JP6237815B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine including a movable effect device that executes a predetermined effect operation according to a game development situation.

  For example, a pachinko gaming machine is known in which a center ornament is arranged at substantially the center of a game board constituting a game area, and an effect display device such as a liquid crystal display is provided on the center ornament. When such a pachinko machine is stopped and displayed after changing a plurality of symbols (decorative symbols) on the effect display device, triggered by the game ball entering the start winning opening provided in the game area. When the combination of symbols is a preset winning symbol, a special gaming state (big hit) is established. In the special gaming state, a large winning opening called an attacker provided in the gaming area is opened to facilitate the entry of gaming balls, so that the player can acquire a large number of winning balls. Yes.

  On the other hand, it is difficult to make the game amusing only with the effect display suggesting the lottery result in the effect display device, and the game content tends to be monotonous. Therefore, along with the effect display device, a movable effect body that executes a required effect operation according to the development status of the game is provided, and this movable effect body is operated in a timely manner in synchronization with and fusion with the effect display performed on the effect display device. As a result, the visual effect is further improved.

  In recent years, it has been proposed that not only a movable effect body be produced according to a predetermined operation pattern, but also used as a push button (that is, a movable operation button) (see, for example, Patent Document 1). This movable effector can move forward and backward between a movable position that has advanced outward from the case housing and an initial position that has retracted into the case housing by rotating a drive source such as a stepping motor. In the state where the movable effector is in the movable position protruding from the case housing, the movable effector can be used as a push button to perform a pressing operation from the movable position toward the initial position.

JP 2012-125344 A

  By the way, such a movable effect body is controlled to operate based on an initial position set in advance according to a predetermined operation pattern, and starts operating from this initial position, and returns to the initial position when the operation ends. It is like that. Whether or not the movable effector has returned to the initial position is detected by, for example, a detection means such as a photosensor, and is detected by the detection means at a timing when it is expected to return to the initial position according to a predetermined operation pattern. If not, a retry process for returning the movable effector to the initial position is executed. By executing this retry process, when the movable effector returns to the initial position, it is determined that the normal effect has been restored and the effecting operation is resumed immediately, while the movable effector does not return to the initial position. In this case, it is determined that an abnormal state has occurred, and the directing operation of the movable directing body is immediately stopped. However, if it is not possible to accurately determine the operating state of the movable director, the opportunity for the director of the movable director is reduced unnecessarily even though it is not actually abnormal, or the abnormality has not actually been resolved. Nevertheless, immediately after the movable director is returned to the director operation, there arises a problem of causing trouble again.

  This invention is made | formed in view of such a subject, and it aims at providing the gaming machine which can manage the operation state of a movable production | presentation body appropriately.

In order to achieve such an object, a gaming machine according to the present invention includes a gaming machine main body (for example, the outer frame 1, the front frame 2, the glass frame 5 and the like in the embodiment), and a movable provided in the gaming machine main body. A gaming machine including a rendering device (for example, the rendering button unit 100 in the embodiment), and the movable rendering device is provided in an exterior body (for example, the case housing 110 in the embodiment) and the exterior body. A drive source (for example, the button motor 152 in the embodiment) and an initial position (for example, a retracted position in the embodiment) that is a starting point of an operation by receiving power from the drive source, and a movable that is displaced from the initial position. A movable effect body (for example, an effect button 120 in the embodiment) that moves forward and backward between a position (for example, a protruding position in the embodiment) and the movable effect body at the initial position. Detection means (for example, the first position detection sensor S1 in the embodiment) for detecting the presence, and a control device (for example, the sub-control board 2000 in the embodiment) for controlling the forward / backward movement of the movable effector. The control device is configured to monitor the operation state of the movable effector by performing the operation operation control means for controlling the movable effector to advance and retreat according to a predetermined effect operation pattern, and to normalize the operation state. Monitoring control means for acquiring status information indicating any one of a state, an abnormal state, and a provisional abnormal state; status holding means for storing and holding the status information (for example, status storage means 2233 in the embodiment); and the movable effect Retra to execute a retry operation for returning the body to the initial position according to a predetermined retry operation pattern And operation control means, when the power is turned on for said game machine is made, after the movable directing member is operated toward the movable position, and an initial operation control means for performing an initial operation for operating to the initial position The retry operation control means has a retry operation for returning the movable effector to the initial position when the movable effector does not return to the initial position after the advancement / retraction operation according to the effect operation pattern. If the movable effector does not return to the initial position even if the retry operation is executed, the status information is transitioned to a temporary abnormal state, the retry operation is executed again, and the When the movable effector does not return to the initial position due to the retry operation, the status information transitions from the temporary abnormal state to the abnormal state. And the initial motion control means is configured to cause the movable effector to execute an initial motion triggered by power-on of the gaming machine, and to update the status information based on the execution result of the initial motion. It is characterized by.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to appropriately manage the operating state of the movable effector.

It is a front view of the pachinko game machine provided with the production button unit concerning this embodiment. It is a rear view of a pachinko gaming machine. It is a perspective view of a production | presentation button unit, (a) shows the state in a retracted position, (b) shows the state in a protrusion position. It is sectional drawing of the state which has an effect button unit in an intermediate position. It is sectional drawing of the state which has the production button unit in a retracted position. It is sectional drawing of the state which has an effect button unit in a protrusion position. It is a perspective view which shows the button drive means of an effect button unit. It is a functional block diagram of a pachinko gaming machine. It is a schematic diagram which shows the correspondence of a management status and an operation state. It is a schematic diagram which shows a drive pattern selection table. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating a power-on status update process. It is a main flowchart on the main control board side. It is a main flowchart on the sub-control board side. It is a flowchart of an effect button operation control process on the sub-control board side. It is a flowchart of a power-on status update process on the sub-control board side. It is a flowchart of the protrusion operation control process on the sub-control board side. It is a flowchart of the retreat operation control process on the sub-control board side. It is a flowchart of the monitoring control process on the sub-control board side. It is a flowchart of the 1st retry process by the sub control board | substrate side. It is a flowchart of the 2nd retry process by the sub control board | substrate side. It is a flowchart of the operation check process on the sub-control board side. It is a flowchart of the status preservation | save process at the time of the power failure by the sub control board | substrate side. It is a state transition diagram for demonstrating the operation state of an effect button.

[Overall configuration of pachinko machines]
Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. As a representative example of the gaming machine according to the present invention, a front view and a rear view of a pachinko gaming machine PM are shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, and first, referring to this figure, the overall configuration of the pachinko gaming machine PM An outline will be described.

  First, the basic structure of the front side of the pachinko gaming machine PM will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko gaming machine PM is configured with a rectangular frame size adapted to the front of the opening of the outer frame 1 which forms a vertically fixed holding frame configured in an outer rectangular frame size, and can be opened and closed. The front frame 2 that forms a frame is attached to the front left side edge portion of the front left and right hinge mechanism 3 so that it can be opened and closed sideways and detachable, and is called a double lock provided on the front right side edge portion. The device 4 is always held in a closed state engaged and connected to the outer frame 1.

  On the front frame 2, a rectangular glass frame 5 fitted to the upper front area of the front frame 2 is assembled so as to be opened and closed laterally and detachable using the upper and lower hinge mechanisms 3, and using the locking device 4 It is always kept in a closed state covering the front surface of the front frame 2. In the front frame 2, the game board 20 is detachably set and held, and the game area PA in front of the game board 20 is faced through the double-layer glass of the glass frame 5 that is always held closed. Yes.

  On the front side of the glass frame 5, there are provided an effect lamp 10 that emits light according to the game development status and a speaker 11 that generates sound effects according to the game development status. Upper and lower ball trays (upper ball tray 8 and lower ball tray 9) for storing game balls are provided at the lower part of the glass frame 5, and a player can press in the center of the front of the upper ball tray 8 An effect button unit 100 is provided, and a launch handle 12 for performing a launch operation of the game ball is provided on the front right side of the lower ball tray 9.

The game board 20 is configured with a decorative board formed by attaching a cell printed with a predetermined pattern on a rectangular laminated plywood subjected to router processing or the like. On the front surface of the game board 20, an outer rail and an inner rail are fixed in an arc shape, and a substantially circular game area PA in which a game ball can roll is defined and formed, and a windmill and a large number of games are formed in the game area PA. Along with the nail, the first special symbol display device 71, the second special symbol, in addition to the various special prize openings such as the first special figure start opening 61, the second special figure start opening 62, the general figure start opening 63, the big winning opening 64, etc. Various display devices such as a display device 72, a first special figure holding lamp 73, a second special figure holding lamp 74, a normal symbol display device 75, and a general figure holding lamp 76 are provided. A center ornament 22 is disposed substantially at the center of the game area PA, and a screen of an effect display device (for example, a liquid crystal panel) is provided through the center opening of the center ornament 22 so as to be visible. At the lower end of the game area PA, the game balls 2 that tumbled down without entering each prize opening are played on the game board 2
An out port 29 for discharging to the back side of 0 is provided. Hereinafter, each component provided in the game board 20 is demonstrated in order.

  The first special figure starting port 61 is provided as a starting winning opening corresponding to the first special symbol game (hereinafter simply referred to as “first special figure game”), and is used for detecting the entry of a game ball. A first start winning detector 611 is provided. The first start winning detector 611 is, for example, a so-called pass-type sensor that detects a game ball entering the first special figure starting port 61, and first start winning information indicating the ball entering when the game ball enters. Is generated.

  The second special figure start port 62 is provided as a start winning opening corresponding to a second special symbol game (hereinafter simply referred to as “second special figure game”). The second special figure start port 62 includes a second start winning detector 621, an electric accessory 622 called a so-called electric chew (electric tulip), and an electric accessory solenoid 623 for opening and closing the electric accessory 622. With. The second start winning detector 621 is, for example, a so-called pass-type sensor that detects a game ball entering the second special figure start port 62, and second start winning information indicating the ball entering when the game ball enters. Is generated. The electric accessory 622 is variable between a closed state in which a game ball is difficult to enter the second special figure starting port 62 and an open state in which the game ball is easier to enter than this state.

  The normal start port 63 includes a general start prize detector 631. The universal start winning detector 631 is, for example, a so-called passage type sensor that detects the passage of a game ball to the general start port 63, and generates a general start start passage information indicating the passage when the game ball passes. Note that the passage of the game ball to the general figure start port 63 triggers the normal symbol lottery for determining whether or not to expand the electric accessory 622 of the second special figure start port 62.

  The big winning opening 64 is a winning opening which is in a horizontal rectangular shape and is located below the game area PA, which is opened as a “big hit” when the first special symbol or the second special symbol is suspended in a predetermined manner. . The big prize opening 64 includes a big prize detector 641, an electric accessory 642, and a big prize opening solenoid 643 for opening and closing the electric accessory 642. The big prize detector 641 is a so-called passing type sensor that detects the entry of a game ball into the big prize opening 64, for example, and generates great prize information indicating the prize when the game ball is entered. The electric accessory 642 changes the big prize opening 64 between a normal state in which a game ball cannot be entered or difficult to enter in the big prize opening 64 and an open state in which a game ball can easily enter.

