JP6675813B2 - Gaming machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there have been known gaming machines (rotary-type gaming machines and slot machines) that play a game by rotating and stopping a plurality of reels in which a plurality of types of symbols are arranged on an outer peripheral surface in response to a player's operation. . This type of gaming machine provides a certain gaming value to gaming media such as medals and pachinko balls, and performs a game for acquiring such gaming media. Further, this type of gaming machine performs an internal lottery triggered by a rotation start operation of a player and starts rotation of a plurality of reels, and a mode corresponding to a result of the internal lottery triggered by a stop operation of a player. The stop control is performed to stop the spinning reel. Then, the result of the game is determined based on the symbol combination displayed on the activated line when the plurality of reels are stopped, and medals and the like are paid out according to the result of the game.

  Then, in such a gaming machine, various sensors are provided, it is determined whether or not an error condition is satisfied based on the state of a signal from the sensor, and occurrence of an error is detected based on the satisfaction of the error condition, A function is provided to notify the occurrence of such an error. When the occurrence of the error is notified in this manner, the gaming machine cannot play games until the error is released, and the cause of the error caused by the clerk of the game arcade where the gaming machine is set is removed. When a predetermined release operation is performed, a release process corresponding to the error that has occurred is performed, and the game returns to a state where a game can be played. Conventionally, a door opening error, which is an error caused by opening a front door that can be freely opened and closed with respect to a game machine housing, is managed by a main board that controls the progress of a game. (See Patent Document 1).

JP 2012-23588 A

  By the way, if the door opening error is managed on the main board side, if a door opening error occurs due to the opening of the front door, the gaming machine is set in a state where it is impossible to play the game until the front door is closed and the error is released. The game cannot proceed. For this reason, when an error other than the door opening error occurs, it is necessary to close the front door in order to check the operation of the gaming machine, which is one of the causes of lowering work efficiency.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a technique capable of improving the efficiency of maintenance work of a gaming machine.

  (1) The present invention includes a housing having a front door that can be freely opened and closed, a main board that performs a main loop process for advancing a game, and a sub-board that controls lighting of a light source unit. A game machine connected so that only one-way communication from a board to the sub-board is possible, wherein the main board is formed so as to be able to store and store game media up to a predetermined number, and the input operation to the input operation means It is possible to insert the game medium stored and stored by the first light source unit for illuminating the front door as the light source unit that is lighted and controlled by the sub-board, and is incorporated in the insertion operation means. , A second light source unit for indicating whether or not the input operation is acceptable, even in a situation where the front door is open on the main board. The main loop processing can be continued, and the occurrence of a door opening error, which is an error based on the opening of the front door, is monitored on the sub-board. The second light source unit relates to a gaming machine that performs lighting control in accordance with the progress of the main loop processing, while the light source unit notifies the occurrence of a door opening error.

  According to the present invention, the occurrence of a door opening error caused by the opening of the front door is monitored by the sub-board, and the main board processing can be continued on the main board even during the occurrence of the door opening error, and the front door is opened. Since the operation of the gaming machine can be checked as it is, the efficiency of the maintenance work can be improved.

  According to the present invention, the first light source unit that illuminates the front door as the light source unit that performs the lighting control on the sub-board and the second light source unit that indicates whether the operation of inserting the game medium are possible are described. In the situation where an opening error has occurred, while the first light source unit notifies the door opening error occurrence, the lighting control of the second light source unit is performed according to the progress of the main loop processing. It is possible to improve the interface environment in the maintenance work in which the operation check as to whether or not the stored game medium insertion operation is normally received is performed with the front door opened.

  (2) The gaming machine of the present invention includes a reel unit including a reel on which symbols are arranged on an outer peripheral surface and a backlight for illuminating a display position of the symbol, and controls rotation and stop of the reel on the main board. The sub-board performs lighting control of the backlight in the sub-board, and the sub-board performs lighting control of the backlight in accordance with the progress of the main loop process even in a situation where the door opening error has occurred. You may do so.

  This makes it easy to check the reel behavior in the same operating environment as in a normal game even when the front door is open, and improves the interface environment in maintenance work where the front door is opened. it can.

  (3) The present invention relates to a reel unit including a housing having a front door that can be freely opened and closed, a reel in which symbols are arranged on an outer peripheral surface, and a backlight for illuminating a display position of the symbol, Controlling the rotation and stop, including a main board that performs a main loop process to advance the game, and a sub-board that performs lighting control of the backlight, in the main board, even in a situation where the front door is open The main loop process can be continued, and in the sub-board, the occurrence of a door opening error, which is an error based on the opening of the front door, is monitored. In a situation where the front door is closed, the main loop is closed. Although the lighting control of the backlight is performed in an effect mode according to the progress of the process, in a situation where a door opening error has occurred, the backlight is controlled with respect to the backlight. The lighting control in a presentation mode according to the progress of the main loop is concerned gaming machine to remain is lit without.

  According to the present invention, the occurrence of a door opening error caused by the opening of the front door is monitored by the sub-board, and the main board processing can be continued on the main board even during the occurrence of the door opening error, and the front door is opened. Since the operation of the gaming machine can be checked as it is, the efficiency of the maintenance work can be improved.

  In the present invention, even when the front door is opened, the backlight for illuminating the symbols arranged on the reel is maintained, so that the visibility of the symbols can be secured, and the operation is performed with the front door opened. It is possible to improve the interface environment in a simple maintenance operation.

It is a perspective view showing the appearance composition of the game machine of an embodiment of the present invention. It is a perspective view showing composition inside a case of a game machine of an embodiment of the present invention. It is a perspective view showing composition of a reel unit of a game machine of an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating functional blocks of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure explaining a passage course of a medal of a game machine of an embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure showing the contents of the main error and the detection conditions in the gaming machine of the embodiment of the present invention. It is a diagram for explaining a clear target in a release process corresponding to a main error of the gaming machine of the embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure showing the contents of the sub error and its detection conditions in the gaming machine of the embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure showing a mode of reporting an error in a game machine of an embodiment of the present invention. It is a diagram for explaining a clear target at the time of error recovery on the sub board side in the gaming machine of the embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the main loop process which controls the progress of a game in the gaming machine of embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the error wait process called at the time of the main error occurrence in the gaming machine of embodiment of this invention. It is a flow chart which shows error cancellation processing about a main error in a game machine of an embodiment of the present invention. It is a flow chart which shows processing at the time of receiving an error occurrence command in a game machine of an embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart which shows the detection processing of the door release error in the gaming machine of embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the detection process of the communication error in the gaming machine of embodiment of this invention. It is a flow chart which shows processing concerning setting of an error notification object in a game machine of an embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart which shows the process which concerns on notification of the main error in the gaming machine of embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the process which concerns on notification of the door opening error in the gaming machine of embodiment of this invention. It is a flow chart which shows processing concerning reporting of a communication error in a game machine of an embodiment of the present invention.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described. The embodiments described below do not unduly limit the contents of the present invention described in the claims. Further, all of the configurations described in the present embodiment are not necessarily essential components of the invention.

1. Configuration FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an external configuration of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an internal configuration (excluding a reel unit) of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  The gaming machine according to the present embodiment is a so-called slot machine or a spinning-type gaming machine, and is a type of gaming machine that performs a game using medals as a game medium.

  In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, a reel unit including a first reel R1 to a third reel R3 (a plurality of reels) is housed in a box-shaped housing including a storage box BX and a front door FD.

  FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing an appearance of a reel unit for a gaming machine according to the present embodiment.

  In the reel unit of the present embodiment, each of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 is substantially connected via a metal (or resin) support unit SU that supports a stepping motor SM for driving each reel. And is fixed to a base unit BU made of metal (or resin) shaped like a square.

  Each of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 accommodated in the base unit BU has a reel tape TP made of a band-shaped resin film on the outer periphery of a resin-made reel body RD (reel drum) formed in an annular shape. Is wound. The reel tape TP is wound around the reel body RD such that the front surface constitutes the outer peripheral surface of each reel and the back surface constitutes the inner peripheral surface of each reel, and the ends are fixed with an adhesive or the like. I have.

  Further, each of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 is fixed to a drive shaft of the stepping motor SM at a position corresponding to the rotation center of the reel body RD by bolting or the like. The stepping motor SM for each reel is also fixed to the support unit SU by bolting or the like.

  Further, the reel tape TP for each reel is divided into a symbol arrangement area for 21 frames at a constant interval, and any one of a plurality of types of symbols is arranged on the surface of the reel tape TP at a position corresponding to each frame. They are arranged one by one.

  The reel unit of the present embodiment includes a backlight unit LU (illuminating means) for illuminating the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 from the back surface side (the inner peripheral surface side of each reel) of the reel tape TP of each reel. ing. The backlight unit LU of each reel is provided with a light source such as an incandescent light bulb or an LED light bulb so as to illuminate each display position of three frames (upper, middle, lower) observable from the display window DW of the gaming machine. In the present embodiment, three light sources are provided: an upper backlight BL1 that illuminates the upper display position, a middle backlight BL2 that illuminates the middle display position, and a lower backlight BL3 that illuminates the lower display position. It is provided corresponding to the display position of each reel.

  A power supply unit is provided below the reel unit storage space PS in the storage box BX and includes a power switch ES, a setting change key cylinder KS, and various switches such as a setting change button SB. A hopper unit HP as a payout device is stored. In this embodiment, the setting change button SB also functions as a switch for resetting an error, and the setting change button SB can be used not only to change the setting value but also to reset the error. ing. The hopper unit HP includes a medal storage tank MT for storing medals to be used for a game, a payout motor (not shown) including a stepping motor, and a rotating disk (not shown) supported by the payout motor. Are rotated by a payout motor so that medals can be paid out one by one. The hopper unit HP is configured to send surplus medals to the cash box CB when the medal storage amount in the medal storage tank MT reaches a certain value.

