JP6438066B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine.

  As a gaming machine, one that converts a serial signal output from an effect control board into a parallel signal by a serial / parallel conversion IC and controls the operation of an effect device such as a lamp composed of LEDs is generally known.

  As such a gaming machine, there has been proposed a gaming machine that outputs a parallel signal converted from a serial signal on one board to a necessary location from the board (for example, Patent Document 1).

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2006-67489

  However, in the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, since the converted parallel signal is output from the substrate that has been converted to a necessary location, the wiring length is wasted. From the viewpoint of efficient use, it was still not enough.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a gaming machine that can efficiently use a serial / parallel conversion IC.

(1) In order to achieve the above object, a gaming machine according to the present invention provides:
A gaming machine that performs a game (for example, pachinko gaming machine 1 or the like)
A first board (for example, a production control relay board 16A);
A second substrate (for example, a light emitter control substrate 16C) subordinate to the first substrate,
The second substrate includes conversion means (for example, a serial-parallel conversion IC) for converting the first signal output from the first substrate into a second signal different from the first signal, and the conversion means converts the first signal. A part of the second signal thus output is output to the first board (for example, a parallel data signal for the fourth design is transmitted to the effect control relay board 16A).
It is characterized by that.

  According to such a configuration, the serial / parallel conversion IC can be efficiently used.

(2) In the gaming machine of (1) above,
A substrate subordinate to the first substrate, and further comprising a third substrate different from the second substrate (for example, the fourth graphic substrate 16B);
A part of the second signal converted by the conversion means is output to the third substrate via the first substrate (for example, a parallel data signal for the 4th pattern is transmitted via the effect control relay substrate 16A). Etc.), etc.
You may do it.

  According to such a configuration, it is not necessary to provide conversion means on the third substrate, and the cost can be reduced.

(3) In the above gaming machine (1) or (2),
The first signal is a serial signal, the second signal is a parallel signal, and the conversion means is a serial-parallel conversion circuit (for example, a serial-parallel conversion IC that converts a serial data signal into a parallel data signal).
You may do it.

  According to such a configuration, the conversion means can be efficiently used while considering the length of the wiring by providing the conversion means on the second substrate.

(4) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (3) above,
The converting means converts the first signal into a plurality of the second signals,
The number of the second signals to be output to the first substrate is set to be equal to or less than half of the plurality of signals converted by the conversion means (for example, the number of parallel signals transmitted to the effect control relay substrate 16A is set to light emitter control). The number of parallel signals converted by the conversion IC 165 of the substrate 16C is less than half of the number of parallel signals),
You may do it.

  According to such a configuration, since conversion is performed collectively on the second substrate, it is not necessary to separately provide conversion means on the first substrate, and the cost can be reduced.

(5) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (4) above,
A substrate subordinate to the first substrate, and further comprising a third substrate different from the second substrate (for example, the fourth graphic substrate 16B);
While the first board outputs the first signal to the second board, it outputs only the second signal to the third board (for example, the effect control relay board 16A is connected to the light emitter control board 16C). While transmitting a serial signal, only a parallel signal is transmitted to the 4th pattern board 16B),
You may do it.

  According to such a configuration, it is possible to reduce costs without outputting unnecessary signals.

(6) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (5) above,
A substrate subordinate to the first substrate, and further comprising a third substrate different from the second substrate (for example, the fourth graphic substrate 16B);
While the second substrate includes the conversion unit, the third substrate does not include the conversion unit (for example, the light emitter control substrate 16C includes a conversion IC 165 that is a serial-parallel conversion IC, The board 16B does not include a serial-parallel conversion IC),
You may do it.

  According to such a configuration, cost can be reduced.

It is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine in this embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the structural examples, such as various control boards mounted in the pachinko game machine. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of an effect control board. It is a block diagram which shows the structural examples, such as a light-emitting body control board. It is a figure which shows the example of a connection of the relay board | substrate for effect control, a light-emitting body control board, etc.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment and shows an arrangement layout of main members. The pachinko gaming machine (gaming machine) 1 is roughly composed of a gaming board (gauge board) 2 constituting a gaming board surface and a gaming machine frame (base frame) 3 for supporting and fixing the gaming board 2. The game board 2 is formed with a substantially circular game area surrounded by guide rails. In this game area, a game ball as a game medium is launched from a predetermined hitting ball launching device and driven.

  A first special symbol display device 4A and a second special symbol display device 4B are provided at predetermined positions of the game board 2 (in the example shown in FIG. 1, on the right side of the game area). Each of the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B is composed of, for example, 7-segment or dot matrix LEDs (light emitting diodes). Special symbols (also referred to as “special graphics”) that are a plurality of types of identification information (special identification information) that can be identified are displayed variably (variably displayed). For example, each of the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B variably displays a plurality of types of special symbols composed of numbers indicating "0" to "9", symbols indicating "-", and the like. To do. Thereafter, the confirmed special symbol is stopped and displayed as a variable display result in the special figure game. The confirmed special symbol may be different from the special symbol displayed during variable display.

  The special symbols displayed on the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B are limited to those composed of numbers indicating "0" to "9", symbols indicating "-", and the like. For example, a plurality of types of lighting patterns (a pattern in which all LEDs are appropriately turned off may be included as a lighting pattern) in which a combination of an LED to be turned on and a light to be turned off in a 7-segment LED are different from each other What is necessary is just to be preset as a special symbol. Hereinafter, the special symbol variably displayed on the first special symbol display device 4A is also referred to as "first special symbol", and the special symbol variably displayed on the second special symbol display device 4B is also referred to as "second special symbol". .

  An image display device 5 is provided near the center of the game area on the game board 2. The image display device 5 is composed of, for example, an LCD (liquid crystal display device) or the like, and forms a display area for displaying various effect images. On the screen of the image display device 5, in response to the variable display of the first special symbol by the first special symbol display device 4A and the variable display of the second special symbol by the second special symbol display device 4B in the special symbol game. For example, in a decorative symbol display area serving as a plurality of variable display units such as three, decorative symbols that are a plurality of types of identification information (decorative identification information) that can be identified are variably displayed. This variable display of decorative designs is also included in the variable display game.