  Subsequently, the first special symbol display device 71 (second special symbol display device 72) displays a variable display of the first special symbol (second special symbol) corresponding to the first special symbol game (second special symbol game) and Stop display. The first special symbol display device 71 (second special symbol display device 72) is composed of, for example, eight lamps, and the special symbol variation display is expressed according to the lighting pattern of the lamp. The first special figure hold lamp 73 (second special figure hold lamp 74) is composed of, for example, two lamps, and the first special figure game (second special figure game) is held by lighting / flashing display of the lamp. Express number (up to 4). The number of holds of the first special figure holding lamp 73 (second special figure holding lamp 74) is during the execution of the first special figure game and the second special figure game while the first special figure (second special figure) is changing. The number of lottery results won in the first special figure starting port 61 (second special figure starting port 62) during any one of them, and the number of winning balls that have not yet been subjected to symbol variation.

  The normal symbol display device 75 performs normal symbol variation display and stop display. For example, the regular figure holding lamp 76 is composed of four lamps, and the number of lighting of the lamp corresponds to the number of normal symbol fluctuations held (the number of normal symbol fluctuations not yet executed).

The effect display device 70 mainly performs change display and stop display of the effect image including a decoration symbol that changes / stops in conjunction with the first special symbol and the second special symbol, and a notice display, and also displays the decorative symbol on hold. Do. Although the liquid crystal panel is used in the present embodiment, it may be formed of other display means such as a mechanical drum or LED.

  Finally, the center decoration 22 is installed around the effect display device 70 and has functions such as a flow path of the game ball, protection of the screen of the effect display device 70, and decoration. The center ornament 22 is provided with a movable accessory 24 for performing a production operation according to the game development status.

  Next, the basic structure of the back side of the pachinko gaming machine PM will be described with reference to FIG. On the back side of the front frame 2, there is a back set board 30, which has a window that communicates with the front and rear in the center and is based on a base frame that is formed in a rectangular frame shape somewhat smaller than the front frame 2. Via the hinge mechanism 3, it is connected to the back of the front frame 2 so that it can be opened, closed, and detached. A back set cover 30C having a rectangular box shape with an open front is detachably attached to the back set board 30 and is always disposed to cover the back side of the game board 20 attached to the front frame 2. (The main control board 1000 and the sub control board 2000 described later are thereby covered by the back set cover 30C).

  Each part of the back set board 30 has a storage tank 31 for storing a large number of game balls, a tank rail 32 extending from the storage tank 31 with a gentle downward slope to the right, and a lower end connected to the right end of the tank rail 32. A ball supply passage 33 extending to the ball, a prize ball payout unit 34 for paying out a game ball guided by the ball supply passage 33, and a prize for guiding the game ball discharged from the prize ball payout unit 34 to the upper ball tray 6. A ball passage portion 35 and the like are provided.

  On the back side of the game board 10, there is a main control board (main control board unit) 1000 that comprehensively controls the operation of the pachinko machine PM, and effects such as image display, effect lighting, and sound effects according to game development. A sub-control board (sub-control board unit) 2000 that controls the above is attached. On the other hand, on the back side of the back set board 30, a payout control board (payout control board unit) 3000 that performs control related to the launch and payout of game balls, various control boards, A power supply board (power supply board unit) 4000 for supplying power to the electronic components is attached. In order to prevent unauthorized modification, these control boards are respectively arranged at predetermined positions on the back of the game board 20 or the back set board 30 in an assembled state accommodated in a transparent resin board case having a caulking structure and a sealing structure. Established. These control boards and electrical / electronic components of each part of the pachinko gaming machine PM are connected by a harness (connector cable) so that the pachinko gaming machine PM can be operated.

  The pachinko gaming machine PM is used for a game in which the outer frame 1 is fixedly installed on the gaming island (installation frame base) of the gaming facility, the front frame 2, the glass frame 5 and the like are closed and locked, and the upper base plate 8 The game is started by storing the game ball and rotating the launch handle 12. When the firing handle 12 is turned, the game balls stored in the upper ball tray 8 are sent to the launching mechanism one by one by the ball feeding mechanism disposed on the back side of the glass frame 5, and the launching mechanism 12 After being launched into the game area PA, a pachinko game is developed thereafter.

[Configuration of production button unit]
Next, the configuration of the effect button unit 100 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 3A is a perspective view of the effect button unit 100 in the retracted position, FIG. 3B is a perspective view of the effect button unit 100 in the protruding position, and FIG. 4 is the effect button unit 100. FIG. 5 is a sectional view of the effect button unit 100 in the retracted position, FIG. 6 is a sectional view of the effect button unit 100 in the protruding position, and FIG. 7 is the effect button unit. It is a perspective view which shows 100 button drive means. In the following description, for convenience of explanation, the vertical and horizontal directions are defined with reference to the state of FIG. 3 as directions in the state of attachment to the pachinko gaming machine PM. The directions of the arrows shown in FIG.

  The effect button unit 100 is detachably provided at the center of the front surface of the upper ball tray 8, and is supported by the case housing 110 so as to be able to move forward and backward. Is composed mainly of an effect button 120 that can be operated and a button driving means 150 that causes the effect button 120 to move forward and backward in an effect. The effect button 120 is exposed on the front side of the gaming machine PM. Thus, a pressing operation by the player is possible.

  The case housing 110 has a case main body 111 having a hollow cylindrical shape with openings 112 and 113 on the upper and lower surfaces, and a case bottom lid 116 that is attached by closing the lower surface opening 113 of the case main body 111. The button accommodating space 114 into which the effect button 120 can be inserted is formed inside. A stopper 115 is provided in the upper surface opening 112 of the case housing 110 so as to project the effect button 120 in the button housing space 114 in a state of being prevented from coming off.

  The effect button 120 includes a button main body 130 that is pressed by a player, and a movable member 140 that receives the pressing operation and supports the button main body 130 so as to move up and down. The effect button 120 has a retracted position (see FIGS. 3 and 5) slightly protruding from the upper surface opening 112 of the case housing 110 and a protruding position (see FIGS. 3 and 5) protruding greatly from the upper surface opening 112 of the case housing 110. 6), and can be moved back and forth in the vertical direction (that is, configured as a movable operation button). The effect button 120 is always urged upward by a coil spring (not shown) disposed on the case bottom cover 116, thereby assisting the upward movement from the retracted position to the protruding position. ing.

  The button main body 130 is a combination of a button cover 131 having a hollow cylindrical shape having an opening below and a button base 135 integrally fixed to a lower end portion of the button cover 131. An illumination space for decorating the effect button 120 is formed surrounded by a circle. In this embodiment, a colorless and transparent resin material is used for the button cover 131, and a colored and transparent resin material that makes it difficult to see through the internal structure is used for the button base 135.

  On the button base 135, an electrical decoration board 136 including a plurality of light emitters 136a for electrical illumination of the effect buttons 120 is attached. A surface mount (SMD) type full color LED is applied as the light emitter 136a. A lens member 137 that has been subjected to surface processing (light diffusion treatment) for forming irregularities on the surface of a synthetic resin material having translucency, for example, is disposed directly above the electrical decoration substrate 136. The light irradiated from 136 is diffused over a wide range via the lens member 137 so that a high light decoration effect can be obtained. A hollow sliding boss 138 projects downward from the center of the bottom surface of the button base 135. Further, the button base 135 is provided with a plate-shaped detection piece 139 for detecting a pressing operation of the effect button 120 so as to protrude downward.

The movable member 140 is a portion that receives power from the button driving means 150, and a connecting frame 141 for connecting to a crank mechanism 160, which will be described in detail later, is fixed to a lower end portion thereof. The movable member 140 is provided with a hollow support cylinder 142 projecting upward so that the sliding boss 138 of the button base 135 is inserted and supported to smoothly guide the vertical movement of the button main body 130. A coil spring 143 for constantly urging the button main body 130 upward is interposed inside the support cylinder 142 and the sliding boss 138. Therefore, the button main body 130 is always urged and disposed at a free end position where the player can perform a pressing operation by the urging force of the coil spring 143. The free end position of the button main body 130 is a relative position with respect to the movable member 140, and the button main body 130 has the free end position with respect to the movable member 140 even when the effect button 120 is in the protruding position or the retracted position. It can take. That is, the button main body 130 can be pressed downward from the free end position without depending on the operation position (the retracted position and the protruding position) of the effect button 120.

  Furthermore, an operation detection sensor S <b> 3 for detecting a pressing operation of the effect button 120 by the detection piece 139 of the button main body 130 is attached to the movable member 140. The operation detection sensor S3 includes a light emitting unit that emits light and a light receiving unit that receives light from the light emitting unit, and is disposed in a substantially U shape with a gap into which the detection piece 139 can be inserted. It is a photo sensor. The operation detection sensor S3 is turned off when the effect button 120 is not operated and the detection piece 139 is not interposed between the light emitting part and the light receiving part of the sensor S3 (not shielded), and the effect button 120 is turned off. It is turned on when it is pushed downward and the detection piece 139 is interposed (light-shielded) between the light emitting part and the light receiving part of the sensor S3. The detection signal (ON / OFF signal) of the operation detection sensor S3 is input to the sub control board 2000, and the sub control board 2000 detects the ON / OFF operation of the effect button 120.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the button driving unit 150 includes a driving base 151 fixed to the case housing 110, a button motor 152 as a driving source, and a button index that is coaxially connected to the rotation shaft of the button motor 152. 153, a crank mechanism 160 interposed between the effect button 120 and the button index 153 and transmitting the rotational driving force of the button motor 152 to the effect button 120, and position detection for detecting the operating position of the effect button 120 Sensors S1 and S2 are provided.

  The drive base 151 includes a substantially rectangular bottom plate 151a, a motor support plate 151b that is erected from the bottom plate 151a and supports the button motor 152 and the position detection sensors S1 and S2, and a button index 153 and crank that are erected from the bottom plate 151a. And a crank support plate 151c that supports the mechanism 160.

The button motor 152 is, for example, a two-phase unipolar stepping motor having a stator coil that forms A-phase, B-phase, A ^- phase, and B ^- phase magnetic fields. And a stator (stator) fixed to the outside thereof. The button motor 152 is rotationally driven by giving a drive pulse signal of a predetermined number of steps from the sub-control board 2000 according to a predetermined excitation method.

  The button index 153 includes a rotation detection board 154 having a substantially disk shape, a first shaft portion 155 that protrudes from one side surface of the rotation detection board 154 and is connected to the rotation shaft of the button motor 152, and the rotation detection board 154. And a second shaft portion 156 that protrudes from the other side surface and is pivotally supported by the crank support plate 151c. A detection slit 154a is recessed in the rotation detection board 154, and this detection slit 154a can be detected by the position detection sensors S1 and S2.