  Further, in the housing of the gaming machine of the present embodiment, for example, a main board MAIN is mounted above the reel unit storage space PS, and a sub-substrate SUB is mounted beside the reel unit storage space PS. The control boards (main board MAIN, sub-board SUB) are equipped with a CPU as an arithmetic means, a ROM and a RAM as storage means, and can control the operation of the gaming machine. . Only one-way communication from the main board MAIN to the sub-board SUB is possible between the main board MAIN and the sub-board SUB, and information cannot be transmitted from the sub-board SUB to the main board MAIN. So that they are connected. In this embodiment, the power supply unit EU is provided with the setting change key cylinder KS and the setting change button SB. However, the setting change key cylinder KS and the setting change button SB may be provided on the surface of the main board MAIN. Good.

  The first reel R1 to the third reel R3 shown in FIG. 1 each have an outer peripheral surface divided into 21 regions (each region is referred to as a "frame") at a fixed interval, and each frame has a plurality of types of symbols. Are arranged. The first reel R1 to the third reel R3 are pivotally supported by a stepping motor SM (reel driving means), and are respectively driven to rotate around the axis of the stepping motor SM. By controlling the width and the like, the frame can be stopped in frame units (predetermined rotation angle units, predetermined rotation amount units). That is, in the gaming machine according to the present embodiment, the stepping motor SM drives the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 to rotate in response to the drive pulse supplied from the control board, and the drive pulse for all-phase excitation is supplied from the control board. Then, as the rotation of the stepping motor SM stops, the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 stop.

  The front door FD is provided so as to be openable and closable, and the front door FD is provided with a display window DW for observing a rotating state and a stopped state of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3. In the stopped state of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3, among a plurality of types of symbols arranged at regular intervals on the outer peripheral surface of each of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3, the symbols are continuously arranged on the outer peripheral surface. The three symbols (the upper symbol, the middle symbol, and the lower symbol) can be observed from the front of the gaming machine through the display window DW.

  In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, upper, middle, and lower rows are provided for each reel as display positions for observing symbols through the display window DW, and an effective line is set by a combination of the display positions of each reel. You. In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the number of medals required for one game, the so-called specified insertion number, is set to three, and when medals corresponding to the specified insertion number are inserted, the first reels R1 to R1 are output. The activated line L1 constituted by the middle stage of each of the third reels R3 is activated.

  The game result is determined by the symbol combination stopped and displayed on the activated line in the display window DW. If the symbol combination on the activated line is a symbol combination corresponding to a predetermined combination, the combination has won. For example, payout of medals is performed from the hopper unit HP.

  The front door FD is provided with a first main display DS1, a second main display DS2, and a sub-display DS3. The first main display DS1, the second main display DS2, and the sub display DS3 are 7-segment displays, and the number of medals paid out and main error information for each game are displayed on the first main display DS1. The number of credits of medals is displayed on the second main display DS2, and the total number of medals obtained (or the total number of payouts) and sub error information in advantageous states such as a bonus state are displayed on the sub-display DS3.

  The front door FD is provided with an outer peripheral lamp AL (an example of a first light source unit) for performing a game effect and a liquid crystal display LCD. The outer peripheral lamp AL serves to illuminate the front door FD and to enhance the game depending on its lighting mode, and the exterior is made of a translucent resin, so that light from the built-in LED unit can be transmitted. Is formed. In addition, on the liquid crystal display LCD, various images (or images) for assisting the game and enlivening the game are displayed. In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, a plurality of speakers SP for performing a game effect are provided on the front door FD. From the speaker SP, various sounds and BGM for assisting the game and enlivening the game are output.

  The front door FD is provided with various operation means. The operation means includes a 1-bet button (insertion operation means) B0A, a MAX bet button (insertion operation means) B0B, and a first reel R1 to a third reel R3 for performing an operation of inserting credited (stored) medals. A start lever (game start operating means) SL for performing an operation which is a trigger for starting a game by rotating the game, and a trigger for stopping each of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 rotationally driven by a stepping motor. Stop buttons (stop operation means) B1 to B3 for performing operations are provided. In particular, in the present embodiment, the MAX bet button B0B and the stop buttons B1 to B3 can transmit light from a built-in MAX bet lamp (an example of a second light source unit) having a translucent resin exterior. By turning on the MAX bet lamp, it is possible to grasp that the insertion operation of the medal stored in the credit and the stop operation relating to the spinning reel are enabled. I have.

  The front door FD is provided with a door key cylinder DK, and a door key can be inserted into the door key cylinder DK to unlock the front door FD. The front door FD can be unlocked by rotating the door key inserted into the door key cylinder DK 90 degrees clockwise from the initial position.

  In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the rotation control of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 can be started by the player inserting a medal into the insertion slot MI or performing an operation of pressing the bet button B0. It is set to a possible ready state. The medals inserted from the insertion slot MI pass through the medal selector SC shown in FIG. 2 and then enter the medal storage tank MT of the hopper unit HP via the medal shoot MS. However, under predetermined conditions such as after starting a game, a medal blocker built in the medal selector SC operates to close the flow path toward the medal shoot MS, and the inserted medals are returned from the payout port MO. The medal flow path is switched. Then, when the player presses the start lever SL, the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 on the control board are started to rotate by the driving of the stepping motor SM, and an internal lottery using a random number is performed. Pressing of the stop buttons B1 to B3 is permitted (validated) on condition that the rotation speed of the reels R1 to R3 has increased to a predetermined speed.

  Thereafter, when the player presses the stop buttons B1 to B3 at an arbitrary timing, a stop switch (stop signal output means: for example, a photo sensor, a conduction sensor, Sensor) performs an on operation, and changes the reel stop signal input to the main board MAIN from the off state to the on state.

  When the player releases the pressed stop buttons B1 to B3 at an arbitrary timing, the stop switches corresponding to the stop buttons B1 to B3 perform an off operation, and turn on a reel stop signal input to the main board MAIN. Change from state to off state.

  The main board MAIN stops at a stop position according to the result of the internal lottery, based on the change from the off state to the on state of the reel stop signal, the signal state of which changes according to the timing of pressing and releasing the stop buttons B1 to B3. To stop the first reel R1 to the third reel R3.

  Further, a payout port MO and a medal tray MP are provided below the lower front door DD so that a number of medals according to the result of the game are paid out from the hopper unit HP to the medal tray MP through the payout port MO. Has become. In the case where medals are paid out according to the result of the game, if credits (internal storage) of medals are permitted, medals corresponding to a part or all of the number of payouts are replaced with the maximum number of credits (the present embodiment). In this case, the credit is limited to 50 cards, and the operation of changing the display value of the second main display DS2 according to the change in the number of medals is performed.

  FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram of the gaming machine of the present embodiment.

  The gaming machine of the present embodiment is controlled by a main control unit 10 (main board MAIN) and a sub control unit 20 (sub board SUB). The main control unit 10 and the sub control unit 20 are activated by being supplied with power from the power supply unit EU by the operation of the power switch ES. The main control unit 10 includes a setting change switch 301, a door opening / closing switch 302, an insertion detection sensor 401, a first medal passing sensor 402, a second medal passing sensor 403, a shoot sensor 305, a bet switch 307, a MAX bet switch 308, In response to input signals from the start switch 309, the stop switch 311, the overflow sensor 313, and the like, various calculations for setting the gaming machine, managing the main error, or proceeding with the game are performed, and based on the calculation results, the reel unit 310, control the operation of the hopper unit (dispensing device) HP and the like. In addition, the sub control unit 20 controls the operation of the display unit 501, the speaker SP, the lamp unit 503, and the like and manages sub errors in response to a command from the main control unit 10. In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the functions of the main control unit 10 and the sub control unit 20 are implemented by hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.), ASIC (gate array, etc.), ROM, RAM, or ROM. This is realized by software including a given program stored in advance.

  The main control unit 10 includes a setting change unit 101, a game control unit 102, a random number generation unit 103, a main error detection unit 104, a main error management unit 105, and a main storage unit 106.

  The setting change unit 101 controls to change the set value stored in the main storage unit 106. In the present embodiment, the case of starting in the game mode and the case of starting in the setting change mode are switched according to the state of the setting change key cylinder KS when the power is turned on. When the power is supplied from the power supply unit EU by operating the power switch ES in a state where the setting key is inserted and the setting key is turned clockwise by 90 degrees from the initial position, the setting change means 101 Start the machine in the setting change mode. In the present embodiment, the set value can be selected from among six set values from setting 1 to setting 6, and the expected value of the payout rate from setting 1 to setting 6 in order. , The winning probability of the internal lottery varies. In the present embodiment, the setting values are expressed in the order of setting 1 <setting 2 <setting 3 <setting 4 <setting 5 <setting 6.

  When the setting change button SB is depressed in the setting change mode and the setting change switch 301 is actuated, the setting change means 101 changes the set value every time an input signal from the setting change switch 301 is received. .. The setting values are changed in the order of setting 6 → setting 1 →... When the start switch 230 is actuated by pressing the start lever SL, the setting values are determined and the determined setting values are stored in the main storage unit 106. Is stored in the memory. In the present embodiment, by returning the setting key inserted into the setting change key cylinder KS to the initial position, it is possible to shift from the setting change mode to the game mode. In the present embodiment, the selected set value is displayed on the first main display DS1 in the setting change mode.

  In the present embodiment, when the power is turned on in a state where the setting change key cylinder KS is at the initial position, the game machine is started in the game mode. In the present embodiment, the game can be performed in the game mode, but the setting value cannot be changed. In the setting change mode, the setting value can be changed, but the game cannot be performed. It has become.

  In the setting change mode, the setting change unit 101 performs an initialization process for initializing information stored in a read / write memory (RWM), which is a readable and writable storage area in the main storage unit 106. In the initialization process, not all information stored in the read / write memory is initialized, but some information such as credit information of medals is retained without being initialized. .