  As an example, “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R are arranged on the screen of the image display device 5. And in response to the start of one of the changes in the first special symbol in the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol in the second special symbol display device 4B in the special symbol game, In the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R, variation of decorative symbols (for example, vertical scroll display) is started. Thereafter, when the fixed special symbol is stopped and displayed as a variable display result in the special symbol game, the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R in the image display device 5 are displayed. Then, the finalized decorative symbol (final stop symbol) that is the variable display result of the decorative symbol is stopped and displayed. Note that the confirmed decorative design may be different from the decorative design displayed during variable display. For example, a decorative pattern other than the scrolled decorative pattern may be a confirmed decorative pattern.

  As described above, on the screen of the image display device 5, the special symbol game (also referred to as the first special symbol game) using the first special symbol in the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B. In synchronism with the special figure game using the second special figure (also referred to as the second special figure game), a variable display of a plurality of types of decorative patterns that can be distinguished from each other is performed, and a fixed decorative pattern that is a variable display result is displayed. Derived display (or simply referred to as “derivation”). Note that, for example, various display symbols such as special symbols and decorative symbols are derived and displayed by stopping display of identification information such as decorative symbols (also referred to as complete stop display or final stop display) and terminating variable display. is there. On the other hand, during the variable display from the start of the variable display of the decorative pattern until the fixed decorative pattern that is the variable display result is derived and displayed, the variation speed of the decorative pattern becomes “0”, The symbol may be stopped and displayed, and for example, a display state that causes slight shaking or expansion / contraction may occur. Such a display state is also called a temporary stop display, and although the display result in the variable display is not displayed deterministically, the player can recognize that the variation of the decorative pattern due to the scroll display or the update display is not progressing. It becomes. The temporary stop display may include displaying the decorative symbols completely stopped for a time shorter than a predetermined time (for example, 1 second) without causing slight shaking or expansion / contraction.

  The decorative symbols variably displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R include, for example, eight types of symbols (alphanumeric characters “1” to “8” or Chinese characters). It may be any combination of numbers, English letters, eight character images related to a predetermined motif, a combination of numbers, letters, symbols, and character images. Character images may be, for example, people, animals, other objects, or , A decorative image showing a symbol such as a character or other arbitrary figure). A corresponding symbol number is assigned to each of the decorative symbols. For example, symbol numbers “1” to “8” are attached to alphanumeric characters indicating “1” to “8”. Note that the number of decorative symbols is not limited to eight, and may be any number (for example, seven or nine) as long as an appropriate number of combinations such as a jackpot combination or a combination that is lost can be configured.

  After the decorative symbol variable display is started, the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R are displayed until the fixed decorative symbol that is the variable display result is derived and displayed. In FIG. 5, for example, scroll display is performed such that the symbol number sequentially flows from the top to the bottom from the smallest to the largest, and when the decorative symbol having the largest symbol number (for example, “8”) is displayed, The decorative symbol having the smallest symbol number (for example, “1”) is displayed. Alternatively, in at least one of the decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R (for example, the “left” decorative symbol display area 5L), the symbols are scrolled from the largest symbol number to the smallest symbol symbol. When the decorative design having the smallest number is displayed, the decorative design having the largest design number may be displayed.

  In addition, a start winning storage display area 5H is arranged in the display area of the image display device 5. In the start winning memory display area 5H, a hold memory display for displaying the variable display hold number corresponding to the special figure game (special figure hold memory number) is specified. Here, the variable display suspension corresponding to the special game is that the game ball passes through the first start winning opening formed by the normal winning ball apparatus 6A and the second starting winning opening formed by the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B. Generated based on the start winning by entering (entering). That is, the start condition (also referred to as “execution condition”) for executing a variable display game such as a special figure game or a variable display of decorative symbols has been established, but a variable display game based on the previously established start condition is being executed. When the start condition that allows the start of the variable display game is not satisfied due to the fact that the pachinko gaming machine 1 is controlled to the big hit gaming state, the variable display corresponding to the established start condition is suspended. Done. The display area of the image display device 5 is provided with a fourth symbol display area, and the special symbol change / stop display is expressed by changing the display color of the fourth symbol LED 191 shown in FIG. Is done. Specifically, the fourth symbol is a symbol for effect that is variably displayed corresponding to the variable display of the special symbol, and is displayed small on a part of the display screen of the image display device 5 (example shown in FIG. 1). Then, the lower right of the image display device 5). This 4th symbol is, for example, a simple symbol (e.g., a `` □ '' or `` ○ '' figure) with a color added to it, for example, by changing the display color of the special symbol. The change / stop display is shown.

  Moreover, in the example shown in FIG. 1, the number of special figure reservation memory | storages is displayed in the upper part of the 1st special symbol display apparatus 4A and the 2nd special symbol display apparatus 4B with the start winning memory | storage display area 5H so that identification is possible. A first hold indicator 25A and a second hold indicator 25B are provided. The first hold indicator 25A displays the first special figure hold memory number so that it can be specified. The second hold indicator 25B displays the second special figure hold memory number so that it can be specified. The number of first special figure hold memory is the number of memory in which the execution of the special figure game using the first special figure is suspended. The second special figure hold memory number is the number of memories in which the execution of the special figure game using the second special figure is suspended. The variable display hold memory number obtained by adding the first special figure hold memory number and the second special figure hold memory number is also referred to as a total hold memory number. When simply referring to the “number of special figure hold memory”, it usually refers to a concept including any of the first special figure hold memory number, the second special figure hold memory number, and the total hold memory number. It may refer to a concept that includes the first special figure reserved memory number and the second special figure reserved memory number but excludes the total reserved memory number).