  The crank mechanism 160 is pivotally supported by a first crankshaft 161 that is pivotally attached to the second shaft portion 156 of the button index 153 and rotates integrally with the button index 153, and a connection frame 141 of the effect button 120. The second crankshaft 162 is connected to the first crankshaft 161 and the second crankshaft 162 by a crank pin 163 so as to be relatively swingable in directions toward and away from each other about the pin 163. Yes. The crank mechanism 160 converts the rotary motion of the button motor 152 into a linear reciprocating motion (ie, forward / backward motion) of the effect button 120.

  Each of the position detection sensors S1 and S2 has a light emitting portion that emits light and a light receiving portion that receives light from the light emitting portion, and has a substantially U-shape with a gap into which the rotation detection board 154 can be inserted. It is the arranged photo sensor. Each of the position detection sensors S1 and S2 is turned on when the detection slit 154a of the rotation detection board 154 is interposed between the light emitting part and the light receiving part (opening the optical path), and is detected by the rotation detection board 154. When the slit 154a is not interposed (light-shielded) between the light emitting part and the light receiving part, it is turned off.

  Here, when the detection slit 154a is interposed between the light emitting portion and the light receiving portion of the first position detection sensor S1, the effect button 120 is retracted when the position detection sensor S1 is on and the second position detection sensor is off. It is detected that it exists at the position. On the other hand, when the detection slit 154a is interposed between the light emitting portion and the light receiving portion of the second position detection sensor S2, and the first position detection sensor S1 is off and the second position detection sensor S2 is on, the effect button 120 Is detected at the protruding position.

  In the effect button unit 100 having such a configuration, first, when the effect button 120 is in the retracted position as the initial position, the first position detection sensor S1 detects the detection slit 154a of the button index 153, thereby The position detection sensor S1 is turned on. This detection signal (ON signal) is input to the sub-control board 2000, and it is detected on the sub-control board 2000 that the effect button 120 is in the retracted position. In this retracted position, the effect button 120 slightly protrudes from the upper surface opening 112 of the case housing 110 by the amount of pressing movement of the button body 130, and the effect button 120 can be pressed by the player. . Here, when the player presses the effect button 120 and the button main body 130 is lowered from the state where the button main body 130 is in the free end position to the pressed position against the urging force of the coil spring 143, the operation detection sensor S3 is moved to the button main body 130. The detection protrusion 139 is detected, and the operation detection sensor S3 is turned on. This detection signal (ON signal) is input to the sub-control board 2000, and it is detected that the effect button 120 has been pressed on the sub-control board 2000. When the player's hand is released from the effect button 120, the button main body 130 moves upward relative to the movable member 140 by the restoring force of the coil spring 143 and returns to the original free end position.

  Next, a process of causing the effect button 120 to project from the retracted position to the projecting position will be described. When the button motor 152 rotates in the forward direction (CW direction), the button index 153 rotates integrally in the same direction, and this rotational driving force is transmitted to the crank mechanism 160 via the button index 153. When the first crankshaft 161 rotates in the A direction, the second crankshaft 162 swings upward about the crankpin 163, and the effect button 120 is pushed up. Thus, the rotational motion of the button motor 152 in the forward direction (CW direction) is converted into a linear motion upward of the effect button 120 by the crank mechanism 160, and as a result, the effect button 120 is moved outward from the case housing 110. It will project to.

  Then, when the button motor 152 rotates in the forward rotation direction (CW direction) by a predetermined angle, the effect button 120 reaches a protruding position (maximum movable position) that protrudes greatly from the upper surface opening 112 of the case housing 110. In the state where the production button 120 is in the protruding position, the second position detection sensor S2 is turned on when the second position detection sensor S2 detects the detection slit 154a of the button index 153. This detection signal (ON signal) is input to the sub-control board 2000, and it is detected on the sub-control board 2000 that the effect button 120 exists at the protruding position.

At this protruding position, the effect button 120 can be pressed by the player. Here, when the player presses the effect button 120 and the button main body 130 is lowered from the state where the button main body 130 is in the free end position to the pressed position against the urging force of the coil spring 143, the operation detection sensor S3 is moved to the button main body 130. The detection protrusion 139 is detected, and the operation detection sensor S3 is turned on. This detection signal (ON signal) is input to the sub-control board 2000, and it is detected that the effect button 120 has been pressed on the sub-control board 2000. When the player's hand is released from the effect button 120, the button main body 130 moves upward relative to the movable member 140 by the urging force of the coil spring 143 and returns to the original free end position.

  Next, a process of retracting the effect button 120 from the protruding position to the retracted position will be described. When the button motor 152 rotates in the reverse direction (CCW direction), the button index 153 rotates integrally in the same direction, and this rotational driving force is transmitted to the crank mechanism 160 via the button index 153. When the first crankshaft 161 rotates in the B direction, the second crankshaft 162 swings downward about the crankpin 163, and the effect button 120 is pulled down. In this way, the rotational motion of the button motor 152 in the reverse direction (CCW) is converted into a downward linear motion of the effect button 120 by the crank mechanism 160, and as a result, the effect button 120 is retracted into the case housing 110. It will be.

  Then, when the button motor 152 rotates by a predetermined angle in the reverse rotation direction (CCW direction), the effect button 120 reaches the retracted position stored in the case housing 110. In the state where the effect button 120 is in the retracted position, the first position detection sensor S1 is turned on when the first position detection sensor S1 detects the detection slit 154a of the button index 153. This detection signal (ON signal) is input to the sub control board 2000, and it is detected on the sub control board 2000 that the effect button 120 has returned to the retracted position. Thus, the rendering operation (protruding operation and retracting operation) of the rendering button 120 is completed for one cycle.

[Function configuration]
Next, various functions of the pachinko gaming machine PM (mainly the main control board 1000 / sub control board 2000) according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the block diagram of FIG.

<Main control board>
The main control board 1000 includes a CPU serving as a control center, a ROM that preliminarily stores a program that prescribes arithmetic processing of the CPU, data handled by the CPU (for example, various data generated during games and computer programs read from the ROM) Etc.) as a work area for temporarily storing, etc., and each drive circuit and the like operate according to a control program stored in the ROM, thereby performing main control relating to the game in the pachinko gaming machine PM. It is configured as follows.

  The main control board 1000 includes a first special symbol starting port 61, a second special symbol starting port 62, a universal drawing starting port 63, a grand prize winning port 64, a first special symbol display device 71, a second special symbol display device 72, It is electrically connected to each of the normal symbol display device 75, the first special figure reservation lamp 73, the second special figure reservation lamp 74, the universal figure reservation lamp 76, etc., and enables transmission / reception of various control signals.

  In the present embodiment, the main control board 1000 is a game control means for controlling the main game (first special figure game, second special figure game, special game, etc.), auxiliary game (common figure game, etc.) and general game. 1100, information transmission means 1200 for transmitting various game information (for example, symbol information, hold information, various commands, etc.) to the sub-control board 2000 side, and the payout control board 3000 in cooperation with various payout openings. A prize ball payout determining means 1300 for performing payout control of a predetermined prize ball based on a game ball entering.

The game control unit 1100 includes a ball entry determination unit 1110 for determining whether or not a game ball has entered each winning opening, a lottery random value acquisition unit 1120 for acquiring a lottery random number value, and each start during variable display. The hold control means 1130 for temporarily storing the ball entering the mouth as a hold ball, the success / failure lottery means 1135 for lottery of whether or not the special game is successful and whether or not the electric accessory 622 is open, and the special symbol change start condition are satisfied. A symbol variation start condition satisfaction determining unit 1138 for determining whether or not each symbol, a symbol content determining unit 1140 for determining a stop symbol and a variation pattern of each symbol, and a control for displaying the variation and stop of each symbol. Display control means 1150, electric chew opening / closing control means 1160 for performing various processes directly related to determination of opening / closing of the electric accessory 622, and special control for special games. Which game state is to be transferred to the current game state with respect to the game control means 1170, the small hit game control means 1175 for controlling the small hit game, the first special figure game, the second special figure game, and the common figure game? To temporarily store the specific game control means 1180 for performing the determination and the process for shifting the game state based on the determination, and general game information (including flags) regarding the process executed on the main control board 1000 side Game-related information temporary storage means 1190. Hereinafter, each means will be described in detail.

  First, the entering determination means 1110 determines whether or not a game ball has entered each winning opening. When the first start winning information is acquired, the winning determination means 1110 determines that the game ball has won the first special figure starting port 61, and when the second starting winning information is acquired, the game ball has the second special figure starting port 62. Judge that he won a prize. In addition, the winning determination means 1110 determines that the game ball has won the big winning opening 64 when the big winning information is acquired. Further, the winning determination means 1110 determines that the game ball has won the universal drawing start port 63 when the universal drawing winning information is acquired.

  Next, the lottery random number acquisition means 1120 receives a random number value related to the first special figure lottery (referred to as a “first lottery random value”) triggered by the game ball entering the first special figure start port 61. 1st special figure which determines whether it acquires, and acquires the said random number value (1st determination lottery random value, 1st special symbol lottery random value, 1st fluctuation pattern lottery random value) according to this determination result Whether to acquire a random value (referred to as “second lottery random value”) related to the second special drawing lottery triggered by the lottery random value acquisition means 1121 and the game ball entering the second special drawing start port 62 Second lottery random value acquisition means for determining whether or not and acquiring the random number value (second winning / non-selection lottery random value, second special symbol lottery random value, second variation pattern lottery random value) according to the determination result 1122 and the normal symbol lottery triggered by the passing of the game ball to the ordinary diagram starting port 63 Whether or not a random number value (referred to as “general drawing lottery random value”) can be acquired is determined, and based on the determination result, the random number value (general symbol lottery random number value, normal symbol lottery random value, common symbol variation pattern lottery) A random lottery value acquisition unit 1123 for acquiring a random number).

  Next, the hold control means 1130 determines whether or not to temporarily store the first lottery random value acquired in a situation where the first special symbol variation permission is not granted, and based on the determination result, the random number value is subjected to symbol variation. The first special figure holding means 1131 for holding until permission is granted and whether or not to temporarily store the second lottery random number value acquired in a situation where the second special symbol variation permission is not given, and the determination result Whether or not to temporarily store the second special figure holding means 1132 for holding the random number value until the symbol variation permission is granted, and the normal drawing lottery random value acquired in a situation where the normal symbol variation permission is not granted. And a normal figure holding means 1133 for holding the random number value based on the determination result until the symbol variation permission is granted. Here, the first special figure holding means 1131, the second special figure holding means 1132, and the universal figure holding means 1133 can temporarily store up to four random numbers combined with the holding order.