  The game control means 102 is a means for controlling the progress of the game. When the game is started upon receiving the insertion of a medal, the game is determined by an internal lottery, and the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 are determined. Is rotated, and when a stop operation is performed on the stop buttons B1 to B3, the spinning reel is stopped in accordance with the result of the internal lottery, and is the winning combination based on the symbol combination displayed on the activated line? It is determined whether or not the game is to be performed, and a main loop process for performing the game is performed by performing a process according to the determination result. The details will be described below.

  First, the game control means 102 receives the insertion of medals for each game, and, based on the insertion of medals corresponding to the specified number of insertions (three), performs a game start operation on the start lever SL (game start operation means). Perform the process to enable. In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the first pressing operation of the start lever SL activated based on the insertion of medals corresponding to the specified insertion number is received as a game start operation, and the first reel R1 to the third reel This is an opportunity to start rotation of R3 and an opportunity to execute an internal lottery.

  In the gaming machine according to the present embodiment, when a medal is inserted into the medal insertion slot MI, the game control unit 102 sets the maximum number of inserted coins as the insertion detection sensor 401 in the medal selector SC operates. Then, the inserted medals are set to the inserted state. Further, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, a maximum of 50 medals can be credit-stored (reserved storage) in the main storage means 106. When the button B0 is pressed, the game control means 102 sets the medals stored in the main storage means 106 in the inserted state, up to the prescribed insertion number, in conjunction with the operation of the bet switch 308. In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the number of credits is displayed on the second main display DS2, and the game control means 102 determines the number of credits according to the increase or decrease of the number of credits of medals stored in the main storage means 106. 2 The display content of the main display DS2 is changed.

  In addition, the game control means 102 determines whether or not to win a combination based on a signal from a start switch 309 operated by a game start operation on the start lever SL (first press operation on the activated start lever SL). To perform lottery table selection processing, random number determination processing, lottery flag setting processing, and the like.

  In the lottery table selection process, it is determined which of the plurality of types of internal lottery tables stored in the main storage means 106 is to be used to perform an internal lottery. In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, in each internal lottery table, for each of a plurality of random numbers (for example, 65536 random numbers from 0 to 65535), various combinations such as replay, small combination, and bonus are performed. Loss (non-election) is associated. In the present embodiment, an internal lottery table corresponding to the game state is prepared for each set value with respect to the set values of the six stages, and the probability that some winning modes are obtained by the internal lottery according to the set value is provided. Are different, and the correspondence between the combination and the random number value is set such that the expected value of the payout rate increases as the set value increases.

  In the gaming machine according to the present embodiment, a normal state, a bonus established state, and a bonus state can be set as the gaming state. In the lottery table selection process, any one of a plurality of types of internal lottery tables is selected according to the gaming state. One is selected as the internal lottery table used in the internal lottery.

  In the random number determination process, a random value (lottery random number) is obtained from the random number generator 103 for each game based on a signal from the start switch 309, and the obtained random number is stored in the main storage unit 106. Referring to the table, it is determined whether or not the winning combination.

  The random number generating means 103 described above is a means for generating a random number value for lottery. The random number value can be generated by, for example, a 16-bit random number circuit that generates 65536 random number values from 0 to 65535 without overlapping in one cycle. In the present embodiment, the “random number value” is not limited to a value that is randomly generated in a mathematical sense, and even if the generation itself is regular, the acquisition timing and the like are irregular. Includes a value that can function as a random number.

  In the lottery flag setting process, based on the result of the random number determination process, the lottery flag corresponding to the winning combination determined from the non-winning state (first flag state, off state) to the winning state (second flag state) , ON state). In the gaming machine according to the present embodiment, when two or more types of winning combinations are won twice, a lottery flag corresponding to each of the two or more types of winning winnings is set to a winning state. The setting information of the lottery flag is stored in the main storage unit 106.

  Further, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, a lottery flag (carry-over possible flag) that can carry over the winning state to the next and subsequent games until a prize is won, and the winning state is not carried over to the next and subsequent games regardless of the winning. A lottery flag (non-carryover flag) that is reset to a winning state is prepared. There is a bonus as a role associated with the former carryover possible flag, and the small role and replay are associated with the latter carryover impossible flag. That is, in the lottery flag setting process, for example, when a bonus is won by an internal lottery, a process of carrying over the winning state of the bonus lottery flag until the bonus is won is performed. At this time, even in the game in which the winning state of the bonus lottery flag has been carried over, the game control means 102 is performing an internal lottery for determining whether to win the small combination and the replay. In this way, in the lottery flag setting process, in the game in which the winning state of the bonus lottery flag is carried over, when the small role or replay is won, the winning is determined by the already selected bonus lottery flag and the internal lottery. A lottery flag corresponding to two or more types of a combination of a small combination and a replay lottery flag is set to a winning state.

  Further, the game control means 102 starts the rotation driving of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 by the stepping motor based on a signal from the start switch 309 which is operated by the player by the game start operation on the start lever SL, The stop buttons B1 to B3 (stop operation means) corresponding to the reels in which the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 are constantly rotating at a predetermined speed (about 80 rpm: a rotation speed of about 80 rotations per minute) are pressed. Control to validate the stop operation of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3, which are rotationally driven by the stepping motor, in a manner corresponding to the setting state of the lottery flag (the result of the internal lottery). I do.

  When the stop switch 311 is activated by the player pressing the stop buttons B1 to B3 in a state where the stop operation for the stop buttons B1 to B3 is enabled, the game control unit 102 outputs a signal from the stop switch 311 to the signal from the stop switch 311. Based on this, by stopping the supply of the drive pulse (motor drive signal) to the stepping motor of the reel unit 310, the control of stopping each of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 is performed.

  That is, each time one of the stop buttons B1 to B3 is pressed, the game control means 102 determines the stop position of the reel corresponding to the pressed button among the first reel R1 to the third reel R3, and determines Control to stop the reels at the set stop position. In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, pressing the stop button B1 corresponds to an operation for stopping the first reel R1, and pressing the stop button B2 corresponds to an operation for stopping the second reel R2. Correspondingly, pressing the stop button B3 corresponds to an operation for stopping the third reel R3. That is, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, when the pressing order of the stop buttons B1 to B3 changes, the stopping order of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 changes.

  In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the spinning reel corresponding to the pressed stop button is stopped within 190 ms from the time when the stop buttons B1 to B3 are pressed for the first reel R1 to the third reel R3. It has become. When stopping the spinning reel within 190 ms from the time when the stop button is pressed, the stop position of each spinning reel is determined to be 0 frames from the time when the stop button is pressed until the reel stops. It is determined in a range of up to four frames (predetermined pull-in range). Then, on the outer peripheral surface of the rotating reel corresponding to the pressed stop button among the stop buttons B1 to B3, the game control means 102 displays the symbol corresponding to the winning combination in the internal lottery, as the stop button. When the position of the lottery flag is set to the winning state, the symbol corresponding to the position where the lottery flag is set to the winning state is displayed when the position is within the range of 0 to 4 frames with respect to the display position on the active line when the pressing operation is performed on the active line. Control is performed to stop the spinning reel corresponding to the stop button on which the pressing operation has been performed, so as to be displayed at the upper display position.

  Further, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the reel unit 310 includes a reel index 405 including a photo sensor, and the game control means 102 performs a control based on a signal detected by the reel index 405 every time the reel makes one revolution. By determining the rotation angle (the number of rotation steps of the rotation shaft of the stepping motor) from the reference position of the reel (the frame detected by the reel index 405), the current rotation state of the reel can be monitored. I have. That is, the game control means 102 can obtain the position of the reel when the stop switch 311 is operated by obtaining the rotation angle from the reference position of the reel.

  In the present embodiment, a plurality of types of symbols are arranged on the outer peripheral surface of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 constituting the reel unit 310, and symbols present within four frames from the pressed detection position are displayed. When the symbols are drawn on the activated line, the symbols arranged at an interval of four frames or less on the outer peripheral surface of each reel are determined by the reel positions at the time when the stop switch 311 is activated (when the stop button is pressed). Regardless of a certain press detection position, it can be displayed on the activated line.

  The game control means 102 calculates the stop position of the spinning reel based on the priority (logic operation), and refers to the stop control table stored in the main storage means 106 to determine the stop position of the spinning reel. Determination processing (table reference processing).

  First, in the logic operation, five frames (or two frames) existing in the range of 0 to 4 frames (or in the range of 0 to 1 frame) from the pressed detection position according to the priority data determined for each role. The priority is determined for the candidate for the stop position. Then, a stop position candidate having the highest priority among the priorities of the stop position candidates is determined as an actual stop position. However, in the logic operation, the same priority may be obtained for a plurality of stop position candidates depending on the result of the internal lottery, the pressed detection position, and the like, and the plurality of stop position candidates with the highest priority are provided. In this case, the actual stop position is determined by a table reference process described later.

  Particularly, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the priorities are determined in the order of “replay> bonus” and “small win> bonus”, and in the logic operation, the lottery flags for two or more types of wins are set to the winning state. In the case of, according to the priority order associated with each of the combinations, the stop position candidates including the symbols that constitute the winning configuration of the combination with the higher priority include the symbols that constitute the winning configuration of the combination with the lower priority. The priority is determined such that the priority is higher than the stop position candidate.

  In the gaming machine according to the present embodiment, the priority of the candidate for the stop position when a plurality of small wins are won in the internal lottery is determined according to the number of symbol combinations indicating the winning modes that can be displayed on the activated line. There are a case where the priority is obtained and a case where the priority is obtained according to the number of medals paid out based on the predetermined payout for the small combination, and the number of symbol combinations indicating the winning modes that can be displayed on the activated line. When the priority of the candidate for the stop position is obtained in accordance with the above, the candidate of each stop position is set such that the higher the number of the symbol combinations indicating the winning patterns that can be displayed on the active line, the higher the priority is. When determining the priority of the candidate for the stop position according to the number of payout medals, the small payout corresponding to the symbol displayed at the display position on the activated line is obtained. Medals enough priority payout increases stop position (stop position payout can be winning more small winning combination) based seeks priority for the candidate of each stop position to be higher. However, when determining the priority of the candidate for the stop position according to the number of medals paid out, if a small payout with the same payout is repeatedly won, the stop position where each small win can be won. Are treated as the same priority, and when the priority of the candidate of the stop position is determined according to the number of the symbol combinations indicating the winning modes that can be displayed on the activated line, the priority is displayed on the activated line. The priorities of the stop position candidates having the same number of the symbol combinations indicating the prize modes that can be displayed are treated as the same.

