JP6682153B2 - Amusement machine - Google Patents

Description

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

  As a gaming machine, a game ball, which is a game medium, is launched into a game area by a launching device, and when a game ball wins a winning area such as a winning opening provided in the game area, a predetermined prize value is given to the player. There is one configured in. Further, a variable display means capable of variably displaying identification information (also referred to as "fluctuation") is provided, and when the display result of the variable display of the identification information is the specific display result on the variable display means, a predetermined game value is given. There is one configured to give the player (so-called pachinko machine).

  Also, after setting a predetermined number of bets on a predetermined game medium for one game, the player operates the start lever to start variable display of identification information by the variable display device, and the player changes each variable. By operating the stop button provided corresponding to the display device, the variable display of the identification information is stopped within the range of the predetermined maximum delay time from the operation timing, and the variable display of all variable display devices is performed. When a prize is generated according to the display result derived when the game is stopped, a predetermined game medium predetermined according to the prize is paid out, and when a specific prize is generated, the game state is set to a predetermined game value. There is something that is configured to give to (the so-called slot machine).

  The prize value is to pay out the prize balls or give points or prizes according to the winning of the game balls in the prize area. In addition, the game value is that the state of the variable winning ball device provided in the game area of the gaming machine is advantageous for the player who easily hits the ball when the specific display result is obtained, and That is, the right to generate an advantageous state is generated, and the condition for paying a prize ball is easily established.

  In the pachinko gaming machine, as a display result of the variable display of the special symbol (identification information) which is started in the variable display means based on the fact that the game ball has won in the starting winning opening, a predetermined specific display mode is derived and displayed. When it is done, "big hit (advantageous state)" occurs. The derivation display is to stop and display the symbol. When a big hit occurs, for example, the big winning opening is opened a predetermined number of times, and a big hit game state in which a hit ball is easy to win is entered. Then, in each opening period, when a predetermined number (for example, 10) of winning holes are won, the winning holes are closed. The number of times the special winning opening is opened is fixed to a predetermined number (for example, 16 rounds). It should be noted that the opening time (for example, 29 seconds) is determined for each opening, and the special winning opening is closed when the opening time elapses even if the number of winnings does not reach the predetermined number. Hereinafter, the opening period of each special winning opening may be referred to as a round.

  In such a gaming machine, a control means for performing effect control and a storage means for storing effect information related to effect control are provided. For example, in Patent Document 1, an effect control microcomputer (control means) executes an initial effect data transfer process when the game machine is powered on, and is stored in a ROM or an image data memory (storage means) to perform various operations. It is described that out of programs and data used for execution of effects by the effect device, predetermined initial data is transferred to RAM, VRAM, or the like, and effect control is performed using the transferred programs and data. .

JP, 2016-202659, A (paragraph 0126, Drawing 9).

  However, in the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, the control means and the storage means may be provided on different substrates. In this case, unless a proper connection between the board provided with the control means and the board provided with the storage means is ensured, there is a possibility that improper effect control may be performed.

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of ensuring an appropriate connection relationship between a board provided with a control means and a board provided with a storage means.

(Means 1) A gaming machine according to the present invention is a gaming machine capable of playing a game, and a first board provided with a main control means and a control means (eg, production control CPU 120) for performing production control. (For example, effect control board 12) and a second board (for example, effect control relay board 16A) provided with storage means (for example, CGROM 141) that stores effect information (for example, various image data) related to effect control. ), And the storage unit stores the authentication information in advance (for example, the CGROM 141 stores the authentication data), and the control unit stores the information in the storage unit after receiving the information from the main control unit. The authentication process can be executed based on the authentication information that has been provided (for example, the effect control microcomputer 120A executes step S50B, and the CGROM 14 The verification control can be executed based on the success of the authentication in the authentication process (for example, the verification process is performed by collating the verification data read from the verification data with the verification data stored in the ROM 135). When the control microcomputer 120A is Y in step S50C, the control microcomputer 120A proceeds to the processing of step S51 and subsequent steps, and executes various effect control processing including the initial effect data transfer processing (S51D) based on the successful authentication.) together, can be set waiting time, based on the wait time has elapsed, Ri executable der inspection process for error detection for the memorize means on the outlet Starring that is stored information, the storage means Includes a first area and a second area, and the control means sets the data stored in the first area to a second area in the inspection process according to the result of error detection. Characterized in that to store the. According to such a configuration, it is possible to secure an appropriate connection relationship between the board provided with the control means and the board provided with the storage means.

(Means 2) In the means 1, the control means can execute the transfer processing of the effect information stored in the storage means (for example, the initial effect data transfer processing (step S51D)), and if the authentication processing succeeds. The transfer process can be executed based on the fact that the effect is achieved (for example, the effect control microcomputer 120A can execute step S51D when Y in step S50C, and the initial effect based on the successful authentication). The data transfer process (S51D) can be executed). With such a configuration, it is possible to execute an appropriate transfer process of the effect information.

(Means 3) In the means 1 or 2, the game control means (for example, the game control microcomputer 100) for controlling the progress of the game is provided, and the game control means confirms that the power supply to the gaming machine is started. It is possible to output a power start command (for example, power-on designation command) and a power failure recovery command (for example, power failure recovery designation command) indicating that the power is restored from the power failure state. The authentication process can be executed based on the input of the restoration command (for example, the production control microcomputer 120A can execute step S50B when Y in step S50A, and the power-on designation command or the power failure restoration designation command). Authentication process can be executed based on the reception of . With such a configuration, it is possible to execute the authentication process based on the fact that the game control means side is normally activated.

(Means 4) In the means 1 or 2, the control means can monitor the power supply voltage (for example, the effect control microcomputer 120A is controlled by a power supply monitoring circuit (not shown) in the modification shown in FIG. 48). It is possible to execute the authentication processing based on the power supply voltage having reached a predetermined value (for example, confirming whether the power supply voltage has reached a predetermined value based on the detection signal of) (for example, the production control microcomputer 120A). 48 is capable of executing step S50B when Y in step S50X in the modification shown in FIG. 48 and executing the authentication process based on the fact that the power supply voltage has reached a predetermined value). Good. With such a configuration, the authentication process can be executed based on the fact that the power supply voltage of the control unit itself can be secured.

(Means 5) In any one of the means 1 to 4, an authentication failure notifying means for notifying the production display means of the authentication failure based on the authentication failure in the authentication processing (for example, The effect control microcomputer 120A may be configured to include an authentication error notification process (a part that executes step S50D). According to such a configuration, it is possible to notify that the connection relationship between the board provided with the control means and the board provided with the storage means could not be secured.

(Means 6) In any one of the means 1 to 5, a game control means (for example, a game control microcomputer 100) for controlling the progress of the game is provided, and the second board is connected to the game control means. For connection (for example, connector 16Z), and a plurality of rendering means (for example, rendering display device 5, first decorative pattern display 5A, second decorative design display 5B, LEDs 9a-9e, speakers 8L, 8R, The movable portion 302, the movable member 321, and the like) may be configured to be provided with a connecting portion (for example, the connector 16S) for connecting. According to such a configuration, the second board may be designed for each model of the gaming machine, so that the first board can be shared by different models of the gaming machine, and the development cost and manufacturing of the gaming machine can be improved. The cost can be reduced.

(Means 7) In any one of the means 1 to 6, the control means (for example, the CPU 120 for effect control) has a display control function (for example, for performing display control of the effect display means (for example, the effect display device 5)). It has a VDP function) and a temperature monitoring means (for example, a temperature sensor 136) for monitoring the temperature of the control means, and the display control function can be limited stepwise according to the temperature of the control means (for example, 120 A of production control microcomputers perform step S101-S118, and if the temperature of CPU120 for production control becomes 60 degreeC-70 degreeC, it will transfer to 1st limitation mode, and the temperature of CPU120 for production control will be 71degreeC-94 degreeC. When the temperature of the CPU 120 for effect control becomes 95 ° C. or higher, the second limit mode is entered, and then the third limit mode is entered). . With such a configuration, it is possible to realize more appropriate heat countermeasures of the control unit having the display control function.

(Means 8) In the means 7, a plurality of types including at least a first restriction mode (for example, the first restriction mode) and a second restriction mode (for example, the second restriction mode) having a higher degree of restriction than the first restriction mode. It is possible to limit the display control function in the limit mode (for example, as shown in FIG. 32 (B), in the first limit mode, only the background image is erased on the display screen of the effect display device 5, and FIG. As shown, in the second restriction mode, the effect symbol display in the symbol display areas of the left 5L, the middle 5C and the right 5R on the display screen of the effect display device 5 may be further erased). With such a configuration, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the interest of the game.

(Means 9) In the means 8, the display control function can be restricted by the first restriction mode in response to the temperature of the control means reaching a predetermined temperature (for example, 60 ° C. to 70 ° C.), and the temperature of the control means The display control function can be limited in the second limit mode in response to reaching a specific temperature (eg, 71 ° C. to 94 ° C.) higher than a predetermined temperature (eg, steps S102 to S112 in the effect control microcomputer 120A). May be configured to execute). With such a configuration, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the interest of the game.

(Means 10) In the means 9, the display control is performed by the display stop mode in which the display control of the effect display means is stopped in response to the temperature of the control means reaching a special temperature (eg, 95 ° C. or higher) higher than the specific temperature. The function can be limited (for example, the effect control microcomputer 120A executes steps S113 to S118, and as shown in FIG. 32D, all the displays on the effect display device 5 (however, the third temperature abnormality is displayed). (Except for the notification E1)), and the restriction of the display control function in the display stop mode can be released according to the decrease in the temperature of the control means from the special temperature (for example, the effect control microcomputer 120A, If steps S152 to S157 are executed and the temperature of the effect control CPU 120 drops to 90 ° C. or lower during the transition to the third limit mode. The second moved to the restricted mode) may be configured so. With such a configuration, it is possible to reinforce the heat countermeasure of the control means having the display control function and to automatically recover from the display stop mode after shifting to the display stop mode.

(Means 11) In any one of the means 8 to 10, when the display control function is restricted by the first restriction mode, control is performed so that a part of the effect is not executed (for example, effect control microcomputer 120A). May be configured to erase the background image on the display screen of the effect display device 5 or display the image with the scaler function stopped. With such a configuration, it is possible to realize appropriate display control according to the temperature of the control means.

(Means 12) In any one of the means 8 to 11, it is possible to limit the sound output according to the type of the limitation mode (for example, the production control microcomputer 120A, the variation of the production symbol in the first limitation mode. It is configured to limit the effect output sound such as part of the notice effect or the sound output of BGM during the display, and not perform the sound output related to the variable display of the effect symbol in the second limit mode and the third limit mode). May be. With such a configuration, it is possible to prevent inconsistency in the effects of display control and sound output.

(Means 13) In any one of the means 7 to 12, the display control is performed by causing the light emitter (for example, the first decorative symbol display device 5A and the second decorative symbol display device 5B) to emit information regarding the progress of the game. The light emission display control means (for example, the portion that executes steps S251 to S253 in the effect control microcomputer 120A) is provided, and the light emission display control means can perform display control in which the light emitters emit light in common regardless of the limitation mode. There is (for example, the production control microcomputer 120A, regardless of whether or not the mode is shifted to any one of the restriction modes based on the temperature abnormality, the variable display of the first decorative pattern on the first decorative pattern display 5A and the second display. It may be configured to execute the variable display of the second decorative design on the decorative design display 5B). With such a configuration, it is possible to appropriately notify the progress of the game.

(Means 14) In any one of the means 7 to 13, an abnormality notifying means capable of notifying a temperature abnormality according to the temperature of the control means (for example, the production control microcomputer 120A executes steps S105, S110, S116). 32B to 32D, the first temperature abnormality notification E1 to the third temperature abnormality notification E3 are displayed). According to such a configuration, it is possible to perform appropriate notification according to the temperature of the control means.

(Means 15) In any one of the means 7 to 14, a cooling means (for example, a cooling fan 142) for cooling the control means and an operation mode of the cooling means can be changed according to the temperature of the control means. Cooling mode changing means (for example, the production control microcomputer 120A executes steps S104, S109, S115, operates the cooling fan 142 at a low speed in the first limit mode, and operates the cooling fan 142 at a medium speed in the second limit mode. Then, the cooling fan 142 is operated at a high speed in the third restriction mode). With such a configuration, it is possible to realize more appropriate heat countermeasures of the control unit having the display control function.

(Means 16) In any one of the means 1 to 15, a first part for rotating an electric component (for example, the board side LEDs 9d, 9e, the top frame LED 9a, the left frame LED 9b, the right frame LED 9c, and the movable portion 302). The control means (for example, the CPU 120 for effect control) for controlling the effect motor 303 and the second effect motor 330 for sliding the movable member 321 and the electric parts are controlled according to the control signal from the control means. Output means (for example, light emitter drivers 411a and 411b) capable of outputting a specific signal for driving (for example, output signals from the drive output terminals Q0 to Q23 and Q0 to Q11) and outputting the input control signal. , A motor drive driver 412, and light-emitter drivers 413a to 413c), and the output means receives a control signal and then outputs a predetermined signal. Has a stop function (for example, a time-out function) that stops the output of the specific signal after a lapse of time (for example, 1 second) (for example, by setting the T terminal to H (high), the time-out function is set to the valid state. 11), a data setting area (for example, a control data area shown in FIG. 33) having a plurality of layers (for example, layers 1 to 5 shown in FIG. 33) in which the priority order is set. It is possible to set light emission data (for example, control data for causing the LEDs 9a to 9e to emit light) for performing light emission control of at least a light emitting body (for example, LEDs 9a to 9e) of the electric components in each layer of the setting region, The control means can control the light emission of the light emitter based on the light emission data (for example, the effect control CPU 120 stores in the control data area shown in FIG. 33). (Determined control data is output to each of the light emitter control boards 16C to 16F), and when the light emission data is set in a plurality of layers of the data setting area, it is set to a layer having a high priority. The light emission control of the light emitter is performed based on the light emission data (for example, when the control data is set in a plurality of layers, the effect control CPU 120 is assigned the highest priority value among them). The control data set in the layer is output to each of the light emitter control boards 16C to 16F). According to such a configuration, it is possible to stably control the electric component.

(Means 17) In the means 16, electric parts (for example, the board-side LEDs 9d and 9e, the top frame LED 9a, the left frame LED 9b, the right frame LED 9c, the first effect motor 303 for rotating the movable portion 302, and the movable member 321. For controlling the second effect motor 330 for sliding the control unit (for example, the effect control CPU 120), and for driving the electric component according to the control signal from the control unit by the serial communication method. A plurality of output means (for example, light emitter drivers 411a and 411b, a motor) that can output a specific signal (for example, output signals from the drive output terminals Q0 to Q23 and Q0 to Q11) and output the input control signal Drive driver 412 and light emitter drivers 413a to 413c), and each of the plurality of output means inputs The output state when outputting the control signal is configured such that the waveform rises in a predetermined manner (for example, for all serial-parallel conversion circuits, the through output is set to the output of the normal slew rate. May be configured). With such a configuration, the design can be simplified while considering the noise resistance.

(Means 18) In the means 16, electric parts (for example, the board side LEDs 9d and 9e, the top frame LED 9a, the left frame LED 9b, the right frame LED 9c, the first effect motor 303 for rotating the movable portion 302, and the movable member 321. For controlling the second effect motor 330 for sliding the control unit (for example, the effect control CPU 120), and for driving the electric component according to the control signal from the control unit by the serial communication method. A plurality of output means (for example, light emitter drivers 411a and 411b, a motor) that can output a specific signal (for example, output signals from the drive output terminals Q0 to Q23 and Q0 to Q11) and output the input control signal Drive driver 412 and light emitter drivers 413a to 413c), and each of the plurality of output means inputs The output state when the control signal is output is configured so that the waveform rises more slowly than in a predetermined mode (for example, for all serial-parallel conversion circuits, the through output is set to a low slew rate output. May be provided). With such a configuration, the design can be simplified while considering the noise resistance.

(Means 19) In any one of the means 16 to 18, the output means outputs the input control signal to the other output means in a first output state in which the waveform rises in a predetermined manner (for example, , A normal slew rate output state (see FIG. 12 (1)), and a second output state in which the waveform rises in a mode that changes more slowly than the first output state (for example, a low slew rate output state (FIG. 12)). (See (2))) (for example, if the S terminal is set to L (low), the normal slew rate output is set, and the S terminal is set to H (high)). If set, the output may be set to a low slew rate (see FIG. 11)). With such a configuration, the setting can be changed according to the use environment, and the noise resistance of the control signal for preventing malfunction can be increased according to the setting.

(Means 20) In any one of the means 16 to 19, the output means is parallel to a specific signal output section (for example, each driver output terminal Q0 to Q23, Q0 to Q11) grouped into a plurality of different groups. A specific signal (for example, an output signal from each driver output terminal Q0 to Q23, Q0 to Q11) according to the communication method is output (for example, in the case of a 24-channel serial-parallel conversion circuit, one group as shown in FIG. 14). 6 groups of 4 channels each, and in the case of a 12-channel serial-parallel conversion circuit, each group is divided into 3 groups of 4 channels.) The output timing of the specific signal of each group is different for each group (for example, as shown in FIG. Output terminals Q0～Q23, the output timing of the output signal may be configured to be distributed are) as each group from Q0～Q11. With such a configuration, it is possible to further suppress the radio wave emission from the substrate.

(Means 21) In the means 20, a movable member (for example, the movable portion 302 and the movable member 321) that performs an operation is provided, and a driving unit that operates the movable member (for example, the first effect motor 303 and the second effect motor 330). ) Are driven based on a specific signal output from a specific signal output section of the same group of the output means (for example, as shown in FIG. 16, signals input to the same motor are in the same group). Connected to the associated drive output terminal). According to such a configuration, it is possible to suppress the deterioration of the driving accuracy of the driving unit while suppressing the radio wave emission from the substrate.

(Means 22) In any one of the means 16 to 21, a control signal continuation means for continuously outputting a control signal (for example, the effect control CPU 120 causes the effect control process process (see step S55)). By repeatedly outputting the control signal at least every predetermined period (in this example, 1 second), the lighting control of the panel side LEDs 9d, 9e, the top frame LED 9a, the left frame LED 9b, and the right frame LED 9c is continuously executed, Drive control of the first effect motor 303 and the second effect motor 330 is continuously performed). With such a configuration, control corresponding to the stop function of the output unit can be realized.

(Means 23) In any one of the means 16 to 22, the output means can enable or disable the stop function (for example, by setting the T terminal to L (low), the timeout function is disabled). The time-out function is set to a valid state by setting the T terminal to H (high) (see FIG. 11). With such a configuration, it is possible to change the setting of the stop function of the output unit according to the application, and it is possible to reduce the cost by sharing the parts.

(Means 24) In any one of the means 16 to 23, different light emission data is set in each layer of the data setting area depending on the gaming state (for example, as shown in FIG. 33, the gaming state is The combination of the control data set in layers 1 to 5 differs depending on whether the low base state, the high base state, or the big hit state). With such a configuration, it is possible to control the light emission of the light emitters in a priority order according to the game state, and it is possible to improve the interest in the game.

(Means 25) In the means 24, light emission data for performing light emission control of the light emitter according to the error notification is set in the layer having the highest priority among the respective layers in the data setting area, regardless of the game state. (For example, as shown in FIG. 33, the control data corresponding to the error notification is set to the layer 5 having the highest priority, regardless of the gaming state). With such a configuration, it is possible to control the light emission of the light emitter by giving priority to the error notification regardless of the game state.

It is the front view which looked at the pachinko gaming machine from the front. It is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration example of a game control board (main board). It is the block diagram which shows the circuit constitution example of the production control baseplate and the production control relay baseplate. It is the block diagram which shows the constitution example of the production control microcomputer. It is the block diagram which shows the example of the mechanism which outputs the picture signal in the production control baseplate. It is a figure which shows the structural example of a video signal output setting register. It is a block diagram which shows the modification when it equips with several image display devices. It is a figure which shows the structural example of a drive control board, and the structural example of the light emission body control board for performing lighting control of the board side LED. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the light emission body control substrate for performing lighting control of top frame LED9a, left frame LED9b, and right frame LED9c. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of a serial-parallel conversion circuit. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram for explaining each input / output terminal provided in the serial-parallel conversion circuit shown in FIG. 10. It is an explanatory view for explaining slew rate setting of a through output of a clock signal and data. It is an explanatory view for explaining a control data format. It is an explanatory view for explaining an output timing of a signal from each drive output terminal in the serial-parallel conversion circuit. It is an explanatory view for explaining a connection example of a serial-parallel conversion circuit. It is an explanatory view for explaining a connection example of a serial-parallel conversion circuit. It is an explanatory view for explaining a connection example of a serial-parallel conversion circuit. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the connection example of the serial-parallel conversion circuit in a modification. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the connection example of the serial-parallel conversion circuit in a modification. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the connection example of the serial-parallel conversion circuit in a modification. It is the flowchart which shows one example of the timer interruption processing for game control. It is a flow chart which shows an example of special design process processing. It is the flowchart which shows one example of production control main processing. It is a flow chart which shows temperature restriction processing. It is a flow chart which shows temperature limit restoration processing. It is a flow chart which shows a concrete example of command analysis processing. It is a flow chart which shows a concrete example of command analysis processing. It is the flowchart which shows one example of production control process treatment. It is the flowchart which shows production design fluctuation start processing. It is a flowchart which shows a small symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows a decorative pattern process process. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the display mode of the effect display apparatus at the time of shifting to the restriction mode based on abnormal temperature. It is a figure which shows an example of a control data area. It is a time chart which shows an LED control example. It is a time chart which shows an LED control example. It is the flowchart which shows one example of production execution setting processing. It is the flowchart which shows one example of production execution setting processing. It is a flow chart which shows an example of memory inspection processing under control. It is the flowchart which shows one example of the production data transfer during control. It is a flow chart which shows an example of memory inspection processing. It is the figure which shows the constitution example of the storage territory in the production data memory. It is a figure which shows the structural example etc. of moving image data. It is a sequence diagram showing an example of moving image reproduction control. It is a sequence diagram showing an example of moving image reproduction control. It is a sequence diagram showing an example of moving image reproduction control. It is a sequence diagram showing an example of a start winning notification control. It is a sequence diagram showing an example of a start winning notification control. It is the flowchart which shows the deformation example of production control main processing.