Next, the first lottery lottery means 1135 for determining whether or not to shift to a special game that is more advantageous to the player than the normal game based on the first lottery random value as a result of the winner lottery 1135. A means 1135a, a second special figure determination lottery means 1135b for determining whether or not to shift to a special game that is more advantageous to the player than the base game based on the second lottery random value, and a normal lottery random value Based on a lottery means 1135c for determining whether or not to open the electric accessory 622 of the second special figure starting port 62. The first special figure success / failure lottery means 1135a and the second special figure success / failure lottery means 1135b hold a plurality of special figure success / failure lottery tables to be referred to in the success / failure lottery (first special figure success / failure lottery table, second special figure success / failure lottery table). . In the special figure winning / losing lottery table, the winning / losing lottery value and the determination result of the big hit, the small hit, and the loss are associated with each other, and the probability of success / failure is determined according to the corresponding range setting of the big hit. The 1st special figure winning lottery means 1135a and the 2nd special figure winning lottery means 1135b refer to the special figure winning lottery table based on the normal probability at the normal time, and the special figure winning lottery table whose winning probability is higher than the normal probability when the probability changes. Refer to

  Next, the symbol variation start condition satisfaction determining means 1138 determines the variation start condition for the first special symbol and the second special symbol (not being in a special game, not being varied in the first special symbol or the second special symbol, etc.) Judgment processing of whether or not is satisfied. Further, the symbol variation start condition satisfaction determining unit 1138 reserves the start of the other variation display while one of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is variably displayed. In the present embodiment, the symbol variation start condition satisfaction determining means 1138 preferentially executes variation display of the second special symbol over the first special symbol. That is, while the second lottery random number value is held in the second special figure holding means 1132, even if the first lottery random value is held in the first special figure holding means 1131, the second special figure holding means 1132 is held. The second lottery random number value that is held in is preferentially digested. Thereby, as long as the state that the second lottery random number value is held by the second special figure holding means 1132 is maintained, the second special drawing lottery can be continuously executed.

  Next, the symbol content determining means 1140 includes a first special symbol content determining means 1141 for determining a stop symbol and a variation pattern of the first special symbol based on the acquired first lottery random value, and the acquired second lottery. Based on the random number value, the second special symbol content determining means 1142 for determining the stop symbol and the variation pattern of the second special symbol, and the normal symbol for determining the stop symbol and the variation pattern of the normal symbol based on the acquired general drawing lottery random value. Figure content determination means 1143.

  The first special symbol content determination means 1141 includes a first special symbol lottery table and a first special symbol variation pattern lottery table which are referred to when determining a stop symbol and a variation pattern related to the first special symbol. Similarly, the second special symbol content determination means 1142 has a second special symbol lottery table and a second special symbol variation pattern lottery table which are referred to when determining the stop symbol and the variation pattern related to the second special symbol. Here, the stop symbol is a symbol to be displayed at the end of symbol variation. There are a plurality of jackpot symbols. Based on the types of symbols, the profit state at the time of the special game and the game state after the special game are determined. In addition, the plurality of types of variation patterns are defined on the assumption that the variation patterns have long and short variation times, and that the variation of symbols by the decorative symbols composed of a plurality of symbols is also executed at the variation times. Each variation pattern has a variation time for each pattern as an end condition of the symbol variation, and the variation of the special symbol and the decorative symbol is stopped when the variation time elapses.

  Next, the display control means 1150 includes a first special symbol control means 1151 that performs control to stop and display the first special symbol after the first special symbol is changed for a predetermined time on the first special symbol display device 71, and a second special symbol. On the display device 72, the second special symbol control means 1152 for controlling the display to stop after the second special symbol is displayed for a predetermined time, and the normal symbol on the normal symbol display device 75 are variably displayed for a predetermined time. And a general-purpose control means 1153 for performing a control to stop and display.

  Next, the electric chew opening / closing control means 1160 determines whether or not a condition for performing control for opening and closing the electric accessory 622 of the second special figure starting port 62 is satisfied, and opens and closes the electric accessory 622. Control.

Next, the special game control means 1170 and condition judgment means 1171 for judging whether or not the condition for shifting to the special game (big hit) is satisfied, specifically, whether or not the big hit is won. If the special game transition conditions are satisfied, the contents of the special game (specifically, the big winning opening to be opened, the number of rounds, the round time, etc.) are set in the special figure game related information temporary storage means 1191. Special game content determination means 1172, special game execution means 1173 for executing a special game in which the special prize opening 64 is opened under a predetermined condition, and time management of various processes related to the special game (for example, special prize opening And 64 special opening / closing time management). The special game content determination unit 1172 further includes a special game content reference table that is referred to when the content of the special game to be set in the special figure game related information temporary storage unit 1191 is specified.

  The special game control means 1170, when the lottery result relating to the first and second special figure lottery results in the transition to the special game, the special game operation condition when the special symbol is stopped in a predetermined hit mode Is determined and the special game is executed by opening the special winning opening 64. The special game is a game in which the opening / closing operation of the special prize opening 64 is continuously continued a plurality of times, and is constituted by a plurality of unit games (rounds) with one opening / closing as a unit. The special game control means 1170 ends the special game when the set round number (for example, 15 rounds or 2 rounds) of the unit game is consumed.

  If the lottery result relating to the first and second special drawing lottery results in the transition to the small hit game, the small hit game control means 1175 will receive a small hit when the special symbol is stopped in a predetermined hit mode. It is determined that the game operating condition is established, and the big winning opening 64 is opened to execute the small hit game. The small hit game is different from the special game in that it is composed of one unit game.

  Next, the specific game control means 1180 includes a specific game availability / content determination means 1183 that determines the content of the specific game, and a specific game end condition determination means 1181 that determines whether or not the specific game state end condition is satisfied. And having. Here, the specific game end condition determining means 1181 has a short time counter capable of counting a special symbol short time (ordinary symbol short time). Here, the “specific game” is, for example, a probability variation state in which a lottery probability for a special game is higher than that in the normal game, a short time state in which the variation time of the special symbol is relatively shorter than that in the normal game, and the second special figure. It refers to a normal game such as an electric chew support state in which the ease of entering the starting port 62 is enhanced.

  The specific game control means 1180 controls the normal game in the probability changing state, the short time state, and the electric chew support state. The specific game control means 1180 shifts the game state to the short-time state and the electric chew support state after the end of the special game. On the other hand, the transition to the probability variation state after the end of the special game is limited to the case where the special symbol determined by the symbol content determination means 1140 is a jackpot symbol accompanied by the transition to probability variation. The short-time state and the easy-to-open state are continued until the number of times that the special symbol fluctuates reaches a predetermined number of end conditions, for example, 100 times from the end of the special game. However, when shifting to the probability changing state at the same time, as long as the probability changing state continues, the time reduction state and the electric chew support state are continued. That is, it continues until the next big hit. As described above, the end of the time reduction state and the electric chew support state is determined according to the gaming state. In the short-time state, a variation pattern with a particularly short variation time tends to appear. On the other hand, the probability variation state is continued until a special game with the next jackpot is executed. During the probability change state, the probability that the success / failure lottery result by the success / failure lottery means 1135 becomes a big hit is maintained at a high value.

  Next, the game related information temporary storage means 1190 is a special chart for temporarily storing information related to special figure games (main game) such as control related to special symbols and control related to special games and small hit games. Game related information temporary storage means 1191 and general game related information for temporarily storing information related to the general game, such as control related to normal symbols and information related to the electric accessory 622 of the second starting port 62 Temporary storage means 1192.

<Sub control board>
The sub-control board 2000 includes a CPU as a control center, a ROM that stores in advance a program that defines the arithmetic processing of the CPU, a RAM as a work area that temporarily stores data handled by the CPU, and the like. By controlling each drive circuit and the like according to the control program stored in the control program, the control related to the overall effects in the pachinko gaming machine PM is performed.

  The sub control board 2000 is electrically connected to each of the effect lamp 10, the speaker 11, the effect display device 70, the effect button unit 100, and the like, and enables transmission and reception of various control signals.

  In the present embodiment, the sub-control board 2000 controls information related to the overall effect based on the information receiving means 2100 for receiving commands and various information from the main control board 1000 side, and the commands from the main control board 1000 side. Production control means 2200 and production related information temporary storage means 2300 for temporarily storing production general information (including flags) related to processing executed on the sub-control board 2000 side.

  The information receiving means 2100 has main-side information temporary storage means 2110 for temporarily storing symbol information related to the special figure game from the main control board 1000 side. The information temporarily stored here is appropriately referred to as necessary by each means described later in each process described below.

  The effect control means 2200 mainly controls the display processing of the hold information, such as the effect display control means 2210 mainly responsible for the control related to the effect display on the effect display device 70, and the process of determining and displaying the hold information of the decorative symbols and the hold prefetching. The drawing hold information display control means 2220 that controls the effect and the effect button control means 2230 that controls the operation of the effect button unit 100 are provided.

  The effect display control means 2210 is based on the effect pattern storage means 2211 for storing all the data related to the effect display including the data related to the decoration symbols and the variable effect patterns, and the symbol information from the main control board 1000 side. There are effect content determination means 2212 for determining the stop symbol and the change effect pattern, and image display control means 2213 for executing control relating to image display on the effect display device 70. Further, the effect display control means 2210 determines the contents of the jackpot effect including the start demonstration and the end demo to be displayed during the special game prior to the execution of the special game. Further, the effect display control means 2200 determines the contents of the small hit effect including the start demonstration and the end demo to be displayed during the small hit game prior to the execution of the small hit game.

  The effect pattern storage unit 2211 holds a plurality of effect patterns in which effect image contents to be displayed on the effect display device 70 in the variation of the decorative design and the display process thereof are determined. In the production pattern, multiple variation production patterns with the variation process from the start to stop and the production process in the variation display of the decoration symbol are displayed separately from the variation display of the decoration symbol, and the reliability of the jackpot A plurality of notice effect patterns that suggest the height in advance before stopping the variable display are included.

The effect content determination means 2212 determines the effect contents to be displayed on the effect display device 70 by the effect image display control means 2213 based on the special symbol information (stop symbol information and variation pattern information) received from the main control board 1000 side. The effect content determination means 2212 shows the combination of the stop symbols of the decorative symbols, their arrangement, and the change effect pattern. To be decided. The effect pattern storage unit 2211 reads the variation effect pattern corresponding to the variation pattern of the special symbol determined by the symbol content determination unit 1140 from the effect pattern storage unit 2211, and the information on the variation effect pattern is transmitted to the effect image display control unit 2213. send. Further, the effect content determination unit 2212 transmits information indicating the determined combination of stop symbols to the image display control unit 2213. The effect content determination means 2212 has a lottery table for reference when determining a stop symbol of a decorative symbol and a variable effect pattern.