  In the logic operation, a so-called pull-in process and a kick-off process are performed as processes for obtaining candidates for reel stop positions. The pull-in process is a process of obtaining the priority of the reel stop position candidates so that the winning combination whose lottery flag is set to the winning state can be won as much as possible. On the other hand, the kicking-off process is a process of obtaining the priority of reel stop position candidates so that a winning combination whose lottery flag is set to a non-winning state cannot be won. In this way, the game control means 102 enables the symbol with the lottery flag set to the winning state to be stopped in the form of a prize, while the symbol with the lottery flag set to the non-winning state forms the prize. Logic calculation is performed to find candidates for reel stop positions so as not to stop.

  In the table reference process, when a plurality of stop position candidates with the highest priority are obtained as a result of the logic operation, the stop position stored in the main storage unit 106 is determined as to which position is to be the stop position. Determined by referring to the control table.

  Here, in the stop control table, the correspondence between the pressed detection position and the number of sliding frames indicating the amount of rotation from the pressed detection position to the actual stop position is set according to the setting state of the lottery flag. In the stop control table, the correspondence between the pressed detection position and the actual stop position may be set according to the setting state of the lottery flag.

  Further, the game control means 102 performs a winning determination process of determining whether or not a winning combination has been won based on the stop mode of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3. Specifically, while referring to the winning determination table stored in the main storage means 106, the symbol combination displayed on the activated line at the time when all of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 are stopped, It is determined whether or not it is a predetermined winning combination.

  In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the game control means 102 executes a prize-winning process when a winning combination is won based on the result of the prize-winning process. As a prize-winning process, for example, a medal payout control process is performed when a small role wins, a replay process is performed when a replay wins, and a game state is shifted when a bonus wins. A game state transition control process is performed.

  First, the game control means 102 performs payout control processing related to payout of medals according to the game result. Specifically, when the small winning combination wins, the number of medals to be paid out in the game is determined based on a predetermined payout for each winning combination, and the medals corresponding to the determined number of payouts are sent to the hopper unit HP. Control to pay out.

  The hopper unit HP is a device that performs an operation of paying out medals of the payout number specified by the game control means 102. The hopper unit HP is provided with a payout sensor 406 that is activated every time one medal is paid out, and the game control means 102 is actually paid out from the hopper unit HP based on an input signal from the payout sensor 406. It is configured so that the number of medals can be managed. In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, when medals are paid out in each game, the number of medals paid out is displayed on the first main display DS1. When a medal is paid out by winning a role, control is performed to display the number of paid out medals accompanying the winning of the small role on the first main display DS1.

  When credit storage (storage storage) of medals is permitted, instead of actually paying out medals by the hopper unit HP, the number of credits stored in the main storage unit 106 (the medal of the stored medals) ), And a process of virtually paying out medals by performing a credit addition process of adding the number of payouts to (number). When a part or all of the number of medals paid out is added to the number of credits, the game control means 102 performs control for changing the display content of the second main display DS2 in accordance with the increase in the number of credits. .

  Further, when the replay is won, the game control means 102 performs a replay process (re-game process) for setting the same preparation state as the previous game without having to insert a medal owned by the player for the next game. . That is, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, when a replay is won, the same number of medals as in the previous game are automatically inserted without using medals (including credit medals) held by the player. The process is performed, and the next game start operation on the start lever SL is awaited with the same activated line as the previous game set.

  The game control means 102 performs a game state transition control process for transitioning the game state between the normal state, the bonus established state, and the bonus state. In the present embodiment, information indicating the staying game state is stored in the main storage unit 106. One condition or a plurality of conditions may be defined as the game state transition condition. When a plurality of conditions are determined, the game state is changed based on that one of the plurality of predetermined conditions is satisfied or that all of the plurality of predetermined conditions are satisfied. It is possible to shift to another game state.

  The normal state is a game state corresponding to an initial state among a plurality of types of game states, and a transition from the normal state to a bonus established state is possible. Specifically, when the bonus is won in the normal state, the state shifts to the bonus established state. In the normal state, the internal lottery is performed with reference to the internal lottery table in which the small combination, the replay, and the bonus are set as the lottery targets among the plurality of types of the internal lottery tables stored in the main storage unit 106. .

  The bonus established state is a gaming state that shifts when the bonus is won in the internal lottery. In the bonus established state, of the plurality of types of internal lottery tables stored in the main storage means 106, the winning or losing of the small role is determined with the same probability as in the normal state, and the internal lottery table in which the bonus is excluded from the lottery target is referred to. Internal lottery is performed. Although the replay is set as a lottery target even in the bonus established state, the replay winning probability and the winning mode of the replay may be different or the same as in the normal state.

  In the bonus state, the winning combination and the replay are determined while the lottery flag corresponding to the bonus is maintained in the winning state until the bonus is won, and the symbol combination indicating the winning form of the bonus is displayed on the activated line. Then, the game control means 102 shifts the game state from the bonus established state to the bonus state based on the winning of the bonus.

  The bonus state is a gaming state in which the game shifts when a symbol combination indicating a winning mode of the bonus is displayed on the activated line. In the bonus state, among the plurality of types of internal lottery tables stored in the main storage means 106, the winning probability of the small role is set higher than the normal state and the bonus established state, and the internal lottery in which the replay is excluded from the lottery target. An internal lottery is performed with reference to the table. That is, the bonus state is a gaming state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal state or the bonus established state in that the small winning combinations are more frequently won than in the normal state or the bonus established state.

  In the bonus state, it is determined whether or not the end condition is satisfied based on the total number of medals paid out in the bonus game in the bonus state, and the number of medals exceeding a predetermined expected number of ending payouts (for example, 250). Is paid out, the game control means 102 ends the bonus state and returns the game state to the normal state. In the present embodiment, the count information on the number of payouts in the bonus state is accumulated and stored in the main storage unit 106.

  The main error detection unit 104 monitors signal states of the insertion detection sensor 401, the first medal passage sensor 402, the second medal passage sensor 403, the shoot sensor 305, the payout sensor 406, and the overflow sensor 313, and determines an error detection condition. The main error is detected by determining whether or not the main error has been satisfied, and identifying the main error that has occurred based on satisfying the error detection condition. In this embodiment, even after detecting any one of the main errors (a state of waiting for a release operation by an error wait process described later), the main error detection unit 104 periodically executes the main error detection by the timer interrupt process. Detection continues.

  Hereinafter, the types of main errors and error detection conditions for each main error will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating the flow path of medals inserted from the insertion slot.

  First, in a situation where the insertion of a medal is accepted, when a medal is inserted from the insertion slot MI, the medal is identified and counted by passing through the medal selector SC, and the hopper unit is transmitted via the medal shoot MS. Medals are sent to the HP.

  On the other hand, in a situation where the player is playing a game or a situation where the number of credits of medals has reached the maximum number, the medal blocker 404 operates to block the flow path from the medal selector SC to the medal shoot MS, and the The medals are returned to the payout MO.

  When the medals stored in the hopper unit HP exceed a predetermined amount, medals sent to the hopper unit HP exceeding the predetermined amount are sent to the cash box CB.

  Then, in the present embodiment, the main error detecting means 104, based on the signal states of various sensors, as shown in FIG. 6, includes a backflow error, an empty error, a dispensing blockage error, a dispensing abnormal error, an over error, a stay error, and Detects a throwing error.

(1) Backflow error The backflow error is a main error caused by medals flowing backward in the flow path, and in a situation where the insertion of medals is being accepted, the first medal passing sensor 402 or the second medal passing sensor It is detected when the signal state (on / off state) of 403 does not change in the correct order. The main error detecting means 104 checks the state of the two sensors every time the signal state of the first medal passage sensor 402 or the second medal passage sensor 403 changes. Is set, and a backflow error detection flag is set in the main storage means 106.

(2) Empty Error The empty error is a main error caused by the lack of medals stored in the hopper unit HP. In a situation where medals are being paid out, the signal state of the payout sensor 406 is turned off. It is detected when the state has been continued for a certain period (about 2100 ms) in the state (a state in which the paid-out medals are not detected). When the signal instructing the hopper unit HP to pay out the medals is turned on, the main error detection means 104 counts the time using an empty error detection timer provided in the main storage means 106, and When the signal state of the payout sensor 406 is kept off for a certain period or longer according to the timing information, it is determined that an empty error has occurred, and an empty error detection flag is set in the main storage unit 106.

(3) Dispensing blockage error The dispensing blockage error is a main error caused by the medals to be dispensed in the hopper unit HP being clogged and not being ejected. Is detected in the ON state (a state in which a medal to be paid out is detected) for a certain period of time (about 172 ms). When a signal instructing the hopper unit HP to pay out medals is turned on, the main error detecting means 104 performs time counting by a payout jam error detection timer provided in the main storage means 106, and detects a payout jam error. If the signal state of the dispensing sensor 406 remains on for a certain period of time or longer based on the timer information, it is determined that a dispensing jam error has occurred, and a dispensing jam error detection flag is set in the main storage unit 106.

(4) Abnormal payout error A payout abnormal error is a main error caused by payout of medals in a situation where payout of medals should not be performed. It is detected when the signal state of 406 continues in the ON state for a certain period (about 6 ms) or more. The main error detecting means 104 measures the time with a payout abnormal error detection timer provided in the main storage means 106 when the signal instructing payout of medals to the hopper unit HP is in an off state. When the signal state of the payout sensor 406 is kept on for a certain period or longer according to the timing information, it is considered that a payout abnormal error has occurred, and a payout abnormal error detection flag is set in the main storage unit 106.