[Structure of pachinko machine]
A mode for carrying out the gaming machine according to the present invention will be described below. First, the overall configuration of a pachinko gaming machine 1, which is an example of a gaming machine, will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine as viewed from the front. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a circuit configuration on the main board. In the following, the front side of FIG. 1 is the front (front, front) side of the pachinko gaming machine 1, the back side is the rear (rear) side, and the vertical and horizontal directions when the pachinko gaming machine 1 is viewed from the front side. This will be explained as a standard. The front surface of the pachinko gaming machine 1 in the present embodiment is a facing surface that faces a player who plays a game on the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine in the present embodiment, showing a layout of main members. A pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter sometimes abbreviated as gaming machine) 1 is roughly classified into a gaming board (gauge board) 2 that constitutes a gaming board surface, and a gaming machine frame (frame) that supports and fixes the gaming board 2. 3 and 3. The game board 2 is provided with a game area 10 which is surrounded by the guide rails 2b and which is substantially circular in a front view. In this game area 10, a game ball as a game medium is shot from a hitting ball launching device (not shown) and is driven in. Further, a glass door frame 50 having a glass window 50a is rotatably provided on the left side of the gaming machine frame 3, and the game area 10 can be opened and closed by the glass door frame 50. When the glass door frame 50 is closed, the game area 10 can be seen through the glass window 50a.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the game board 2 is made of a synthetic resin material having a light-transmitting property such as an acrylic resin, a polycarbonate resin, and a methacryl resin in a substantially square shape when viewed from the front, and an obstacle nail ( It is mainly configured by a board face plate (not shown) provided with a guide rail 2b and the like, and a spacer member (not shown) integrally attached to the back side of the board face plate. In addition, the game board 2 is configured by a non-translucent member such as a veneer plate in a substantially rectangular shape when viewed from the front, and is a board plate provided with obstacle nails (not shown) and guide rails 2b on the game board surface which is the front surface. It may be configured as.

  At a predetermined position of the game board 2 (the lower right position of the game area 10 in the example shown in FIG. 1), a first special symbol display device 4A and a second special symbol display device 4B are provided. The first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B are each composed of, for example, 7-segment or dot-matrix LED (light emitting diode), etc., and are identified in a special symbol game that is an example of a variable display game. Special symbols (also referred to as "special symbols") that are possible plural types of identification information (special identification information) are variably displayed (also referred to as variable display or variable display). For example, the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B each variably display a plurality of types of special symbols composed of numbers indicating "0" to "9" and symbols indicating "-". To do. The special symbols displayed on the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B are limited to those composed of numbers indicating "0" to "9", symbols indicating "-", and the like. However, for example, a plurality of types of lighting patterns with different combinations of what is turned on and what is turned off in the 7-segment LED may be set in advance as a plurality of types of special symbols.

  In the following, the special symbol that is variably displayed on the first special symbol display device 4A is also referred to as "first special symbol" or "first special symbol", and the special symbol that is variably displayed on the second special symbol display device 4B is " It is also called "second special symbol" or "second special symbol".

  In the vicinity of the center of the game area 10 on the game board 2, an effect display device 5 as display means is provided. The effect display device 5 is composed of, for example, an LCD (liquid crystal display device) or the like, and forms a display area for displaying various effect images. In the display area of the effect display device 5, corresponding to the variable display of the first special symbol by the first special symbol indicator 4A and the variable display of the second special symbol by the second special symbol indicator 4B in the special symbol game, respectively. In the effect symbol display area, which is a plurality of variable display portions such as three, effect symbols, which are a plurality of types of identification information (decorative identification information) capable of identifying each, are variably displayed. The variable display of the effect design is also included in the variable display game.

  As an example, in the display area of the effect display device 5, "left", "middle", and "right" effect symbol display areas 5L, 5C, 5R are arranged. When the fixed special symbol is stopped and displayed as the variable display result in the special figure game, in the effect display device 5 in each of the effect symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R of "left", "middle", and "right" The fixed effect design (final stop design) that is the variable display result of the design is stopped and displayed.

  Thus, in the display area of the effect display device 5, the special drawing game using the first special drawing on the first special symbol display device 4A, or the special special game using the second special drawing on the second special symbol display device 4B. In synchronism with the figure game, a plurality of types of distinguishable effect symbols are displayed in a variable manner, and a fixed effect symbol that is a variable display result is derived and displayed (or simply referred to as “derivation”). Note that, for example, deriving and displaying various display symbols such as special symbols and effect symbols is to end the variable display by performing stop display (also called complete stop display or final stop display) of identification information such as effect symbols. .

  "Left", "middle", "right" in each effect symbol display area 5L, 5C, 5R, the effect symbols that are variably displayed include, for example, eight types of symbols (alphanumeric characters "1" to "8" or Chinese characters). It may be a number, an alphabetic character, eight character images related to a predetermined motif, a combination of numbers, characters or symbols and a character image. The character image may be, for example, a person, an animal, an object other than these, or , A symbol such as a character, or a decorative image showing any other figure). A corresponding design number is attached to each of the effect symbols. For example, the symbol numbers “1” to “8” are attached to the alphanumeric characters indicating “1” to “8”, respectively. Note that the effect symbols are not limited to eight types, and may be of any type (eg, seven types or nine types) as long as an appropriate number of combinations such as a big hit combination and a lost combination can be configured.

  In addition, in this embodiment, in the upper left corner of the display screen of the effect display device 5, small symbols “left”, “middle”, and “right” in a mode in which the effect symbols are reduced (in this example, “1”). The variable display of symbols "~ 8") is also executed.

  Above the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B, the first reserved display device 25A and the second reserved display device 25B are provided. On each of the first hold indicator 25A and the second hold indicator 25B, the hold storage number (special figure hold storage number) as the number of the hold storage information of the variable display corresponding to the special figure game is displayed so that it can be specified. Memory display is performed.

  Here, in order to suspend the variable display corresponding to the special figure game, the game ball passes through the first start winning opening formed by the normal winning ball device 6A and the second starting winning opening formed by the normal variable winning ball device 6B. It is generated based on the winning prize for starting by entering. That is, the starting condition (also referred to as “execution condition”) for executing the variable display game such as the special figure game and the variable display of the effect symbol is established, but the variable display game based on the previously established start condition is being executed. If the start condition that allows the start of the variable display game is not satisfied due to the fact that the pachinko gaming machine 1 is controlled to the big hit game state, etc., the variable display corresponding to the established start condition is suspended. Done.

  In the first special symbol display 4A, it is possible to specify the number of holding storage information (first holding storage information) generated based on the first starting winning due to the game ball passing (entering) the first starting winning opening. The number of the first special figure reservation storages is displayed by the lighting of the LED (the number of lighting). In the second hold indicator 25B, the number of hold storage information (second hold storage information) generated based on the second start winning due to the game ball passing (entering) the second start winning opening can be specified. 2 The number of special figure reservation memory is displayed by the lighting of the LED (the number of lighting).

  A first hold display area 5D and a second hold display area 5U are set at two places on the lower left and right of the display area of the effect display device 5. In the first reserved display area 5D, the first special figure reserved memory number capable of specifying the number of the first reserved memory information generated based on the first start winning is displayed by the number of images of the spherical (circular) reserved image H. To be done. In the second hold display area 5U, the second special figure hold storage number capable of specifying the number of the second hold storage information generated based on the second start winning is displayed by the number of images of the hold image H of the sphere (circle). To be done.

  In the first hold display area 5D, the hold image H is displayed in a manner that the hold image increases on the left side every time the first hold storage information occurs, and the variable display based on the first hold storage information is executed. Each time, the reserved image H at the right end corresponding to the first reserved storage information is erased, and the remaining reserved images H are shifted one by one to the right. In the second hold display area 5U, the hold image is displayed in such a manner that the hold image H increases on the right side every time the second hold storage information is generated, and the variable display based on the second hold storage information is executed. Each time, the reserved image H at the left end portion corresponding to the second reserved storage information is erased, and the remaining reserved images are shifted leftward by one.

  The variable corresponding display corresponding to the variable display is displayed during execution of the variable display corresponding to the erased (moved or shifted) suspended display from each of the first suspended display area 5D and the second suspended display area 5U. An active display area AHA for displaying an image (hereinafter referred to as an active image or active display) AH is formed in the center of the reserved display area. In the active display area AHA, the hold image H displayed in the first hold display area 5D or the second hold display area 5U has been displayed by that time, for example, moved (shifted) to the active display area. The active image AH is displayed in such a manner that it can be specified that it corresponds to the reserved image. In addition, the active display area AHA may be arranged at any position in the display area of the effect display device 5.

  It should be noted that in the hold display area, the hold storage information may be displayed in a display mode in which the first hold display area 5D and the second hold display area 5U are summed without distinction. With such a total pending storage display, it is possible to easily grasp the total number of satisfied execution conditions in which the variable display start condition is not satisfied.

  With respect to the hold image H displayed in each of the first hold display area 5D and the second hold display area 5U, a hold display mode for changing the hold display mode before the variable display of the target hold storage information is executed. A change effect may be executed. In the hold display mode change effect, the display mode such as the color or shape of the hold image H is changed.

  For example, the color of the hold image H can be changed to blue, green, and red. When the hold display mode change effect is determined to be executed at a predetermined ratio, and when the variable display result based on the hold storage information of the effect target is the big hit display result, the change display ratio after blue is changed to a ratio of blue <green <red. When the color of the reserved image H is selected and determined, and when the variable display result is a display error result, the color of the retained image H after the change is selected and determined at a ratio of red <green <blue. As a result, the expectation degree for the big hit based on the color of the changed hold image H when the hold display mode change effect is executed is set to be a ratio of blue <green <red. Therefore, when the hold display mode change effect is executed, it is possible to increase the player's expectation for the big hit based on the color of the changed hold image.

  Similarly to the hold image H, the display form change effect is executed for the active image AH, and the display form such as the color or the shape of the hold image H is changed. With regard to the display mode change effect of such an active display as well, the display mode such as the changed color or shape is determined in a mode in which the degree of expectation to the big hit can be specified at the same selection ratio as the hold display mode change effect. It In addition, for the active display, the display mode change effect may not be executed.

  Below the effect display device 5, a normal winning ball device 6A and a normal variable winning ball device 6B are provided. The normal winning ball device 6A forms a first starting winning opening as a starting area (first starting area) which is always kept in a constant open state by a predetermined ball receiving member, for example. The ordinary variable winning ball device 6B is an electric motor having a pair of movable wing pieces that are changed to a normal open state in which the vertical position is set and an enlarged open state in which the tilted position is set by a solenoid 81 for a normal electric accessory shown in FIG. A tulip-shaped accessory (ordinary electric accessory) is provided to form a second starting winning opening as a starting area (second starting area).

  As an example, in the normal variable winning ball device 6B, when the solenoid 81 for the normal electric accessory is in the off state, the movable wing piece is in the vertical position, so that the game ball passes through (enters) the second starting winning hole. It will be difficult to open normally. On the other hand, in the normal variable winning ball device 6B, the game ball passes through the second starting winning port by the tilting control in which the movable wing piece is in the tilting position when the solenoid 81 for the normal electric accessory is on. It will be in an enlarged open state that is easy to enter.

  The game ball that has passed (entered) the first starting winning opening formed in the normal winning ball device 6A is detected by the first starting opening switch 22A shown in FIG. 2, for example. The game ball that has passed (entered) the second starting winning opening formed in the normally variable winning ball device 6B is detected by, for example, the second starting opening switch 22B shown in FIG. Based on the fact that the game ball is detected by the first starting opening switch 22A, a predetermined number (for example, 3) of game balls are paid out as a prize ball, and the first special figure reservation storage number is a predetermined upper limit value (for example, " 4 ”) or less, the first start condition is satisfied. Based on the fact that the game ball is detected by the second start opening switch 22B, a predetermined number (for example, 3) of game balls are paid out as a prize ball, and the second special figure reservation storage number is a predetermined upper limit value (for example, " 4 ”) or less, the second start condition is satisfied. The number of prize balls paid out based on the detection of the game ball by the first starting opening switch 22A and the number of prize balls paid out based on the detection of the game ball by the second starting opening switch 22B. May be the same or different in number.

  A special variable winning ball device 7 is provided below the normal winning ball device 6A and the normal variable winning ball device 6B. The special variable winning ball device 7 includes a special winning opening door that is opened and closed by a solenoid 82 for the special winning opening door shown in FIG. 2, and the special area that changes between an open state and a closed state by the special winning opening door. To form a big prize hole.

  As an example, in the special variable winning ball device 7, when the solenoid 82 for the special winning opening door is in the OFF state, the special winning opening door closes the special winning opening, and the game ball passes through (enters) the special winning opening. Disable it. On the other hand, in the special variable winning ball device 7, when the solenoid 82 for the special winning opening door is in the ON state, the special winning opening door opens the special winning opening, and the game ball passes through (enters) the special winning opening. ) Make it easier. In this way, the special winning opening as the specific area changes between an open state in which the game ball easily passes (enters) and is advantageous to the player, and a closed state where the game ball cannot pass (entry) and is disadvantageous to the player. To do. Instead of the closed state in which the game ball cannot pass (enter) the special winning opening, or in addition to the closed state, a partially open state in which the game ball does not easily pass (enter) the special winning opening may be provided.

  The game ball that has passed (entered) the special winning opening is detected by the count switch 23 shown in FIG. 2, for example. Based on the detection of the game balls by the count switch 23, a predetermined number (for example, 15) of game balls are paid out as prize balls. In this way, when the game ball passes (enters) the special winning opening which has been opened in the special variable winning ball device 7, the game ball is opened to another winning opening such as the first starting winning opening or the second starting winning opening. More prize balls are paid out than when they passed (entered). Therefore, when the special winning opening is opened in the special variable winning ball device 7, the game ball can enter the special winning opening, which is the first state advantageous for the player. On the other hand, if the special winning opening is closed in the special variable winning ball device 7, it will be impossible or difficult for the player to get the winning ball by passing (entering) the game ball into the special winning opening, and for the player. It becomes a disadvantageous second state.

  On the left side of the special variable winning ball device 7, there is provided a first decorative symbol display device 5A in which the variable display of the first decorative symbol is performed in synchronization with the variable display of the first special symbol. Further, on the right side of the special variable winning ball device 7, a second decorative symbol display device 5B is provided in which the variable display of the second decorative symbol is performed in synchronization with the variable display of the second special symbol. The first decorative symbol display device 5A and the second decorative symbol display device 5B are each configured by two lamps (or LEDs) arranged above and below, respectively, in synchronization with the variable display of the first special symbol. The two lamps (or LEDs) blink to display the first decorative design and the second decorative design in a variable manner. And, when the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed, these two lamps (or LEDs) are lit up to end the variable display, and when the off symbol is stopped and displayed, these two lamps are displayed. The fluctuation ends when (or the LED) is turned off.

  The mode of variable display of the first decorative design indicator 5A and the second decorative design indicator 5B is not limited to that shown in this embodiment, and, for example, lamps (or LEDs) provided above and below are alternately arranged. The variable display may be performed by repeatedly turning on and off.

  Further, for example, as the first decorative symbol display device 5A and the second decorative symbol display device 5B, like the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B, 7 segment or dot matrix LED (light emitting diode) ) Or the like may be provided.

  A normal symbol display device 20 is provided above the second hold display device 25B. As an example, the normal symbol display device 20 is composed of 7-segment or dot-matrix LEDs and the like like the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B, and a plurality of types of identification information different from the special symbol. The ordinary pattern (also referred to as “general drawing” or “normal drawing”) that is variably displayed (variable display). Such variable display of ordinary symbols is called a regular symbol game (also referred to as "normal symbol game").

  Above the normal symbol display device 20, a universal symbol holding display device 25C is provided. The universal figure hold indicator 25C is configured to include, for example, four LEDs, and displays the number of stored universal figure reserves as the number of effective passing balls that have passed through the passage gate 41.

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

  Speakers 8L and 8R for reproducing and outputting sound effects and the like are provided at upper left and right positions of the gaming machine frame 3, and further, on the outer periphery of the game area 10, a top frame LED 9a provided on the front frame, A left frame LED 9b and a right frame LED 9c are provided. In this embodiment, the top frame LED 9a is provided above the front frame, the left frame LED 9b is provided on the left side of the front frame, and the right frame LED 9c is provided on the right side of the front frame. There is. The game board 2 is also provided with board-side LEDs 9d and 9e. In this embodiment, a board-side LED 9d is provided on the left side of the game board 2, and a board-side LED 9e is provided on the right side of the game board 2. In addition, a decorative LED is arranged around each structure (for example, a normal winning ball device 6A, a normal variable winning ball device 6B, a special variable winning ball device 7, etc.) in the game area 10 of the pachinko gaming machine 1. Good.

  At the lower right position of the gaming machine frame 3, a hit ball operation handle (operation knob) operated by a player or the like to shoot a game ball serving as a game medium toward the game area 10 is provided. For example, the hit ball operation handle adjusts the resilience of the game ball according to the operation amount (rotation amount) by the player or the like. The hit ball operation handle may be provided with a single-shot launch switch for stopping the drive of the launch motor of the hit ball launching device (not shown) and a touch ring (touch sensor).

  At a predetermined position of the gaming machine frame 3 below the gaming area 10, a gaming ball paid out as a prize ball or a gaming ball lent out by a predetermined ball lending machine can be supplied to a launching device (not shown). An upper plate (hit ball supply plate) for holding (storing) is provided. At the lower part of the gaming machine frame 3, a lower plate is provided for holding (storing) surplus balls overflowing from the upper plate so that they can be discharged to the outside of the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  A stick controller 31A that can be held by a player and tilted is attached to a member forming the lower plate, for example, at a predetermined position on the front side on the upper surface of the lower plate body (for example, a central portion of the lower plate). There is. The stick controller 31A includes an operation rod held by the player, and a trigger button is provided at a predetermined position of the operation rod (for example, a position where the index finger of the operating hand is applied when the player holds the operation rod). There is.

  A controller sensor unit 35A for detecting a tilting operation with respect to the operating rod may be provided inside the main body of the lower plate below the stick controller 31A. For example, the controller sensor unit includes two transmissive photosensors (parallel sensors) arranged in parallel to the board surface of the game board 2 on the left side of the center position of the operation rod when viewed from the side of the player who faces the pachinko gaming machine 1. Pair) and two transmissive photosensors (vertical sensor pairs) arranged perpendicularly to the board surface of the game board 2 on the right side of the center position of the operating rod viewed from the player side The photo sensor may be included.

  As a member forming the upper plate, for example, a push button 31B that allows a player to perform a predetermined instruction operation by a pressing operation or the like at a predetermined position on the front side of the upper plate body (for example, above the stick controller 31A). It is provided. The push button 31B may be configured to be able to detect the pressing operation from the player mechanically, electrically, or electromagnetically. A push sensor 35B for detecting a pressing operation by the player performed on the push button 31B may be provided inside the main body of the upper plate at the installation position of the push button 31B.

  Next, the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be schematically described. In the pachinko gaming machine 1, such as that the game ball that has passed through the passage gate 41 provided in the game area 10 is detected by the gate switch 21 shown in FIG. 2, the ordinary symbol display 20 performs the variable display of the ordinary symbol. After the universal figure start condition for the is satisfied, for example, the previous universal figure game is finished, based on that the universal figure start condition for starting the variable display of the ordinary symbol is satisfied, the ordinary symbol display device The public figure game by 20 is started.

  In this public figure game, after the fluctuation of the normal symbol is started, when the predetermined time which is the general figure fluctuation time elapses, the fixed normal symbol which is the variable display result of the normal symbol is stopped (displayed). At this time, if a specific ordinary symbol (a symbol per ordinary symbol) such as a number indicating “7” is stopped and displayed as the fixed ordinary symbol, the variation display result of the ordinary symbol becomes “a symbol per ordinary symbol”. On the other hand, as a fixed ordinary symbol, for example, if an ordinary symbol other than the ordinary symbol, such as a number or a symbol other than the number indicating “7”, is stopped and displayed, the variable display result of the ordinary symbol is “universal symbol loss”. Become. In response to the fact that the variation display result of the ordinary symbol is "universal symbol hit", the expansion opening control (tilt control) is performed in which the movable wing piece of the electric tulip constituting the normally variable winning ball device 6B is in the tilt position. When a predetermined time elapses, the normal opening control for returning to the vertical position is performed.

  After the first starting condition is satisfied, for example, when the game ball that has passed through (entered) the first starting winning opening formed in the normal winning ball device 6A is detected by the first starting opening switch 22A shown in FIG. The special figure game by the first special symbol display device 4A is started based on that the first start condition is satisfied because the previous special figure game or the big hit game state is finished. In addition, the second starting condition is satisfied because the game ball that has passed through (entered) the second starting winning opening formed in the normally variable winning ball device 6B is detected by the second starting opening switch 22B shown in FIG. After that, the special figure game by the second special symbol display device 4B is started based on the fact that the second start condition is satisfied, for example, by ending the previous special figure game or the big hit game state.

  In the special symbol game by the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B, after starting the variable display of the special symbol, when the variable display time as the special symbol variation time has elapsed, the variable display of the special symbol The finalized special symbol (result of special symbol display) that results is derived and displayed. At this time, if a specific special symbol (big hit symbol) is stopped and displayed as the fixed special symbol, it becomes a "big hit" as the specific display result, and if a special symbol different from the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed as the fixed special symbol, " It becomes "miss". It should be noted that a predetermined special symbol (small hit symbol) different from the big hit symbol may be stopped and displayed, and when the predetermined special symbol (small hit symbol) as the result of the predetermined display is stopped and displayed. , It is sufficient to control the small hitting game state as a special game state different from the big hitting game state.

  After the variable display result in the special figure game becomes a "big hit", the big hit game state (advantageous state) as a specific game state in which a round advantageous to the player (also called "round game") is executed a predetermined number of times Controlled.