  The decorative design variation effect pattern defines a variation display mode of the decorative symbol, that is, a series of effect display processes from the start of variation of the decorative symbol to the end of variation. The variation effect pattern includes a pattern for displaying a normal lost symbol and a pattern for displaying a lost symbol or a big hit symbol through a reach state that is a big hit if one more symbols are aligned. In particular, the pattern that passes through the reach state includes patterns having various fluctuation times. For example, normal reach is a low-expectation reach effect that has a relatively short variation time and is a big hit, and after one of the three symbol sequences temporarily stops, the remaining one symbol sequence varies ( Super-reach is a reach production that has a longer variation time than normal reach and a higher win expectation than normal reach. Two of the three symbol sequences are temporarily stopped. After that, the mode in which the remaining one symbol sequence fluctuates frame-by-frame (a mode in which the variation time is relatively long) is pointed out. Each variation effect pattern has a variation time for each pattern as an end condition of the symbol variation, and the symbol variation is stopped after the variation time has elapsed. The effect content determination means 2212 selects a change effect pattern of effect images having the same change time according to the change pattern of the special symbol.

  The stop symbol of the decorative symbol is formed as a combination of three symbols. For example, when the result of winning / not-winning lottery means 1135 indicates a transition to 15R special game, a specific combination such as “777” or “111” is used. Thus, a combination of three symbols is selected. A specific combination, for example, a predetermined combination such as “357”, is also selected when the result of the lottery result indicates a shift to 2R special game or a small hit. That is, the specific combination of 2R big hit or small hit does not necessarily have to be a combination of three symbols. If the winning / losing lottery result is neither big hit nor small hit, it is a combination that does not have three symbols such as “312” and “946”, and is a specific combination that is selected at the time of 2R big hit or small hit A combination that does not apply is selected. If the winning / raising lottery result is not 15R big hit, and a variation effect pattern indicating a loss with reach is selected, a combination that does not have only one symbol such as “191” or “727” is selected. .

  In the present embodiment, a player intervention-type notice effect is set, and an input screen (for example, an image showing the effect button 120) for requesting an operation input of the effect button 120 by the player when the notice effect is executed is displayed. Is done. When the player operates the effect button 120 within a predetermined operation request timing period in response to the input request (when an ON signal is input from the operation detection sensor S3), the player determines the result of the winning lottery. A notice effect is executed.

  The image display control means 2213 variably displays the effect image including the decorative pattern on the effect display device 70 according to the change effect pattern selected by the effect content determination means 2212. The image display control means 2213 starts a new symbol variation when receiving a decoration symbol variation start command from the main control board 1000, and stops the symbol variation when receiving a variation stop command, and determines the stop symbol. Display.

  The image display control means 2213, when the effect content determination means 2212 decides to display the notice effect, the effect display device 70 in such a manner that the notice effect according to the selected notice effect pattern is superimposed on the effect of symbol variation. To display. Note that the image display control unit 2213 further controls effect processing such as lighting and extinguishing of the effect lamp 11, sound output from the speaker 12, and effect operation by the movable accessory 24.

  Next, the drawing hold information display control means 2220 has a hold information temporary storage means 2221 for temporarily storing various information related to the hold.

  Next, the production button control unit 2230 manages the production operation control unit 2231 that controls the production operation of the production button 120, the monitoring control unit 2232 that monitors the operational state of the production button 120, and the operational state of the production button 120. Status storage means 2233 for storing and holding status information for the purpose, retry operation control means 2234 for controlling the retry operation for restoring the effect button 120, and return drive processing of the effect button 120 when the pachinko gaming machine PM is turned on. And a power-on processing control means 2235 to be executed.

  The effect operation control means 2231 is an effect operation for causing the effect button 120 to move forward and backward in an effect according to a predetermined effect operation pattern determined in advance based on an instruction received from the effect display control means 2210 at a predetermined trigger on the effect. Execute the process. This effect operation process is broadly divided into a projecting operation process for operating the effect button 120 from the retracted position to the projecting position, and a retracting operation process for operating the effect button 120 from the projecting position to the retracted position. . In this effect operation process, the effect operation is set to start from the retreat position as the initial position and always return to the retreat position when the effect operation ends. Here, in the effect operation pattern, the operation content is defined by, for example, the number of steps of the button motor 152, acceleration, driving speed, rotation direction, operation time, and the like. In addition, as a predetermined opportunity, for example, at the start of symbol variation, during symbol variation (when reaching reach), when symbol variation is stopped, or when the winning / failing lottery result is determined to be a win, a predetermined effect (notice For example, when a performance or special game performance) is executed.

  The monitoring control unit 2232 monitors the operating state of the effect button 120 and acquires this operating state as status information (referred to as “management status”). The management status specifies whether the operation state of the effect button 120 is “normal state”, “monitoring state”, “temporary normal state”, “temporary abnormal state”, or “abnormal state”. Status information. Here, the “normal state” is a state that allows execution of the rendering operation process (deterministic normal state), and the “abnormal state” is a state that prohibits the execution of the rendering operation process (deterministic abnormal state). , "Temporary normal state" is a state (provisional normal state) that temporarily permits the execution of the rendering operation process, and "Temporary abnormal state" is a state that tentatively prohibits the execution of the rendering operation process. (Provisional abnormal state), and the “monitoring state” is a state in which the passage of a predetermined time is monitored. In this embodiment, as the degree of abnormality of the operational state of the effect button 120 increases, the management status is “normal state” → “monitoring state” → “temporary normal state” → “temporary abnormal state” → “abnormal” Transition to "state".

  The management status storage unit 2233 is composed of, for example, a 1-byte (8-bit) RAM. The management status storage unit 2233 stores data of 0 to 4 in the lower 3 bits in the 8-bit storage area as a management status value (referred to as “status value”). Here, FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing a correspondence relationship between the management status (status value) and the operation state of the effect button 120. When the management status is “normal state”, “0” is set as the status value in the management status storage unit 2233 (bit data “00000000”). When the management status is “monitoring state”, “1” is set as the status value in the management status storage unit 2233 (bit data “00000001”). When the management status is “provisional normal state”, “2” is set as the status value in the management status storage unit 2233 (bit data “00000010”). When the management status is “provisional abnormal state”, “3” is set as the status value in the management status storage unit 2233 (bit data “00000011”). When the management status is “abnormal state”, “4” is set as the status value in the management status storage unit 2233 (bit data “00000100”).

The retry operation control means 2234 determines a predetermined drive pattern (the number of steps of the button motor 152, acceleration, drive speed, rotation) when the effect button 120 does not return to the retracted position as the initial position at a predetermined return timing. Execute retry processing according to direction. Here, FIG. 10 shows a schematic diagram of a drive pattern selection table. As shown in FIG. 10, the drive pattern selection table defines different combinations of acceleration and drive speed for each drive pattern. Here, in the drive pattern 0, the same acceleration and drive speed (acceleration: medium, drive speed: medium) as the normal effect operation pattern are set. In the drive pattern selection table, the acceleration and drive speed of drive pattern 0 are used as a reference, and the acceleration is made different in three stages, small, medium, and large, and the drive speed is differentiated in three stages, slow, medium, and fast. A total of nine drive patterns 0 to 8 are allocated. The retry operation control means 2234 selects drive patterns 0 to 8 based on the value (0 to 8) of the drive pattern selection counter set according to the number of executions of the retry process.

  In the present embodiment, the retry process is repeatedly executed until the effect button 120 is restored. In the first retry process (also referred to as “first retry process”), the effect button 120 is retried using a normal effect operation pattern (drive pattern 0). That is, in the first retry process, the retraction operation of the effect button 120 is retried again with the same operation pattern. On the other hand, in the second and subsequent retry processes (also referred to as “second retry process”), each time a retry operation is executed, the drive pattern is switched and the time interval (WAIT) until the next retry operation is executed. Time). In other words, if the effect button 120 is not restored even after the first retry process is executed, the retry timing of the retry operation is made different every time the second retry process is executed, and a different drive pattern is selected each time. The retraction operation of the effect button 120 is retried.

  The power-on control means 2235 executes a return drive process for initializing the effect button 120 when the pachinko gaming machine PM is turned on. The return drive process is an initialization process that is executed only once when the pachinko gaming machine PM is turned on. Specifically, the effect button 120 is operated to project and the second position detection sensor S2 is turned on. After confirming the above, the effect button 120 is retracted to confirm the ON signal of the first position detection sensor S1, and the initial operation is completed. Here, the monitoring control unit 2232 updates the management status saved in the RAM backup area at the time of power-off to a new management status in accordance with the result (return status) of the return drive process.

  Here, FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram for explaining an overview of status update processing executed when the pachinko gaming machine PM is powered on. When the initial operation is completed normally (when the production button 120 returns to the retracted position), the management status stored when the power is turned off is changed to a higher level (in the case of “normal state”, this state is maintained. This is updated as a new management status when the power is turned on. On the other hand, when the initial operation is not completed normally (when the production button 120 does not return to the retracted position), the management status stored when the power is turned off is changed to a lower level (in the case of “abnormal state”). Maintain this state) and update this as a new management status at power-on.

[Processing of pachinko machines]
Next, the flow of processing of the pachinko gaming machine PM according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.

<Processing on the main control board>
First, the flow of processing on the main control board 1000 side will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. Here, FIG. 12 is a main flowchart showing a flow of general processing executed on the main control board 1000 side. First, in step S1100, the main control board 1000 executes a winning process when a game ball wins a special figure starting port 61, 62, a general figure starting port 63, a big winning port 64, or the like. Next, in step S1400, the main control board 1000 executes a normal game control process for performing a lottery for a normal symbol. Next, in step S1600, the main control board 1000 executes a normal game control process for performing a lottery determination relating to the special symbol. Next, in step S1800, the main control board 1000 displays a predetermined symbol on the special symbol display devices 71 and 72 and the effect display device 70 to be “big hit” and makes a special game control in the case of shifting to a special game state. Execute the process. Next, in step S1900, the main control board 1000 executes a small hit game control process when a small hit occurs. In step S1950, the main control board 1000 transmits a prize ball payout command to the payout control board 3000 based on the winning opening where the game ball has won, and performs a payout process for a predetermined number of prize balls. The process returns to S1100. Note that the special game of S1800 and the small hit game of S1900 are not executed simultaneously, and when one is executed, the other is avoided.