  Below the image display device 5, an ordinary winning ball device 6A and an ordinary variable winning ball device 6B are provided. The normal winning ball device 6A forms a first starting winning opening as a starting area (first starting area) that is always kept in a constant open state by a predetermined ball receiving member, for example. The normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B has an electric motor having a pair of movable wing pieces that are changed into a normal open state in a vertical position and an expanded open state in a tilt position by a solenoid 27 for a normal electric accessory shown in FIG. A tulip-shaped accessory (ordinary electric accessory) is provided, and a second starting prize opening is formed as a starting region (second starting region) different from the first starting region.

  As an example, in the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B, the movable wing piece is in the vertical position when the solenoid 27 for the normal electric accessory is in the OFF state, so that the game ball passes (enters) the second starting winning opening. It becomes difficult to open normally. On the other hand, in the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B, the game ball passes through the second start winning opening by the tilt control in which the movable blade piece is tilted when the solenoid 27 for the normal electric accessory is in the ON state ( It will be in an expanded open state that is easy to enter. In the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B, although the game ball can enter the second start winning opening even in the normal open state, there is a possibility that the game ball may enter more than in the expanded open state. You may comprise so that it may become low. Alternatively, the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B may be configured so that the game ball does not enter the second starting winning opening in the normally open state, for example, by closing the second starting winning opening. As described above, the second start winning opening as the second start area is in an expanded open state in which game balls easily pass (enter), and in a normal open state in which game balls hardly pass (enter) or cannot pass (enter). And change.

  A game ball that has passed (entered) the first start winning opening formed in the normal winning ball apparatus 6A is detected by, for example, a first start opening switch 22A shown in FIG. The game ball that has passed (entered) the second start winning opening formed in the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B is detected by, for example, the second start opening switch 22B shown in FIG. Based on the detection of the game ball by the first start port switch 22A, a predetermined number (for example, three) of game balls are paid out as prize balls, and the first special figure holding memory number is set to a predetermined upper limit value (for example, “ 4 ") If the following, the first start condition is satisfied. Based on the detection of the game ball by the second start port switch 22B, a predetermined number (for example, three) of game balls are paid out as prize balls, and the second reserved memory number is set to a predetermined upper limit value (for example, “4”). ) If so, the second start condition is satisfied. The number of prize balls to be paid out based on the detection of the game ball by the first start port switch 22A and the number of prize balls to be paid out based on the detection of the game ball by the second start port switch 22B. May be the same number or different numbers.

  A special variable winning ball device 7 is provided below the normal winning ball device 6A and the normal variable winning ball device 6B. The special variable winning ball apparatus 7 includes a special winning opening door that is opened and closed by a solenoid 28 for the special winning opening door shown in FIG. 2, and is changed into an open state and a closed state by the special winning opening door. As a big prize opening. As shown in FIG. 1, the special prize opening door LED 197 is provided for the special prize opening door, and the lighting is controlled according to the open / closed state of the special prize opening door.

  As an example, in the special variable winning ball apparatus 7, when the solenoid 28 for the special prize opening door is in the OFF state, the special prize opening door closes the big prize opening, and the game ball passes through (enters) the big prize opening. Make it impossible. On the other hand, in the special variable winning ball apparatus 7, when the solenoid 28 for the special prize opening door is in the ON state, the special prize opening door opens the big prize opening, and the game ball passes through the big prize opening (entrance). ). In this way, the special winning opening as a specific area changes into an open state in which a game ball easily passes (enters) and is advantageous to the player, and a closed state in which the game ball cannot pass (enters) and is disadvantageous to the player. To do. Instead of the closed state where the game ball cannot pass (enter) through the big prize opening, or in addition to the closed state, a partially opened state where the game ball hardly passes (enters) through the big prize port may be provided.

  The game ball that has passed (entered) into the big prize opening is detected by, for example, the count switch 23 shown in FIG. Based on the detection of the game ball by the count switch 23, a predetermined number (for example, 14) of game balls are paid out as prize balls. Thus, when a game ball enters the large winning opening that has been opened in the special variable winning ball apparatus 7, for example, the gaming ball passes through another winning opening such as the first starting winning opening or the second starting winning opening ( More prize balls are paid out than when entering. Therefore, if the special prize winning device 7 is opened, the game ball can pass (enter) into the special prize opening, which is an advantageous first state for the player. On the other hand, if the special prize winning device 7 is closed in the special variable prize winning ball device 7, it becomes impossible or difficult to obtain a prize ball by passing (entering) the game ball to the special prize winning port. The second state is more disadvantageous to the player.

  A normal symbol display 20 is provided at a predetermined position of the game board 2 (on the left side of the game area in the example shown in FIG. 1). As an example, the normal symbol display 20 is composed of 7 segments, dot matrix LEDs, and the like, like the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B. An ordinary symbol (also called “ordinary diagram” or “ordinary diagram”) that is identification information is displayed variably (variably displayed). Such variable display of normal symbols is called a general game (also referred to as “normal game”). Above the normal symbol display 20, a universal figure holding display 25 </ b> C is provided. For example, the reserved display 25C is configured to include four LEDs, and is formed in a game area such that a pass gate 41 (a game ball can be passed by a predetermined member). 2 shows the number of ordinary reserved memories as the number of effective passing balls that have passed (detected by two gate switches 21).

  In addition to the above configuration, the surface of the game board 2 is provided with a windmill for changing the flow direction and speed of the game ball and a number of obstacle nails. In addition, as a winning opening different from the first starting winning opening, the second starting winning opening, and the large winning opening, for example, there is a single or a plurality of general winning openings that are always kept open by a predetermined ball receiving member. It may be provided. In this case, a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls may be paid out as prize balls based on the fact that a game ball that has entered one of the general prize openings is detected by a predetermined general prize ball switch. . In the lowermost part of the game area, there is provided an out port through which game balls that have not entered any winning port are taken.

  Speakers 8L and 8R for reproducing and outputting sound effects and the like are provided at the left and right upper positions of the gaming machine frame 3, and a game effect lamp 9 is provided at the periphery of the game area. A decorative LED may be arranged around each structure (for example, the normal winning ball device 6A, the normal variable winning ball device 6B, the special variable winning ball device 7, etc.) in the game area of the pachinko gaming machine 1. . At the lower right position of the gaming machine frame 3, there is provided a hitting operation handle (operation knob) operated by a player or the like to launch a game ball as a game medium toward the game area. For example, the hitting operation handle adjusts the resilience of the game ball according to the operation amount (rotation amount) by the player or the like.