  In the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment, as an example, special symbols showing numbers “3”, “5”, and “7” are big hit symbols, and special symbols showing “−” symbols are lost symbols. . When the small hit symbol is stopped and displayed, for example, a special symbol indicating the number "2" may be used as the small hit symbol. It should be noted that each symbol such as a big hit symbol and a lost symbol in the special symbol game by the first special symbol display device 4A may be a special symbol different from each symbol in the special symbol game by the second special symbol display device 4B. However, the special symbol common to both special symbol games may be a big hit symbol or a lost symbol.

  After the jackpot design showing the numbers "3", "5", and "7" as the fixed special symbols in the special figure game is stopped and displayed as "big hit" as the specific display result, in the jackpot gaming state, the special variable During the period until the special winning opening door of the winning ball device 7 elapses a predetermined upper limit time (for example, 29 seconds or 0.1 seconds) or until a predetermined number (for example, 9) winning balls are generated. , Open the special winning opening. As a result, a round in which the special variable winning ball device 7 is brought into the first state (open state), which is advantageous for the player, is executed.

  The special winning opening ball device, by opening the special winning opening during the execution of the round, receives the game ball falling on the surface of the game board 2 and then closing the special winning opening. 7 is changed to a second state (closed state), which is disadvantageous to the player, and one round is ended. The round which is the opening cycle of the special winning opening can be repeatedly executed until the number of times of execution reaches a predetermined upper limit number (for example, “16”). Even before the number of times the round has been executed reaches the upper limit, the execution of the round may be ended when a predetermined condition is satisfied (for example, a game ball has not won in the special winning opening). .

  Among the rounds in the big hit game state, the round in which the upper limit time for setting the special variable winning ball device 7 to the first state (open state) advantageous to the player is a relatively long time (for example, 29 seconds) is normally opened. Also called a round. On the other hand, a round in which the upper limit time for setting the special variable winning ball device 7 to the first state (open state) is a relatively short time (for example, 0.1 seconds) is also called a short-term open round.

  In the case of displaying the small hit symbol (for example, the number "2"), if these small hit symbols are derived as fixed special symbols, if they are controlled to the small hit game state as the special game state. good. Specifically, in the small hitting game state, for example, as in the above-mentioned short-term open big hitting state in which a ball (prize ball) is practically not obtained, the special winning a prize ball device 7 has a big winning opening which is advantageous to the player. It suffices to execute the variable winning operation for changing the first state (open state).

  In the "left", "middle", and "right" effect symbol display areas 5L, 5C, 5R provided in the effect display device 5, a special figure game using the first special figure on the first special symbol display device 4A and In the special figure game using the second special figure on the second special symbol display device 4B, corresponding to the start of any special figure game, the variable display of the effect symbols is started. Then, from the start of the variable display of the effect symbol until the end of the variable display by the stop display of the fixed effect symbol in each of the "left", "middle" and "right" effect symbol display areas 5L, 5C, 5R. Then, the variable display state of the effect design may be a predetermined reach state.

  Here, with the reach state, when the production design which is stopped and displayed in the display area of the production display device 5 constitutes a part of the big hit combination, the production design which is not yet stopped and displayed (“reach variation design”) (Also referred to as) is a display state in which the fluctuation continues, or a display state in which all or a part of the effect symbols fluctuate in synchronization while forming all or a part of the big hit combination. Specifically, in a part (for example, "left" and "right" effect symbol display areas 5L, 5R, etc.) of the "left", "middle", "right" effect symbol display areas 5L, 5C, 5R, in advance. The remaining effect symbol display area (for example, the effect of "medium") that is not yet stopped and displayed when the effect symbol (for example, the effect symbol indicating the alphanumeric character "7") that constitutes the determined jackpot combination is stopped and displayed. In the design display area 5C, etc., the display state in which the effect symbols are changing, or in the effect symbol display areas 5L, 5C, 5R of “left”, “middle”, and “right”, the effect symbol is a big hit It is a display state in which all or a part of the combination is configured and is changing in synchronization.

  Further, in response to the reach state, the fluctuation speed of the effect design is reduced, or a character image (effect image imitating a person or the like) different from the effect design is displayed in the display area of the effect display device 5. By changing the display mode of the background image, playing back and displaying a moving image different from the effect symbol, or changing the variation mode of the effect symbol, a different effect operation from before reaching the reach state is executed. May be done. The production operations such as the display of the character image and the display mode of the background image, the reproduction display of the moving image, and the change of the variation mode of the production design are referred to as reach production display (or simply reach production). In the reach effect, not only the display operation in the effect display device 5, but also the sound output operation by the speakers 8L and 8R, and the light emitting elements such as the top frame LED 9a, the left frame LED 9b, the right frame LED 9c, and the board side LEDs 9d and 9e. The lighting operation (flashing operation), the operation of the movable member 321 and the like may be included in an operation mode different from the operation mode before the reach state.

  As the effect operation in the reach effect, a plurality of kinds of effect patterns (also referred to as “reach patterns”) having different operation modes (reach modes) may be prepared in advance. And, the possibility of becoming a "big hit" (also called "reliability", "big hit reliability", "expectation", or "big hit expectation" ") is different in each reach mode. That is, it is possible to change the possibility that the variable display result is a “big hit” depending on which of a plurality of types of reach effects is executed.

  As a fixed special symbol in the special symbol game, when the special symbol that is a lost symbol is stopped (derived), the variable display state of the effect symbol is not changed to the reach state after the variable display of the effect symbol is started. In some cases, a fixed effect symbol that is a predetermined non-reach combination may be stopped and displayed. Such a variable display mode of effect symbols is referred to as a “non-reach” (also referred to as “normal loss”) variable display mode when the variable display result is “miss”.

  As a fixed special symbol in the special symbol game, when a special symbol that is a lost symbol is stopped (derived), the variable display state of the effect symbol is changed to the reach state after the variable display of the effect symbol is started. Correspondingly, after the reach effect is executed, or the reach effect is not executed, the fixed effect symbol that is the predetermined reach-miss combination may be stopped and displayed. The variation display result of such effect symbols is referred to as a variation display mode of “reach” (also referred to as “reach loss”) when the variation display result is “miss”.

  As a confirmed special symbol in the special symbol game, when the big hit symbol showing the number “3” among the special symbols which is the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed, it corresponds to the variation display state of the effect symbol being the reach state. Then, after the predetermined reach effect is executed, the fixed effect symbol which is a predetermined normal big hit combination (also referred to as "non-probable variation big hit combination") among a plurality of kinds of big hit combinations is stopped and displayed. The reach effect may not be executed, and the uncertain variation big hit combination may be stopped and displayed as the fixed effect symbol.

  The fixed effect symbols that are usually the jackpot combination (non-probable variation jackpot combination) are variably displayed in the effect symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R of "left", "middle", and "right" in the effect display device 5, for example. Of the effect symbols with the symbol numbers “1” to “8”, any one of the effect symbols with the symbol numbers even “2”, “4”, “6”, “8” is “left”, “ It suffices as long as it is stopped and displayed in line on a predetermined effective line in each of the effect symbol display areas 5L, 5C and 5R of "middle" and "right". The effect symbols having the even number “2”, “4”, “6”, and “8” that make up the normal jackpot combination are called normal symbols (also referred to as “non-probability variation symbols”).

  Corresponding to the fact that the fixed special symbol in the special figure game becomes the normal big hit symbol, after the predetermined reach effect is executed, the fixed effect symbol of the normal big hit combination (non-probable variation big hit combination) is displayed as a stop. The variable display mode is referred to as a "non-probable change" (also called "normal big hit") variable display mode (also called "big hit type") when the variable display result is "big hit". It should be noted that the normal big hit combination (uncertain variation big hit combination) may be stopped and displayed as the finalized effect design without executing the reach effect. Based on the fact that the variation display result is "big hit" in the "non-probable change" big hit type, the normal open big hit state is controlled, and after the end, time shortening control (time saving control) is performed. By performing the time saving control, the variable display time (special figure variation time) of the special symbol in the special figure game is shortened as compared with the normal state. In addition, in the time saving control, as will be described later, the winning frequency of the normal symbol is increased, and the winning frequency to the normal variable winning ball device 6B is increased, that is, so-called Den Chu support is implemented. Here, the normal state is a normal game state different from a specific game state such as a big hit game state, and an initial setting state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 (for example, when the system is reset, after power-on). The same control as in the state where the initialization process is executed) is performed. In the time saving control, one of a condition that the special figure game is executed a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times) after the jackpot gaming state is ended and that the variable display result is “big hit” is established first. Sometimes, you can finish.

  As a confirmed special symbol in the special symbol game, if the probability variation big hit symbol such as a special symbol indicating the numbers “5” and “7” among the special symbols to be the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed, the variable display state of the effect symbol Corresponding to the reach state, after the reach effect similar to the case where the variation display mode of the effect design is "normal" is executed, among a plurality of types of jackpot combinations, a predetermined probability variation jackpot combination There is a case where the finalized effect design is stopped and displayed. The reach effect may not be executed, and the probability variation big hit combination may be stopped and displayed as the finalized effect design. The definitive effect symbol which is the probability variation big hit combination, for example, the symbol number that is variably displayed in each of the effect symbol display areas 5L, 5C, 5R of "left", "middle" and "right" in the effect display device 5 is "1". ~ Of the effect symbols of "8", the effect symbols having the symbol number "5" or "7" are in the effect symbol display areas 5L, 5C, 5R of "left", "middle", and "right". It is only necessary that they are stopped and displayed on a predetermined effective line. The effect symbols having the symbol numbers "5" and "7" that constitute the probability variation big hit combination are referred to as probability variation symbols. When the probability variation big hit symbol is stopped and displayed as the fixed special symbol in the special drawing game, the fixed effect symbol which is usually the big hit combination may be stopped and displayed as the variable display result of the effect symbol.

  Regardless of whether the fixed effect design is a normal big hit combination or a probability variation big hit combination, the variation display mode in which the probability variation big hit symbol is stopped and displayed as the fixed special symbol in the special figure game is a variation display result of "big hit". In this case, it is referred to as a variation display mode of "probability change" (also referred to as "big hit type"). In the present embodiment, among the jackpot types of “probable change”, the jackpot is normally opened on the basis of the fact that the jackpot is the jackpot in the variable display results of “5” and “7” as the fixed special symbols. After the control, the probability variation control (probability variation control) is performed together with the time saving control.

  By performing these probability variation controls, the probability that the variation display result (special figure display result) is a "big hit" in each special figure game is improved to be higher than in the normal state. The probability variation control may be ended when the condition that the variable display result becomes “big hit” and the big hit game state is controlled again after the big hit game state ends. Like the time saving control, when the special figure game is executed a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times the same as the time saving number or 90 times different from the time saving number) after the jackpot gaming state is ended, the probability variation control is ended. May be. In addition, even if the probability variation control is ended when the "probability variation falling" determination is made to end the probability variation control in the probability variation falling lottery that is executed each time the special figure game is started after the jackpot gaming state has ended. Good.

  When the time saving control is performed, the control for making the variation time of the ordinary symbol in the ordinary figure game by the ordinary symbol display 20 (the ordinary figure variation time) shorter than that in the normal state, or the variation of the ordinary symbol in each ordinary figure game Control for improving the probability that the display result is "Public hit" compared to that in the normal state, tilt control of the movable wing piece in the normal variable winning ball device 6B based on that the variation display result is "Public hit" In order to make it easier for the game ball to pass (enter) through the second start winning port, such as control for making the tilting control time longer than that in the normal state and control for increasing the number of times of tilting as compared with that in the normal state By increasing the possibility that the starting condition will be satisfied, control that is advantageous to the player (electricity chewing support control) is performed. In this way, the control that makes it easier for the player to enter the game ball into the second start winning port with the time saving control is advantageous for the player, and is also referred to as high opening control. As the high opening control, any one of these controls may be performed, or a plurality of controls may be combined and performed.

  By performing the high opening control, the frequency of the second start winning opening being in the enlarged opening state is increased as compared with the case where the high opening control is not performed. As a result, the second start condition for executing the special figure game using the second special figure on the second special symbol display 4B is easily established, and the special figure game can be executed frequently. Moreover, the time until the variable display result becomes a "big hit" is shortened. The period during which the high opening control can be executed is also referred to as a high opening control period, and this period may be the same as the period during which the time saving control is performed.

  The gaming state in which both the time saving control and the high opening control are performed is also called a time saving state or a high base state. The gaming state in which the probability variation control is performed is also referred to as a probability variation state or a highly accurate state. The gaming state in which the time variation control and the high opening control are performed together with the probability variation control is also referred to as a highly accurate high base state. Although not set as a controlled game state in the present embodiment, a probability variation state in which only probability variation control is performed and time saving control or high opening control is not performed is also referred to as a highly accurate low base state. . In addition, only the gaming state in which the time reduction control and the high opening control are performed together with the probability variation control may be referred to as a "probability variation state" in particular, and may be referred to as a time variation with probability reduction state in order to distinguish it from the highly accurate low base state. On the other hand, the probability variation state in which only the probability variation control is performed and the time saving control or the high opening control is not performed (high-accuracy low base state) is sometimes referred to as the probability variation state without time saving in order to distinguish it from the high-accuracy high base state. The time saving state in which the time saving control or the high opening control is performed without performing the probability variation control is also referred to as a low accuracy high base state. The normal state in which neither the probability variation control, the time saving control, nor the high opening control is performed is also referred to as a low accurate low base state. When at least one of time saving control and probability variation control is performed in a game state other than the normal state, the special figure game can be frequently executed, and the probability that the variable display result in each special figure game is a "big hit" As a result, the player is in an advantageous state. A game state that is advantageous to the player and different from the jackpot game state is also called a special game state.

  In addition, in the case of displaying the small hit symbol in a stopped state, after controlling the small hit game state described above, the game state is not changed, and the variation display result becomes the "small hit" before the game state. It should be controlled continuously.

  The pachinko gaming machine 1 is equipped with various control boards such as a main board 11 and an effect control board 12 as shown in FIG. Further, in the pachinko gaming machine 1, a relay board for performance control 16A for relaying various control signals transmitted between the main board 11, the performance control board 12, and each performance means, a drive control board 16B, and The light emitter control boards 16C to 16F and the like are also mounted. In addition, various boards such as a payout control board, an information terminal board, a launch control board, and an interface board are arranged on the back surface of the game board 2 or the like in the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  The main board 11 is a control board on the main side, and is equipped with various circuits for controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1. The main board 11 is mainly directed to a sub-side control board including a random number setting function used in a special drawing game, a function of inputting a signal from a switch or the like arranged at a predetermined position, and an effect control board 12 or the like. It has a function of outputting a control command as an example of the command information as a control signal and transmitting it, a function of outputting various information to a hall management computer, and the like. In addition, the main board 11 performs lighting / extinguishing control of each LED (for example, segment LED) forming the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B, and the first special symbol or the second special symbol. The variable display of a predetermined display symbol, such as controlling the variable display of the normal symbol display 20 and controlling the variable display of the normal symbol by the normal symbol display 20 by turning on / off / coloring control of the normal symbol display 20. It also has a control function.

  The main board 11 includes, for example, a game control microcomputer 100, a switch circuit 110 that captures detection signals from various switches for detecting a game ball and transmits the detection signals to the game control microcomputer 100, and the game control microcomputer 100. A solenoid circuit 111 or the like for transmitting a solenoid drive signal to the solenoids 81 and 82 is mounted.

  The production control board 12 is a sub-side control board independent of the main board 11, receives the control signal transmitted from the main board 11 via the production control relay board 16A, and produces the production control relay board 16A. Via the effect display device 5, the first decorative pattern display device 5A, the second decorative pattern display device 5B, the speakers 8L, 8R, the top frame LED 9a, the left frame LED 9b, the right frame LED 9c, the panel side LEDs 9d, 9e, the movable portion 302 Various circuits for controlling the production operation by the production electric parts such as the movable member 321 are mounted. That is, the effect control board 12, the display operation in the effect display device 5 and all or part of the sound output operation from the speakers 8L and 8R, the top frame LED 9a, the left frame LED 9b, and the right frame provided on the game frame side. LED 9c, all or a part of the lighting / extinguishing operation of the board side LEDs 9d, 9e provided on the game board 2 side, all or a part of the operation of the movable portion 302 and the movable member 321, and a predetermined electric component for performance. It has a function of determining the control content for executing the effect operation. Further, the effect control board 12 is connected to the effect control microcomputer 120A and a cooling fan 142 for cooling each control circuit via the effect control relay board 16A.

  To the effect control board 12, wiring for transmitting a video signal to the effect display device 5 via the effect control relay board 16A, and to the first decorative symbol display device 5A and the second decorative symbol display device 5B. Wiring for transmitting a lighting signal, a wiring for transmitting an audio signal (sound effect signal) to the audio control board 13, and the like are connected. Wirings for transmitting various signals are also connected to the drive control board 16B, the light emitter control board 16C, and the light emitter control board 16D via the effect control relay board 16A.

  The information signal transmitted to the drive control board 16B is a drive control signal indicating a command or control data for operating the movable portion 302 or the movable member 321 by driving the first effect motor 303 and the second effect motor 330. It only needs to be included.

  The information signal transmitted to the light emitter control board 16C may include a lighting signal indicating light emission data for lighting a plurality of light emitters provided as the board-side LEDs 9d and 9e.

  If the information signal transmitted to the light emitter control board 16D includes a lighting signal indicating light emission data for lighting a plurality of light emitters provided as left frame LEDs 9b on the left side of the gaming machine frame 3, Good. The information signal transmitted to the light emitter control board 16E includes a lighting signal indicating light emission data for lighting a plurality of light emitters provided as the top frame LED 9a above the gaming machine frame 3. Good. The information signal transmitted to the light emitter control board 16F includes a lighting signal indicating light emission data for lighting a plurality of light emitters provided as right frame LEDs 9c on the right side of the gaming machine frame 3. Just go.

  In addition, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, the information signal transmitted to the light emitter control board 16D is transmitted from the effect control microcomputer 120A mounted on the effect control board 12 only to the effect control relay board 16A. Is relayed and transmitted. The information signal transmitted to the light emitter control board 16E is transmitted from the effect control microcomputer 120A mounted on the effect control board 12 by relaying the effect control relay board 16A and the light emitter control board 16D. It Further, the information signal transmitted to the light emitter control board 16F is generated from the effect control microcomputer 120A mounted on the effect control board 12 in addition to the effect control relay board 16A, as well as the light emitter control board 16D and the light emitter control board 16E. Is relayed and transmitted.

  The voice control board 13 is a control board for voice output control that is provided separately from the effect control board 12, and causes the speakers 8L and 8R to output audio based on commands and control data from the effect control board 12. A processing circuit for executing audio signal processing is installed.

  The effect control relay board 16A is installed in a back pack or the like attached to the back surface of the game board 2, and relays various signals transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 or from the effect control board 12 It relays various signals transmitted to the drive control board 16B, the light emitter control board 16C, and the light emitter control board 16D. The back pack may be attached to a central portion on the back surface side of the game board 2, and an opening facing the effect display device 5 may be formed in the center thereof. The back pack may be provided so as to cover the main board 11, the sound control board 13, the drive control board 16B, the light emitter control board 16C, and the like from the rear side. An effect control board box in which the effect control board 12 is housed may be attached to the rear surface side of the back pack.

  Further, on the effect control relay board 16A, character image data or moving image data displayed on the effect display device 5, specifically, a person, a character, a figure or a symbol (including an effect pattern), and a background image. CGROM 141 for pre-storing the above data is installed.

  The CGROM 141 stores in advance various image data (image element data) indicating a display image on the effect display device 5. The image data stored in the CGROM 141 may include still image data and moving image data. As the still image data, sprite image data serving as a plurality of types of image element data corresponding to a plurality of types of effect images, such as a plurality of types of effect patterns variably displayed on the screen of the effect display device 5, may be prepared. . Further, the image data of the character displayed on the screen of the effect display device 5, specifically, the person, the character, the figure or the symbol, and the background image may be stored in the CGROM 141 in advance. In addition to the image data, the CGROM 141 may store some or all of the audio data used for audio output by the speakers 8L and 8R. It is sufficient that the CGROM 141 stores a part or all of the lamp drive data used for the lighting drive for the top frame LED 9a, the left frame LED 9b, the right frame LED 9c, the board side LEDs 9d, 9e and other decorative LEDs. It is sufficient that the CGROM 141 stores a part or all of motor drive data used for rotationally driving the first effect motor 303 and the second effect motor 330. The CGROM 141 may be a non-volatile semiconductor memory that can be electrically erased, written, or rewritten, such as a NAND flash memory. However, the CGROM 141 is used as a read-only storage device in a normal use state in which the progress of the effect in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is controlled. Using the VDP function, the effect control CPU 120 only needs to be able to read data of an integer multiple of 512 bytes from the CGROM 141 when the 512-byte sector is the minimum unit of data transfer. It is only necessary to be writable.

  In this embodiment, the case where the CGROM 141 is composed of a NAND flash memory is shown, but the present invention is not limited to such a mode, and may be composed of another memory element such as a NOR flash memory. .

  The effect control CPU 120 only needs to be able to read the sector data from the CGROM 141 using the VDP function and perform error detection and error correction on the read sector data. In error detection of sector data, the number of error bits and the error bit position are specified. At this time, it is determined whether error correction is possible. If error correction is possible, it is sufficient if error correction is executed and the sector data can be transferred to the VRAM 126 or the like and stored. The CGROM 141 only needs to store the management information of the erase unit block. The erase unit block is an erase unit for erasing the data stored in the CGROM 141. The management information of the erase unit block may include information indicating the number of erase processes executed in each erase unit block. The production control CPU 120 reads the management information of the erase unit block including the sector data, and determines whether to refresh (data refresh) the memory cell of the sector data in the CGROM 141 based on the error bit number information and the like.