(5) Over Error The over error is a main error caused by the surplus medals stored in the cash box CB exceeding a predetermined amount, and the signal state of the overflow sensor 313 is in the ON state (the surplus medals are a predetermined amount). Is detected for a certain period (approximately 0.1 ms) for a predetermined period (about 0.1 ms). When the signal state of the overflow sensor 313 is in the ON state, the main error detection unit 104 measures the time with an over error detection timer provided in the main storage unit 106, and uses the time information of the overflow error detection timer to detect the time of the overflow sensor 313. If the signal state remains on for a certain period or longer, it is considered that an over error has occurred, and an over error detection flag is set in the main storage unit 106.

(6) Staying Error The staying error is a main error caused by jammed medals in the medal selector SC, and the signal state of the first medal passing sensor 402 or the second medal passing sensor 403 is in the ON state (medal) Is detected for a certain period of time (about 131 ms) for a period of time (about 131 ms). The main error detection means 104 measures the time by a stay error detection timer provided in the main storage means 106 when the signal state of at least one of the first medal passing sensor 402 and the second medal passing sensor 403 is in the ON state. If the signal state of the first medal passing sensor 402 or the second medal passing sensor 403 remains on for a certain period of time or more based on the timing information of the staying error detection timer, it is determined that a staying error has occurred. A retention error detection flag is set in the storage unit 106.

(7) Abnormal insertion error An abnormal insertion error is caused by a medal clogging in the vicinity of the insertion port MI (first type) and a medal flow caused by activating the medal blocker 404 and closing the flow path to the medal chute MS. The medal passes through a flow path different from the normal flow path (here, the flow path returned to the payout port MO) despite the path being switched (second type), or the medal selector SC This is a main error caused by a difference of a certain degree or more between the number of medals that have passed through and the number of medals that have passed through the medal shoot MS (third type).

  The first type insertion abnormality error is detected when the insertion detection sensor 401 in the medal selector SC has been on for a predetermined period (about 532 ms) in an on state (a signal state for detecting the presence of a medal). The main error detecting means 104 measures the time by the first input abnormal error detection timer provided in the main storage means 106 when the signal state of the input detection sensor 401 is in the ON state, and When the signal state of the insertion detection sensor 401 is kept on for a certain period or longer according to the timing information, it is considered that an insertion abnormality error has occurred, and an insertion abnormality error detection flag is set in the main storage unit 106.

  The second type of abnormal insertion error is detected when the second medal passage sensor 403 detects a medal flowing through the medal selector SC toward the medal shoot MS after the medal blocker 404 operates. When the signal state of the second medal passage sensor 403 is ON while the medal blocker 404 is operating, the main error detecting means 104 regards that a throwing error has occurred and throws it into the main storage means 106. Set the abnormal error detection flag. However, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the non-monitoring period (about 270 ms) is provided for the determination of the occurrence of the second type abnormal insertion error, and the main error detecting means 104 is based on the operation of the medal blocker 404. Then, time is counted by a loading abnormality non-monitoring timer provided in the main storage means 106, and when the non-monitoring period has elapsed, the signal state of the second medal passing sensor 403 is checked to determine occurrence of a loading abnormality error.

  The third type of abnormal insertion error indicates that the inserted medals have passed through the first medal passing sensor 402 and the second medal passing sensor 403 in the correct order and have passed for a predetermined period (about 1490 ms). The number of medals that have been detected to have passed through the first medal passage sensor 402 and the second medal passage sensor 403 in the correct order, and the signal state of the shoot sensor 305 is turned on (signal state for detecting the presence of medals). If the difference from the number of hits does not fall within a predetermined range (for example, -8 to 7), or after the inserted medal passes through the first medal passing sensor 402 and the second medal passing sensor 403 in the correct order. When a certain period (about 1490 ms) has elapsed, the first medal passing sensor 402 and the second medal passing sensor 403 are passed in the correct order. The difference between the number of medals detected to have been detected and the number of times that the signal state of the shoot sensor 305 is turned on (the signal state for detecting the presence of medals) is equal to or greater than a predetermined number (for example, 5). Detected when The main error detecting unit 104 stores the signal in the main storage unit 106 when the signal state of the first medal passing sensor 402 and the second medal passing sensor 403 is in the off state and the signal state of the shoot sensor 305 is in the on state. While measuring the time by the provided second insertion abnormality error detection timer, it is detected by the shoot counter provided in the main storage means 106 that the first medal passing sensor 402 and the second medal passing sensor 403 have passed in the correct order. The difference between the number of medals and the number of times that the signal state of the shoot sensor 305 is turned on is monitored, and if the difference satisfies the above condition, it is determined that a throwing error has occurred and the shot is inserted into the main storage means 106. Set the abnormal error detection flag.

  When any of the error detection flags is set in the main storage means 106, the main error management means 105 performs an error wait process and waits for a predetermined release operation to be performed. The main error detected by the detecting means 104 is notified by the first main display unit DS1, and a release process for clearing an error detection flag or the like is performed based on a predetermined release operation being performed. In the present embodiment, the main loop processing in the game control means 102 is interrupted during the execution of the error wait processing by the main error management means 105, and the main loop processing is performed after the release processing is completed for the main error that has occurred. Will be resumed.

  More specifically, when the main error is detected by the main error detection unit 104 and an error detection flag corresponding to the detected main error is set in the main storage unit 106, the main error management unit 105 In the processing, an error code corresponding to the type of the error detection flag is set, and the set error code is displayed on the first main display DS1.

  In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, error codes E1 to E6 and E9 are assigned corresponding to various main errors, and when the backflow error detection flag is set, If "E1" is displayed on the first main display DS1 and the empty error detection flag is set, "E2" is displayed on the first main display DS2 and the unloading error detection flag is set. In this case, “E3” is displayed on the first main display DS1, and if the payout abnormality error detection flag is set, “E4” is displayed on the first main display DS1, and an over error detection flag is displayed. Is set, "E5" is displayed on the first main display DS1, and if the retention error detection flag is set, "E6" is displayed on the first main display 306. And, when turned anomaly error detection flag is set, displays "E9" in the first main display DS1. When a plurality of types of error detection flags are set in the main storage means 106, an error code corresponding to the earliest detected error detection flag is displayed on the first main display DS1. However, priorities may be provided for the error codes in advance, and the error code with the highest priority may be displayed on the first main display DS1.

  In the error wait process, the main error management unit 105 accepts that the setting change button SB is pressed as a release operation, and when a signal is input from the setting change switch 301 by the release operation, the release operation is performed. Then, as shown in FIG. 7, a release process for clearing (erasing) the error-related information such as the detection flag and the timer information stored in the main storage unit 107 is performed. In the error wait process, after displaying an error code on the first main display 306, a timer wait process is performed using an error wait timer provided in the main storage unit 106, and a period during which the timer wait process is performed ( After about 108 ms), the release operation is accepted.

  In the present embodiment, when a predetermined error is detected by the main error detection unit 104, the main error management unit 105 determines that the main error management unit 105 has a release corresponding to the detected main error based on the execution of the release operation. The other main error which is determined in advance as an error related to the detected main error while performing the processing, regardless of whether or not the error has occurred, is determined as the other main error associated with the main error that has occurred. Release processing corresponding to the error is also performed.

  First, when a backflow error is detected by the main error detection unit 104, the main error management unit 105 performs a release process corresponding to the backflow error based on the release operation performed, and performs Release processing corresponding to the stay error is also performed.

  Further, when the main error management unit 105 detects a stay error by the main error detection unit 104, the main error management unit 105 performs a release process corresponding to the stay error based on the release operation being performed, and performs A corresponding release process is also performed.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, when a main error is detected, the detected main error is notified through the first main display 306 to prompt the user to cancel the generated main error. When a cancel operation is performed in the error wait process called when an error occurs, a cancel process corresponding to a main error is performed. In particular, in the present embodiment, the main error is detected continuously even in a situation in which the execution of the release process corresponding to the detected error is waiting in the error wait process. There is a possibility that other main errors may be detected accompanying the work to be removed, but if a release operation is performed by a store clerk of the game arcade, etc., a release process corresponding to the initially detected main error is performed, Since the cancellation process for another main error predetermined as an error related to the detected main error is also performed regardless of whether or not another main error has occurred, the error cancellation process is performed. This makes it possible to save time and effort.

  In the present embodiment, the transmission of information from the main control unit 10 to the sub-control unit 20 is realized by transmitting a command by serial communication, but the command transmitted from the main control unit 10 to the sub-control unit 20 is Includes information on set values, gaming states, the number of medals inserted and paid out, results of internal lottery, signal states of various switches, details of reel stop control, results of winning determination, and main errors that have occurred. Etc.

  In particular, in the present embodiment, when a main error occurs, the main control unit 10 determines that an error occurrence command corresponding to the error type for which the error detection flag is set and a release operation for the setting change button SB are performed. When the signal state of the door open / close switch 302 changes, the signal state changes from the OFF state (the signal state indicating that the front door FD is closed) to the ON state (the signal state indicating that the front door FD is closed). To the sub-control unit 20 based on the change to the front door FD (a signal state indicating that the front door FD is open), and to the door close command based on the change of the signal state from the on state to the off state. Send In the present embodiment, even if the front door FD is opened, the main loop processing can be continued unless another main error has occurred without treating itself as a main error. In the present embodiment, control is also performed to periodically transmit a disconnection monitoring command from the main control unit 10 to the sub-control unit 20 every predetermined period (for example, every 15 ms).

  Next, the sub control unit 20 will be described. The sub-control unit 20 includes an effect control unit 201, a sub-error detection unit 202, a sub-error management unit 203, and a sub-storage unit 204.