  At a predetermined position of the gaming machine frame 3 below the gaming area, a game ball paid out as a prize ball or a game ball lent out by a predetermined ball lending machine is held (stored) so as to be supplied to a ball hitting device. )) Is provided. Below the gaming machine frame 3, there is provided a lower plate that holds (stores) surplus balls overflowing from the upper plate so as to be discharged to the outside of the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  For example, a stick controller 31A that can be held and tilted by the player is attached to a member that forms the lower plate, for example, at a predetermined position on the front side of the upper surface of the lower plate main body (for example, a central portion of the lower plate). Yes. The stick controller 31A includes an operation stick that the player holds, and a trigger button is provided at a predetermined position of the operation stick (for example, a position where the index finger of the operator is hooked when the player holds the operation stick). Yes. The trigger button can be operated in a predetermined direction by performing a push-pull operation with a predetermined operation finger (for example, an index finger) in a state where the player holds the operation stick of the stick controller 31A with an operation hand (for example, the left hand). What is necessary is just to be comprised. A trigger sensor that detects a predetermined instruction operation such as a push / pull operation on the trigger button may be incorporated in the operation rod.

  A tilt direction sensor unit for detecting a tilting operation with respect to the operating rod may be provided inside the main body of the lower plate below the stick controller 31A. For example, the tilt direction sensor unit includes two transmissive photosensors (parallel sensors) arranged in parallel to the board surface of the game board 2 on the left side of the center position of the operation pole when viewed from the player side facing the pachinko gaming machine 1. And a pair of transmissive photosensors (vertical sensor pairs) arranged perpendicularly to the surface of the game board 2 on the right side of the center position of the operation rod when viewed from the player side. What is necessary is just to be comprised including the photo sensor.

  The member that forms the upper plate includes, for example, a push button 31B that allows a player to perform a predetermined instruction operation by a pressing operation or the like at a predetermined position on the front side of the upper surface of the upper plate body (for example, above the stick controller 31A). Is provided. The push button 31B only needs to be configured to be able to detect a predetermined instruction operation such as a pressing operation from a player mechanically, electrically, or electromagnetically. A push sensor for detecting the player's operation act on the push button 31B may be provided inside the main body of the upper plate at the installation position of the push button 31B.

  Various control boards such as a main board 11 and an effect control board 12 as shown in FIG. 2 are mounted on the pachinko gaming machine 1. Further, the pachinko gaming machine 1 includes a relay board 15 for relaying various control signals transmitted between the main board 11 and the effect control board 12, and the effect control board 12 and the light emitter control board 16C. An effect control relay board 16A for relaying various signals transmitted between the boards is also mounted. In addition, various boards such as a payout control board, an information terminal board, a launch control board, an interface board, and a touch sensor board are arranged on the back of the game board or the like in the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  A game control microcomputer 100 that controls the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a program is mounted on the main board 11. The game control microcomputer 100 includes a ROM 101 for storing a game control (game progress control) program and the like, a RAM 102 as a storage means used as a work memory, a CPU 103 for performing control operations according to the program, and an I / O port unit 105. And a serial output circuit 78 (not shown) for converting the parallel data signal into a serial data signal and outputting the serial data signal. In this embodiment, the ROM 101 and the RAM 102 are built in the game control microcomputer 100. That is, the game control microcomputer 100 is a one-chip microcomputer. The one-chip microcomputer may include at least the RAM 103 in addition to the CPU 103, and the ROM 101 may be external or internal. Further, the I / O port unit 105 may be externally attached.

  The game control microcomputer 100 further includes a random number circuit for generating hardware random numbers. In the game control microcomputer 100, the CPU 103 executes control in accordance with the program stored in the ROM 101. Therefore, hereinafter, the game control microcomputer 100 (or CPU 103) executes (or performs processing). Specifically, the CPU 103 executes control according to a program. The same applies to microcomputers mounted on substrates other than the main substrate 11.

  Also mounted on the main board 11 is a switch circuit 110 that provides detection signals from the gate switch 21, the first start port switch 22A, the second start port switch 22B, the count switch 23, and the like to the game control microcomputer 100. A solenoid circuit 111 that drives a solenoid 27 that opens and closes the ordinary variable winning ball apparatus 6B and a solenoid 28 that opens and closes the special variable winning ball apparatus 7 that forms a special winning opening according to a command from the game control microcomputer 100 is also provided. It is mounted on the substrate 11.

  The game controlling microcomputer 100 includes a first special symbol display device 4A, a second special symbol display device 4B that variably displays special symbols, a normal symbol display 20 that variably displays normal symbols, etc. (first hold indicator) Display control of each hold indicator such as 25A and the second hold indicator 25B). A serial output circuit 78 (not shown) mounted on the game control microcomputer 100 is constituted by a shift register or the like, converts an effect control command output from the CPU 103 into a serial data signal, and passes through the relay board 15. To the effect control board 12. The serial output circuit 78 converts the control signal output from the CPU 103 into a serial data signal and outputs the serial data signal to the first special symbol display device 4A, the second special symbol display device 4B, the normal symbol display device 20, and the like. The first special symbol display device 4A, the second special symbol display device 4B, the normal symbol display device 20 and the like are each provided with a serial-parallel conversion IC for converting a serial data signal into a parallel data signal, and the control signal is converted into parallel data. The signal is converted into a signal and supplied to the first special symbol display device 4A, the second special symbol display device 4B, the normal symbol display 20, and the like. The main board 11 is also equipped with an information output circuit (not shown) for outputting an information output signal such as jackpot information indicating the occurrence of the jackpot gaming state to an external device such as a hall computer.