<< Sub-control board side processing >>
Next, the flow of processing on the sub-control board 2000 side will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. FIG. 13 is a main flowchart showing the flow of processing on the sub-control board 2000 side. First, in step S2100, the sub control board 2000 executes a hold display control process when the hold information is received from the main control board 1000 side. Next, in step S2200, the sub-control board 2000 executes a decorative symbol display content determination process in the case of determining a decorative symbol stop symbol and a variation effect pattern. Next, in step S <b> 2300, the sub-control board 2000 executes a decorative symbol display control process in the case where the decorative symbol variable display is performed on the effect display device 70. Next, in step S2400, the sub control board 2000 executes a special game display control process for executing an effect in the special game state. Next, in step S2500, the sub control board 2000 executes a small hit game display control process for executing an effect in the small hit game state. Then, in step S2600, sub control board 2000 executes the effect button operation control process for controlling the operation of effect button unit 100, and repeats the process of returning to step S2100. The special game display in step S2400 and the small hit game display in step S2500 are not executed simultaneously in parallel, and when one is executed, the other is avoided.

  Next, FIG. 14 is a flowchart of the effect button operation control process according to the subroutine of step S2600 in FIG. First, in step S3000, the effect button control means 2230 executes a power-on status update process for updating the management status when the pachinko gaming machine PM is powered on. In step S3100, effect button control means 2230 performs a projecting operation process for operating effect button 120 from the retracted position to the projecting position. Next, in step S3200, effect button control means 2230 executes a retreat operation process for operating effect button 120 from the protruding position to the retracted position. Next, in step S3300, effect button control means 2230 executes a monitoring control process for monitoring the progress of effect button 120. Next, in step S3400, effect button control means 2230 executes a first retry process for executing a retry operation for restoring effect button 120. Next, in step S3500, effect button control means 2230 executes a second retry process for executing a retry operation for restoring effect button 120. Next, in step S3600, effect button control means 2230 executes an operation confirmation process for confirming whether effect button 120 has been restored normally. Next, in step S3700, the effect button control means 2230 executes a power-off status saving process for backing up the management status when the pachinko gaming machine PM is powered off. In the following, each subroutine of the production button operation control process will be described, but in order to facilitate understanding of the description, after explaining in order from step S3100 (protruding operation process) to step S3700 (power saving status saving process), Finally, step S3000 (power-on status update process) will be described.

  Next, FIG. 16 is a flowchart of the protrusion operation process according to the subroutine of step S3100 in FIG. First, in step S3102, the monitoring control unit 2232 determines whether or not an execution request for rendering operation processing is permitted. In the case of Yes in step S3102, that is, when the management status is "normal state", in step S3104, the presentation operation control means 2231 determines whether or not it is the execution timing at which the presentation button 120 should be protruded. To do. In the case of Yes in step S3104, that is, when it is the execution timing of the projecting operation, the effect operation control means 2231 rotates the button motor 152 in the normal rotation direction according to the effect operation pattern, and performs the projecting operation of the effect button 120. Start. On the other hand, in the case of No in step S3104, that is, when it is not the execution timing of the protrusion operation, in step S3108, the effect operation control unit 2231 determines whether or not the effect button 120 is already in the protrusion operation. In the case of Yes in step S3108, step S3106 is skipped and the process proceeds to step S3110. Subsequently, in step S3110, the rendering operation control unit 2311 determines whether or not the rendering button 120 has reached the protruding position (whether or not the second position detection sensor S2 has been turned on). In the case of Yes in step S3110, that is, when the effect button 120 has reached the protruding position, in step S3112 the effect operation control means 2311 stops the rotation of the button motor 152 and performs the protrusion operation of the effect button 120. When the process ends, the process proceeds to the next process (the save operation process in step S3200). In addition, also when it is No in step S3102, step S3108, or step S3110, the process proceeds to the next process (the save operation process in step S3200).

  Next, FIG. 17 is a flowchart of the save operation process according to the subroutine of step S3200 in FIG. First, in step S3202, the monitoring control unit 2232 determines whether or not an execution request for rendering operation processing is permitted. If Yes in step S3202, that is, if the management status is normal, in step S3204, the presentation operation control means 2231 determines whether it is the execution timing at which the presentation button 120 should be retracted. In the case of Yes in step S3204, that is, when it is the execution timing of the retreat operation, the rendition operation control means 2231 rotates the button motor 152 in the reverse direction according to the rendition operation pattern in step S3206 and retreats the replay button 120. Start operation. Subsequently, in step S3208, the monitoring control unit 2232 starts a timer for measuring the time required for the retracting operation of the effect button 120. On the other hand, in the case of No in step S3204, that is, when it is not the execution timing of the retreat operation, in step S3210, the effect operation control unit 2231 determines whether or not the effect button 120 is already in the retreat operation. In the case of Yes in step S3210, step S3206 and step S3208 are skipped, and the process proceeds to step S3212. Subsequently, in step S3212, the effect operation control means 2231 determines whether or not the effect button 120 has reached the retracted position (whether or not the first position detection sensor S1 has been turned on). In the case of Yes in step S3212, that is, if the effect button 120 has reached the retracted position, the effect operation control means 2231 stops the rotation of the button motor 152 and performs the retract operation of the effect button 120 in step S3114. finish. At this time, energization of the button motor 152 is on (however, the excitation phase is not switched and the excitation mode is maintained), and the effect button 120 is held at the retracted position by the holding torque generated in the button motor 152.

On the other hand, if No in step S3212, that is, if the effect button 120 has not yet reached the retracted position, in step S3216, the monitoring control unit 2232 determines that the count value of the timer is a predetermined return time T. _It is determined whether or not ₁ + ΔT ₁ has elapsed. Here, the “specified return time” means a normal return time T _{1 at} which the effect button 120 is expected to return from the protruding position to the retracted position according to the effect operation pattern, and a predetermined time Δ as a margin.
T ₁ is the time obtained by adding a. As the predetermined time (margin) ΔT ₁ , for example, a time that is 1.5 to 2 times the normal return time T ₁ is set. In step S3216, Ye
In the case of s, that is, when the specified return time T ₁ + ΔT ₁ has elapsed, step S32
In 17, the monitoring control unit 2232 determines whether or not the management status is normal. In the case of Yes in step S3218, in step S3218, the monitoring control unit 2232 changes the management status from the normal state to the monitoring state, and proceeds to step S3220. In step S3220, the monitoring control unit 2232 clears the count value of the timer to zero, and proceeds to the next processing (monitoring control processing in step S3300). On the other hand, if No in step S3216, that is, if the specified return time T ₁ + ΔT ₁ has not elapsed, step S3220 is skipped and the process proceeds to the next process (monitoring control process in step S3300). In addition, also when it is No in step S3202 or step S3210, the process proceeds to the next process (monitoring control process in step S3300).

Next, FIG. 18 is a flowchart of the monitoring control process according to the subroutine of step S3300 in FIG. First, in step S3302, the monitoring control unit 2232 determines whether or not the management status is a monitoring state. If Yes in step S3302, that is, if the management status is the monitoring state, in step S3304, the monitoring control unit 2232 determines whether or not the time count related to the progress monitoring is being performed. In the case of No in step S3304, in step S3306, the monitoring control unit 2232 starts a timer for monitoring the passage of time since the transition to the monitoring state. Subsequently, in step S3308, the effect button control unit 2230 turns off the energization to the button motor 152. On the other hand, if No in step S3304, that is, if the time is already being counted, step S3306 and step S3308 are skipped, and the process proceeds to step S3310. Subsequently, in step S3310, the monitoring control unit 2232 determines whether or not the count value of the timer has passed the elapsed monitoring time T ₂ determined in advance. For example, the obstacle that prevents the return of the effect button 120 is solved and the effect button 120 is returned to the retracted position by the player's pressing operation or the effect button 120 may be returned to the retracted position. If Yes in step S3310, i.e., when the elapsed elapsed monitoring time T ₂ are, in step S3312, or whether performance button 120 has returned to the retracted position (first position detection sensor S1 is turned on whether Is determined. In step S3312 Yes, in step S3314, the monitoring control unit 2232 changes the management status from the monitoring state to the normal state.

  On the other hand, in the case of No in step S3312, in step S3316, the monitoring control unit 2232 stops (prohibits) the execution request for the rendering operation process. Subsequently, in step S3318 and step S3320, the retry operation control unit 2234 sets “0” in the retry counter and “1” in the retry WAIT counter. Subsequently, in step S3322, the retry operation control unit 2234 sets “0” in the drive pattern selection counter, and proceeds to step S3324. Subsequently, in step S3324, the monitoring controller 2232 clears the count value of the timer to zero. Then, in step S3326, effect button control means 2230 returns the energization to button motor 152 to ON, and proceeds to the next process (first retry process in step S3400).

Next, FIG. 19 is a flowchart of the first retry process according to the subroutine of step S3400 in FIG. In step S3402, the monitoring control unit 2232 determines whether or not the management status is “monitoring state”. If Yes in step S3402, that is, if the management status is "monitoring state", in step S3404, the retry operation control unit 2234 determines whether or not the retry WAIT counter is "1". At this time, if the process is shifted to the “monitoring state”, “1” should be set in the retry WAIT counter in the above-described step S3318, so that “Yes” is determined in this step S3404 and the next step S3406 is performed. Transition. Subsequently, in step S3406, the retry operation control unit 2234 rotationally drives the button motor 152 according to a predetermined drive pattern, and performs a retry operation for returning the effect button 120 to the retracted position (
The first retry operation) is executed. At this time, if the process is shifted from the monitoring state, since “0” should be set in the drive pattern selection counter in the above-described step S3320, the drive pattern 0 from the drive pattern selection table shown in FIG. (Acceleration: medium, drive speed: medium) is selected. Subsequently, in step S3408, the retry operation control means 2234 determines whether or not the effect button 120 has returned to the retracted position (whether or not the first position detection sensor S1 has been turned on). In the case of Yes in step S3408, that is, when returning to the retracted position, in step S3410, the monitoring control unit 2232 changes the management status from “monitoring state” to “normal state”. Subsequently, in step S3412 and step S3414, the retry operation control unit 2234 sets “0” in the retry counter and “0” in the retry WAIT counter. Subsequently, in step S3416, the retry operation control unit 2322 sets “0” in the drive pattern selection counter. Then, the effect button control means 2230 allows (restarts) the execution request for the effect operation process, and proceeds to the next process.

On the other hand, if No in step S3408, that is, if the effect button 120 has not returned to the retracted position, the monitoring control unit 2332 changes the management status from “monitoring state” to “temporary abnormal state” in step S3420. Transition to. Subsequently, in step S3422, the retry operation control unit 2234 adds “1” to the retry counter. At this time, if the process shifts to “monitoring state”, “1” is set in the retry counter. Subsequently, in step S3424, the retry operation control means 2234 sets “retry counter value × 500 + 1 (ms)” as the WAIT time T _{3 in the} retry WAIT counter. At this time, when the process is shifted to the “monitoring state”, 501 (ms) is set in the retry WAIT counter. In step S3426, the retry operation control unit 2234 adds “1” to the drive pattern selection counter and proceeds to the next process. At this time, when the process is shifted to the “monitoring state”, “1” is set in the drive pattern selection counter.