  Based on the effect data stored in the sub-storage unit 202, the effect control unit 201 performs an effect using the display unit 501 (for example, a liquid crystal display LCD), an effect using the speaker SP, and a lamp unit 503. (For example, an outer peripheral lamp AL or the like) is used to control an effect performed. For example, when a medal is inserted, an operation on the 1-bet button B0A, the MAX-bet button B0B, the start lever SL, the stop buttons B1 to B3, or a game event such as a change in the game state, a lamp or LED is turned on or blinked. By changing the display content of the liquid crystal display LCD or outputting a sound from the speaker SP, the execution of the effect for exciting the game or assisting the game is controlled according to the progress of the game.

  In particular, in the present embodiment, whether or not the insertion operation can be accepted is notified by the MAX bet lamp 604 built in the MAX bet button B0B. The control is performed so that the MAX bet lamp 604 is turned on in a situation where insertion is accepted, and the MAX bet lamp 604 is turned off in a situation where medals are not accepted. Further, in the present embodiment, in a main loop process of the main control unit 10, at least in a situation where the reels are rotating, the backlight unit LU illuminates the symbol display positions of the respective reels so that the visibility of the symbols arranged on the respective reels is improved. The backlight unit LU is controlled so as to be turned off or blinked at a predetermined occasion such as when the reels stop or when a winning combination is won.

  In addition, the contents of the effects performed in the game are obtained by converting the effect lottery table stored in the sub-storage means 204 into a command transmitted from the main control unit 10 corresponding to the game state, the effect state, the result of the internal lottery, and the like. Determined accordingly. In this embodiment, the image data stored in the ROM area of the sub-storage unit 204 is read into an image buffer provided in the sub-storage unit 204, and an image based on the image data read into the image buffer is stored in a liquid crystal display LCD. The sound data stored in the ROM area of the sub-storage unit 204 is read into a sound buffer provided in the sub-storage unit 204, and a sound based on the sound data read into the sound buffer is output from the speaker SP. It has become so.

  The sub-error detecting means 202 determines whether or not the error detection condition is satisfied based on the door open command and the disconnection monitoring command transmitted from the main control unit 10, and generates an error when the error detection condition is satisfied. Detect sub-errors by identifying the sub-errors that are present. In this embodiment, even after detecting any one of the sub-errors (a state in which the sub-error detection unit 202 waits for the reception of an error clearing command from the main control unit 10 described later), the sub-error detection unit 202 periodically performs each sub-error by a timer interrupt process. Sub error detection is being performed continuously.

  Then, in the present embodiment, the sub error detecting means 202 detects a door opening / closing error and a communication error as shown in FIG.

(1) Door opening error The door opening error is a sub-error caused by the opening of the front door FD, and the signal state of the door open / close switch 302 that is activated by the opening of the front door FD is turned on (the front door FD). Is detected when a certain period (about 48 ms) or more has elapsed after receiving the door open command indicating that the state has changed to a signal state indicating that the door has been opened. The sub-error detecting means 202 measures the time by the door opening error detection timer provided in the sub-storage means 204 in the situation where the door opening command is received, and when the time exceeds a predetermined period by the time information of the door opening error detecting timer. Then, a door opening error detection flag is set in the sub-storage unit 204 on the assumption that a door opening error has occurred.

(2) Communication Error A communication error is a sub error caused by a communication failure due to a disconnection of a communication cable between the main board MAIN and the sub board SUB, and is a disconnection monitoring command periodically transmitted from the main control unit 10. Is detected when a predetermined period (for example, 20 ms) or more has elapsed from the reception of the message. Upon receiving the disconnection monitoring command, the sub-error detection unit 202 resets the communication error detection timer provided in the sub-storage unit 204 and starts timekeeping. If it does, the communication error detection flag is set in the secondary storage unit 204 on the assumption that a communication error has occurred.

  When receiving the error occurrence command transmitted from the main control unit 10, the sub error detection unit 202 sets an error detection flag corresponding to the main error specified by the error occurrence command in the sub storage unit 204.

  When the error detection flag is set in the sub-storage unit 204, the sub-error management unit 203 determines an error to be notified and performs an error notification process of controlling the rendering device in a rendering mode corresponding to the error. 10 to wait for the transmission of an error release command or a door closing command. In this error notification process, an error to be notified is notified, and the error is set in the secondary storage unit 204 based on the establishment of the return condition. A return process is performed to clear the error detection flag and the like and restore the state of the effect device. In the present embodiment, since no information is transmitted from the sub control unit 20 to the main control unit 10, the occurrence of the sub error does not affect the progress of the main loop processing in the game control unit 102, and If no error has occurred, the game control means 102 can continue the main loop processing even in a situation where a sub error has occurred.

  In this embodiment, when an error detection flag corresponding to a sub error is set in the sub storage unit 204, the sub error management unit 203 sets an error code corresponding to the type of the error detection flag, and sets the error code. The error code is displayed on the sub-display DS3.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 8, when error codes E8 and EF are assigned to various sub-errors and the door open error detection flag is set, the sub-display DS3 displays " "E8" is displayed, and if the communication error detection flag is set, "EF" is displayed on the sub-display DS3. When both the door opening error detection flag and the communication error detection flag are set in the sub-storage means 204, an error code corresponding to the communication error detection flag having a higher priority is displayed on the sub-display DS3.

  During the execution of the error wait process, the sub-error management unit 203 determines whether or not various errors corresponding to the error detection flags set in the sub-storage unit 204 are to be notified in the priority order of door opening error <main error <communication error. Is determined, and the error having the highest priority is notified by the outer peripheral lamp AL, the speaker SP, or the like.

  Specifically, in a situation where a door opening error has occurred but a main error or a communication error has not occurred, the door opening error is determined as a notification target and an error occurrence command corresponding to the main error is received. The main error specified by the earliest received error generation command is determined as a notification target, and an error generation command corresponding to the main error is received when the door opening error detection flag is set in the secondary storage unit 204. In this case, the main error specified by the received error occurrence command is determined as a notification target prior to the door opening error, and if the communication error detection flag is set in the And the communication error is determined as a notification target.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9, four notification patterns are set in accordance with the type of error.

  For example, when the error to be notified is any of a backflow error, a dispensing error, or a loading error, the outer lamp AL is turned on, the MAX bet lamp 604 and the backlight unit LU are turned off, and a warning sound is output. A main error notification process of outputting a message A saying "Please call a clerk" by the speaker SP while ringing A is executed.

  Further, for example, when the error to be notified is any of an empty error, a dispensing jam error, an over error, or a stay error, the outer peripheral lamp AL is blinked, the MAX bet lamp 604 and the backlight unit LU are turned off, In addition, a main error notification process of outputting a message A "Please call a clerk" while outputting the warning sound B through the speaker SP and displaying the error content on the liquid crystal display LCD is executed.

  Further, for example, when the error to be notified is a door opening error, the outer lamp AL is blinked, the backlight unit LU is turned off, and the message B indicating that the "door is open" is sounded while the alarm B is sounding. Is output from the speaker SP, and a door opening error notification process of displaying the error content on the liquid crystal display LCD is executed. If a main error has not occurred even if a door opening error has occurred, the main control unit 10 can proceed with the main loop processing. Therefore, the MAX bet lamp 604 depends on the progress of the main loop processing. The lighting is controlled. Further, in the present embodiment, when the door opening error is to be notified, the front door FD is closed because the return process is not performed until a predetermined period (about 2 seconds) elapses after receiving the door closing command. After that, the error notification process is continuously performed.

  Further, for example, when the error to be notified is a communication error, the outer lamp AL is blinked, the backlight unit LU is turned off, and a message A indicating "Please call a clerk" is given while the alarm B is sounding. A communication error notification process of outputting by the SP and displaying the error content on the liquid crystal display LCD is executed. If a main error has not occurred even though a communication error has occurred, the main control unit 10 can proceed with the main loop processing. Therefore, the MAX bet lamp 604 depends on the progress of the main loop processing. The lighting is controlled.

  Further, when the sub error management unit 203 receives the error cancellation command from the main control unit 10 in a situation where the main error notification process is being executed by receiving the error occurrence command from the main control unit 10, as shown in FIG. In addition, clearing (erasing) the main error related information such as the detection flag stored in the sub storage means 204, and performing a return process for returning the state of the effect device to the original state.

  Further, in the error wait process executed due to the occurrence of the door opening error, the sub error management unit 203 returns that a predetermined period (for example, 2 seconds) has elapsed after receiving the door closing command from the main control unit 10. As conditions, a detection flag relating to a door opening error, timing information of a timer, and the like are cleared (erased), and a return process of returning the state of the effect device to the original state is performed.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the communication error can be recovered only by initializing the sub-storage unit 204 by the power-off recovery, and the error management unit 203 performs the communication error notification processing until the power supply to the gaming machine is cut off. And maintain the state of reporting the communication error. However, if the communication error is temporarily released by the power recovery, and the disconnection condition is not resolved even if the disconnection monitoring command from the main control unit 10 is not received, the sub error detection unit 202 may cause the communication error to occur again. Will be detected.

  Note that the functional block configuration of the present embodiment can also be applied to a computer system (including a game system). In these systems, the functions are realized by downloading a program that causes a computer to function as the game control unit 100 of the present embodiment from an information storage medium such as a CD or DVD or a Web server on the Internet via a network. be able to. Further, in the computer system, the 1-bet switch 307, the MAX-bet switch 308, the start switch 309, the stop switch 311 and the like perform their functions with respect to operation means such as a keyboard, a pointing device (mouse or the like), a touch panel, or a controller. This can be realized by virtually assigning. Further, in the computer system, the reel unit 310, the hopper unit HP, and the like are not essential components, and these units can virtually realize their functions by controlling the image displayed and output on the display.

2. Hereinafter, various control methods employed in the gaming machine of the present embodiment will be specifically described with reference to flowcharts shown in FIGS.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a main loop process for controlling the progress of a game in the gaming machine of the present embodiment.