  In the CGROM 141, deterioration of the memory cell occurs due to factors such as erasing stored data and read disturb. Read disturb occurs when electrons stored in the floating gate of the memory cell are gradually extracted when the number of times of reading data stored in the CGROM 141 increases, and the threshold voltage of the transistor changes. Even when the read disturb does not occur, the electrons accumulated in the floating gate of the memory cell may be gradually released at an extremely slow speed, and data retention that changes the threshold voltage of the transistor may occur. is there. Deterioration of the memory cell due to read disturb or data retention can be recovered by refreshing the memory cell. Degradation of a memory cell due to erasure of stored data reduces the life expectancy of the memory cell and may not be recoverable even if the memory cell is refreshed. In this case, the block including the unrecoverable memory cell is regarded as a defective block (defective area), and the alternative process of transferring data to a separately provided alternative block (alternative area) is executed.

  The drive control board 16B is a control board for drive control that is provided separately from the effect control board 12, and based on commands and control data from the effect control board 12 controls the rotation and movement of the movable part 302. A driver IC or the like for controlling the movement of the member 321 is mounted. The output signal from the drive control board 16B is transmitted to the first effect motor 303 and the second effect motor 330.

  The light emitter control board 16C is a light emitter output control board that is mounted on the game board 2 and provided separately from the effect control board 12, and is based on commands and control data from the effect control board 12 and the like. Various circuits for driving the light emitters for controlling lighting of a plurality of light emitters provided as the side LEDs 9d and 9e are mounted.

  The luminous body control boards 16D to 16F are control boards for outputting luminous bodies, which are mounted on the gaming machine frame 3 and provided separately from the effect control board 12, such as commands and control data from the effect control board 12. On the basis of the above, various circuits for driving the light emitters for controlling lighting of a plurality of light emitters provided as the top frame LED 9a, the left frame LED 9b, and the right frame LED 9c are mounted.

  In addition to the light emitter control boards 16C to 16F, the pachinko gaming machine 1 is also provided with, for example, a board for controlling lighting of the light emitting unit 321A provided on the movable member 321. Omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 2, wiring for transmitting detection signals from the gate switch 21, the first starting port switch 22A, the second starting port switch 22B, and the count switch 23 is connected to the main substrate 11. The gate switch 21, the first starting opening switch 22A, the second starting opening switch 22B, and the count switch 23 have any configuration capable of detecting a game ball as a game medium, such as what is called a sensor. Anything you have is acceptable. In addition, on the main board 11, the first special symbol display 4A, the second special symbol display 4B, the ordinary symbol display 20, the first hold indicator 25A, the second hold indicator 25B, the general figure hold indicator 25C. Wiring for transmitting a command signal for performing display control such as is connected.

  The control signal transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 is relayed by the effect control relay board 16A. The control command transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 via the effect control relay board 16A is, for example, an effect control command transmitted and received as an electric signal. In the production control command, for example, the variation time of the production design, the type of reach production, and the pseudo-relation (which is originally one variation corresponding to one reservation storage, is changed a plurality of times corresponding to a plurality of reservation storages). It is an effect display that makes it seem that the fluctuations are continuously performed, and for one start winning, it is as if the fluctuation display (variable display) of the symbol was performed multiple times Within the fluctuation time determined for the winning, a fluctuation indicating a fluctuation mode such as the presence or absence of temporary stop and re-changing for a predetermined number of times for all the symbol strings (left, middle, right). A variation pattern designation command indicating a pattern, a display control command used to control the image display operation in the effect display device 5, and a voice control used to control the voice output from the speakers 8L and 8R. Drive control used for controlling the lighting operation of the mand, the top frame LED 9a, the left frame LED 9b, the right frame LED 9c, the board side LEDs 9d, 9e, and the like, and the operation of the movable member 321. Contains commands, etc.

  The game control microcomputer 100 mounted on the main board 11 is, for example, a one-chip microcomputer, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 101 for storing a game control program, fixed data, and the like, and a game control work. A RAM (Random Access Memory) 102 that provides an area, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 103 that executes a game control program to perform a control operation, and a numerical data that indicates a random number value independently of the CPU 103 A random number circuit 104 for performing and an I / O (Input / Output port) 105 are provided.

  As an example, in the game control microcomputer 100, the CPU 103 executes a program read from the ROM 101 to execute processing for controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1. At this time, the CPU 103 reads fixed data from the ROM 101 to read fixed data, the CPU 103 writes variable data to the RAM 102 to temporarily store various data, and the CPU 103 writes various floating data to the RAM 102. The CPU 103 stores various data to be temporarily stored in the RAM 102. A variable data read operation for reading out, a receiving operation in which the CPU 103 receives an input of various signals from the outside of the game control microcomputer 100 via the I / O 105, and a CPU 103 to the outside of the game control microcomputer 100 via the I / O 105. And a transmission operation for outputting various signals are also performed.

  Next, the effect control board 12 and the effect control relay board 16A will be described. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration example of the effect control board 12 and the effect control relay board 16A. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, on the effect control board 12, an effect control microcomputer 120A that performs a control operation according to a program, a RAM 122, and an I / O 125 are mounted.

  A CGROM 141 is mounted on the effect control relay board 16A. A cooling fan 142 is connected to the connector 16Y provided on the effect control relay board 16A. Also, a signal line for transmission of a production control command from the main board 11 is connected to the connector 16Z provided on the production control relay board 16A. In addition, in the connector 16S provided on the effect control relay board 16A, each effect means (in this example, the effect display device 5, the first decorative symbol display device 5A, the second decorative symbol display device 5B, and the LEDs 9a to 9e). , Speakers 8L, 8R, movable portion 302, movable member 321, etc.) and signal lines to the effect control relay board 16A, drive control board 16B, and light emitter control boards 16C to 16D are connected.

  Moreover, the connector 12X provided on the effect control board 12 and the connector 16X provided on the effect control relay board 16A are connected using a cable, so that the effect control board 12 and the effect control relay board 16A are connected. Has been done.

  The manner of mounting the effect control board 12 and the effect control relay board 16A is not limited to that shown in this embodiment, and various modes are conceivable. For example, the effect control board 12 and the effect control relay board 16A may be unitized and housed in one board case. In this case, for example, a cooling fan may be attached to the board case, and the effect control board 12 and the effect control relay board 16A in the board case may be cooled by the cooling fan. Further, the heat radiation fins may be attached to the substrate case, or the heat radiation fins may be attached to the performance control microcomputer 120A.

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the effect control microcomputer 120A. As shown in FIG. 4, the effect control microcomputer 120A is configured by using, for example, a one-chip microcomputer, and the like, and includes a work memory 131, an effect control CPU 120, a host interface 132, a CGROM bus interface 133, and a DRAM. And an interface 134. The effect control CPU 120 has a built-in VDP (Video Display Processor) function, and the effect control microcomputer 120A includes a VRAM (Video RAM) 126, display circuits 127A to 127C, and a graphic decoder 137. ing. Further, the effect control microcomputer 120A includes a ROM 135 and a temperature sensor 136.

  The effect control CPU 120 executes a control process in accordance with an effect control program. The ROM 135 stores a program for effect control, fixed data, and the like, which are read out by the effect control CPU 120 to execute control processing.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the authentication data is stored in the ROM 135 included in the effect control microcomputer 120A, and the authentication data is also stored in the CGROM 141 mounted on the effect control relay board. Then, as will be described later, in this embodiment, when the game machine is powered on, the effect control CPU 120 collates the authentication data read from the CGROM 141 with the authentication data stored in the ROM 135 to perform the authentication process. Then, based on the successful authentication, the process of various effect control is started.

  In this embodiment, the ROM 135 is built in the effect control microcomputer 120A, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, instead of being built in the effect control microcomputer 120A, a ROM may be mounted on the effect control board 12.

  Further, for example, apart from the ROM 135 built in the effect control microcomputer 120A, a ROM for authentication data for storing authentication data is provided on the effect control board 12 outside the effect control microcomputer 120A. It may be configured as follows.

  The temperature sensor 136 has a function of measuring the temperature of the effect control CPU 120 and outputting temperature information.

  In this embodiment, the temperature sensor 136 is incorporated in the effect control microcomputer 120A, but the present invention is not limited to such a mode. For example, instead of being built in the effect control microcomputer 120A, a temperature sensor may be mounted on the effect control board 12. In this case, the temperature of the effect control board 12 may be monitored by the temperature sensor.

  In addition, in this embodiment, the effect control CPU 120 has a VDP function and reads out image data such as various character image data and moving image data from the CGROM 141 on the effect control relay board 16A via the CGROM bus interface 133. The image data is transferred to the VRAM 126 and expanded (drawn) in the frame buffer on the VRAM 126. Further, the graphic decoder 137 has a function of decoding the compressed image data used for drawing into the VRAM. Further, the display circuits 127A to 127C have a function of displaying and outputting the image data expanded in the frame buffer of the VRAM 126 to an external display device (effect display device 5 or the like).

  In this embodiment, the case where the production control CPU 120 is configured to include the VDP function is shown, but the present invention is not limited to such a mode. For example, the effect control microcomputer 120A may be configured to include a VDP as a control circuit, separately from the effect control CPU 120. Further, for example, in addition to the effect control microcomputer 120A, a VDP as a control circuit may be mounted on the effect control board 12. Further, for example, a random number circuit that updates numerical data indicating a random number value independently of the effect control microcomputer 120A may be mounted on the effect control board 12.

  5: is a block diagram which shows the example of the mechanism which outputs a video signal in the production | generation control board 12. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 5, the effect control microcomputer 120A mounted on the effect control board 12 includes the VRAM 126, the display circuits 127A to 127C, the LVDS I / F 128, and the C-MOS I / F in addition to the effect control CPU 120. Equipped with F129. The effect control CPU 120 reads out the movie data and the source data of the character from the CGROM 141 and expands (draws) in the VRAM 126. In addition, each of the display circuits 127A to 127C has a function of reading the drawing data loaded in the VRAM 126 and performing scaling, dithering, color correction, and the like. Further, each of the display circuits 127A to 127C has a function of outputting the drawing data subjected to these processes as an LVDS signal which is a differential transmission method via the LVDS I / F 128. Further, each of the display circuits 127A to 127C has a function of outputting the drawing data subjected to these processes as a digital RGB signal via the C-MOS I / F 129.

  In this embodiment, the LVDS I / F 128 is provided with a terminal capable of outputting two LVDS signals (LVDS signal 1 and LVDS signal 2), and the effect control microcomputer 120A outputs 2 video signals. A book LVDS signal (LVDS signal 1, LVDS signal 2) can be output. In addition, for example, one LVDS signal line is formed by four lines for a data signal and one line for a clock signal, with each pair of lines as one line, and in the differential transmission method, between the pair of lines. Is detected as a signal level.

  In addition, in this embodiment, the C-MOS I / F 129 is provided with a terminal capable of outputting one digital RGB signal, and the effect control microcomputer 120A uses one digital RGB signal as a video signal. A signal can be output. The digital RGB signal includes, for example, a red signal, a green signal, a blue signal, a horizontal synchronizing signal, a vertical synchronizing signal, a display enable signal, a clock signal, and the like.

  In this embodiment, a liquid crystal display device having a 19-inch liquid crystal panel is used as the effect display device 5 (image display device). Generally, two LVDS signals are connected to the 19-inch liquid crystal display device. Possible connection ports are provided. Therefore, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, two display circuits (for example, the display circuit 127A and the display circuit 127B) of the display circuits 127A to 127C mounted on the effect control microcomputer 120A are used. Two LVDS signals (LVDS signal 1 and LVDS signal 2) are generated, and two LVDS signals (LVDS signal 1 and LVDS signal 2) output via the LVDS I / F 128 are input to the effect display device 5. Then, the display control in the effect display device 5 is performed.

  Further, in this embodiment, since the effect display device 5 is controlled by the two LVDS signals (LVDS signal 1 and LVDS signal 2), the digital RGB signal is not used. In this embodiment, each video signal (LVDS signal, digital RGB signal) output from the effect control microcomputer 120A can be individually set to an output enable state or an output disable state, and the digital RGB signal is output. Set to disabled state.

  FIG. 6 shows a configuration example of a video signal output setting register for setting the output state of each video signal (LVDS signal, digital RGB signal) provided in the effect control microcomputer 120A. As shown in FIG. 6, for example, the lower 3 bits (0 to 2 bits) of the video signal output setting register are used to set the output state of each video signal (LVDS signal, digital RGB signal). For example, the data A2 stored in the bit number [2] of the video signal output setting register indicates the output state of the LVDS signal 1. In the example shown in FIG. 6, if the bit value of the data A2 is set to "0", the LVDS signal 1 is set to the output disabled state. If the bit value of the data A2 is set to "1", the LVDS signal 1 is set to the output enable state. Further, for example, the data A1 stored in the bit number [1] of the video signal output setting register indicates the output state of the LVDS signal 2. In the example shown in FIG. 6, if the bit value of the data A1 is set to "0", the LVDS signal 2 is set to the output disabled state. If the bit value of the data A1 is set to "1", the LVDS signal 2 is set to the output enable state. Further, for example, the data A0 stored in the bit number [0] of the video signal output setting register indicates the output state of the digital RGB signal. In the example shown in FIG. 6, if the bit value of the data A0 is set to "0", the digital RGB signal is set to the output disabled state. If the bit value of the data A0 is set to "1", the digital RGB signal is set to the output enable state.

  In this embodiment, the ROM 121 of the effect control microcomputer 120A is provided with a program management area, and the setting contents of various setting registers including the video signal output setting register shown in FIG. 6 are stored in the program management area. ing. Then, when the power is turned on to the gaming machine or when the system is reset, the effect control microcomputer 120A reads the setting contents stored in the program management area, and according to the read setting contents, the video signal output setting register shown in FIG. Set each bit value of. In this embodiment, the data A0 (0th bit) of the video signal output setting register is set to "0", and the data A1 to A2 (1st to 2nd bits) are set to "1". Then, according to the setting of the video signal output setting register, the output terminals of the digital RGB signals of the display circuits 127A to 127C are controlled in the disabled state, and the output terminals of the respective LVDS signals (LVDS signal 1 and LVDS signal 2) are changed. Controlled to the enable state, the digital RGB signals are set to the output disabled state, and only the two LVDS signals (LVDS signal 1 and LVDS signal 2) are set to the output enabled state.

  In this embodiment, the case where the output states of all the two LVDS signals and the digital RGB signals are settable has been described, but the present invention is not limited to such a mode. For example, only the output state of the LVDS signal may be settable, or only the output state of the digital RGB signal may be settable.

  As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, in this embodiment, a plurality of systems of video signals (in this example, video output signals such as LVDS signal 1, LVDS signal 2, and digital RGB signal) can be output, and a plurality of video signals can be output. It is possible to set whether to output at least one system video signal among the system video signals. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the noise while reducing the cost for the output of the video signal by sharing the components.

  Specifically, as shown in this embodiment, a CPU having a VDP or VDP function (in this example, the CPU 120 for effect control) can output video signals of a plurality of systems for driving the liquid crystal display device. In such a case, actually, only a part of the video signals (the LVDS signal 1 and the LVDS signal 2 in this example) of the video signals of a plurality of systems is used for the display control of the liquid crystal display device, and the other part. The video signal (digital RGB signal in this example) may be unnecessary. In such a case, it is conceivable to use a circuit element such as a resistor, a wiring, or the like to block the output of a video signal that is unnecessary in terms of hardware. However, if only the hardware is configured to cut off the output of the unnecessary video signal, the output of the unnecessary video signal still remains as noise, and it can be used for other controls such as display control and game control. May have an impact. In view of this, in this embodiment, the presence / absence of the output of the video signal from the video output IC (in this example, the production control microcomputer 120A) itself can be set, so that common parts can be used for the output of the video signal. It is possible to suppress noise while achieving cost reduction due to the use of the same.

  In addition, in this embodiment, the case where only one effect display device 5 (in this example, a 19-inch liquid crystal display device) is provided is shown, but the present invention is not limited to such a mode, and for example, a plurality of image displays can be displayed. It may be configured to include a device. FIG. 7 is a configuration diagram showing a modified example in the case of including a plurality of image display devices. In the example shown in FIG. 7, the image display device includes one main display device (main display device) 5M and two sub display devices (sub display devices) 5SA and 5SB. In the example shown in FIG. 7, the main display device 5M is a liquid crystal display device including a 15-inch liquid crystal panel. Each of the sub display devices 5SA and 5SB is a liquid crystal display device including a 9-inch liquid crystal panel. Further, in the example shown in FIG. 7, the effect control board 12 is connected to the main display device 5M via the liquid crystal conversion board 200. Further, the effect control board 12 is connected to the sub display devices 5SA and 5SB via the liquid crystal conversion board and the driver boards 201A and 201B.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 7, the liquid crystal conversion substrate includes RGB converters 202A and 202B that convert LVDS signals into RGB signals, and a signal conversion circuit 203A that converts RGB signals into a V-by-One system of a differential transmission system. , 203B, and an LVDS converter 206 for converting RGB signals into LVDS signals. Further, the driver boards 201A and 201B respectively have signal conversion circuits 204A and 204B that convert a video signal from a V-by-One system of a differential transmission system into an RGB signal, and LVDS conversion that converts an RGB signal into an LVDS signal. The devices 205A and 205B are mounted.

  In the example shown in FIG. 7, the LVDS signal 1 and the LVDS signal 2 output from the effect control microcomputer 120A of the effect control board 12 are input to the sub-display devices 5SA and 5SB, respectively. The LVDS signal 1 and the LVDS signal 2 output from the production control microcomputer 120A of the production control board 12 are first converted into RGB signals by the RGB converters 202A and 202B mounted on the liquid crystal conversion board 200, respectively. It is input to the conversion circuits 203A and 203B. Next, the signal conversion circuits 203A and 203B convert the signal into a V-by-One system which is a differential transmission system, and outputs it to the driver boards 201A and 201B. Specifically, each of the signal conversion circuits 203A and 203B uses the operating frequency for the sub-display devices 5SA and 5SB generated by an oscillator (not shown) to convert the RGB signals into a V-by-signal of the differential transmission system. Convert to One system.

  Next, the signals are converted into RGB signals by the signal conversion circuits 204A and 204B mounted on the driver boards 201A and 201B, and are input to the LVDS converters 205A and 205B, respectively. Then, the signals are converted into LVDS signals by the LVDS converters 205A and 205B and input to the sub display devices 5SA and 5SB, respectively. Generally, a 9-inch liquid crystal display device is provided with a connection port to which one LVDS signal can be connected. Therefore, in the example shown in FIG. 7, the display control in each of the sub-display devices 5SA and 5SB is performed using one LVDS signal.

  In the example shown in FIG. 7, the liquid crystal conversion substrate 200 and the driver substrates 201A are transmitted by transmitting the liquid crystal conversion substrate 200 and the driver substrates 201A and 201B by the V-by-One system which is a differential transmission system. , 201B, the noise can be reduced even if the distance from the 201B is increased.

  Further, in the example shown in FIG. 7, the RGB signals output from the effect control microcomputer 120A of the effect control board 12 are converted into LVDS signals by the LVDS converter 206 mounted on the liquid crystal conversion board 200. Then, the converted LVDS signal is input to the main display device 5M. Generally, a 15-inch liquid crystal display device is provided with a connection port to which one LVDS signal can be connected. Therefore, in the example shown in FIG. 7, the display control in the main display device 5M is performed using the LVDS signal obtained by converting one RGB signal.

  Note that the example shown in FIG. 7 shows a case in which two main display devices (main display device) 5M and two sub display devices (sub display devices) 5SA and 5SB are provided, but such an aspect I can't stop. For example, in addition to one main display device (main display device), only one sub display device (sub display device) may be provided, or three or more sub display devices (sub display devices) may be provided. It may be configured as follows. For example, when it is configured to include three or more sub-display devices (sub-display devices), the LVDS signals output from the driver boards 201A and 201B are further branched via the branching boards, and each sub-display device (sub-display device) It may be configured to input to a display device).

  Further, in the present embodiment, the effect display device 5 is arranged on the back side of the game board 2 and can be visually recognized through the opening 2c formed in the game board 2. A frame-shaped center decoration frame 51 is provided in the opening 2c of the game board 2. A production unit 300 is provided between the rear surface of the game board 2 and the production display device 5, and the production control board 12 includes various motors (first production motor 303, which are provided in the production unit 300). The second effect motor 330), a solenoid, a sensor, a plurality of electronic components such as a light emitting diode (LED) are connected. In addition, in FIG. 2, among the electronic components, the parts other than the first effect motor 303 and the second effect motor 330 are omitted.

  Similar to the main board 11, for example, a random number value (also referred to as a random number for effect) for determining the type of various effects such as a notice effect is set on the effect control board 12 side.

  In the ROM 135 incorporated in the effect control microcomputer 120A shown in FIG. 4, various data tables used for controlling the effect operation are stored in addition to the effect control program. For example, the ROM 135 stores table data that forms a plurality of determination tables prepared for the production control CPU 120 to perform various determinations, determinations, and settings, pattern data that forms various production control patterns, and the like. There is.

  As an example, in the ROM 135, the effect control CPU 120 includes various effect devices (for example, the effect display device 5 and the speakers 8L and 8R, the top frame LED 9a, the left frame LED 9b, the right frame LED 9c, the board side LEDs 9d and 9e, the movable member 321 and the like). A performance control pattern table storing a plurality of types of performance control patterns used for controlling performance operations by a performance model etc. is stored. The effect control pattern is made up of data or the like indicating the control content corresponding to various effect operations executed according to the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1. In the effect control pattern table, for example, a special figure change time effect control pattern, a notice effect control pattern, various effect control patterns, and the like may be stored.

  The special figure variation time production control pattern corresponds to a plurality of types of variation patterns, in the period from the start of variation of the special symbol in the special figure game to the derivation display of the fixed special symbol which is the special figure display result. It is composed of data indicating the control contents of various production operations, such as production display variation display operation, reach production, production display operation in re-lottery production, or various production display operations without production pattern variation display. Has been done. The advance notice effect control pattern is composed of, for example, data indicating the control content of the effect operation that is the advance notice effect executed corresponding to the advance notice pattern in which a plurality of patterns are prepared in advance. Various effect control patterns correspond to various effect operations executed in accordance with the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1, and are composed of data indicating the control content thereof.