Next, FIG. 20 is a flowchart of the second retry operation control process according to the subroutine of step S3500 in FIG. In step S3502, the monitoring control unit 2232 determines whether or not the retry counter is zero. If Yes in step S3502, that is, if the retry counter is not 0 (when there is a request for execution of the second retry process), the retry operation control means 2234 determines that the retry WAIT counter is “1” in step S3504. It is determined whether or not there is. Note that the value of the retry WAIT counter is decremented by “1” every time 1 ms elapses in the timer interrupt processing added on the right side of FIG. Accordingly, when the value of the retry WAIT counter becomes 1 by this timer interrupt processing, that is, when the WAIT time T ₃ set in the retry WAIT counter in step S 3422 has elapsed (this processing is performed in the “temporary abnormal state”). If “500 ms” has elapsed (YES in step S3504), the process advances to step S3506. That is, in this process, the retry operation is executed every time the WAIT time T ₃ set in the retry WAIT counter elapses.

Subsequently, in step S3506, the retry operation control unit 2234 rotates the button motor 152 according to a predetermined drive pattern, and executes a retry operation (second retry operation) for returning the effect button 120 to the retracted position. . At this time, if the process proceeds from the “provisional abnormal state”, “1” should have been set in the drive pattern selection counter in the above-described step S3420, and therefore drive pattern 1 from the drive pattern selection table. (Acceleration: small, drive speed: slow) is selected. Subsequently, in step S3508, the retry operation control means 2234 determines whether or not the effect button 120 has returned to the retracted position (whether or not the first position detection sensor S1 has been turned on). In the case of Yes in step S3508,
In other words, when returning to the retracted position, in step S3510, the monitoring control unit 2232 changes the management status from “monitoring state” to “temporary normal state”. Subsequently, in step S3512 and step S3514, the retry operation control unit 2234 sets “0” in the retry counter and “0” in the retry WAIT counter. In step S3516, the retry operation control unit 2322 sets “0” in the drive pattern selection counter. Subsequently, in step S3518, the monitoring control unit 2232 accesses the flag area of the effect related information temporary storage unit 2300 and turns on the retry completion flag. Here, the retry completion flag is a flag that is turned on when the effect button 120 returns to the retracted position by the second retry process. On the other hand, if No in step S3508, that is, if the effect button 120 has not returned to the retracted position, in step S3522, the monitoring control unit 2332 changes the management status to “abnormal state”. Subsequently, in step S3524, the retry operation control means 2234 adds “1” to the retry counter. Subsequently, in step S3526, the retry operation control unit 2234 sets “retry counter value × 500 + 1 (ms)” in the retry WAIT counter. Thus, as long as the effect button 120 does not return to the retracted position due to the retry operation, the values of the retry counter and the retry WAIT counter increase, and the WAIT time (execution interval) T until the next retry operation is executed. ₃ gets longer. And step S
In 3528, the retry operation control means 2234 adds “1” to the drive pattern selection counter and proceeds to the next processing. As described above, unless the effect button 120 returns to the retracted position by the retry operation, the value of the drive pattern selection counter increases, and the drive pattern executed in the next retry operation is sequentially switched (drive). Pattern 1 → 2 → 3 → 4 → ... → 8 → 0). As described above, in the second retry process (step S3500), the effect button 120 is repeatedly executed while changing the drive pattern and the execution interval until the effect button 120 returns to the retracted position by the retry operation.

  Next, FIG. 21 is a flowchart of the operation check process according to the subroutine of step S3600 in FIG. First, in step S3602, the monitoring control unit 2232 determines whether or not the management status is “provisional normal state”. In the case of Yes in step S3602, in step S3604, the monitoring control unit 2232 refers to the flag area of the effect related information temporary storage unit 2300 and determines whether or not the retry completion flag is on. In the case of Yes in step S3604, in step S3606, the rendering operation control means 2231 sets “0” as the initial value for the rendering operation confirmation count N. Here, the number N of production operation confirmations is for determining whether or not the production operation has been normally completed for a predetermined number of times continuously when the execution request for the production operation process is resumed. Value. Subsequently, in step S3608, the monitoring control unit 2232 accesses the flag area of the effect related information temporary storage unit 2300 and turns off the retry completion flag. Subsequently, in step S3610, the presentation operation control means 2321 determines whether or not the presentation operation process has been completed normally. In the case of Yes in step S3610, that is, in the case where the effect operation process is normally completed, the monitoring control unit 2232 adds “1” to the effect operation confirmation count N in step S3612. Subsequently, in step S3614, the monitoring control unit 2232 determines whether or not the number of production operation confirmations N has reached a predetermined number of times. In the case of Yes in step S3614, that is, when the production operation confirmation count N has reached the prescribed number (when the production operation has been completed for the prescribed number of times continuously), in step S3616, the monitoring control means 2232 has the management status. Is shifted from the “provisional normal state” to the “normal state”, and the process proceeds to the next process.

On the other hand, if No in step S3610, that is, if the effect operation process has not been completed, in step S3618, the monitoring control unit 2232 returns the effect button 120 to the retracted position within the specified return time T ₁ + ΔT ₁ . Determine whether or not. In the case of Yes in step S3618, that is, if the effect button 120 has not returned within the specified return time T ₁ + ΔT ₁ , in step S3620, the monitoring control unit 2232 changes the management status from “temporary normal state”. Return to the “provisional abnormal state” and proceed to the next process.

  Next, FIG. 22 is a flowchart of power saving status saving processing according to the subroutine of step S3700 in FIG. First, in step S3702, the sub-control board 2000 determines whether or not the power of the pachinko gaming machine PM has been cut off, that is, whether or not a power-off signal (NMI signal) has been received. When an NMI signal is received, the other process is interrupted and the process is preferentially executed even if the other process is being executed. In the case of Yes in step S3702, in step S3704, the sub control board 2000 saves the management status set in the status storage unit (status register) 2233 to the RAM backup area. Next, in step S3706, the sub-control board 2000 prohibits access to the RAM and loops the process until the CPU is reset. Note that after the power is turned off, the backup power is supplied from the backup power supply circuit of the power supply board 4000 to the RAM of the sub-control board 2000, and the storage contents of the RAM when the power is turned off are held as backup data.

  Next, FIG. 15 is a flowchart of the power-on status update process according to the subroutine of step S3000 in FIG. First, in step S3002, the sub-control board 2000 determines whether or not power is supplied to the pachinko gaming machine PM. In step S3004, the sub control board 2000 restores the management status saved in the RAM backup area when the power is turned off. Subsequently, in step S3006, the power-on processing control means 2235 executes a return drive process (initial operation) of the effect button 120. Subsequently, in step S3008, the power-on processing control means 2235 determines whether or not the return drive processing (initial operation) has been normally completed, that is, whether or not the effect button 120 has finally returned to the retracted position. judge. In the case of Yes in step S3008, that is, when the return drive processing is completed normally, in step S3010, the monitoring control unit 2232 promotes the management status stored at the time of power-off, and changes this to a new one. The management status is set in the status storage unit 2233. On the other hand, if No in step S3008, that is, if the return drive processing has not been completed normally, in step S3012, the monitoring control means 2232 demotes the management status stored at the time of power-off. This is set in the status storage means 2233 as a new management status.

[Action]
Next, the operation of the pachinko gaming machine PM according to the present embodiment will be described with additional reference to FIG. Here, FIG. 23 is a state transition diagram for explaining the operation state of the effect button 120.

First, let us consider a case where when the management status is “normal state”, the effect button 120 is retracted from the protruding position to the retracted position in accordance with a predetermined effect operation pattern (S1). At this time, if the effect button 120 returns to the retracted position within the specified return time T ₁ + ΔT ₁ , the management status is maintained in the “normal state” (S2). On the other hand, even when the production button 120 returns to the retracted position earlier than the normal return time T ₁ , the management status is set to “normal state”.
(S3). For example, this corresponds to a case where the player presses the production button 120 at a timing earlier than the retraction operation of the production button 120. In this case, since there is a low possibility that a malfunction has occurred, the management status is changed. Do not transition. On the other hand, if the production button 120 does not return to the retracted position even after the specified return time T ₁ + ΔT ₁ has elapsed, the management status is changed from “normal state” to “monitoring state”, and the button motor 152 is transferred. Is turned off and its progress is monitored (S4). At this time, if the effect button 120 returns to the retracted position before the elapsed monitoring time T ₂ elapses, the management status shifts from the “monitoring state” to the “normal state” (S5). For example, when the effect button 120 cannot be returned due to the operation disturbance by the player, it is expected that the disturbing action is interrupted during the progress monitoring and the effect button 120 returns to the retracted position. On the other hand, even after the elapsed monitoring time T _2, performance button 120 if not return to the retracted position, the immediately executes the first retry processing in accordance with the same driving pattern and when the effect operation process (S6). For example, if the malfunction that occurred in the production button 120 is minor, it is expected that the production button 120 will return to the retracted position by retrying the return operation of the production button 120 again with the same drive pattern. is there. When the effect button 120 returns to the retracted position by this retry process, the management status is shifted from the “monitoring state” to the “normal state” (S7). On the other hand, if the effect button 120 does not return to the retracted position due to the retry process, the management status is shifted from the “monitoring state” to the “temporary abnormal state”, and the execution request for the effect operation process is stopped (S8). .

Then, after the WAIT time T ₃ has elapsed, the driving pattern is changed to a driving pattern different from that during the rendering operation process, and the second retry process is executed (S9). If the effect button 120 does not return to the retracted position even after executing the second retry process, the management status is changed from “temporary abnormal state” to “abnormal state”, and the effect button 120 is retracted. The retry process is continued until the position returns (S10). Then, every time the retry process is executed, the interval of the WAIT time T ₃ is set to be gradually longer, the drive pattern is changed (the combination of acceleration and drive speed is changed), and the lapse of this WAIT time T ₃ . The retry process is executed again later. On the other hand, when the effect button 120 returns to the retracted position by the second retry process, the management status is shifted to the “provisional normal state” and the execution request for the effect operation process is permitted (S11). Here, even if the production button 120 returns to the retracted position, it does not immediately return to the “normal state” because the production button 120 only returns once in the “abnormal state” or “temporary abnormal state”. This is because it is difficult to determine whether or not the problem that occurred in 120 has been resolved.

When the rendering operation process is resumed and the rendering button 120 malfunctions within the specified number N (that is, when the rendering button does not return to the retracted position), the management status is changed from “temporary normal state” to “temporary”. The abnormal state is returned again, and the retry operation is executed again after the WAIT time T ₃ has elapsed (S12). On the other hand, when the production operation is completed normally at all the specified number of times N (that is, when the production operation returns to the retracted position at the end of the production operation), the management status is changed from “temporary normal state” to “normal”. Return to the “state” (S13). Thereafter, on the condition that the management status is “normal state”, the rendering operation process is executed every time a predetermined trigger for the rendering is established.