  In this embodiment, a control device (configured by an effect control microcomputer) mounted on the effect control board 12 serializes an effect control command from the game control microcomputer 100 via the relay board 15. Received as a data system (that is, using serial communication) and performs display control of the image display device 5 such as variably displaying decorative symbols. The control device mounted on the effect control board 12 controls the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R based on the effect control command described above. Further, the control device mounted on the effect control board 12 performs drive control of a motor that drives each movable member (not shown) based on the above-described effect control command. The effect control board 12 transmits a control signal to the light emitter control board 16C, the fourth symbol control board 16B, etc. via the effect control relay board 16A, for example, a game effect lamp 9 provided in the game board 2. LED, LED of the lamp provided on the frame side, LED door 197 for winning a prize opening, LED 191 for the fourth design and the like for controlling the electrical parts for production. In the example shown in FIG. 2, in order to facilitate understanding, each LED of the game effect lamp 9 provided on the game board 2, each LED of the lamp provided on the frame side, and the grand prize opening door Light emitting components such as LEDs 197 are collectively shown as a light emitter unit 71. The effect control relay board 16A, the light emitter control board 16C, and the fourth symbol control board 16B are physically and electrically connected to each other by inserting connectors (plugs) provided at both ends of the harness. It is connected. The harness only needs to be configured by binding a large number of wiring cables.

  Further, on the effect control board 12, wiring for transmitting an operation detection signal as an information signal indicating that the player's operation action on the stick controller 31A has been detected from the controller sensor unit 35A, and a game for the push button 31B. Wiring for transmitting from the push sensor 35B an operation detection signal as an information signal indicating that the user's operation action has been detected is also connected.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of the effect control board 12. In the example shown in FIG. 3, only the effect control board 12 is provided for effect control, but a lamp driver board, an audio output board, or the like may be provided. In this case, a microcomputer may be mounted on the lamp driver board or the audio output board.

   As shown in FIG. 3, the effect control board 12 includes an effect control microcomputer 120 including an effect control CPU 123, a RAM (not shown), a serial output circuit 353, a serial input circuit 354, and a clock signal generation circuit 356. doing. The RAM may be externally attached. In the effect control board 12, the effect control CPU 123 operates according to a program stored in a built-in or external ROM (not shown) and receives an effect control command via the serial input circuit 112 and the input port 113. In this case, the serial input circuit 112 converts the effect control command received as the serial data method into a parallel data signal and outputs it. Further, the effect control CPU 123 causes the VDP (video display processor) 109 to perform display control of the image display device 5 based on the effect control command.

  In this embodiment, a VDP 109 that performs display control of the image display device 5 in cooperation with the effect control microcomputer 120 is mounted on the effect control board 12. The VDP 109 has an address space independent of the effect control microcomputer 120, and maps the VRAM to the address space. VRAM is a buffer memory for developing image data. Then, the VDP 109 outputs the image data in the VRAM to the image display device 5 via the frame memory.

  The effect control CPU 123 outputs to the VDP 109 a command for reading out necessary data from a CGROM (not shown) in accordance with the received effect control command. The CGROM stores character image data and moving image data to be displayed on the image display device 5, specifically, a person, characters, figures, symbols (including decorative symbols), and background image data in advance. ROM. The VDP 109 reads out image data from the CGROM in response to a command from the effect control CPU 123. The VDP 109 executes display control based on the read image data. The effect control CPU 123 performs various effect controls based on detection signals from the controller sensor unit 35A and the push sensor 35B.

  As a signal direction regulating means, the signal input from the main board 11 is allowed to pass through the relay board 15 only in the direction toward the effect control board 12 (the signal is not passed in the direction from the effect control board 12 to the relay board 15). A unidirectional circuit (not shown) is mounted. For example, a diode or a transistor is used as the unidirectional circuit.

  Further, the effect control CPU 123 outputs signals for driving various lamps via the serial output circuit 353. The serial output circuit 353 converts the input signals (parallel data signals) for driving the LEDs of the various lamps into serial data signals and outputs them to the effect control relay board 16A. Further, the production control CPU 123 outputs the sound number data to the speech synthesis IC 173.

  In this embodiment, the production control microcomputer 120 mounted on the production control board 12 generates a clock signal used when transmitting the control signal to the production device by serial communication, and the generated clock signal is used. Send to the production device. At this time, the effect control microcomputer 120 may generate the clock signal such that the waveform of the clock signal rises more slowly than the waveform of the rectangular wave.

  The “production device” in this embodiment includes light emitting components such as each LED of the game effect lamp 9, each LED of the lamp provided on the frame side, the LED 197 for the big prize opening door, and the LED 191 for the 4th symbol. It is at least one of the electric parts for presentation, the speakers 8L and 8R, and the motors that drive the movable members.

  The clock signal generation circuit 356 is a circuit that generates a rectangular wave having a predetermined frequency (for example, 5 MHz), for example. The predetermined frequency is set according to the number of LEDs mounted on the pachinko gaming machine 1. The higher the frequency of the clock signal, the more information can be transmitted and the higher the communication speed. Further, since the communication amount increases as the number of LEDs mounted on the pachinko gaming machine 1 increases, a high communication speed is required. That is, the required value of the communication speed depends on the number of LEDs mounted on the pachinko gaming machine 1. Therefore, it is desirable to set the predetermined frequency so that the communication speed is higher than the required value of the communication speed corresponding to the number of LEDs mounted in the pachinko gaming machine 1. Further, the clock signal generation circuit 356 is configured by combining a circuit using at least one of a capacitor and a resistor with various circuits such as a band pass filter, a low pass filter, and an integration circuit. The clock signal generation circuit 356 transmits the clock signal to the effect control relay board 16A.

  The clock signal transmitted from the clock signal generation circuit 356 is supplied to the serial-parallel conversion IC mounted on each substrate of the light emitter control substrate 16C, the fourth symbol substrate, etc. via the effect control relay substrate 16A. .