  The special figure variation time production control pattern may include, for example, a plurality of types of reach production control patterns in which the production mode in each reach production is different for each variation pattern for executing the reach production.

  In addition, as the notice effect executed during the variable display of the effect symbols, for example, a move notice that the movable member 321 as a movable body (movable object) is raised, or the stick controller 31A or the push button by the player, as described later. A big hit such as an operation notice executed on condition that 31B is operated, a step-up notice that a predetermined image is switched step by step, a dialogue notice that a character appears and speaks a dialogue, a cut-in notice that a predetermined image is interrupted and displayed A big hit notice production that suggests the possibility of, a reach notice that suggests whether or not to reach, a pseudo-repeated notice that announces whether it will become a pseudo-ream, a stop symbol notice that announces a stop symbol, a game state is a probability At the start of variable display or when the reach is established, such as latent notice that announces whether it is in a fluctuating state (whether it is latent) Stomach comprising a plurality of notice to be executed.

  FIG. 8A shows a configuration example of the drive control board 16B. As shown in FIG. 8A, a motor drive driver 412 is mounted on the drive control board 16B. A control signal from the effect control microcomputer 120A of the effect control board 12 is input to the motor drive driver 412 via the effect control relay board 16A in a serial signal format. Then, the motor drive driver 412 controls the drive of the first effect motor 303 and the second effect motor 330 based on the drive control information indicated by the input control signal.

  FIG. 8B shows a configuration example of the light emitter control board 16C for controlling the lighting of the board-side LEDs 9d and 9e. As shown in FIG. 8B, light emitter drivers 411a and 411b are mounted on the light emitter control board 16C. A control signal from the effect control microcomputer 120A of the effect control board 12 is input to the light emitter driver 411a in a serial signal format via the effect control relay board 16A. Then, the light-emitter driver 411a controls the lighting of the panel side LED 9d based on the lighting control information indicated by the input control signal. In addition, a control signal from the effect control microcomputer 120A of the effect control board 12 is input to the light emitter driver 411b in a serial signal format via the effect control relay board 16A and further via the light emitter driver 411a. To be done. Then, the light-emitter driver 411b controls the lighting of the board side LED 9e based on the lighting control information indicated by the input control signal.

  As shown in FIG. 8 (2), in the light emitter control board 16C, the control signal transmitted from the effect control microcomputer 120A of the effect control board 12 is between the light emitter drivers on the same light emitter control board 16C. Are sequentially transmitted (in this example, from the light emitter driver 411a to the light emitter driver 411b), the light is transmitted to each light emitter driver.

  FIG. 9 shows a configuration example of the light emitter control boards 16D to 16F for performing lighting control of the top frame LED 9a, the left frame LED 9b, and the right frame LED 9c. As shown in FIG. 9, a light emitter driver 413b is mounted on the light emitter control board 16D. A control signal from the effect control microcomputer 120A of the effect control board 12 is input to the light emitter driver 413b in a serial signal format via the effect control relay board 16A. Then, the light emitter driver 413b controls the lighting of the left frame LED 9b based on the lighting control information indicated by the input control signal. In FIG. 9, the light emitter control boards 16D to 16F are connected to each other via a wiring member such as a flexible cable or a wire harness.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 9, a light emitter driver 413a is mounted on the light emitter control board 16E. A control signal from the effect control microcomputer 120A of the effect control board 12 is sent to the light emitter driver 413a via the effect control relay board 16A and further via the light emitter control board 16D in a serial signal format. Is entered. Then, the light emitter driver 413a controls the lighting of the top frame LED 9a based on the lighting control information indicated by the input control signal.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 9, a light emitter driver 413c is mounted on the light emitter control board 16F. To the light emitter driver 413c, the control signal from the effect control microcomputer 120A of the effect control board 12 passes through the effect control relay board 16A, and further via the light emitter control board 16D and the light emitter control board 16E. Input in serial signal format. Then, the light emitter driver 413c controls the lighting of the right frame LED 9c based on the lighting control information indicated by the input control signal.

  As shown in FIG. 9, in the light emitter control boards 16D to 16F, the control signals transmitted from the effect control microcomputer 120A of the effect control board 12 are mounted on different light emitter control boards 16D to 16F, respectively. It is configured to be sequentially transmitted among the light emitter drivers 413a to 413c to be transmitted to the respective light emitter drivers 413a to 413c.

  Further, in this embodiment, each LED provided on the game board 2 is comprehensively expressed as a board side LED 9d, 9e, but specifically, the board side LED 9d is provided on the left side of the game board 2. It is assumed that a plurality of light emitters (color LED or single color LED) are provided as, and a plurality of light emitters (color LED or single color LED) are provided as a board side LED 9e on the right side of the game board 2. Further, in this embodiment, each LED provided in the game frame is comprehensively expressed as a top frame LED 9a, a left frame LED 9b, and a right frame LED 9c, but specifically, above the game frame. A plurality of light emitters (color LED or single color LED) is provided as the top frame LED 9a, a plurality of light emitters (color LED or single color LED) is provided as the left frame LED 9b on the left side of the game frame, and right side of the game frame It is assumed that a plurality of light emitters (color LED or single color LED) are provided as the right frame LED 9c.

  Further, in this embodiment, the motor drive driver 412, the light emitter drivers 411a and 411b for controlling the lighting of the board-side LEDs 9d and 9e, and the lighting control of the top frame LED 9a, the left frame LED 9b, and the right frame LED 9c are performed. The light emitter drivers 413a to 413c are realized by using the same type of serial-parallel conversion circuits (integrated circuits (ICs)). FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a serial-parallel conversion circuit used as the light emitter drivers 411a and 411b, the motor drive driver 412, and the light emitter drivers 413a to 413c. Further, FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram for explaining each input / output terminal provided in the serial-parallel conversion circuit shown in FIG.

  The serial-parallel conversion circuits used as the light-emitter drivers 411a and 411b, the motor drive driver 412, and the light-emitter drivers 413a to 413c convert the input serial signal format signals into 24-channel parallel signal format signals. There are two types, one is to output the serial signal format and the other is to convert the input serial signal format signal into a 12-channel parallel signal format signal and output it. Since the same configurations and functions are provided only with the differences, in the examples shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, a 24-channel serial-parallel conversion circuit will be described as a representative, and a 12-channel serial-parallel conversion circuit will be described. Only the differences will be explained. In this embodiment, the light-emitter drivers 411a and 411b are realized by a 24-channel serial-parallel conversion circuit, and the motor drive driver 412 and the light-emitter drivers 413a to 413c are formed by a 12-channel serial-parallel conversion circuit. Will be realized.

  As shown in FIG. 10 and FIG. 11, the serial-parallel conversion circuit inputs a clock signal from the effect control microcomputer 120A via the effect control relay board 16A and the light emitter control boards 16D and 16E. A / I terminal and a DATA / I terminal for inputting data are provided. In addition, a part of the input clock signal and data is branched in the serial-parallel conversion circuit and can be directly through-output from the serial-parallel conversion circuit, and the CLK / O terminal for through-outputting the clock signal and the data are output. A DATA / O terminal for through output is provided.

  For example, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9, the light emitter driver 413b of the light emitter control board 16D emits a control signal (clock signal and data) input via the effect control relay board 16A. Although it is outputting to the light emitter driver 413a of the control board 16E, clock signals and data are respectively output from the CLK / O terminal and the DATA / O terminal of the serial-parallel conversion circuit which realizes the light emitter driver 413b. Is configured to be output to a serial-parallel conversion circuit that realizes. Further, for example, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9, the light emitter driver 413a of the light emitter control board 16E receives the control signal (via the effect control relay board 16A and the light emitter control board 16D). (Clock signal and data) are output to the light emitter driver 413c of the light emitter control board 16F. Clock signals are output from the CLK / O terminal and the DATA / O terminal of the serial-parallel conversion circuit that realizes the light emitter driver 413a. Signals and data are output to a serial-parallel conversion circuit that realizes the light emitter driver 413c.

  In addition, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the clock signal input from the CLK / I terminal and another part of the data input from the DATA / I terminal are input to the decoder and converted into 24 channels from the serial signal format. Of the parallel signal format. Then, after being once stored in each register provided in the register block, pulse width modulation (PWM) is performed using an internal clock signal (6 MHz internal clock signal in this example) by the internal oscillation clock circuit, It is output from the drive output terminals Q0 to Q23. In the case of a 12-channel circuit, it is converted into a 12-channel parallel signal format signal and output from each drive output terminal Q0 to Q11. The output signals from the drive output terminals Q0 to Q23 and the drive output terminals Q0 to Q11 are supplied to, for example, a light emitting body such as an LED or an operation motor.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 10 and FIG. 11, the serial-parallel conversion circuit is provided with terminals AD0 to AD4 (AD0 to AD5 in a 12-channel circuit) for decoding address input. By setting each to H (high) or L (low), it is possible to set an address for each serial-parallel conversion circuit. Address data is also included in the data input from DATA / I, and the serial-parallel conversion circuit decodes only the data whose address information included in the input data matches the set address into a parallel signal format signal. Output from the drive output terminals Q0 to Q23.

  Since the 24-channel serial-parallel conversion circuit has five terminals for decoding address input AD0 to AD4, a maximum of 32 types of addresses can be set, and a maximum of 32 serial-parallel conversion circuits can be set. It is possible to connect circuits. Further, in the 12-channel serial-parallel conversion circuit, since 6 terminals AD0 to AD5 are provided for decoding address input, a maximum of 64 types of addresses can be set, and a maximum of 64 serial-parallel conversions can be set. It is possible to connect circuits.

  The S terminal provided in the serial-parallel conversion circuit is a setting terminal for setting the slew rate of the through output of the clock signal output from the CLK / O terminal and the through output of the data output from the DATA / O terminal. . When the S terminal is set to L (low), the through output of the clock signal and data is set to the output of the normal slew rate, and when the S terminal is set to H (high), the through output of the clock signal and the data is set to the low slew rate. Set to output.

  FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the slew rate setting of the through output of the clock signal and the data. As shown in FIG. 12 (1), when the S terminal is set to L (low) and the output of the normal slew rate is set, the rising and falling slopes of the waveforms of the clock signal and the data (voltage change per unit time) Amount) is large to some extent. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 12 (2), when the S terminal is set to H (high) and the output of the low slew rate is set, the clock signal and the The slope of the rising and falling edges of the data waveform becomes gentle.

  In general, in order to suppress radio wave radiation from the substrate, it is better to keep the slew rate low, and it is better to set the output to the low slew rate shown in FIG. 12 (2). On the other hand, in order to ensure resistance to noise, it is better that the rising and falling slopes of the waveform are large, and it is better to set the normal slew rate output shown in FIG. 12 (1).

  The setting of the S terminal is not limited to simply setting the clock signal output from the CLK / O terminal and the through output waveform of the data output from the DATA / O terminal, but the clock signal and DATA input from the CLK / I terminal. It has a function of compensating the output waveform for the data input from the / I terminal. That is, generally, the clock signal and data output from the effect control CPU 120 or the like are output as a rectangular wave at the output stage, but reach the CLK / I terminal and the DATA / I terminal of the serial-parallel conversion circuit. When the transmission loss due to the wiring is large until then, a clock signal or data having a waveform that is not the original rectangular wave may be input. In this embodiment, the serial-parallel conversion circuit does not simply output the input clock signal or data as it is, but instead inputs the clock signal or data in a state in which the original rectangular wave is distorted. Has a function of compensating for a waveform close to the original rectangular wave and outputting. In this case, if the output at the normal slew rate is set by setting the S terminal, the signal is output after being compensated for a waveform with a large rising or falling slope, and thus the output signal in a state closer to the original rectangular wave. Can be output, and the influence of external noise can be reduced. However, if the rising or falling slope is large as described above, the amount of voltage change instantaneously increases, which may increase the radio wave radiation to the outside of the substrate. On the other hand, if the output of the low slew rate is set by setting the S terminal, the waveform is compensated and output with a smaller rising or falling slope. Although it is weak against the influence of noise, it is possible to reduce the amount of instantaneous voltage change and suppress the increase of radio wave radiation to the outside of the substrate.

  The function itself for compensating the output waveform may be set to be valid or invalid, and all the functions for compensating the output waveform may be invalid. Further, the function of compensating the output waveform may be realized outside the serial-parallel conversion circuit by providing an amplifier circuit or the like outside the serial-parallel conversion circuit.

  Furthermore, in the above-mentioned normal slew rate output setting, compensation is made so that the rising and falling slopes of the output waveform are larger than the rising and falling slopes of the input waveform. The output setting may be such that the input waveform is output as it is without compensating the output waveform (that is, the output waveform having a rising edge equivalent to the rising edge of the input waveform is used as the predetermined mode). In this case, in the low slew rate output setting, a waveform whose slope is smaller than the rising edge of the input waveform may be output.

  The T terminal provided in the serial-parallel conversion circuit is a setting terminal for setting the timeout reset function of the signals output from the drive output terminals Q0 to Q23. Setting the T terminal to L (low) sets the timeout reset function to the invalid state, and setting the terminal to H (high) sets the timeout reset function to the valid state.

  When the T terminal is set to H (high) and the timeout reset function is enabled, the clock signal and data are input from the CLK / I terminal and the DATA / I terminal, and the signal output from each drive output terminal Q0 to Q23. After the start, when a predetermined period (1 second in this example) has elapsed, it is considered that the time-out has occurred, and the output signals from the drive output terminals Q0 to Q23 are automatically reset (output is stopped). Therefore, when the time-out reset function is set to the valid state, if it is desired to continuously supply a signal to each LED or operation motor from each drive output terminal Q0 to Q23, for example, from the effect control CPU 120 for at least a predetermined period. It is necessary to repeatedly output the control signal every (1 second in this example).

  In this embodiment, the effect control CPU 120 performs the process of rewriting the control signal every 10 ms, and when the output from each drive output terminal is continued, the effect control CPU 120 is executed every 10 ms. By repeatedly outputting the control signal from the serial-parallel conversion circuit to the serial-parallel conversion circuit, the output from each drive output terminal is continued even if the timeout reset function is set to the valid state.

  The Q / S terminal provided in the serial-parallel conversion circuit is a setting terminal for setting the drive system of the signals output from the drive output terminals Q0 to Q23. When the Q / S terminal is set to L (low), the output signals from the drive output terminals Q0 to Q23 are set to be constant current outputs. Further, when the Q / S terminal is set to H (high), the output signals from the drive output terminals Q0 to Q23 are set to be sink outputs.

  The Q / I terminal provided in the serial-parallel conversion circuit is a setting terminal for setting whether or not to invert the output logic of the signals output from the drive output terminals Q0 to Q23 and output. When the Q / I terminal is set to L (low), the output signals from the drive output terminals Q0 to Q23 are set to be normally output without being inverted. When the Q / I terminal is set to H (high), the output logic of the output signals from the drive output terminals Q0 to Q23 is set to be inverted.

  The R terminal provided in the serial-parallel conversion circuit is a current reference setting terminal. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 10, the R terminal is connected to each drive output terminal A0 to A23 via a constant current circuit, and an external resistor having an arbitrary resistance value is connected between the R terminal and the ground (GND). By connecting the resistors, the drive current values of all outputs of the drive output terminals Q0 to Q23 can be set within a predetermined range (for example, 4 mA to 20 mA).

  The VP terminal provided in the serial-parallel conversion circuit is an electrostatic protection terminal for protection. A power supply voltage used in the serial-parallel conversion circuit is connected to the VP terminal. That is, if the power supply voltage used in the serial-parallel conversion circuit is connected to the VP terminal, an overvoltage higher than the power supply voltage can be released. When a plurality of types of power supply voltages are used in the serial-parallel conversion circuit, the power supply voltage with the higher voltage value may be connected to the VP terminal.

  Next, the control data format of the data received by the serial-parallel conversion circuit will be described. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the control data format. The basic control data format of the data received by the serial-parallel conversion circuit is composed of the common format shown in FIG. 13 (1) and the basic format shown in FIG. 13 (2).

  As shown in FIG. 13A, the common format is a 9-bit header (HD), a 4-bit device ID (ID), 5-bit decode addresses AD0 to AD4 (see FIGS. 10 and 11), and 1 It is composed of bit EX data. The EX data is for setting whether the control data format following the common format is the basic format or the extended format described later, and EX = 0 is set in the basic format.

  As shown in FIG. 13 (2), the basic format includes 6-bit data for each of the drive output terminals Q0 to Q23. For example, when transmitting the data for controlling the lighting of the LED, the lighting control including the gradation control of the LED is performed by setting and transmitting 6-bit data in time series for each of the drive output terminals Q0 to Q23. It can be carried out.

  Further, as the control data format, an extended format can be used instead of the basic format shown in FIG. Specifically, if EX = 1 is set in the common format shown in FIG. 13 (1), the control data format following the common format becomes the extended format shown in FIG. 13 (3).

  As shown in FIG. 13C, the extended format includes 1-bit binary data for each of the drive output terminals Q0 to Q23. In the extended format, the data for each of the drive output terminals Q0 to Q23 is composed of 1 bit, so that the control data format of the data received by the serial-parallel conversion circuit can be reduced. For example, in the case of driving and controlling the first effect motor 303 and the second effect motor 330 using the serial-parallel conversion circuit, gradation control or the like is performed unlike the case of performing lighting control of a light-emitting body such as an LED. Since there is no need, it is effective to use the extended format as shown in FIG.

  Although the control data format used for the 24-channel serial-parallel conversion circuit has been described with reference to FIG. 13, the control data format used for the 12-channel serial-parallel conversion circuit has, for example, the common data shown in FIG. The difference is that the format includes 6-bit decode addresses AD0 to AD5. Further, for example, the basic format shown in FIG. 13 (2) is different in that it is short because it is configured to include 6-bit data for each of the drive output terminals Q0 to Q23 for 12 channels. Further, for example, the extended format shown in FIG. 13 (3) is different in that it is short because it is configured to include 1-bit binary data for each of the drive output terminals Q0 to Q23 for 12 channels.

  Further, the serial-parallel conversion circuit is configured to disperse the output timings of the signals from the drive output terminals Q0 to Q23 to spread the spectrum and prevent the generation of radiation noise to suppress radio wave radiation. . FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram for explaining output timings of signals from the drive output terminals Q0 to Q23 in the serial-parallel conversion circuit. In this embodiment, the internal oscillation clock circuit built in the serial-parallel conversion circuit outputs a 6 MHz clock signal. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 14, the 6 MHz internal clock signal is converted to a 1 MHz 6-phase clock signal. Drive output terminals Q0 to Q23 are grouped into 6 groups of 4 channels per group to distribute the signal output timing.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 14, four channels of drive output terminals Q0 to Q3 form a group 1, four channels of drive output terminals Q4 to Q7 form a group 2, and drive output terminals Q8 to Q8. Group 3 is composed of 4 channels of Q11, group 4 is composed of 4 channels of drive output terminals Q12 to Q15, group 5 is composed of 4 channels of drive output terminals Q16 to Q19, and drive output terminals Q20 to Q23 of Group 6 is composed of 4 channels. As shown in FIG. 14, the drive output terminals in the same group (for example, the drive output terminals Q0 to Q3 in the group 1) have the same signal output timing, but drive output terminals of different groups ( For example, the output timing is dispersed between the drive output terminal Q0 of group 1 and the drive output terminal Q4) of group 2.

  In FIG. 14, the output timing of the signals from the drive output terminals Q0 to Q23 in the 24-channel serial-parallel conversion circuit has been described. However, in the 12-channel serial-parallel conversion circuit, the internal clock signal of 6 MHz is changed to 1 MHz. Separated into three-phase clock signals, the drive output terminals Q0 to Q11 are divided into three groups of four channels per group to distribute the signal output timing.

  Next, a connection example when the serial-parallel conversion circuit described with reference to FIGS. 10 to 14 is used as the light emitter drivers 411a and 411b, the motor drive driver 412, and the light emitter drivers 413a to 413c will be described. 15 to 17 are explanatory diagrams for explaining connection examples of the serial-parallel conversion circuit. Of these, FIG. 15 shows a connection example when the serial-parallel conversion circuit is used as the light-emitter drivers 411a and 411b for performing lighting control of the panel-side LEDs 9d and 9e. 16 shows a connection example when the serial-parallel conversion circuit is used as a motor drive driver 412 for controlling the drive of the first effect motor 303 and the second effect motor 330. Further, FIG. 17 shows a connection example when the serial-parallel conversion circuit is used as the light emitter drivers 413a to 413c for controlling the lighting of the top frame LED 9a, the left frame LED 9b, and the right frame LED 9c.

  First, a connection example when the serial-parallel conversion circuit is used as the light emitter drivers 411a and 411b for controlling the lighting of the board-side LEDs 9d and 9e will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 15, in this embodiment, the light emitter drivers 411a and 411b for controlling the lighting of the board-side LEDs 9d and 9e are realized by a 24-channel serial-parallel conversion circuit.

  In this embodiment, it is assumed that the address [02] is allocated to the light emitter driver 411a, and as shown in FIG. 15, of the decode address input terminals AD0 to AD4, AD1 is the power supply voltage VCC ( 5V), AD0, AD2 to AD4 are connected to ground (GND), and the decode address is set to 00010 (B) = [02].

  Note that although FIG. 15 shows the setting of the decode address in the light emitter driver 411a, it is assumed that the address [03] is allocated to the light emitter driver 411b, and the decode address input terminals AD0 to AD0. Among AD4, AD0 and AD1 are connected to the power supply voltage VCC (5V), AD2 to AD4 are connected to the ground (GND), and the decode address is set to 00011 (B) = [03].

  Further, in the example shown in FIG. 15, the S terminal is connected to the power supply voltage VCC (5V). That is, by setting the S terminal to H (high), the through output of the clock signal and the data is set to the low slew rate output. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8B, the light emitter drivers 411a and 411b for controlling the lighting of the board-side LEDs 9d and 9e are all mounted on the same light emitter control board 16C. Since the transmission of the control signal between the drivers is performed on the same light emitter control board 16C (the transmission across the boards is not performed), the resistance to noise does not need to be so concerned. Therefore, the through output of the clock signal and the data is set to an output having a low through rate, so that the radio wave emission from the board is rather suppressed.