  As described above, in the aspect (1) exemplifying the present invention, the operation operation of the effect operation control means 2231 for controlling the effect operation process for causing the effect button 120 to move forward and backward according to a predetermined effect operation pattern, and the operation state of the effect button 120 are monitored. The operation state includes a “normal state” that allows the production operation process, an “abnormal state” that prohibits the production operation process, a “provisional normal state (provisional normal state)” that provisionally permits the production operation process, Monitoring acquired as status information (management status) indicating either a “provisional abnormal state (temporary abnormal state)” that temporarily prohibits the rendering operation process or a “monitoring state” that monitors the passage of a predetermined period Control means 2232, status storage means 2233 for storing and holding status information, and effect button 120 for returning to the retracted position according to a predetermined drive pattern A retry operation control unit 2234 for executing tri operation, configured with a.

  Therefore, according to the above aspect (1), the operation state can be appropriately and flexibly managed without relying on a uniform determination of whether the operation state of the effect button 120 is normal or abnormal. There is an effect that it is possible to prevent adverse effects caused by erroneous determination of the state.

In the aspect (2) illustrating the present invention, when the effect button 120 does not return to the retracted position after the advance / retreat operation according to the effect operation pattern, the status is changed from the “normal state” to the “monitoring state”, and When the retry operation for returning the button 120 to the retracted position is executed, and the effect button 120 does not return to the retracted position even if the retry operation is executed, the status is changed from “monitoring state” to “provisional abnormal state”. And the retry operation is executed again, and when the effect button 120 is returned to the retracted position by the retry operation again, the status is changed from the “provisional abnormal state” to the “provisional normal state”. If the production button 120 does not return to the retracted position due to the retry operation again, the status is temporarily set to “abnormal state”. Configured to transition Luo "abnormal state".

  Therefore, according to the above aspect (2), when a predetermined retry operation (for example, a retry operation using the same operation pattern as the rendering operation) is performed as in the conventional case and it does not return even once, an abnormal state is immediately detected. However, instead of making a final decision and canceling the subsequent performance operation processing, the status button 120 is retained by temporarily retaining the status in the “provisional abnormal state” and continuously executing the retry operation. Can maximize the chances of recovery.

  In the aspect (3) exemplifying the present invention, when the effect button 120 returns to the retracted position by the retry operation and the status transits to the “provisional normal state”, the effect button 120 is advanced / retreated a predetermined specified number of times. It is configured to operate and to return the status from the “provisional normal state” to the “normal state” when the specified number of advance / retreat operations have been completed normally.

  Therefore, according to the above aspect (3), when a predetermined retry operation is executed and the return to the retracted position is performed as in the prior art, it is determined that the state is “normal state” and the presentation operation process is resumed. By keeping the status in the “provisional normal state” and executing the specified number of operation checks, it becomes possible to accurately determine whether or not the malfunction of the rendering button 120 has actually been resolved. It is possible to prevent a malfunction from occurring again immediately after resuming the operation process.

  In the aspect (4) illustrating the present invention, when the status transitions from “normal state” to “monitoring state”, the effect button 120 is returned to the retracted position after the effect button 120 has been monitored for a predetermined time. Configured to perform a retry operation.

  Therefore, according to the above aspect (4), by monitoring the elapse of a predetermined time before executing the retry operation, the operation disturbance and minor malfunctions by the player are eliminated during the progress monitoring, and the retry operation is successful. It is possible to increase the possibility of making it happen. In addition, you may comprise so that electricity supply to the button motor (drive source) 152 may be interrupted | blocked during this progress monitoring.

  In aspect (5) illustrating the present invention, when the effect button 120 does not return to the retracted position according to the effect operation pattern, the status is changed from the “normal state” to the “monitoring state” and the effect button 120 is retracted. If a retry operation for returning to the position is executed and the effect button 120 does not return to the retracted position even if the retry operation is executed, the status is changed from the “monitoring state” to the “temporary abnormal state”. At the same time, the retry operation is continuously executed until the effect button 120 returns to the retracted position, and as the number of executions of the retry operation increases, the time interval until the next retry operation is started and the retry operation is increased. Each time is executed, the retry operation pattern is changed.

  Therefore, according to the above aspect (5), every time the retry operation is executed, the execution interval and the drive pattern of the operation are changed, and an irregular retry operation different from the effect operation is executed. Problems (for example, mechanical problems such as catching between mechanical parts) that occur in the effect button 120 are gradually resolved, and the possibility that the effect button 120 is returned to the retracted position can be increased.

  In the aspect (6) illustrating the present invention, the RAM of the sub-control board 2000 that stores status information when the power of the pachinko gaming machine PM is turned off, and the effect button 120 when the power of the pachinko gaming machine PM is turned on have a predetermined initial operation. A power-on-time process control means 2235 for executing (return drive process), and it is determined whether or not the initial operation is normally completed when the power is turned on, and the status is updated according to the determination result. Composed.

  Therefore, according to the above aspect (6), the status information is backed up when the power is turned off, and the saved status information is updated based on the determination result of the initial operation when the power is turned on. In addition to being able to manage properly and efficiently from the time of power-on, the game can be smoothly resumed when the power is turned off to enhance the reliability of the rendering operation control after the power is turned off.

  In addition, this invention is not limited to the said embodiment, If it is a range which does not deviate from the summary of this invention, it can improve suitably.

In the above-mentioned embodiment, you may comprise so that the information regarding a management status may be alert | reported by a predetermined | prescribed display means. For example, when the management status transitions to “temporary abnormal state” or “abnormal state”, the abnormality may be notified on the effect display device 70. Further, when the pachinko gaming machine PM is turned on, the number of occurrences of “temporary abnormal state” and “abnormal state” may be displayed on the effect display device 70 as history information of past management status. Further, in the case where time measuring means such as RTC (Real Time Clock) is mounted on the sub-control board 2000 or the like, the occurrence time and occurrence interval at which “temporary abnormal state” and “abnormal state” have occurred are also combined. It may be displayed so that the failure status of the effect button unit 100 can be grasped in more detail (this makes it easier to analyze the tendency of occurrence of abnormality).

  In the above-described embodiment, a coil spring (tensile coil spring) that urges the effect button 120 downward is disposed in the case housing 110, and the effect button 120 protrudes by the urging force of the coil spring when the power to the button motor 152 is cut off. You may comprise so that it may return automatically from a position to a retracted position. That is, when the button 120 is in the energized state with the effect button 120 in the protruding position, the effect button 120 is held at the retracted position by the holding torque (excitation holding torque), and the button motor 152 is not energized. When in the state, the effect button 120 is configured to return to the retracted position by the biasing force of the coil spring. According to such a configuration, when the management status is “monitoring state”, the energization of the button motor 152 may be interrupted, so that the effect button 120 may return to the retracted position during a predetermined time monitoring. This is because it increases.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, when the management status transitions to “temporary abnormal state” or “abnormal state” and the execution request for the rendering operation process is canceled, the input operation of the rendering button 120 is a condition. It is desirable to control so as not to perform an effect (such as a notice effect).

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, when the management status transitions to “temporary abnormal state” or “abnormal state” and the execution request for the effect operation process is canceled, the input function of the effect button 120 is changed to the glass You may substitute with the cross key mounted in the front side of the frame 5, a determination button, another input device, etc. FIG.

In the above-described embodiment, the combination pattern of acceleration and driving speed is changed as the change of the driving pattern in the retry process. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration, and only one of acceleration and driving speed is used. Or other conditions such as driving time and driving torque may be added. Further, as the drive pattern change, the excitation method (for example, 1-1 phase excitation, 1-2 phase excitation, 2-2 phase excitation, etc.) of the button motor (stepping motor) 152 may be changed.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, the configuration in which the production button 120 as the movable production body is moved back and forth (pressing operation) in the up and down direction is described as an example. However, the configuration is not limited to this configuration. Further, it may be configured to perform a pressing operation in another direction such as a left-right direction.

  Moreover, in the above-mentioned embodiment, although the structure which installed the production | presentation button unit 100 in the front side of the upper ball tray 8 was illustrated and demonstrated, it is not limited to this, The production button unit 100 is lower ball plate 9 It may be installed in other parts such as, and in any case, it may be provided at a position where the player can operate.

  In the above-described embodiment, the case where the production button unit is applied to the pachinko gaming machine has been described as an example, but the present invention is not limited to this, and a gaming machine other than the pachinko gaming machine, for example, a slot machine, Other amusement machines such as arrange ball machines, sparrow ball game machines, enclosed game machines (game machines in which a predetermined number of game balls are enclosed and used in circulation), as well as amusement machines such as medal game machines and game machines The same effect can be obtained.

PM Pachinko machine (game machine)
1 Outer frame (the machine body)
2 Front frame (the machine body)
5 Glass frame (the main body of the gaming machine)
100 effect button unit (movable effect device)
110 Case housing (case housing)
120 Production button (movable production)
130 Button body 140 Movable member 150 Button drive means 152 Button motor (drive source)
1000 Main control board 2000 Sub control board (control device)
2230 effect button control means 2231 effect operation control means 2232 monitoring control means 2233 status storage means (status holding means)
2234 retry operation control means 2235 power-on processing control means S1 first position detection sensor (detection means)
S2 Second position detection sensor S3 Operation detection sensor

Claims (1)

A gaming machine comprising a gaming machine body and a movable effect device provided in the gaming machine body,
The movable effect device is:
An exterior body,
A drive source provided in the exterior body;
By receiving power from the drive source, a movable effector that moves forward and backward between an initial position that is an operation starting point and a movable position that is displaced from the initial position;
Detecting means for detecting that the movable effect body is present at the initial position;
And a control device that controls the advancing and retreating operation of the movable effect body,
The controller is
Production operation control means for performing control to move the movable production body forward and backward according to a predetermined production operation pattern;
Monitoring control means for monitoring the operating state of the movable effector, and acquiring the operating state as status information indicating any of a normal state, an abnormal state, and a provisional abnormal state;
Status holding means for storing and holding the status information;
Retry operation control means for executing a retry operation for returning the movable effect body to the initial position according to a predetermined retry operation pattern;
An initial operation control means for executing an initial operation of operating the movable effector toward the movable position and then operating to the initial position when the gaming machine is powered on ;
The retry operation control means includes
When the movable effector does not return to the initial position after the advancement / retraction operation according to the effect operation pattern, a retry operation is performed to return the movable effector to the initial position,
When the movable effector does not return to the initial position even after executing the retry operation, the status information is transitioned to a temporary abnormal state, and the retry operation is executed again.
When the movable effector does not return to the initial position by the retry operation, the status information is transitioned from a temporary abnormal state to an abnormal state.
The initial operation control means is configured to cause the movable effector to execute an initial operation when power is turned on to the gaming machine, and to update the status information based on a result of execution of the initial operation. A gaming machine.

Images