  First, an insertion receiving process for receiving insertion of medals necessary for playing a game is performed (step S100). In the insertion receiving process, the player inserts medals into the medal insertion slot MI to set the inserted medals to the inserted state, and the player presses the 1-bet button B0A or the MAX-bet button B0B to set the bet switch 308. When activated, the medals previously credited in the gaming machine are set in the inserted state. Further, when the replay is won in the previous game, the gaming machine automatically sets the same number of inserted medals as in the previous game on the gaming machine side without requiring the player's medals. When the medals having the specified number of insertions (for example, three) set as the game start condition are completed (Y in step S101), the operation waits for the pressing operation of the start lever SL (step S102). In the sub-control unit 20, the insertion accepting process is performed, the MAX bet lamp 604 is turned on in a situation where the insertion of medals is being accepted, and when the insertion of the specified number of medals is completed, the MAX bet lamp 604 is turned off. I do. When the backlight unit LU of the reel is turned off by the game effect in the previous game, the sub-control unit 20 turns off the light in response to the insertion of a medal or the insertion operation on the 1-bet button B0A or the MAX-bet button B0B. The backlight unit LU of the current reel is turned on again.

  When the player presses the start lever SL to operate the start switch 230 (Y in step S102), an internal lottery is performed (step S103), and the stepping motor for driving the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 is performed. The supply of the drive pulse is started, and the rotation drive of each reel is started (step S104). In the internal lottery, a random number value obtained in accordance with the operation of the start switch 309 is compared with an internal lottery table selected according to the game state to determine whether or not the role is to be won, and the flag of the winning role (winning role) is determined. Is set to the winning state.

  When the rotation speed of each reel reaches a predetermined speed (Y in step S105), the operation on the stop buttons B1 to B3 is enabled (step S106), and the rotating reel is stopped in response to the pressing operation of the stop button. A reel stop control is performed (steps S107 to S109).

  Specifically, when the player presses the stop button (Y in step S107), the operation on the pressed stop button is invalidated, and the stop position of the rotating reel corresponding to the pressed stop button is determined. Then, the reel is stopped by supplying a drive pulse for all-phase excitation to the stepping motor that is rotatingly driving the rotating reel corresponding to the pressed stop button (step 108).

  When all the reels stop (Y in step S109), a winning determination process is performed based on the stopped state of each reel (step S110). In the present embodiment, the presence or absence of a winning combination is determined based on whether or not a symbol combination indicating a winning pattern of the winning combination is displayed on the activated line L1. If it is determined that the winning combination has been achieved as a result of the winning determination process (Y in step S10), a winning process according to the winning combination is performed, and a series of processes ends (step S111).

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an error wait process in the main control unit 10 that is called when occurrence of a main error is detected.

  First, if the error detection flag is set in the main storage means 106 (Y in step S200), the state of the first main display 306 is saved in a save buffer provided in the main storage means 106 (step S201). An error code corresponding to the type of the error detection flag is set (step S202), and the set error code is displayed on the first main display DS1 to notify the occurrence of the error and the content of the error (step S203). .

  Then, when an error is notified, an error wait timer is set in the main storage means 106 (step S204), and a timer wait process is performed until the error wait timer counts a predetermined period (about 107 ms) and the time is up. From (step S205), acceptance of the release operation is started (step S206).

  In the present embodiment, when the setting change button SB is pressed and the signal state of the setting change switch 301 is turned on, it is determined that the release operation has been performed (Y in step S206), and the error release processing is performed. (Step S207). When the error release processing is completed, the state of the first main display DS1 is returned to the original state, and a series of processing ends (step S208).

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a release process called in the error wait process in the main control unit 10 when any of the main errors of the backflow error, the payout error error, the stay error, and the insertion error error occurs.

  First, if the error code set in step S202 of the error wait processing is “E1” (backflow error) or “E6” (residence error) (Y in step S300 or Y in step S301), the first A throwing error error detection timer, a second throwing error error detection timer, a shoot counter, a throwing error non-monitoring timer, a throwing error error clearing process for clearing a throwing error error detection flag (step S304), a staying error detection timer and staying The error detection flag is cleared (step S306), the backflow error clearing flag is cleared (step S307), and the error detection result including the error code is cleared (step S307). Step S308).

  As described above, in the present embodiment, when the backflow error is detected, the release process corresponding to the backflow error is performed based on the release operation being performed during the error wait process, and the input abnormal error and the accumulation Release processing corresponding to the error is also performed. For this reason, according to the present embodiment, even if a throwing error error or a stay error is detected in conjunction with the operation of removing the cause of the backflow error occurring in the medal flow path, the backflow error can be canceled. Along with this, a release process is also performed for a charging error error and a stay error, so that it is possible to save time and effort when the error is released.

  Further, in the present embodiment, when a stay error is detected, the release process corresponding to the stay error is performed based on the release operation being performed during the error wait process, and the release process corresponding to the insertion abnormal error is performed. Processing is performed. For this reason, according to the present embodiment, even if an abnormal insertion error is detected in connection with the operation for removing the cause of the stagnant error occurring near the inlet MI, the stagnant error is released along with the process of removing the stagnant error. Since the release process is also performed for the abnormal insertion error, it is possible to save the trouble of releasing the error.

  If the error code is “E4” (payout abnormal error) (Y in step S302), a payout abnormal error release process for clearing the payout abnormal error detection timer and the payout abnormal error detection flag (step S305). An error code is included after performing a staying error release process for clearing the staying error detection timer and the staying error detection flag (step S306) and a backflow error clearing process for clearing the backflow error detection flag (step S307). The error detection result is cleared (step S308).

  If the error code is "E9" (a closing abnormality error) (N in step S303), a first closing abnormality error detection timer, a second closing abnormality error detection timer, a shoot counter, and a closing abnormality non-monitoring timer. , An input error error clearing process for clearing the input error error detection flag (step S304), a stagnant error detection timer and a stagnant error release process for clearing the stagnant error detection flag (step S306), and a backflow error detection flag. After the backflow error is cleared (step S307), the error detection result including the error code is cleared (step S308).

  As described above, in the present embodiment, when any one of the first type, the second type, and the third type of insertion abnormality error is detected, the release operation is performed during the error wait process. , A common release process is performed so as to be able to cope with any of them. With this configuration, the first type insertion error and the second type and third type insertion error generated near the insertion port MI and the second type and the third type generated in the medal flow path are related to each other. In the situation where the occurrence of any one of the errors is detected, the cancellation processing is performed including the error that may occur accompanying the line that removes the cause. It is possible to avoid the trouble of canceling the error.

  If the error code is not one of “E1”, “E4”, “E6”, and “E9” (Y in step S303), a staying error detection timer and a staying error detection flag for clearing the staying error detection flag are cleared. After performing the cancellation process (step S306) and the cancellation process of the backflow error for clearing the backflow error detection flag (step S307), the error detection result including the error code is cleared (step S308).

  In the present embodiment, an empty error (error code E2), a payout jam error (error code E3), and an over error (error code E5) are individually released. However, when performing the release process corresponding to the abnormal delivery error, the release process is also performed for the unloading error, and when performing the release process corresponding to the unloading error, the release error is handled. In the case where one of the cancellation processes is performed as a related error for an error such as performing the cancellation process and monitoring the same sensor when detecting the error, the other cancellation process is performed. Is also good.

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating a process related to error detection in the sub control unit 20 related to the occurrence of a main error.

  When the error occurrence command transmitted from the main control unit 10 is received (Y in step S400), an error detection flag corresponding to the error type of the main error included in the error occurrence command is set (step S401).

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating a process related to error detection in the sub control unit 20 related to a door opening error.

  When the door opening command transmitted from the main control unit 10 is received (Y in step S500), the timer of the door opening error detection timer starts (step S501), and when the time information of the door opening error detection timer times out (step S501). In S502, it is determined that a door opening error has occurred, and a door opening error detection flag is set (step S503).

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing processing relating to error detection in the sub-control unit 20 relating to a communication error.

  In the sub control unit 20, the reception interval of the disconnection monitoring command periodically transmitted from the main control unit 10 is measured by the communication error detection timer, and when the communication error detection timer does not count up (in step S600). N), when the disconnection monitoring command is received from the main control unit 10 (Y in step S601), the timing information of the communication error detection timer is reset and the timing is restarted (step S602). When the communication error detection timer expires (Y in step S600), it is determined that a communication error has occurred, and a communication error detection flag is set (step S603).

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating a process in which the sub control unit 20 determines an error to be notified. In the present embodiment, the occurrence of an error is periodically checked in the order of a communication error, a main error, and a door opening error, and a notification target is determined in the priority order of communication error> main error> door opening error.

  Specifically, first, it is checked whether or not a communication error has occurred based on whether or not a communication error detection flag has been set in the secondary storage unit 204 (step S700), and a communication error has occurred. Is determined (N in step S700), a communication error is set as a notification target (step S703).

  Next, when a communication error has not occurred (Y in step S700), a main error occurs based on whether an error detection flag corresponding to any of the main errors is set in the sub storage unit 204. Is checked (step S701), and if it is determined that any main error has occurred (N in step S701), the main error is determined according to the error detection flag set in the sub storage unit 204. The main error to be performed is set as a notification target (step S704).

  Finally, if a main error has not occurred (Y in step S701), it is determined whether or not a door opening error has occurred based on whether or not a door opening error detection flag is set in the sub storage unit 204. When a check is made (step S702) and it is determined that a door opening error has occurred (N in step S702), the door opening error is set as a notification target (step S704).

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating an error notification process in the sub-control unit 20 for which a main error is to be notified.

  First, the states of all the rendering devices are saved in the save buffer provided in the sub-storage unit 204 (step S800), and then a main error notification process is executed according to the error type of the main error to be notified (step S800). Steps S801 to S803).

  For example, when the error type of the main error to be notified is any one of a backflow error (E1), a payout error error (E4), and an input error error (E9) (E1 and E4 in step S801). , E9), turn on the outer peripheral lamp AL, turn off the MAX bet lamp and the backlight unit LU, and execute a main error notification process of an effect mode of outputting a warning sound A and a message A from the speaker SP (step S802). .