  In the example shown in FIG. 15, the T terminal is connected to the power supply voltage VCC (5V). That is, the timeout reset function is set to the valid state by setting the T terminal to H (high).

  Further, in the example shown in FIG. 15, both the Q / S terminal and the Q / I terminal are connected to the ground (GND). That is, by setting the Q / S terminal to L (low), the output signals from the drive output terminals Q0 to Q23 are set to be constant current outputs, and the Q / I terminal is set to L (low). As a result, the output signals of the drive output terminals Q0 to Q23 are set to be normally output without being inverted.

  Further, in the example shown in FIG. 15, an external resistor having a predetermined resistance value is connected between the R terminal and the ground (GND). In this embodiment, it is assumed that an external resistance of 10 kΩ is connected between the R terminal and the ground (GND). In this case, for example, the drive current values of all outputs of the drive output terminals Q0 to Q23 are set to 150/10 kΩ = 15 MA.

  Further, in the example shown in FIG. 15, the power supply voltage VCL (5V) is connected to the VP terminal and is protected so as to release an overvoltage of 5V or more.

  Further, in the example shown in FIG. 15, the drive output terminals Q0 to Q23 are connected to the board-side LEDs 9d and 9e. Note that, in the example shown in FIG. 15, for convenience, one light-emitting body is connected to each drive output terminal, but when a color LED is connected as a light-emitting body, it is used for RGB. The three terminals may be connected to one color LED, or one terminal may be connected to one single color LED if a single color LED is used as the light emitter. . Further, for example, a plurality of single-color LEDs may be connected in series to one terminal.

  In addition, in the example shown in FIG. 15, a case is shown in which the light emitting bodies are connected to all the terminals of the drive output terminals Q0 to Q23, but the drive output terminals Q0 to Q0 are arranged according to the number and arrangement of the light emitting bodies. If it is not necessary to use all the terminals of Q23, the unused terminals may be connected to the ground (GND).

  Next, a connection example when the serial-parallel conversion circuit is used as a motor drive driver 412 for controlling the drive of the first effect motor 303 and the second effect motor 330 will be described with reference to FIG. 16. As shown in FIG. 16, in this embodiment, a motor drive driver 412 for controlling the drive of the first effect motor 303 and the second effect motor 330 is realized by a 12-channel serial-parallel conversion circuit. It

  In this embodiment, it is assumed that the address [04] is assigned to the motor drive driver 412, and as shown in FIG. 16, of the decode address input terminals AD0 to AD5, AD2 is the power supply voltage VCC ( 5V), AD0, AD1, AD3 to AD5 are connected to ground (GND), and the decode address is set to 000100 (B) = [04].

  In the example shown in FIG. 16, the S terminal is connected to the power supply voltage VCC (5V). That is, by setting the S terminal to H (high), the through output of the clock signal and the data is set to the low slew rate output. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8 (1), since the control signal is not transmitted between the motor drive driver 412 and another driver, the S terminal is connected to the ground (GND). It may be connected (set to L (low)) and the through output of the clock signal and the data may be set to an output of a normal slew rate.

  Further, in the example shown in FIG. 16, the T terminal is connected to the power supply voltage VCC (5V). That is, the timeout reset function is set to the valid state by setting the T terminal to H (high).

  Further, in the example shown in FIG. 16, both the Q / S terminal and the Q / I terminal are connected to the power supply voltage VCC (5V). That is, by setting the Q / S terminal to H (high), the output signals from the drive output terminals Q0 to Q23 are set to be sink outputs, and the Q / I terminal is set to H (high). Thus, the output logic of the output signals from the drive output terminals Q0 to Q23 is set to be inverted and output.

  Further, in the example shown in FIG. 16, an external resistor having a predetermined resistance value is connected between the R terminal and the ground (GND). In this embodiment, it is assumed that an external resistance of 10 kΩ is connected between the R terminal and the ground (GND). In this case, for example, the drive current values of all outputs of the drive output terminals Q0 to Q23 are set to 150/10 kΩ = 15 MA.

  Further, in the example shown in FIG. 16, the power supply voltage VCC (5V) is connected to the VP terminal and is protected so as to release an overvoltage of 5V or more.

  Further, in the example shown in FIG. 16, among the drive output terminals Q0 to Q11, the four channel terminals of Q0 to Q3 of the group 1 having the same output timing are connected to the first first effect motor 303. . Further, among the drive output terminals Q0 to Q11, the four-channel terminals Q4 to Q7 of group 2 having the same output timing are connected to the second second effect motor 330. In addition, in this embodiment, since the two operation motors of the first effect motor 303 and the second effect motor 330 are controlled and the terminals Q8 to Q11 of the group 3 are unnecessary, Q8 to The terminal of Q11 is connected to the ground (GND).

  As described above, in the case of the 12-channel serial-parallel conversion circuit, the output timings of the signals from the drive output terminals Q0 to Q11 are dispersed by being divided into three groups of groups 1 to 3. If the output timing is different between the signals output to the same operation motor (in this example, the first effect motor 303 and the second effect motor 330), the drive accuracy of the operation motor may not be maintained. There is. Therefore, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 16, signals input to the same operation motor are connected to drive output terminals belonging to the same group, and the drive accuracy of the operation motor is set in such a manner. It prevents the occurrence of the situation that can not be maintained.

  On the contrary, for example, when connecting to the board-side LEDs 9d and 9e described in FIG. 15, or when connecting to a light emitting body such as when connecting to a ceiling frame LED 9a, a left frame LED 9b, and a right frame LED 9c described later in FIG. Since the above-mentioned problem of driving accuracy does not occur, even if the output timing is different between the signals output to the respective light emitters, it does not cause much trouble. Therefore, when connecting the output signal from the drive output terminal to a light emitting body such as an LED, it is not necessary to pay attention to the output timing.

  Next, a connection example when the serial-parallel conversion circuit is used as the light emitter drivers 413a to 413c for controlling the lighting of the top frame LED 9a, the left frame LED 9b, and the right frame LED 9c will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 17, in this embodiment, the light emitter drivers 413a to 413c for controlling the lighting of the top frame LED 9a, the left frame LED 9b, and the right frame LED 9c are realized by a 12-channel serial-parallel conversion circuit. It

  In this embodiment, it is assumed that the address [07] is assigned to the light emitter driver 413a, and as shown in FIG. 17, of the decode address input terminals AD0 to AD5, AD0 to AD2 are power supply voltages. It is shown that it is connected to VCC (5V), AD3 to AD5 are connected to ground (GND), and the decode address is set to 000111 (B) = [07].

  Although FIG. 17 shows the setting of the decode address in the light emitter driver 413a, it is assumed that the address [08] is assigned to the light emitter driver 413b, and the decode address input terminals AD0 to AD0 are input. Among AD5, it is assumed that AD3 is connected to the power supply voltage VCC (5V), AD0 to AD2, AD4, and AD5 are connected to the ground (GND), and the decode address is set to 001000 (B) = [08]. . Further, it is assumed that the address [09] is assigned to the light emitter driver 413c, and among the terminals AD0 to AD5 for decoding address input, A0 and AD3 are connected to the power supply voltage VCC (5V), and AD1, It is assumed that AD2, AD4, and AD5 are connected to the ground (GND), and the decode address is set to 000001 (B) = [09].

  Further, in the example shown in FIG. 17, the S terminal is connected to the ground (GND). That is, by setting the S terminal to L (low), the through output of the clock signal and the data is set to the output of the normal slew rate. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9, the light-emitter drivers 413a to 413c for controlling the lighting of the top frame LED 9a, the left frame LED 9b, and the right frame LED 9c are on different light-emitter control boards 16D to 16F. Since the control signal is transmitted between the light-emitter drivers mounted on the board and mounted on different boards, the influence of noise is large. Therefore, the through output of the clock signal and the data is set to the output of the normal through rate to ensure the resistance to noise.

  Further, in the example shown in FIG. 17, the T terminal is connected to the power supply voltage VCC (5V). That is, the timeout reset function is set to the valid state by setting the T terminal to H (high).

  Further, in the example shown in FIG. 17, both the Q / S terminal and the Q / I terminal are connected to the ground (GND). That is, by setting the Q / S terminal to L (low), the output signals from the drive output terminals Q0 to Q11 are set to be constant current outputs, and the Q / I terminal is set to L (low). As a result, the output signals of the drive output terminals Q0 to Q11 are set to be normally output without being inverted.

  Further, in the example shown in FIG. 17, an external resistor having a predetermined resistance value is connected between the R terminal and the ground (GND). In this embodiment, it is assumed that an external resistance of 10 kΩ is connected between the R terminal and the ground (GND). In this case, for example, the drive current values of all outputs of the drive output terminals Q0 to Q23 are set to 150/10 kΩ = 15 MA.

  Further, in the example shown in FIG. 17, the power supply voltage VDL (12V) is connected to the VP terminal. That is, in the example shown in FIG. 17, since the power supply voltage (VDL) of 12V and the power supply voltage (VCL, VCC) of 5V are used for the serial-parallel conversion circuit, the higher voltage value of 12V is used. The power supply voltage VDL is connected to the V terminal and is protected so as to release an overvoltage of 12 V or more.

  Further, in the example shown in FIG. 17, each drive output terminal Q0 to Q11 is connected to a plurality of light emitting bodies as a top frame LED 9a, a left frame LED 9b, and a right frame LED 9c. Note that in the example shown in FIG. 17, one light emitter is connected to each drive output terminal for convenience, or three light emitters (for example, single-color LEDs) that perform similar control are connected in series. However, when a color LED is connected as a light emitter, three terminals for RGB may be connected to one color LED.

  Further, in the example shown in FIG. 17, the case where the light emitters are connected to all the terminals of the drive output terminals Q0 to Q11 is shown, but the drive output terminals Q0 to Q0 are arranged according to the number and arrangement of the light emitters. If it is not necessary to use all the terminals of Q11, the unused terminals may be connected to the ground (GND).

  Further, as shown in FIGS. 15 to 17, in this embodiment, the T terminals of the light emitter driver 411, the motor drive driver 412, and the light emitter drivers 413a to 413c are set to H (high), and the timeout function is enabled. Is set to state. In this embodiment, for example, the effect control CPU 120 controls to turn on the top frame LED 9a, the left frame LED 9b, the right frame LED 9c, and the board side LEDs 9d and 9e in the effect control process process (see step S55) described later. It outputs a signal or outputs a control signal for driving and controlling the first effect motor 303 and the second effect motor 330. However, since the time-out function is set to the effective state, the control signal The output signal from each drive output terminal is automatically reset after a lapse of a predetermined period (1 second in this example) by only outputting once, and lighting control and drive control cannot be continued. Therefore, in this embodiment, the effect control CPU 120 outputs a control signal repeatedly at least every predetermined period (in this example, 1 second) in, for example, an effect control process process (see step S55) described later. , The board side LEDs 9d, 9e, the top frame LED 9a, the left frame LED 9b, and the right frame LED 9c are continuously controlled, and the drive control of the first effect motor 303 and the second effect motor 330 is continuously executed. It is controlled to do.

  In this embodiment, the timeout function is set to the valid state as described above, and the light emitter drivers 411a and 411b, the motor drive driver 412, and the light emission driver 411a are emitted every predetermined period (in this example, 1 second). Since the outputs from the drive output terminals of the body drivers 413a to 413c are automatically stopped, for example, after the drive control of the first effect motor 303 or the second effect motor 330 is performed, Although the control for stopping the first effect motor 303 and the second effect motor 330 was performed, the driving of the first effect motor 303 and the second effect motor 330 did not stop due to missing signals or malfunctions. It is possible to prevent a situation in which the first effect motor 303 and the second effect motor 330 cause burn-in.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 15 to 17, the T terminal is uniformly set to H (high) and the time-out function is set to the valid state. Of course, the setting of the valid state and the invalid state of the timeout function may be properly used according to the purpose. For example, for the motor drive driver, the time-out function is set to an effective state from the viewpoint of preventing the burn-in of the first effect motor 303 and the second effect motor 330, while the board-side LEDs 9d and 9e, the top frame LED 9a, and the left frame LED 9b are set. Unlike the first effect motor 303 and the second effect motor 330, there is no problem such as burn-in with respect to the light emitters such as the right frame LED 9c. Therefore, the T terminal is set to L (low) to disable the timeout function. It may be configured to be set to the state.

  Further, in this embodiment, in order to continuously execute the lighting control and the drive control, the effect control CPU 120 outputs the control signal repeatedly at least every predetermined period (in this example, one second). Shows the case where the control signal is rewritten every 10 ms and the control signal is repeatedly output), but the present invention is not limited to such a control mode. For example, an output circuit (output IC) is provided separately from the effect control CPU 120 (may be provided on the effect control board 12 or may be provided on another board such as the effect control relay board 16A), and effect control. When the CPU 120 for output outputs the control signal once, the output circuit is configured to output the control signal repeatedly at least every predetermined period (in this example, 1 second) based on the control signal output once. May be.

  Further, in this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 15 to 17, the T terminal is connected to the power supply voltage VCC (5V), the T terminal is physically set to H (high) on the hardware, and the time-out occurs. Although the case where the reset function is set to the valid state is shown, it is not limited to such a mode. For example, by connecting the T terminal to the T terminal setting register and changing the setting value of the register by a setting signal from the CPU 120 for effect control, whether the time-out function is enabled or disabled by software May be configured to be set.

  Further, in this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 15 to 17, an external resistor having a predetermined resistance value (10 kΩ in this example) is connected between the R terminal and the ground (GND), and the drive output terminal Q0 The drive current values of all outputs of Q23 to Q23 and Q0 to Q11 are set to 15 MA. Here, since there is also a serial-parallel conversion circuit (integrated circuit (IC)) having an internal reference resistance, a serial-parallel conversion circuit having such an internal reference resistance is used as a light emitter driver or a motor drive driver. It is also possible to use the internal reference resistor to set the internal reference resistor, but in general, the built-in reference resistor included in the serial-parallel conversion circuit has a fixed drive current value (for example, 20 mA fixed) or a large error (for example, Error ± 30%). Therefore, in this embodiment, an external resistance is connected between the R terminal and the ground (GND) and an external reference resistance is used to set an appropriate drive current value (15 MA in this example). An error is also suggested (error ± 3% in this example).

  A serial-parallel conversion circuit (integrated circuit (IC)) that can use both the internal reference resistor and the external reference resistor is used as the light emitter driver or the motor drive driver, and is configured to be used properly according to the application. May be. For example, when a plurality of light emitters such as LEDs are densely provided for the purpose of performance, if the light emission is sparse, the performance will be hindered. Therefore, an external reference resistor should be used to reduce the error. You may comprise. On the other hand, when performing the lighting control of the LED that is used independently for error notification, since there is no such obstacle in the production and a slight error may be large, the internal reference resistor is used. Good.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, the electrical components (in this example, the board-side LEDs 9d and 9e, the top frame LED 9a, the left frame LED 9b, the right frame LED 9c, and the movable portion 302 for operating the first part) are operated. The control means (in this example, the CPU 120 for effect control) for controlling the effect motor 303 and the second effect motor 330 for operating the movable member 321 and the control signal by the serial communication method from the control means. Accordingly, output means (in this example, light emitter drivers 411a and 411b,) for outputting a specific signal (in this example, output signals from the drive output terminals Q0 to Q23 and Q0 to Q11) for driving the electric component, A motor drive driver 412 and light emitter drivers 413a to 413c) are provided. Further, the output means outputs the input control signal to another output means in a first output state (in this example, a normal output state in which the waveform rises in a change mode equal to or more than the input control signal). Slew rate output state) and a second output state (in this example, low slew rate output state) in which the waveform rises in a mode that changes more slowly than the first output state. In this example, setting the S terminal to L (low) sets the output to the normal slew rate, and setting the S terminal to H (high) sets the output to the low slew rate. Therefore, it is possible to change the setting according to the use environment, and it is possible to suppress the radio wave emission from the substrate according to the setting, while improving the noise resistance of the control signal for preventing malfunction. Specifically, setting a low slew rate output state can suppress radio wave radiation from the board, and setting a normal slew rate output state can increase noise resistance of a control signal for preventing malfunction. .

  Further, according to this embodiment, another output means is provided in the same substrate as the output means (in this example, as shown in FIG. 8B, a plurality of output means are provided on the light emitter control board 16C). The light emitter drivers 411a and 411b are mounted, and control signals are sequentially transmitted between the light emitter drivers 411a and 411b on the same light emitter control board 16C). Then, in this case, the output means is set to the second output state (in this example, as shown in FIG. 15, in the light emitter drivers 411a and 411b mounted on the light emitter control board 16C, the S terminal is It is set to H (high) and set to a low slew rate output state). Therefore, when another output means is provided in the same substrate, it is possible to suppress radio wave radiation from the substrate.

  Further, according to this embodiment, another output means is provided on another board connected to the board on which the output means is provided via a wiring member (for example, a flexible cable or a wire harness) ( In the present example, as shown in FIG. 9, the light emitter drivers 413a to 413c are mounted on different light emitter control boards 16D to 16F, respectively, and the light emission drivers mounted on the light emitter control boards 16D to 16F have different control signals. It is sequentially transmitted between the body drivers 413a to 413c). Then, in this case, the output means is set to the first output state (in the present example, as shown in FIG. 17, in the light emitter drivers 413a to 413c mounted on the light emitter control boards 16D to 16F, S is set to S). The terminal is set to L (low) and set to the normal slew rate output state). Therefore, when another output unit is provided on another substrate connected via the wiring member, noise resistance of the control signal for preventing malfunction can be enhanced.

  As described above, in this embodiment, since the circuit board generally has high noise resistance, suppression of radio wave radiation is prioritized to set a low slew rate output state in a connection relationship within the circuit board to provide a gentle signal waveform. On the contrary, since the wiring members (for example, flexible cables and wire harnesses) connected between the boards have low noise resistance, the noise resistance is prioritized and the rectangular wave is output as a normal slew rate in an isolated relationship between the circuit boards. The signal waveform is close to. With such a configuration, in this embodiment, it is possible to enhance the noise resistance of the control signal for preventing malfunction while suppressing the radio wave emission to the outside of the gaming machine.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 15 to 17, the S terminal is connected to the power supply voltage VCC (5V) or the ground (GND), and the S terminal is physically set to H on the hardware. It shows the case where it is set to (high) and is set to a low slew rate output state, and is set to L (low) and is set to a normal slew rate output state. I can't stop. For example, by connecting the S terminal to the S terminal setting register and changing the setting value of the register according to the setting signal from the effect control CPU 120, the output state of the low slew rate is set by software or the normal slew rate is set. Alternatively, it may be configured to set whether or not to output.

  Further, in this embodiment, a control signal is transmitted between output means (emitter driver in this example) mounted on the same substrate by a low slew rate output state, or output means mounted on different substrates. A case is shown in which a board (in this example, the light emitter control boards 16C to 16F) on which only one of the control signal transmissions according to the normal output state of the slew rate between the boards is provided is shown. I can't stop. For example, in the case where a plurality of light emitter drivers are mounted on one light emitter control board, a control signal is transmitted between the light emitter drivers on the same light emitter control board among those light emitter drivers. It may be configured such that the control signal and the control signal transmitted to the light emitter driver mounted on another light emitter control board are mixed. In this case, for example, even if a light emitter driver mounted on the same light emitter control board is used to transmit a control signal between the light emitter drivers, set it to a low slew rate output state, and A device that outputs a control signal to the light-emitter driver mounted on the control board may be configured to be set to a normal slew rate output state.

  Further, according to this embodiment, the output means specifies from the specific signal output section (in this example, the driver output terminals Q0 to Q23, Q0 to Q11) grouped into a plurality of different groups by the parallel communication method. A signal (in this example, output signals from the respective driver output terminals Q0 to Q23 and Q0 to Q11) is output (in this example, in the case of a 24-channel serial-parallel conversion circuit, one group as shown in FIG. 14). 6 groups of 4 channels each, and in the case of a 12-channel serial-parallel conversion circuit, each group is divided into 3 groups of 4 channels). The output timing of the specific signal from the specific signal output unit is different for each group (in this example, as shown in FIG. 14, the output timing of the output signal from the driver output terminals Q0 to Q23, Q0 to Q11 is the group. Are distributed by each). Therefore, the output timings of the signals from the drive output terminals Q0 to Q23 and Q0 to Q11 are dispersed to spread the spectrum, the generation of radiation noise can be prevented, and the radio wave radiation from the substrate can be further suppressed. .

  Further, according to this embodiment, the movable member (in this example, the movable portion 302 and the movable member 321) that performs the operation is provided. Further, the drive means for operating the movable member (in this example, the first effect motor 303 and the second effect motor 330) are driven based on the specific signal output from the specific signal output section of the same group of the output means. (In this example, as shown in FIG. 16, signals input to the same operating motor are connected to drive output terminals belonging to the same group). Therefore, it is possible to suppress the deterioration of the driving accuracy of the driving unit while suppressing the radio wave emission from the substrate.

  Further, according to this embodiment, the output unit has a stop function (in this example, a time-out function) that stops the output of the specific signal after a lapse of a predetermined period (in this example, 1 second) from the input of the control signal. (In this example, the timeout function is set to the valid state by setting the T terminal to H (high). See FIG. 11.) Therefore, it is possible to avoid an operation defect due to a wiring defect and the like, and it is possible to stably control the electric component.

  According to this embodiment, the control signal continuation means for continuously outputting the control signal is provided (in this example, the effect control CPU 120, for example, in the effect control process process (see step S55), By repeatedly outputting the control signal at least every predetermined period (in this example, 1 second), the lighting control of the panel side LEDs 9d, 9e, the top frame LED 9a, the left frame LED 9b, and the right frame LED 9c is continuously executed, The drive control of the first effect motor 303 and the second effect motor 330 is controlled so as to be continuously executed). Therefore, control corresponding to the stop function of the output means can be realized.

  Also, according to this embodiment, the output means can set the stop function to be valid or invalid (in this example, the timeout function is set to the invalid state by setting the T terminal to L (low)). , T terminals are set to H (high) to set the timeout function to the valid state (see FIG. 11). Therefore, it is possible to change the setting of the stop function of the output means according to the application, and it is possible to reduce the cost by sharing the parts.