  When the sound number IC 173 receives the sound number data, the sound synthesizing IC 173 generates a sound or a sound effect corresponding to the sound number data and outputs it to the amplifier circuit 175. The amplification circuit 175 outputs the audio signal obtained by amplifying the output level of the voice synthesis IC 173 to a level corresponding to the volume set by the volume 176 to the speakers 8L and 8R. The voice data ROM 174 stores control data corresponding to the sound number data. The control data corresponding to the sound number data is a collection of data indicating the sound effect or sound output mode in a time series in a predetermined period (for example, a decorative symbol variation period).

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of the light emitter control board 16C and the like. The effect control microcomputer 120 of the effect control board 12 transmits the serial data signal obtained by converting the control signal to the effect control relay board 16A via the serial data line, and transmits the clock signal via the clock signal line. And transmitted to the effect control relay board 16A.

  The light emitter control board 16C is a board to which a signal for controlling lighting of an LED such as a lamp is transmitted, and is a general term for a plurality of boards such as a board A to a board F as shown. Each of the substrates A to F includes a serial-parallel conversion IC (conversion ICs 161 to 166), and the substrates are arranged at different positions. The serial-parallel conversion ICs (conversion ICs 161 to 166) are serial-parallel conversion ICs that convert a serial data signal transmitted from the effect control board 12 via the effect control relay board 16A into a parallel data signal.

  Each board (board A to board F) of the light emitter control board 16C receives the serial data signal and the clock signal input from the stage control microcomputer 120 via the stage control relay board 16A. It supplies to each conversion IC161-166 mounted in each. Each of the conversion ICs 161 to 166 converts the input serial data signal into a parallel data signal and supplies the converted data to the LEDs 192 to 197 of the lamps connected to the respective substrates. Specifically, in this embodiment, the parallel data signals converted by the conversion ICs 161 to 165 mounted on the substrates A to E are supplied to the LEDs 192 to 196 connected to the respective substrates. A part of the plurality of parallel data signals converted by the conversion IC 165 mounted on the substrate E (parallel data signal for the fourth pattern) is relayed for effect control via the parallel data line. Returned to 16A and transmitted to the fourth symbol board 16B. The input parallel data signal is supplied to the fourth symbol LED 191 connected to the fourth symbol substrate 16B. Further, the parallel data signal converted by the conversion IC 166 mounted on the substrate F is supplied to the special prize opening door LED 193 via the light emitter relay substrate 168. Here, the fourth design board 16B can be connected by a shorter wiring when connected from the effect control relay board 16A than from the light emitter control board 16C. Therefore, in this embodiment, among the plurality of parallel data signals converted by the conversion IC 165 mounted on the substrate E, the parallel data signal (for the fourth symbol) supplied to the fourth symbol LED 191 is selected. It is configured to be transmitted to the effect control relay board 16A. Further, since the conversion IC 165 mounted on the substrate E converts the data into parallel data signals, it is not necessary to mount the conversion IC on the fourth symbol substrate 16B, and the cost can be reduced.

  When the effect control microcomputer 120 receives the effect control command described above from the game control microcomputer 100 mounted on the main board 11, the display state of the image display device 5 is changed according to the content of the received effect control command. A control signal for changing, changing the display state of the lamp, or outputting the sound number data is generated and converted into a serial data signal.

  In this embodiment, each serial-parallel conversion IC (conversion ICs 161 to 166) is assigned an address in advance, and the production control microcomputer 120 transmits serial data when the converted serial data signal is transmitted. Add address to signal and output. When each of the conversion ICs 161 to 166 receives a serial data signal, the conversion IC 161-166 checks whether the address added to the input serial data signal matches its own address, and if it matches, converts it to a parallel data signal. Are supplied (ie, output) to the LED of each lamp. If the addresses do not match, the LED of each lamp is not supplied.

  The effect control microcomputer 120 receives, for example, an effect control command for starting the big hit, and when the game state becomes the big hit game state, the bonus control door door 120 The LED 197 is controlled to light up. In addition, for example, when the display control microcomputer 120 expresses the change / stop display of the special symbol by changing the display color of the fourth symbol, the special control is performed by changing the display color of the LED 191 for the fourth symbol. Controls to display the symbol change / stop display.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a connection example of the effect control relay board and the light emitter control board (board E in FIG. 4). As shown in the drawing, the effect control relay board 16A and the light emitter control board 16C are physically and electrically connected to the effect control relay board 16A by inserting a connector (plug) provided at one end of the harness HN1. A connector (socket) A is provided for connection. Inserting a connector (plug) provided at the other end of the harness HN1 into the light emitter control board 16C to physically and electrically connect the effect control relay board 16A and the light emitter control board 16C. Connectors (sockets) are provided. The harness HN1 only needs to be configured by binding a number of wiring cables. The connector A provided on the effect control relay board 16A includes terminals TM01 to TM12. The connector provided on the light emitter control board 16C includes terminals TN01 to TN12. Terminals TM01 to TM12 included in the connector A of the effect control relay board 16A and terminals TN01 to TN12 included in the connector of the light emitter control board 16C are terminals having corresponding numbers when the harness HN1 is attached to both connectors. (For example, the terminal TM01 and the terminal TN01) may be physically and electrically connected.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 5, the effect control relay board 16A and the fourth symbol board 16B are connected to the effect control relay board 16A by inserting a connector (plug) provided at one end of the harness HN2. A connector (socket) B for physical and electrical connection is provided. Inserting a connector (plug) provided at the other end of the harness HN2 into the fourth symbol board 16B to physically and electrically connect the effect control relay board 16A and the fourth symbol board 16B. Connectors (sockets) are provided. The harness HN2 only needs to be configured by binding a number of wiring cables. The connector B provided on the effect control relay board 16A includes terminals TL01 to TL04. The connector provided on the fourth pattern board 16B includes terminals TG01 to TG04. Terminals TL01 to TL04 provided in connector B of effect control relay board 16A and terminals TG01 to TG04 provided in the connector of fourth pattern board 16B are terminals having corresponding numbers when harness HN2 is attached to both connectors. (For example, the terminal TL01 and the terminal TG01) may be physically and electrically connected.

