). In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the content of the advance notice effect to be executed during the variable display effect this time by lottery. The content of the advance notice effect is determined based on, for example, the result of the internal lottery (winning or non-winning) and the current internal state (normal state, high probability state, time reduction state). As described above, the advance notice effect is to give a notice to the player that a reach state may occur during the variable display effect, or to give a notice that there is a possibility of a big hit in the end. Therefore, the selection ratio of the advance notice effect is set low at the time of non-winning, but the selection ratio of the advance notice effect is set relatively high in order to raise the expectation of the player at the time of winning.

When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect symbol management process (end address). As a result, in the subsequent processing during effect symbol variation (step S504 in FIG. 60), the variation display effect and the stop display effect are executed based on the actually selected variation effect pattern (effect execution means), and various types are executed. The advance notice effect is executed based on the advance notice effect pattern. In addition, various stay mode effects are executed based on the background (stay) mode pattern selected here (effect execution means).

As described above, since the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment is an electronic data type gaming machine but is a non-encapsulated gaming machine, the existing island equipment can be used as it is, and the conventional gaming machine can be used as it is. It can be a gaming machine that is less likely to cause troubles when it is introduced to the market, while playing a role of bridging between the next-generation enclosed gaming machines.

Further, since the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment is a non-encapsulated gaming machine and employs a launching device 300 in which a return ball is unlikely to occur, a return ball detection switch, a ball amount detection switch, and a ball are used. It is no longer necessary to mount a polishing motor, a ball polishing motor rotation detection switch, an illegal ball detection switch, a ball polishing device, a ball circulation passage, and a lifting device on individual pachinko machines.

Further, since the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment is a game machine that manages the game result by electronic data, a launching device that does not easily generate a return ball is required. By adopting the or arrangement, it is possible to provide an optimum launching device for such an electronic gaming machine.

The present invention can be variously modified and implemented without being limited to the above-described embodiment. The mode of effect given in one embodiment is an example, and is not limited to the mode of effect described above.

The images given in the other production examples are just examples, and these can be appropriately deformed. Further, the structure, board surface configuration, specific numerical values, etc. of the pachinko machine are preferable examples including those shown in the figure, and it goes without saying that these can be appropriately deformed.

Here, in the above-described embodiment, the launching device 300 has been described in the example of being applied to the non-encapsulated pachinko machine 1, but it can also be applied to the enclosed pachinko machine. Hereinafter, a second embodiment in which the launching device 300 is applied to the enclosed pachinko machine 1D will be described.

FIG. 62 is a diagram showing the configuration of the pachinko machine of the second embodiment. In the following description, the configuration of the enclosed pachinko machine in the second embodiment will be mainly described, and the same parts as those in the above-described embodiment will be omitted.

The pachinko machine 1D of the second embodiment is an enclosed pachinko machine. Here, the enclosed pachinko machine is a gaming machine in which a gaming ball enclosed in the gaming machine is circulated in the gaming machine to advance the game. Therefore, the pachinko machine 1D is not supplied with the game ball from the island equipment, and the game ball is not paid out to the player. However, the payout of the game ball is managed by electronic data (holding ball data, etc.) as in the above-described embodiment.

In the pachinko machine 1D, the launcher 300 is attached to the upper left upper portion of the inner wall of the inner frame assembly 7. Further, a ball feeding device 500 is arranged on the back side of the launching device 300, and the ball feeding device 500 supplies a game ball to be a launching ball to the launching device 300.

Inside the inner frame assembly 7, a game board unit (see FIG. 3) in which a winning opening, an obstacle nail, an out opening, and the like are arranged is arranged. An out-passage assembly 250 is formed in the lower part of the inner frame assembly 7.

The out-aisle assembly 250 extends downward of the pachinko machine 1D, then bends to the right, folds back at the right end side of the pachinko machine 1D, and is connected to the polishing device 252, and then is connected to the fraudulent ball detection device 254 and the lifting device 256. Has been done. Therefore, in the out passage assembly 250, the polishing device 252, the fraudulent ball detection device 254, and the lifting device 256 are arranged in this order in the direction from the upstream side to the downstream side.

The lifting device 256 and the ball feeding device 500 are connected by a lifting passage 258 configured by a screw conveyor driven by a conveyor motor (not shown). The game ball lifted by the lifting passage 256 is sent to the ball feeding device 500 through the lifting passage 258, and is sent from the ball feeding device 500 to the launching device 300. The polishing device 252, the lifting device 256, and the lifting aisle 258 may be integrated into a lifting polishing device as in the above-described embodiment.

FIG. 63 is a diagram for explaining the flow of the game ball in the pachinko machine 1D of the second embodiment.
The game ball launched from the launching device 300 of the pachinko machine 1D flows down the game area formed inside the pachinko machine 1D. Here, the game balls that did not enter the winning opening arranged in the game area are finally collected to the back side of the game board unit through the out opening, and the game balls that entered the winning opening are also on the back side of the game board unit. Will be collected.

Then, the collected game balls are sent to the polishing device 252 through the out passage assembly 250, and are polished with a polishing cloth or the like arranged in the polishing device 252 to remove dirt, dust, and the like.