  In addition, in this embodiment, the through outputs of the clock signal and the data among the serial-parallel conversion circuits are connected to other serial-parallel conversion circuits in the same substrate, and the serial-parallel conversion circuits 411a and 411b, and for performance. Regarding the serial-parallel conversion circuit 412 to which the motors 303 and 330 are connected, the S terminal is set to H (high) and the through output of the clock signal and the data is set to the output of the low slew rate (FIGS. 15 and 16). For the serial-parallel conversion circuits 413a, 413b, 413c whose through outputs of the clock signal and the data are connected to the serial-parallel conversion circuit outside the board, the S terminal is set to L (low) and the clock signal and The through output of data is set to the output of the normal slew rate (Fig. 1 Shows the reference) when, but not limited to such embodiments. For example, the through outputs of all the serial-parallel conversion circuits included in the gaming machine may be set to the normal slew rate output. On the contrary, for example, the through outputs of all the serial-parallel conversion circuits included in the gaming machine may be set to the low slew rate output.

  Also, if there are unused terminals in the drive output terminals of the serial-parallel conversion circuit, and if these unused terminals are left unconnected, surge voltage will be input to these unused terminals due to factors such as static electricity. , There is a risk of causing problems such as excessive heat generation and damage to internal circuits. Therefore, it is conceivable to provide a protection circuit for the surge voltage countermeasure inside the serial-parallel conversion circuit, but this is not preferable because the manufacturing cost of the serial-parallel conversion circuit increases. Therefore, these unused terminals are configured to be connected to a predetermined reference potential so that the surge voltage is released to the reference potential side of a predetermined power supply board (not shown), which causes excessive heat generation and damage to internal circuits. It may be configured to suppress the occurrence of troubles such as. Hereinafter, a modification in which an unused terminal of the drive output terminal of the serial-parallel conversion circuit is connected to the ground (GND) as a reference potential will be described.

  18 to 20 are explanatory diagrams for describing connection examples of the serial-parallel conversion circuit in the modified example. Among these, FIG. 18 shows a modification of the connection example when the serial-parallel conversion circuit is used as the light emitter drivers 411a and 411b for controlling the lighting of the board-side LEDs 9d and 9e. In the example shown in FIG. 18, the board side LED is connected to 18 drive output terminals Q0 to Q17 out of the 24 drive output terminals Q0 to Q24, but the 6 drive output terminals Q18 to Q23 are unused. The unused terminals of the six drive output terminals Q18 to Q23 are connected to the ground (GND).

  FIG. 19 shows a modification of the connection example when the serial-parallel conversion circuit is used as a motor drive driver 412 for controlling the drive of the first effect motor 303 and the second effect motor 330. In the example shown in FIG. 19, each drive motor is connected to eight drive output terminals Q0 to Q7 out of twelve drive output terminals Q0 to Q11, but four drive output terminals Q8 to Q11 are not connected. It is a used terminal, and the unused terminals of the four drive output terminals Q8 to Q11 are connected to the ground (GND).

  FIG. 20 shows a modification of the connection example when the serial-parallel conversion circuit is used as the light emitter drivers 413a to 413c for controlling the lighting of the top frame LED 9a, the left frame LED 9b, and the right frame LED 9c. In the example shown in FIG. 20, the LEDs for each frame are connected to the nine drive output terminals Q0 to Q8 out of the 12 drive output terminals Q0 to Q11, but the three drive output terminals Q9 to Q11 are It is an unused terminal, and the unused terminals of the three drive output terminals Q9 to Q11 are connected to the ground (GND).

  According to the modified examples shown in FIGS. 18 to 20, even if a surge voltage is generated, the surge voltage can be released to the ground (GND) side, and a problem such as excessive heat generation or damage to the internal circuit can be prevented. Can be suppressed.

  Further, in the modified examples shown in FIGS. 18 to 20, an external resistance of 3 kΩ is further connected to each of the VP terminals which are electrostatic protection terminals for protection. By thus configuring the external resistance to be connected to the VP terminal, even if a surge voltage occurs, it is possible to prevent a current higher than the rated current from flowing to the VP terminal, thereby causing excessive heat generation and damage to the internal circuit. It is possible to further suppress the occurrence of such problems.

  Further, in the modified examples shown in FIGS. 18 to 20, the case where the unused terminal is connected to the ground (GND) as the reference potential is shown, but the present invention is not limited to such a mode, and may be connected to another fixed potential. You may comprise. For example, the unused terminal may be connected to the same power supply voltage as the VP terminal, and may be connected to VCL (5V), VCC (5V), or VDL (12V).

[Pachinko machine operation]
Next, the operation (action) of the pachinko gaming machine 1 in the present embodiment will be described. In the main board 11, when power supply from a predetermined power supply board is started, the game control microcomputer 100 is activated, and the CPU 103 executes predetermined processing which is game control main processing. When the game control main process is started, the CPU 103 makes necessary initialization after setting the interrupt prohibition. In this initial setting, the RAM 102 is cleared, for example. In addition, register setting of the CTC (counter / timer circuit) built in the game control microcomputer 100 is performed. As a result, thereafter, the interrupt request signal is sent from the CTC to the CPU 103 every predetermined time (for example, 2 milliseconds), and the CPU 103 can periodically execute the timer interrupt processing. When the initial setting is completed, the interrupt is permitted and then the loop processing is started. In the game control main process, a process for returning the internal state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 to the state when the power supply was stopped last time may be executed, and then the loop process may be started.

  When the CPU 103 that has executed the game control main process receives the interrupt request signal from the CTC and accepts the interrupt request, it executes the game control timer interrupt process shown in the flowchart of FIG. When the game control timer interrupt process shown in FIG. 21 is started, the CPU 103 first executes a predetermined switch process to execute the predetermined switch process, and thereby the gate switch 21, the first start port switch 22A, and the second start port. The state of the detection signal input from various switches such as the switch 22B and the count switch 23 is determined (S11). Then, by executing a predetermined main side error processing, an abnormality diagnosis of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is performed, and a warning can be issued if necessary according to the diagnosis result (S12). After that, by executing a predetermined information output process, data such as jackpot information, starting information, probability variation information, etc. supplied to the hall management computer installed outside the pachinko gaming machine 1 is output (S13). ).

  Following the information output process, a game random number update process for updating at least a part of the game random numbers such as the random number values MR1 to MR4 used on the main board 11 side by software is executed (S14). After this, the CPU 103 executes special symbol process processing (S15). In the special symbol process processing, the value of the special symbol process flag provided in the game control flag setting unit (not shown) is updated according to the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1, and the first special symbol display device 4A or In order to perform the control of the display operation on the 2 special symbol display device 4B and the opening / closing operation setting of the special winning opening in the special variable winning ball device 7, etc., various processes are selected and executed.

  Following the special symbol process process, a normal symbol process process is executed (S16). The CPU 103 executes the normal symbol process process to determine the variable display mode of the normal symbol by using the random value MR4 for the general symbol display result determination, and the display operation on the normal symbol display device 20 (for example, lighting of the segment LED). , Etc.) to enable the variable display of the normal symbol, the tilting motion setting of the movable wing piece in the normal variable winning ball device 6B, and the like.

  After executing the normal symbol process process, the CPU 103 transmits a control command from the main substrate 11 to the sub-side control substrate such as the effect control substrate 12 by executing the command control process (S17). As an example of these, in the command control processing, in the output port included in the I / O 105, the effect is produced in accordance with the setting in the command transmission table specified by the value of the transmission command buffer provided in the game control buffer setting unit. After setting control data in an output port for transmitting an effect control command to the control board 12, predetermined control data is set in an output port of the effect control INT signal, and the effect control INT signal is turned on for a predetermined time. By turning off after that, the effect control command can be transmitted based on the settings in the command transmission table. After executing the command control process, the game control timer interrupt process is terminated after setting the interrupt enable state.

  FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing an example of the process executed in S15 shown in FIG. 21 as the special symbol process process. In this special symbol process process, the CPU 103 first executes a start winning determination process (S21). After executing the start winning determination process, the CPU 103 selects and executes one of the processes of S22 to S29 according to the value of the special figure process flag provided in the game control flag setting unit.

  In the start winning determination process, first, it is determined whether or not there is a first start prize or a second start prize by the first start mouth switch 22A or the second start mouth switch 22B, and if there is a prize, a special figure display A random number value MR1 for result determination, a random number value MR2 for jackpot type determination, and a random number value MR3 for variation pattern determination are extracted, and in the case of the first start winning, an empty entry in the first special figure reservation storage unit In the case of the second start prize, the second special prize holding storage unit stores the highest entry in the empty entry.

  The special symbol normal process of S22 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is "0". In this special symbol normal processing, the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device, based on the presence or absence of holding data stored in the first special symbol holding storage unit and the second special symbol holding storage unit. It is determined whether or not the special figure game by 4B is started. In the special symbol normal process, based on the numerical data indicating the random number value MR1 for special symbol display result determination, whether or not the variable display result of the special symbol or the effect symbol is "big hit", the variable display result is It is decided (predetermined) before it is derived and displayed. Furthermore, in the special symbol normal processing, in response to the variable display result of the special symbol in the special symbol game, the fixed special symbol in the special symbol game by the first special symbol indicator 4A and the second special symbol indicator 4B (big hit symbol or Any of the lost symbols) is set. In the special symbol normal process, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to "1" when the variable display result of the special symbol or the effect symbol is predetermined.

  The variation pattern setting process of S23 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is "1". In this variation pattern setting process, one of a plurality of variation patterns is selected by using numerical data indicating a random number value MR3 for variation pattern determination, based on a result of a determination as to whether or not the variation display result is a “big hit”. It includes the process of determining whether or not. When the variation pattern setting process is executed and the variation display of the special symbol is started, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to "2".

  By the special symbol normal process of S22 and the variation pattern setting process of S23, the variation pattern including the variation display time of the fixed special symbol or the special symbol and the effect symbol which is the variation display result of the special symbol is determined. That is, the special symbol normal process or the variation pattern setting process uses the random number value MR1 for the special symbol display result determination, the random number value MR2 for the jackpot type determination, the random number value MR3 for the variation pattern determination, and the special symbol or the effect symbol. It includes a process of determining the variable display mode of.

  The special symbol variation process of S24 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is "2". This special symbol fluctuation processing, the processing which does the setting in order to change the special design in 1st special design indicator 4A and the 2nd special design indicator 4B, and the elapsed time after that special design starts varying It includes the process of measuring. Then, when the elapsed time from the start of the variation of the special symbol reaches the special symbol variation time, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to "3".

  The special symbol stop process of S25 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is "3". In this special symbol stop processing, the variation of the special symbol is stopped by the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B, and the fixed special symbol which is the variable display result of the special symbol is stopped (displayed). It includes a process for making settings for the setting. Then, it is determined whether or not the big hit flag provided in the game control flag setting section is turned on. Then, when the big hit flag is on, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to "4". On the other hand, when the jackpot flag is off, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to "0".

  The big hit opening pre-processing of S26 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is "4". This big hit opening pre-processing includes processing for starting the execution of the round in the big hit game state to set the big winning opening in the open state based on the fact that the variable display result is "big hit". include. At this time, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to "5".

  The big hit opening process in S27 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is "5". In this big hit opening process, the process of measuring the elapsed time after the big winning opening is opened, and the big winning opening based on the measured elapsed time and the number of game balls detected by the count switch 23, etc. It includes a process of determining whether it is time to return the open state from the open state to the closed state. Then, when returning the special winning opening to the closed state, after performing a process of stopping the supply of the solenoid drive signal to the solenoid 82 for the special winning opening door, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to "6". .

  The post-big hit opening process of S28 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is "6". This big hit opening post processing, processing to determine whether the number of executions of the round to open the special winning opening has reached the maximum winning opening maximum number of times, reached the maximum winning opening maximum value In this case, a process for making settings for transmitting a big hit end designation command is included. When the number of executions of the round does not reach the maximum winning opening maximum number, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to "5", while when the maximum winning opening maximum number is reached, the special figure The value of the process flag is updated to "7".

  The big hit ending process of S29 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is "7". In this big hit ending process, the big hit game state is ended by a production device such as the effect display device 5, the speakers 8L and 8R, the top frame LED 9a, the left frame LED 9b, the right frame LED 9c, the board side LEDs 9d and 9e, and the movable member 321. The process of waiting until the waiting time corresponding to the period in which the ending production is executed as the production operation to be informed, and various settings for starting the probability variation control and the time saving control in response to the end of the big hit game state ( It includes processing for setting the probability variation flag and the time saving flag). When such a setting is made, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to "0".

  In the jackpot ending process, the jackpot type buffer value stored in the game control buffer setting unit (not shown) is read to identify whether the jackpot type is "non-probable variation jackpot" or "probability variation jackpot". . Then, when it is determined that the specified jackpot type is not the "non-probability variation jackpot", the setting (probability variation flag setting) for starting the probability variation control is performed. If the specified jackpot type is “non-probable variation jackpot”, the setting for starting the time saving control (setting of the time saving flag and the upper limit value of the special figure game that can be executed during the time saving control is performed in advance). The predetermined count initial value (“100” in this embodiment) is set in the hour / hour counter.

  Next, the operation of the effect control board 12 will be described. FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing the effect control main processing executed by the effect control microcomputer 120A (specifically, the effect control CPU 120) mounted on the effect control board 12. When the power is turned on, the effect control CPU 120 starts executing the main process. In the main processing, first, the effect control CPU 120 confirms whether or not a power-on designation command or a power failure restoration designation command is received (S50A). The power-on designation command is transmitted based on the initialization processing being executed by the game controlling microcomputer 100 when the power supply to the gaming machine is started. Further, the power failure recovery designation command is transmitted based on the power failure recovery processing being executed by the gaming control microcomputer 100 when power supply to the gaming machine is started.

  When the power-on designation command or the power failure restoration designation command is received, the effect control CPU 120 executes an authentication process (S50B). In step S50B, the effect control CPU 120 reads the authentication data from the CGROM 141 on the effect control relay board 16A, and compares the read authentication data with the authentication data stored in the ROM 135 of the effect control microcomputer 120A. Perform authentication process.

  When the authentication fails in the authentication process (N of S50C), the effect control CPU 120 executes the authentication error notification process of notifying the authentication error (S50D). For example, the effect control CPU 120 controls the effect display device 5 to display that authentication has failed. Then, the process proceeds to the loop processing as it is, and control is performed so that normal effect control is not performed.

  When the authentication is successful in the authentication process (Y in S50C), the effect control CPU 120 clears the RAM area, sets various initial values, and sets a timer for determining the effect control activation interval (for example, 2 ms). Initialization processing for performing initial settings and the like is performed (S51).

  Next, the effect control CPU 120 confirms the operation of a plurality of types of movement patterns of the movable member 321 in the effect such as the notice effect, and uses the position detection sensor 333 to detect the initial position of the movable member 321 (in the present embodiment, the first position). The movable member initialization process of detecting the first position) or moving the movable member 321 to the initial position is executed (S51A).

  Subsequent to the movable member initialization process of S51A, the effect control CPU 120 performs memory inspection setting when the power is turned on (step S51B). For example, the effect control CPU 120 inspects the storage data of the CGROM 141 by executing a memory inspection process. After the setting in step S51B, the effect control CPU 120 performs memory inspection interval setting (step S51C). For example, the effect control CPU 120 may set an interval (waiting time) until the next memory inspection process is executed, based on the inspection result of the memory inspection.

  Next, the effect control CPU 120 executes an initial effect data transfer process (S51D). In the initial effect data transfer process, the effect control CPU 120 performs predetermined initial data (for example, initial display at power-on of the image data stored in the CGROM 141 on the effect control relay board 16A). Image data for frequent use and image data that is frequently used) are read out and transferred to the VRAM 126 of the effect control microcomputer 120A.

  After that, the CPU 120 for effect control shifts to a loop process of monitoring the timer interrupt flag (S52). When the timer interrupt occurs, the effect control CPU 120 sets the timer interrupt flag in the timer interrupt process. If the timer interrupt flag is set (ON) in the main process, the effect control CPU 120 clears the flag (S53) and executes the following process.

  When the production control CPU 120 detects a temperature abnormality of the production control CPU 120 based on the temperature information from the temperature sensor 136 mounted on the production control microcomputer 120A, the production control CPU 120 steps the VDP function of the production control CPU 120. A temperature limiting process for limiting the temperature is executed (step S53A).

  Next, the effect control CPU 120 executes a temperature limit recovery process for gradually returning from the state in which the VDP function of the effect control CPU 120 is restricted (step S53B).

  Next, the effect control CPU 120 analyzes the received effect control command and performs processing such as setting a flag according to the received effect control command (command analysis process: S54). In this command analysis process, the effect control CPU 120 confirms the content of the command transmitted from the main board 11 stored in the received command buffer. The effect control command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 100 is received by an interrupt process based on the effect control INT signal and is stored in the buffer area formed in the RAM. In the command analysis process, which command is the effect control command stored in the buffer area is analyzed.

  Next, the effect control CPU 120 executes an error notification process, which is one of the processes for executing an error effect (S54A). In the error notification processing of step S54A, for example, in response to the error designation command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 100, the operation of displaying an error image in the display area of the effect display device 5, the error sound from the speakers 8L, 8R. The output operation, error notification by the error light emitting operation in the LEDs 9a to 9e, and the like are performed.

  Next, the effect control CPU 120 performs effect control process processing (S55). In the effect control process process, the process corresponding to the current control state (effect control process flag) is selected from among the processes corresponding to the control state, and the display control of the effect display device 5 is executed.

  Next, the effect control CPU 120 performs small symbol process processing (S55A). In the small symbol process process, among the processes according to the control state, the process corresponding to the current control state (small symbol process flag) is selected and the small symbol is displayed in the upper left corner of the display screen of the effect display device 5. Execute control.

  Next, the effect control CPU 120 performs a decorative pattern process process (S55B). In the decorative pattern process processing, of the processes according to the control state, the process corresponding to the current control state (decorative pattern process flag) is selected and the first decorative pattern display device 5A and the second decorative pattern display device 5B are selected. Perform display control.

  Next, the effect control CPU 120 performs the in-control memory inspection process (S55C). In the in-control memory inspection process of step S55C, the setting for inspecting the storage data of the CGROM 141 is performed during the effect control for controlling the progress of the effect, according to the lapse of the standby time which is the interval of the memory inspection. Done.

  Next, the effect control CPU 120 performs a controlled effect data transfer process (S55D). In the control effect data transfer process of step S55D, settings for transferring effect data are performed during effect control that controls the progress of the effect.

  Next, an effect random number updating process for updating the count value of the counter for generating an effect random number such as a jackpot symbol random number is executed (S56), and then the process proceeds to S52.

  FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing the temperature limiting process (S53A) in the effect control main process. In the temperature restriction process, the effect control CPU 120 first reads the temperature information from the temperature sensor 136 (step S101). Next, the effect control CPU 120 confirms whether or not the temperature of the effect control CPU 120 is 60 ° C. to 70 ° C. based on the read temperature information (step S102). When the temperature of the effect control CPU 120 is 60 ° C. to 70 ° C. (Y in step S102), the effect control CPU 120 determines that the temperature is in the abnormal state of the first stage, and the first mode of the limit mode (the first stage). Change to restricted mode). In the restriction mode of the first stage, the effect control CPU 120 performs control to erase the background image display displayed on the effect display device 5 (step S103). In addition, the effect control CPU 120 performs control to start output of a drive signal for low speed operation to the cooling fan 142 and start low speed operation of the cooling fan 142 (step S104). Moreover, the CPU 120 for effect control performs control to start the first temperature abnormality notification (step S105). For example, the effect control CPU 120 controls the effect display device 5 to display the fact that the first temperature abnormal state is present. And CPU120 for production control sets the 1st temperature abnormal flag which shows that it is in the temperature abnormal state of the 1st step (Step S106).

  When the above processing is executed and in the present embodiment, the mode is shifted to the first restriction mode, the background image is erased on the display screen of the effect display device 5, and variable display of effect symbols and simple notice display. And, the variable display of the small symbols and the display of the hold image and the active image only are performed. Further, in the first restriction mode, effect sound effects such as some notice effects and sound output of BGM are restricted during variable display of effect symbols, and the scaler function (image data expanded in the frame buffer on the VRAM 126 is displayed. The function to display and output by enlarging or reducing the size) is also stopped.

  If the temperature of the effect control CPU 120 is not 60 ° C. to 70 ° C. (N in step S102), the effect control CPU 120 has a temperature of the effect control CPU 120 of 71 ° C. to 94 ° C. based on the read temperature information. It is confirmed whether or not (step S107). If the temperature of the effect control CPU 120 is 71 ° C. to 94 ° C. (Y in step S107), the effect control CPU 120 determines that the temperature is in the abnormal state in the second stage, and the second stage limit mode (second). Change to restricted mode). In the second-stage restriction mode, the effect control CPU 120 performs control to erase the left-middle-right effect design display displayed on the effect display device 5 (step S108). Moreover, the CPU 120 for effect control starts the output of the drive signal for the medium speed operation to the cooling fan 142 and performs the control to start the medium speed operation of the cooling fan 142 (step S109). Further, the effect control CPU 120 performs control to start the second temperature abnormality notification (step S110). For example, the effect control CPU 120 controls the effect display device 5 to display that the second temperature abnormal state is present. And CPU120 for production control sets the 2nd temperature abnormality flag which shows that it is in the temperature abnormal state of the 2nd step (step S111). Moreover, the CPU 120 for effect control resets the first temperature abnormality flag if set (step S112).

  In the present embodiment, when the processing described above is executed and the mode is shifted to the second restriction mode, in addition to the background image on the display screen of the effect display device 5, variable display of the effect symbol and simple notice display Is also erased, and only the variable display of the small symbols and the hold image and the active image are displayed.