  The terminals TM01 to TM12 provided in the connector A of the effect control relay board 16A (the same applies to the terminals TN01 to TN12 provided in the connector of the light emitter control board 16C) are ground (GND) and VSL (AC24V is rectified and smoothed). , VDL (DC12V), VCL (DC5V), and other terminals that can provide various voltages are included. The terminals TM01 to TM12 include a terminal for supplying a serial data signal (serial signal) and a clock signal to the light emitter control board 16C, a terminal for receiving a parallel data signal for the fourth symbol in a parallel signal system, and the like. It is included. Terminals TN01 to TN12 included in the connector of the light emitter control board 16C are terminals for supplying a serial data signal (serial signal) and a clock signal to the conversion IC 165, and a parallel data signal for the fourth symbol (parallel signal) in a parallel signal system. ) Is included.

  Terminals TL01 to TL04 included in the connector B of the effect control relay board 16A (the same applies to the terminals TG01 to TG04 included in the connector of the fourth symbol board 16B), such as VCL (DC5V) that can provide a voltage ( TL04, TG04). Further, terminals TL01 to TL04 included in the connector B of the effect control relay board 16A are terminals for supplying parallel signals to the fourth symbol board 16B (fourth for the terminals TG01 to TG04 included in the connector of the fourth symbol board 16B). Terminal for supplying the parallel signal to the design LED 191) (TL01 to TL03, TG01 to TG03).

  In this way, the serial signal and the clock signal are supplied to the light emitter control board 16C through the terminals included in the connector A of the effect control relay board 16A, and the signal is converted into a parallel data signal (parallel signal) by the conversion IC 165. . The parallel signals other than those for the 4th symbol are supplied to the respective LEDs as they are, while the parallel signals for the 4th symbol are supplied to the effect control relay board 16A through the terminals of the connector of the light emitter control board 16C. To the terminals of the connector A. The supplied parallel signal is supplied from the terminal provided in the connector A of the effect control relay board 16A to the fourth symbol board 16B through the terminal provided in the connector B of the effect control relay board 16A, and supplied to the fourth symbol LED 191. Is done.

  Since it is possible to connect to the LED 191 for the 4th pattern with a shorter wiring when connecting from the effect control relay board 16A than to connecting from the light emitter control board 16C, the conversion IC 165 of the light emitter control board 16C is thus connected. By returning a part of the converted parallel signal to the effect control relay board 16A, the waste of wiring can be prevented and the serial-parallel conversion IC can be efficiently used.

  Further, a part of the parallel signal converted by the conversion IC 165 of the light emitter control board 16C is supplied to the fourth symbol board 16B through the effect control relay board 16A. Therefore, it is not necessary to provide a serial-parallel conversion IC on the fourth symbol board 16B, and the cost can be reduced. The conversion IC 165 of the light emitter control board 16C is a serial-parallel conversion IC that converts a serial data signal into a parallel data signal. The serial data signal transmitted from the effect control board 12 via the effect control relay board 16A is converted into parallel data. Convert to signal. Therefore, the conversion means can be efficiently used while considering the length of the wiring by providing the conversion IC 165 on the light emitter control board 16C.

  Of the plurality of parallel signals converted by the conversion IC 165 of the light emitter control board 16C, only the 4th symbol parallel signal is supplied to the 4th symbol board 16B via the effect control relay board 16A. Accordingly, since the light emitter control board 16C performs conversion at once, it is not necessary to separately provide a serial-parallel conversion IC on the effect control relay board 16A, and the cost can be reduced.

  The effect control relay board 16A transmits a serial signal to the light emitter control board 16C, while transmitting only a parallel signal to the fourth symbol board 16B. Therefore, it is possible to reduce costs without outputting unnecessary signals. The light emitter control board 16C is provided with a conversion IC 165 which is a serial-parallel conversion IC, while the fourth symbol board 16B is not provided with a serial-parallel conversion IC. Therefore, it is not necessary to provide an unnecessary conversion IC, and the cost can be reduced.

  In addition, this invention is not limited to the said embodiment, A various deformation | transformation and application are possible. For example, the pachinko gaming machine 1 may not have all the technical features shown in the above embodiment, and the one described in the above embodiment so as to solve at least one problem in the prior art. The structure of the part may be provided.

  In the above embodiment, the example in which only the parallel signal for the 4th symbol among the plurality of parallel signals converted by the conversion IC 165 of the light emitter control board 16C is transmitted to the effect control relay board 16A has been shown. This is an example. In addition to the parallel signal for the 4th pattern, the effect control relay board 16A is connected to the effect control relay board 16A rather than the light emitter control board 16C. It may be transmitted (may be returned). However, the number of parallel signals transmitted to the effect control relay board 16A is preferably equal to or less than half of the number of parallel signals converted by the conversion IC 165 of the light emitter control board 16C. According to this, since conversion is performed collectively by the conversion IC 165 of the light emitter control board 16C, it is not necessary to provide a separate conversion IC on the effect control relay board 16A, and the cost can be reduced. Further, the conversion means can be used efficiently while considering the length of the wiring.

  In the above embodiment, an example is shown in which a part of the parallel signal converted by the conversion IC 165 of the board E is transmitted (returned) to the effect control relay board 16A. A part of the parallel signal converted by the conversion IC of the substrate A or the like may be transmitted (returned) to the effect control relay substrate 16A. As in the case of the board E, it is assumed that the connection from the effect control relay board 16A can be connected with a shorter wiring than the board converted from the conversion IC. Become. According to this, it becomes possible to connect to a necessary part with the wiring of a required length, and a serial-parallel conversion IC can be utilized more efficiently.