The polished game ball is sent to the fraudulent ball detection device 254, where it is detected whether or not the ball is fraudulent (whether or not the game ball has a ball diameter smaller than the specified ball diameter). When it is detected that the ball is illegal, a predetermined error can be displayed on the display of the pachinko machine 1D, or the illegal ball can be collected on the spot.

The game ball that is not determined to be an illegal ball by the illegal ball detection device 254 is sent to the lifting device 256, and is sent to the ball feeding device 500 via the lifting passage 258. The game ball that has reached the ball feeding device 500 is sent to the launching device 300 by the supply operation of the ball feeding device 500. Then, the game ball sent to the launching device 300 is launched again into the game area by the launching operation of the launching device 300.

As described above, since the pachinko machine 1D of the second embodiment is an enclosed game machine, the game balls are not supplied from the island equipment, and the game balls are not discharged to the outside of the machine. Further, in the pachinko machine 1D of the second embodiment, the game ball circulating in the game machine is not used in the adjacent pachinko machine 1D. In the illustrated example, three pachinko machines 1D are shown, but the circulation path of the game ball is completed in each game machine.

FIG. 64 is a block diagram showing various electronic devices mounted on the pachinko machine of the second embodiment.
As for the configuration related to the control of the pachinko machine 1D of the second embodiment, the configuration shown in the block diagram of FIG. 17 can be diverted almost as it is. However, since there are some differences, the differences will be described here, and the same parts as those in the above-described embodiment will be omitted.

The pachinko machine 1D of the second embodiment is different from the above-described embodiment in that a polishing device 252, an illegal ball detection device 254, a lifting device 256, a lifting passage 258, and the like are added.
Therefore, in the pachinko machine 1D of the second embodiment, various motors 510 (screw conveyor motor, ball polishing motor, etc.) used for these polishing devices 252, illegal ball detection device 254, lifting device 256, lifting passage 258, etc. A ball feed motor, etc.) is connected to the launch control board 108.

Further, since the pachinko machine 1D of the second embodiment is an encapsulation type gaming machine, various switches 105 related to the encapsulation mechanism (for example, a ball amount detection switch for detecting the number of circulating balls, a screw conveyor motor, and a ball polishing motor). A rotation detection switch for detecting the rotation position of the ball, an illegal ball detection switch for detecting an illegal ball, etc.) are required.
Therefore, in the pachinko machine 1D of the second embodiment, various switches 105 related to the encapsulation mechanism are connected to the launch control board 108.

On the other hand, for the pachinko machine 1D of the second embodiment, since the game balls are not supplied from the island equipment, the storage case and the storage tank are unnecessary, and the supply path ball out switch 104 (FIG. 17) is attached thereto. See) is not installed.

As described above, since the pachinko machine 1D of the second embodiment is an enclosed game machine, the game result is managed by electronic data, but when a return ball is generated by the launching device 300, it is accurate. It becomes impossible to grasp the number of shots.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, since the launching device 300 in which the return ball is unlikely to occur is applied to the enclosed pachinko machine 1D, the game is digitized while accurately managing the game results with electronic data. The reliability of the results can be improved. It should be noted that the launching device 400 using the reciprocating straight-moving ball striking mechanism can also be applied to the pachinko machine 1D.

As described above, since the launching device 300 and the launching device 400 are launching devices in which return balls are unlikely to occur, the pachinko machine is electronic regardless of whether it is a non-encapsulated or enclosed pachinko machine. Can be suitably used for.

1,1A to 1D pachinko machine 8 Game board unit 8a Game area 20 Start gate 26 Upper start winning opening 28 Variable start winning device 28a Lower starting winning opening 33 Normal symbol display device 33a Normal symbol operation memory lamp 34 1st special symbol display device 35 2nd special symbol display device 34a 1st special symbol operation memory lamp 35a 2nd special symbol operation memory lamp 38 Game status display device 42 LCD display 45 Effect switching button 70 Main control device 72 Main control CPU
74 ROM
76 RAM
124 Production control device 126 Production control CPU

Claims (1)

A launching device that is arranged on the upper end side of the game area formed on the game board surface in the vertical direction and launches a game ball toward the game area.
A launch handle that determines the launch intensity of the game ball launched by the launcher,
A drive source that is driven based on the operation of the launch handle,
A launch ball standby unit provided in the launch device to wait for a game ball before launch,
A driven member provided in the launching device, which is reciprocally driven by the driving of the driving source and transmits the driving force of the driving source to a game ball waiting in the launching ball standby portion.
A launch passage provided in the launch device and through which a launch ball launched by the driven member passes.
It is provided at the end of the launch passage and is provided with a launch port for sending the launch ball to the game area.
The launch passage
When the passage is a passage for receiving the launch ball from the outbound terminal position of the driven member and guiding the launch ball to the launch port, and the force applied to the launch ball after receiving the launch ball is not sufficient. Is composed of a free fall passage that discharges the launch ball into the game area by free fall .
The driven member is
A launch ball holding portion for holding the launch ball is provided in a part thereof, and the launch ball holding portion also serves as the launch ball standby portion, and receives and holds the launch ball at a standby position located during the outbound drive standby. Then, the launch ball held by the launch ball holding portion is released into the space of the launch passage or the free fall passage at the outward end position of the reciprocating drive driven by the drive source to launch the game ball. A game machine characterized by that.