  Further, for example, when the error type of the main error to be notified is any of an empty error (E2), a payout jam error (E3), an over error (E5), or a stay error (E6), In step S801, E2, E3, E5, and E6), the outer peripheral lamp AL blinks, the MAX bet lamp and the backlight unit LU are turned off, a warning sound B and a message A are output from the speaker SP, and an error is output to the liquid crystal display LCD. The main error notification process of the effect mode of displaying the content is executed (step S803).

  Then, in a situation where the main error notification process is being executed, the process waits for an error release command from the main control unit 10 (step S804), and when the error release command is received (Y in step S804), the return process is performed. (Step S805). In the return processing, information such as an error detection flag relating to the main error set in the sub-storage means 204 is cleared, and the state of each effect device is returned to the original state based on the information saved in the save buffer, and a series of operations are performed. The process ends.

  FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating an error notification process in the sub-control unit 20 for which a door opening error is to be notified.

  First, the state of the rendering device excluding the MAX bet lamp is saved in an evacuation buffer provided in the sub-storage unit 204 (step S900), and an error code (E8) corresponding to the door opening error to be notified is set. Then, after displaying the error code (E8) on the sub-display DS3 (step S901), the outer peripheral lamp AL is blinked, the backlight unit LU is turned off, and a warning sound B and a message B are output from the speaker SP. Then, a door opening error notification process of an effect mode of displaying an error content on the liquid crystal display LCD is executed (step S902). Since the MAX bet lamp is a device not subjected to the door opening error notification processing, the lighting control of the MAX bet lamp is controlled according to a control command transmitted from the main control unit 10 as the main loop processing proceeds. Done.

  Then, in the situation where the door opening error notification process is being executed, the process waits for a door closing command from the main control unit 10 (step S903), and upon receiving the door closing command (Y in step S903), returns to the sub storage unit 204. A wait timer is set (step S904), a timer wait process is performed until the return wait timer counts a predetermined period (about 2 seconds), and the time is up (step S905), and a return process is performed (step S906). ). In the return processing, information related to the door opening error such as the door opening error detection flag and the door opening error detection timer set in the sub-storage means 204 is cleared, and the information of each effect device is saved based on the information saved in the save buffer. The state is returned to the original state, and a series of processing ends.

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart illustrating an error notification process in the sub-control unit 20 for which a communication error is to be notified.

  First, the state of the effect device except for the MAX bet lamp is saved in the save buffer provided in the sub-storage means 204 (step S1000), and an error code (EF) corresponding to the communication error to be notified is set. After displaying the error code (EF) on the sub-display DS3 (step S1001), the outer peripheral lamp AL is blinked, the backlight unit LE is turned off, the warning sound B and the message A are output from the speaker SP, A communication error notification process of an effect mode of displaying an error content on the liquid crystal display LCD is executed (step S1002). Since the MAX bet lamp is not a device subject to the communication error notification process, the MAX bet lamp is controlled to be turned on in response to a control command transmitted from the main control unit 10 as the main loop process proceeds. Will be

  In the present embodiment, since the communication error can be canceled only by returning from the power failure, once the communication error occurs, the state of the effect device does not return until the power of the gaming machine is turned off, and the communication error is not reset. The state of notifying will continue.

  In the present embodiment described above, the occurrence of a door opening error caused by the opening of the front door FD is monitored by the sub-board SUB (sub-control unit 20), and the main board MAIN (main control) is maintained even during the occurrence of the door opening error. In the unit 10), the main loop processing for advancing the game can be continued, and the operation of the gaming machine can be checked with the front door open, so that the efficiency of the maintenance work of the gaming machine can be improved.

  In particular, in the present embodiment, as a lamp unit for performing lighting control by the sub-substrate SUB (sub-control unit 20), a MAX bet indicating whether or not a medal insertion operation is possible with the outer peripheral lamp AL for illuminating the front door FD. With respect to the MAX bet lamp built in the button B0B, while the door open error occurs, the outer peripheral lamp AL notifies the door open error occurrence, and turns on the MAX bet lamp in accordance with the progress of the main loop processing. Since the control is performed, the operation check as to whether or not the insertion operation on the MAX bet button B0B can be normally received can be smoothly performed in the same operation environment as in a normal game, and the interface environment in the maintenance work of the game machine can be performed. Can be improved.

  In a gaming machine such as this embodiment, it is prohibited to mount a main storage unit 106 having a large memory capacity. Therefore, in designing a gaming machine, strict management of memory usage is required. You. Then, instead of managing the door opening error on the main board MAIN side as in the present embodiment, the door open error is managed on the sub-board SUB side where the degree of freedom of the mounted memory capacity is higher than that of the main board MAIN. Not only is the efficiency improved, but also the memory usage of the main board MAIN can be reduced.

  Note that, in the present embodiment, a case has been described in which, in a situation where a sub-error (door opening error, communication error) has occurred, an error notification process of an effect mode of turning off the backlight unit LU is performed. In the notification processing and the communication error notification processing, the backlight unit LU may be set as a device not to be subjected to the notification processing in the same manner as the MAX bet lamp, and the lighting control may be performed in accordance with the progress of the main loop processing.

  This makes it easy to confirm the behavior of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 in the same operating environment as in a normal game even when the front door FD is opened, and to perform the operation with the front door FD opened. The interface environment in the maintenance work can be improved.

  In addition, from the viewpoint of ensuring the visibility of the symbols arranged on each reel, when a sub-error occurs in the backlight unit LU, the device is set as a target device for the error notification process. The unit LU may be kept turned on instead of being turned off.

  In particular, in the door opening error notification processing, when the backlight unit LU is kept lit, the backlight unit LU is turned off when the reels are stopped, or the backlight is turned off when a role is won according to the progress of the main loop processing. Even if the lighting control is performed in an effect mode in which the light unit LU blinks, the lighting control is performed in an effect mode corresponding to the progress of the main loop process in a situation where the front door FD is closed. However, in a situation where the front door FD has been opened and a door opening error has occurred and the door opening error notification processing is being performed, the backlight unit LU is kept turned on. Even if an effect generation condition such as winning is satisfied, the lighting control in the effect mode according to the progress of the main loop processing is not performed. Can.

  Further, in the present embodiment, regarding detection of a door opening error in sub-control unit 20, it is determined that a door opening error has occurred when a predetermined period has elapsed after receiving a door opening command from main control unit 10. As described above, when a door open command is received, it may be immediately determined that a door open error has occurred. The main control unit 10 measures the time based on the change of the signal state of the door open switch 302 to the ON state, and transmits a door open command to the sub control unit 20 when a predetermined period has elapsed, and The sub control unit 20 that has received the command may determine that a door opening error has occurred in response to the reception of the door opening command.

  Further, in the present embodiment, in the error notification process, the details of the error are displayed on the liquid crystal display LCD regardless of whether a main error or a sub error has occurred, but a door opening error has occurred among the sub errors. In this situation, the liquid crystal display LCD may be used as a device not subjected to the error notification processing, and the display content may be controlled in accordance with the progress of the main loop processing.

BX storage box, UD upper front door, DD lower front door, DW display window,
L1 valid line, DS1 first main display, DS2 second main display,
DS3 sub display, LCD liquid crystal display, AL outer lamp,
R1 first reel, R2 second reel, R3 third reel,
SM stepping motor, SU support unit, BU base unit,
RD reel body, TP reel tape, LU backlight unit,
B0A 1 bet button, B0B MAX bet button,
SL start lever, B1-B3 stop button,
MI slot, MO payout, MP medal tray,
DK door key cylinder, SC medal selector, MS medal shoot,
MAIN main board, SUB sub board,
HP hopper unit, MT medal storage tank, CB cash box,
EU power supply unit, ES power switch, KS setting change key cylinder,
SB setting change button, PS reel unit storage space, SP speaker,
10 main control unit,
101 setting change means, 102 game control means, 103 random number generation means,
104 main error detection means, 105 main error management means, 106 main storage means,
20 sub-control unit,
201 effect control means, 202 sub error detection means, 203 sub error management means,
204 secondary storage means,
301 setting change switch, 302 door open / close switch, 303 door sensor,
401 insertion detection sensor, 402, first medal passing sensor,
403 second medal passage sensor, 404 medal blocker,
305 Shoot sensor, 307 1 bet switch, 308 MAX bet switch,
309 start switch, 310 reel unit, 405 reel index,
311 stop switch, 406 payout sensor,
313 overflow sensor, 501 display unit, 503 lamp unit,
604 MAX bet lamp,

Claims (2)

A housing having a front door that can be freely opened and closed,
A reel unit including a reel on which symbols are arranged on the outer peripheral surface and a backlight for illuminating a display position of the symbol,
A main board that controls the rotation and stop of the reels and performs a main loop process for advancing a game;
A sub-board that performs lighting control of the backlight,
In the main board, the main loop processing can be continued even in a state where the front door is open,
In the sub-board, the occurrence of a door opening error, which is an error based on the opening of the front door, is monitored, and even in a situation where the door opening error has occurred, the main loop processing is performed in accordance with the progress of the main loop processing. A gaming machine characterized by controlling lighting of a backlight. A housing having a front door that can be freely opened and closed,
A reel unit including a reel on which symbols are arranged on the outer peripheral surface and a backlight for illuminating a display position of the symbol,
A main board that controls the rotation and stop of the reels and performs a main loop process for advancing a game;
A sub-board that performs lighting control of the backlight,
In the main board, the main loop processing can be continued even in a state where the front door is open,
In the sub-board, the occurrence of a door opening error, which is an error based on the opening of the front door, is monitored, and in a situation where the front door is closed, in an effect mode according to the progress of the main loop processing. The backlight is controlled to be turned on, but in a situation in which a door opening error has occurred, the backlight is maintained without being turned on without performing lighting control in an effect mode according to the progress of the main loop processing. A gaming machine characterized by:

Images