  Moreover, in the said embodiment, the serial signal transmitted to the light-emitting-body control board 16C as a general term of the board | substrate A-board | substrate F arrange | positioned in a respectively different position is converted into a parallel signal by the conversion IC mounted in each board | substrate. Although an example of converting and transmitting a part thereof to the effect control relay board 16A has been shown, this is an example. In addition to this, a conversion IC mounted on a movable member control board that transmits a drive control signal to a plurality of motors that drive each of a plurality of movable members is converted into a parallel signal, and a part thereof is produced. It may be transmitted to the control relay board 16A. In this case, as in the above-described embodiment, it is assumed that a target signal that can be connected with a shorter wiring when connected from the production control relay board 16A is transmitted to the production control relay board 16A. That is, not only parallel data signals related to LED lighting control such as lamps, but also other signals such as parallel data signals related to drive control of movable members, for example, are connected with a shorter wiring when connected from the effect control relay board 16A. If possible, the serial data signal may be converted into a parallel data signal and then transmitted to the effect control relay board 16A. According to this, it becomes possible to connect to a necessary part with the wiring of a required length, and a serial-parallel conversion IC can be utilized more efficiently.

  In the above embodiment, the special game using the first special figure is executed based on the detection of the game ball that has passed (entered) the first start winning opening, and the game that has passed (entered) the second start winning opening. The description has been made on the assumption that the special figure game using the second special figure is executed based on the detection of the sphere. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a special game using a common special symbol is executed regardless of whether the game ball passes (enters) through the first start winning opening or the second starting winning opening. It may be a thing.

  In the above-described embodiment, a mode in which a plurality of types of special symbols such as numbers or symbols of 0 to 9 are variably displayed and a display result is derived and displayed is shown, but the variable display is not limited to such a mode. For example, the special symbol to be variably displayed may be different from the special symbol derived and displayed as the variable display result. In other words, special symbols that are not included in the fluctuating multiple types of special symbols may be derived and displayed as variable display results, and among the fluctuating multiple types of special symbols, those that are not specially derived and displayed as variable display results May be included. In addition, it is not always necessary to variably display a plurality of types of special symbols, and a mode in which variable display is executed using only one type of special symbols may be used. As variable display using one type of special symbol, for example, the one type of special symbol may be blinked (turning on / off alternately may be repeated). That is, the repeated display of lighting and extinguishing may be variable display. And even in this case, the one type of special symbol may be derived and displayed last (lit), or a symbol different from the one type of symbol may be derived and displayed last. It may be. The same applies to variable display of other symbols (for example, normal symbols, decorative symbols, etc.).

  In addition, the device configuration and data configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 1 and various presentation operations including the display operation of the presentation image in the display area of the image display device 5 are arbitrarily set within the scope of the present invention. Changes and modifications are possible. In addition, the gaming machine of the present invention is not limited to a payout type gaming machine that pays out a predetermined number of gaming media as prizes based on the occurrence of winnings, and encloses gaming media and scores based on the occurrence of winnings. It can also be applied to the enclosed game machine to be given. For example, a game score for use in a game is given using the number of game values having a size specified by the record information of a game recording medium such as a prepaid card or a membership card, and the given game The present invention can also be applied to a gaming machine in which a player plays a game by driving a game ball enclosed in the gaming machine using a score or a game score given by winning a game. Furthermore, the game can be started by setting a predetermined number of bets for one game using the gaming value, and a variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information that can be individually identified. One game is completed by deriving the display result, and the present invention can also be applied to a slot machine in which a winning can be generated according to the display result derived by the variable display device.

  That is, based on the fact that the game medium has passed through the start area provided in the game area, variable display means is provided for variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information that can each be identified and for displaying the display result. A gaming machine that controls to a specific gaming state advantageous to the player when a predetermined specific display result is derived and displayed on the display means, but when the gaming score is not zero, The game ball enclosed in the game is driven into the game area, the game is performed, the game score is subtracted according to the game ball being driven, and the game score is awarded according to the game ball winning in the winning area provided in the game area The present invention can also be applied to a gaming machine that adds the values. Such a gaming machine includes a gaming recording medium insertion slot for inserting a gaming recording medium in which information capable of specifying the magnitude of gaming value that can be used to add gaming scores, and a gaming recording You may provide the game recording medium processing means which reads the recording information currently recorded on the game recording medium inserted in the medium insertion port.

  Further, only one type of off-line symbol (for example, a symbol indicating “-”) is displayed during variable display of the special symbol, and variable display is performed by repeatedly displaying and extinguishing the symbol. Also good. Further, in the case where the symbol is displayed during variable display, the symbol may not be displayed when the variable display is stopped (a symbol indicating “−” may not be displayed as a display result).

  The program and data for realizing the present invention are not limited to a form distributed and provided by a detachable recording medium with respect to the computer device or the like included in the pachinko gaming machine 1; It is also possible to adopt a form that is distributed by pre-installing the storage device. Furthermore, the program and data for realizing the present invention are distributed by downloading from other devices on a network connected via a communication line or the like by providing a communication processing unit. It doesn't matter.

  The game execution mode is not only executed by attaching a detachable recording medium, but can also be executed by temporarily storing a program and data downloaded via a communication line or the like in an internal memory or the like. It is also possible to execute directly using hardware resources on the other device side on a network connected via a communication line or the like. Furthermore, the game can be executed by exchanging data with other computer devices or the like via a network.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 2 Game board 3 Gaming machine frame 4A First special symbol display device 4B Second special symbol display device 5 Image display device 5H Start winning memory display area 6A Normal winning ball device 6B Normal variable winning ball device 7 Special variable Winning ball device 8 Speaker 9 Game effect lamp 11 Main board 12 Production control board 15 Relay board 16A Production control relay board 16B 4th design board 16C Light emitter control board 20 Normal design display 21 Gate switch 22A First start switch 22B Second start port switch 23 Count switch 100 Game control microcomputer 101 ROM
102 RAM
103 CPU
104 random number circuit 105 I / O
120 Production Control Microcomputers 161 to 166 Substrate A to Substrate F
168 Light Emitter Relay Board 191 4th Pattern LED
197 LED for the grand prize winning door

Claims (1)

A gaming machine for playing games,
A first substrate;
A second substrate subordinate to the first substrate,
The second substrate includes conversion means for converting the first signal output from the first substrate into a second signal different from the first signal, and a part of the second signal converted by the conversion means. To the first substrate,
A gaming machine characterized by that.

Images