  If the temperature of the effect control CPU 120 is not 71 ° C. to 94 ° C. (N in step S107), the effect control CPU 120 determines whether the temperature of the effect control CPU 120 is 95 ° C. or higher based on the read temperature information. It is confirmed (step S113). If the temperature of the effect control CPU 120 is 95 ° C. or higher (Y in step S113), the effect control CPU 120 determines that the temperature is in the abnormal state in the third stage, and the limit mode in the third stage (third limit mode). ). In the restriction mode of the third stage, the effect control CPU 120 displays the small symbol displayed in the upper left end portion of the display screen of the effect display device 5, the first hold display area 5D or the second hold display area 5U. The pending image and the active image displayed in the active display area AHA are erased, and control is performed to erase all the displays on the effect display device 5 (except for the third temperature abnormality notification described below). S114). In addition, the effect control CPU 120 performs control to start output of a drive signal for high-speed operation to the cooling fan 142 and start high-speed operation of the cooling fan 142 (step S115). Further, the effect control CPU 120 performs control to start the third temperature abnormality notification (step S116). For example, the effect control CPU 120 controls the effect display device 5 to display that the third temperature abnormal state is present. And CPU120 for production control sets the 3rd temperature abnormality flag which shows that it is in the temperature abnormal state of the 3rd step (Step S117). Moreover, the CPU 120 for effect control resets the first temperature abnormality flag and the second temperature abnormality flag if set (step S118).

  The above processing is executed, and in this embodiment, when the mode is shifted to the third limit mode, all the displays (except for the third temperature abnormality notification) on the effect display device 5 are erased.

  FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing the temperature limit recovery process (S53B) in the effect control main process. In the temperature limit recovery processing, the effect control CPU 120 first reads the temperature information from the temperature sensor 136 (step S151). Next, the effect control CPU 120 confirms whether or not the third temperature abnormality flag is set (step S152). If the third temperature abnormality flag is set (that is, if it is the third stage temperature abnormality state), the effect control CPU 120 determines that the temperature of the effect control CPU 120 is 90 ° C. or less based on the read temperature information. It is confirmed whether or not it has fallen to (step S153). If the temperature of the effect control CPU 120 has dropped to 90 ° C. or lower (Y in step S153), the effect control CPU 120 performs control to shift from the third-stage limit mode to the second-stage limit mode. That is, the CPU 120 for effect control restarts the display of the small symbol at the upper left end of the display screen of the effect display device 5, and displays the reserved image and the active display area AHA in the first reserved display area 5D and the second reserved display area 5U. The control for restarting the display of the displayed active image is performed (step S154). Further, the effect control CPU 120 switches the output of the drive signal for the medium speed operation to the cooling fan 142, and performs the control of switching the cooling fan 142 to the medium speed operation (step S155). Moreover, the CPU 120 for effect control performs control for switching from the third temperature abnormality notification to the second temperature abnormality notification (step S156). Then, the effect control CPU 120 resets the third temperature abnormality flag and sets the second temperature abnormality flag (step S157).

  If the third temperature abnormality flag is not set, the effect control CPU 120 checks whether or not the second temperature abnormality flag is set (step S158). If the second temperature abnormality flag is set (that is, if the temperature is in the second stage temperature abnormality state), the effect control CPU 120 determines that the temperature of the effect control CPU 120 is 66 ° C. or less based on the read temperature information. It is confirmed whether or not it has fallen to (step S159). If the temperature of the effect control CPU 120 has dropped to 66 ° C. or lower (Y in step S159), the effect control CPU 120 performs control to shift from the second-stage limit mode to the first-stage limit mode. That is, the effect control CPU 120 performs control to restart the left, right, and right effect symbol display on the effect display device 5 (step S160). Further, the effect control CPU 120 switches the output of the drive signal for the low speed operation to the cooling fan 142, and performs the control of switching the cooling fan 142 to the low speed operation (step S161). Further, the effect control CPU 120 performs control to switch from the second temperature abnormality notification to the first temperature abnormality notification (step S162). Then, the effect control CPU 120 resets the second temperature abnormality flag and sets the first temperature abnormality flag (step S163).

  If the second temperature abnormality flag is not set, the effect control CPU 120 checks whether or not the first temperature abnormality flag is set (step S164). If the first temperature abnormality flag is set (that is, if it is the first stage temperature abnormality state), the effect control CPU 120 determines that the temperature of the effect control CPU 120 is 55 ° C. or lower based on the read temperature information. It is confirmed whether or not it has fallen to (step S165). If the temperature of the effect control CPU 120 has dropped to 55 ° C. or lower (Y in step S165), the effect control CPU 120 performs control to end the first-stage restriction mode. That is, the effect control CPU 120 performs control to restart the background image display on the effect display device 5 (step S166). Moreover, the CPU 120 for effect control performs control to stop the output of the drive signal to the cooling fan 142 and stop the operation of the cooling fan 142 (step S167). Moreover, the CPU 120 for effect control performs control to erase the first temperature abnormality notification (step S168). Then, the effect control CPU 120 resets the first temperature abnormality flag (step S169).

  26 and 27 are flowcharts showing a specific example of the command analysis process (S54). The effect control command received from the main board 11 is stored in the received command buffer, but in the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 120 confirms the content of the command stored in the command reception buffer.

  In the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 120 first confirms whether or not a received command is stored in the command reception buffer (step S611). Whether it is stored or not is determined by comparing the value of the command reception number counter with the read pointer. The case where both match is the case where the received command is not stored. When the received command is stored in the command reception buffer, the effect control CPU 120 reads the received command from the command reception buffer (step S612). When read, the value of the read pointer is set to +2 (step S613). The reason for adding +2 is that 2 bytes (1 command) are read.

  If the received effect control command is the variation pattern command (step S614), the effect control CPU 120 stores the received variation pattern command in the variation pattern command storage area formed in the RAM 122 (step S615). Then, the variation pattern command reception flag is set (step S616).

  If the received effect control command is the display result specification command (step S617), the effect control CPU 120 stores the received display result specification command in the display result specification command storage area formed in the RAM 122 (step S618). ).

  If the received production control command is the symbol confirmation designation command (step S619), the production control CPU 120 sets the confirmation command reception flag (step S620).

  If the received effect control command is a big hit start designation command (step S621), the effect control CPU 120 sets a big hit start designation command reception flag (step S622).

  If the received production control command is the big hit end designation command (step S623), the effect control CPU 120 sets the big hit end designation command reception flag (step S624).

  If the received effect control command is the normal state background designation command (step S625), the effect control CPU 120 confirms whether any of the first temperature abnormality flag to the third temperature abnormality flag is set (step S625). Step S626). If none of the first temperature abnormality flag to the third temperature abnormality flag is set (N in step S626), the effect control CPU 120 causes the effect display device 5 to display a background image (e.g., blue color) corresponding to the normal state. The control for displaying the background image of the background color is performed (step S627). On the other hand, if any of the first temperature abnormality flag to the third temperature abnormality flag is set (Y in step S626), the process proceeds to step S628 without executing the process of step S627. That is, since the control mode is in any one of the first stage to the third stage, the process moves to step S628 without performing the control for displaying the background image on the effect display device 5. And CPU120 for production control resets the time saving state flag which shows that it is a time saving state, if set (step S628).

  If the received effect control command is the time saving state background designation command (step S629), the effect control CPU 120 checks whether any of the first temperature abnormality flag to the third temperature abnormality flag is set (step S629). Step S630). If none of the first temperature abnormality flag to the third temperature abnormality flag is set (N in step S630), the effect control CPU 120 causes the effect display device 5 to display a background image (e.g., green color) according to the time saving state. The control for displaying the background image of the background color is performed (step S631). On the other hand, if any of the first temperature abnormality flag to the third temperature abnormality flag is set (Y in step S630), the process proceeds to step S632 without executing the process of step S631. That is, since the control mode is in any one of the first stage to the third stage, the process moves to step S632 without performing the control of displaying the background image on the effect display device 5. Then, the effect control CPU 120 sets the time saving state flag (step S632) and, if set, resets the probability variation state flag indicating the probability variation state (step S633).

  If the received production control command is the probability variation state background designation command (step S634), the production control CPU 120 confirms whether any of the first temperature abnormality flag to the third temperature abnormality flag is set (step S634). Step S635). If none of the first temperature abnormality flag to the third temperature abnormality flag is set (N in step S635), the effect control CPU 120 causes the effect display device 5 to display a background image (for example, red color) in accordance with the probability change state. The control for displaying the background image of the background color is performed (step S636). On the other hand, if any of the first temperature abnormality flag to the third temperature abnormality flag is set (Y in step S635), the process proceeds to step S637 without executing the process of step S636. That is, since the control mode of any of the first stage to the third stage is being performed, the process moves to step S637 without performing control to display the background image on the effect display device 5. Then, the effect control CPU 120 sets the probability variation state flag (step S637).

  If the received effect control command is any other command, the effect control CPU 120 sets a flag according to the received effect control command (step S638). Then, the process proceeds to step S611.

  FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing the effect control process process (S55) in the effect control main process. In the effect control process processing, the effect control CPU 120 first confirms whether or not the third temperature abnormality flag is set (S70A). If the third temperature abnormality flag is set, the effect control process process ends. That is, it is in a state of shifting to the restriction mode of the third stage, and is a state in which all of the displays (except for the third temperature abnormality notification) are erased on the effect display device 5, so that effect control is performed as it is. The process process ends.

  If the third temperature abnormality flag is not set, the effect control CPU 120 executes a hold display notice effect determination process for determining the display pattern of the hold storage display together with the presence or absence of the hold display notice effect (S71), and then the effect. A hold display update process is executed to update the hold storage display in the first hold display area 5D and the second hold display area 5U of the display device 5 to a display according to the stored contents of the start winning award command buffer (S72).

  Next, the effect control CPU 120 confirms whether or not the second temperature abnormality flag is set (S70B). If the second temperature abnormality flag is set, the effect control process process ends. That is, it is in a state of shifting to the second-stage restriction mode, and in the effect display device 5, only the small symbol, the hold image, and the active image are displayed, and the effect symbol is not displayed, so step S71. , S72, only the process of displaying the reserved image is performed, and the effect control process process ends.

  If the second temperature abnormality flag is not set, the effect control CPU 120 performs any one of S73 to S79 according to the value of the effect control process flag. In each process, the following process is executed.

  Fluctuating pattern command reception waiting process (S73): It is confirmed whether a varying pattern command is received from the game controlling microcomputer 100. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the fluctuation pattern command reception flag set in the command analysis process is set. If the variation pattern command is received, the value of the effect control process flag is changed to the value corresponding to the effect symbol variation start processing (S74).

  Production symbol variation start processing (S74): control is performed so that variation of the production symbol is started. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect during the process of changing the effect symbol (S75). In this embodiment, in the effect symbol variation start processing, effect execution setting processing for performing LED control described later is also executed.

  Process during production symbol variation (S75): The switching timing of each variation state (variation speed) forming the variation pattern is controlled, and the end of the variation time is monitored. Then, when the variation time ends, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to the value corresponding to the effect symbol variation stop processing (S76).

  Production symbol fluctuation stop process (S76): Based on the reception of the production control command (symbol confirmation command) for instructing all symbols to stop, the variation of the production symbol is stopped and the display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed. To do. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit display process (S77) or the variation pattern command reception waiting process (S73).

  Big hit display processing (S77): After the end of the variable time, control is performed to display a screen for notifying occurrence of big hit on the effect display device 5. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit game process (S78).

  Big hit game processing (S78): The big hit game is controlled. For example, when a special winning opening open designation command or a special winning opening open designation command is received, display control of the number of rounds in the effect display device 5 and the like are performed. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit ending effect process (S79).

  Big hit end effect processing (S79): In the effect display device 5, display control is performed to notify the player that the big hit game state has ended. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to the value corresponding to the variable pattern command reception waiting process (S73).

  FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol variation start process (S74) in the effect control process process shown in FIG. In the effect symbol variation start processing, the effect control CPU 120 first reads a variation pattern command from the variation pattern command storage area (step S8000). Next, the effect control CPU 120 displays the effect pattern according to the variation pattern command read in step S8000 and the data (that is, the received display result specification command) stored in the display result specification command storage area (stop). (Symbol) is determined (step S8001). When the pseudo pattern is specified by the variation pattern command, the effect control CPU 120 determines in step S8001 that a chance eye symbol (such as "223" or "445") as a temporary stop symbol in the pseudo pattern. , Which is a combination of a big hit symbol that does not reach and a symbol that is offset by one symbol) are also determined. The effect control CPU 120 stores data indicating the determined stop symbol of the effect symbol in the effect symbol display result storage area.

  In step S8001, for example, when the received display result designation command indicates “normal big hit”, the effect control CPU 120 determines a combination of effect symbols in which three symbols are arranged in the same even number symbol as the stop symbol. . In addition, when the received display result designation command indicates “probable variation big hit”, the effect control CPU 120 determines a combination of effect symbols in which three symbols are arranged in the same odd number as the stop symbol.

  Further, when the received display result designation command indicates "a sudden change big hit" or "small hit", the effect control CPU 120 determines a combination of effect symbols such as "135" as the stop symbol. Then, in the case of “out”, a combination of effect symbols other than the above is determined. However, when the reach effect is involved, a combination of effect symbols having two left and right symbols is determined. In addition, the combination of the three symbols derived and displayed on the effect display device 5 is the "stop symbol" of the effect symbol.

  The production control CPU 120, for example, extracts a random number for determining the stop symbol, and uses the stop symbol determination table in which the data indicating the combination of the effect symbols and the numerical values are associated with each other, to determine the stop symbol of the effect symbol. decide. That is, the stop symbol is determined by selecting the data indicating the combination of the effect symbols corresponding to the numerical values that match the extracted random numbers.

  As for the effect symbols, a stop symbol that reminds of a big hit (a combination of symbols in which the left, middle and right sides are all the same symbol) is called a big hit symbol. In addition, a stop design that reminds the user of disengagement is called a disengagement design. In addition, a symbol (in this embodiment, an odd symbol) that evokes a probability variation state is also called a probability variation symbol, and a symbol (in this embodiment, an even symbol) that evokes that the probability variation state does not occur is a non-certain variation symbol. Also called.

  Next, the effect control CPU 120 executes a notice effect setting process that determines whether or not to execute a notice effect on the effect display device 5 during the variable display of the effect symbols, or sets an effect mode of the notice effect (step S8002). ).

  Next, the effect control CPU 120 confirms whether or not the first temperature abnormality flag is set (step S8003). If the first temperature abnormality flag is set, the effect control CPU 120 selects a variation process and a process table for restriction according to the advance effect when executing the advance effect (step S8004). In this embodiment, when the mode is shifted to the restriction mode of the first stage, by executing step S8007 and effect symbol changing process (S75) described later according to the process table selected in step S8004, During the variable display of the effect design, the effect sound such as some notice effect or the sound output of BGM is limited, or the scaler function (the image data expanded in the frame buffer on the VRAM 126 is enlarged or reduced in size). The image is displayed with the display output function) stopped.

  In this embodiment, in the first limit mode, the effect output sound such as a part of the notice effect and the sound output of BGM are limited during the variable display of the effect symbol, but the second limit mode and the third limit mode. In the limit mode, since the processing of S73 to S79 of the effect control process processing is not executed, the sound output related to the variable display of the effect design is not output at all.

  On the other hand, if the first temperature abnormality flag is not set, the effect control CPU 120 selects a normal process table according to the variation pattern and the notice effect when executing the notice effect (step S8005).

  Then, the effect control CPU 120 starts the process timer in the process data 1 of the process table selected in steps S8004 and S8005 (step S8006).

  The process table is a table in which process data that the production control CPU 120 refers to when performing control of the production device is set. That is, the effect control CPU 120 controls the effect devices (effect parts) such as the effect display device 5 according to the process data set in the process table. The process table is composed of data in which a plurality of combinations of process timer set values, display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data are collected. In the display control execution data, data and the like indicating the form of each variation forming the variation mode during the variable display time (variation time) of the variable display of effect symbols are described. Specifically, the data related to the change of the display screen of the effect display device 5 is described. Further, the process timer set value is set with the change time in the form of the change. The effect control CPU 120 refers to the process table and performs control to display effect symbols in a variation mode set in the display control execution data only for the time set in the process timer set value. The process table is stored in the ROM 135 installed in the effect control microcomputer 120A. The process table is prepared according to each variation pattern.

  In the process table used when performing effect control for a variation pattern involving reach effect, the left symbol is stopped and displayed when a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of variation, and the right symbol is stopped when a predetermined time has elapsed. Process data indicating display is set. It should be noted that, instead of setting the symbols to be stopped and displayed in the process table, the images for displaying the symbols are synthesized and generated according to the determined stop symbols, the temporary stop symbols in the pseudo-relation and the sliding effect. May be.

  In addition, the production control CPU 120, according to the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1), a production device (production display device 5 as a production component, a production component). The control of the various lamps and the speakers 8L and 8R as the performance parts is executed (step S8007). For example, in order to display an image in accordance with the variation pattern or the notice effect on the effect display device 5, among the various image data stored in the CGROM 141 on the effect control relay board 16A, the variable display of the effect symbol or the effect effect is announced. The various image data in the display mode are read and transferred to the VRAM 126 of the effect control microcomputer 120A.

  In this embodiment, the effect control CPU 120 performs control so that the effect pattern is variably displayed by the change pattern corresponding to the change pattern command in a one-to-one manner. The variation pattern to be used may be selected from a plurality of types of variation patterns corresponding to.

  Next, the effect control CPU 120 sets a value corresponding to the fluctuation time specified by the fluctuation pattern command in the fluctuation time timer (step S8008).

  Then, the effect control CPU 120 sets the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the effect during the effect of the effect design process (S75) (step S8009).

  In addition, after that, when the process timer times out in the effect symbol changing process (step S75), the effect control CPU 120 switches the process data. When it is determined that the process data to be switched includes the display control execution data, the effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not the memory inspection is being performed. When it is determined that the memory inspection is not being performed, it is determined whether or not the effect data is being read (for example, it is determined whether or not the effect data is being read in the control effect data transfer process). . When it is determined that the effect data is not being read, normal display control such as changing the display mode on the effect display device 5 is performed according to the display control execution data of the next process data. On the other hand, when it is determined that the memory inspection is being performed or when the effect data is being read, the setting for simple control (simple display control) of the display mode on the effect display device 5 is performed.

  In the simple display control, for example, only the image data stored in the VRAM 126 may be used to perform the setting for the simple display. During the memory inspection or the effect data reading, the stored data of the CGROM 141 cannot be read in real time and used for image display. Therefore, for example, like image data (sprite image data) corresponding to a plurality of types of effect symbols, image data transferred to and stored in the VRAM 126 as initial data is used to variably display effect symbols. Good. On the other hand, for image display in which stored data in the CGROM 141 needs to be read out, such as reach effect in which moving image reproduction is performed using moving image data, display may be stopped without displaying. When it is determined that the memory inspection is being performed or when the effect data is being read, the effect symbol changing process may be ended without performing the simple display control. In these cases, since the storage data of the frame buffer provided in the VRAM 126 or the like is not updated, the image display may not be updated on the screen of the effect display device 5 and the display may be stopped. Alternatively, by erasing (clearing) the stored data in the frame buffer, there is a possibility that the image is not displayed on the screen of the effect display device 5 and the display is stopped (blacked out).

  FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing the small symbol process process (S55A) in the effect control main process shown in FIG. In the small symbol process process, the effect control CPU 120 first confirms whether or not the third temperature abnormality flag is set (step S200). If the third temperature abnormality flag is set, the small symbol process processing is ended. That is, it is in a state of shifting to the restriction mode of the third stage, and is a state in which all the displays (except for the third temperature abnormality notification) are erased on the effect display device 5, so that the small symbol is as it is. The process process ends.

  If the third temperature abnormality flag is not set, the effect control CPU 120 performs any one of steps S201 to S203 according to the value of the small symbol process flag. In each process, the following process is executed. In the small symbol process process, the display state of the small symbols in the small symbol display area of the effect display device 5 is controlled, and the variable display of the small symbols is realized, but of the small symbols synchronized with the fluctuation of the first special symbol. The control related to the variable display and the control related to the variable display of the small symbols synchronized with the fluctuation of the second special symbol are also executed in one small symbol process process. The variable display of the small symbols synchronized with the fluctuation of the first special symbol and the variable display of the small symbols synchronized with the fluctuation of the second special symbol may be configured to be executed by another small symbol process process. Good. Further, in this case, it may be possible to determine which special symbol variable display is being executed depending on which small symbol process process is executing the variable display of the small symbols. Further, in this case, the small symbol itself may be displayed in different types depending on whether the variable display of the first special symbol is performed or the variable display of the second special symbol is performed. For example, when performing the variable display of the first special symbol, the variable display of the small symbol is executed in the blue display color, and when performing the variable display of the second special symbol, the small symbol is displayed in the red display color. It is desirable that the display is made distinguishable in some manner, such as by performing variable display.

  Small symbol variation start processing (step S201): By receiving the variation pattern command, control is performed so that the variation of the small symbol is started. Then, the value of the small symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the small symbol changing process (step S202).

  Small symbol variation process (step S202): Controls the switching timing of the variation state (variation speed) of the small symbol. Then, when the symbol confirmation designation command is received, the value of the small symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the small symbol fluctuation stop process (step S203).

  Small symbol fluctuation stop process (step S203): The fluctuation of the small symbol is stopped and the display result (stopped symbol) is derived and displayed. Then, the value of the small symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the small symbol variation start process (step S201).

  In the processing of steps S201 to S203, for example, various images stored in the CGROM 141 on the effect control relay board 16A are displayed at any time in order to display an image corresponding to the variable display of the small symbols on the effect display device 5. Of the data, various image data corresponding to the variable display of the small symbols are read out and transferred to the VRAM 126 of the effect control microcomputer 120A.

  FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing the decorative symbol process process (S55B) in the effect control main process shown in FIG. In the decorative design process process, the effect control CPU 120 performs any one of steps S251 to S253 according to the value of the decorative design process flag. In each process, the following process is executed. In the decorative pattern process processing, the lighting state of two lamps (or LEDs) forming the first decorative pattern display device 5A and the second decorative pattern display device 5B is controlled, and variable display of the decorative pattern is realized. However, the control related to the variable display of the first decorative symbol synchronized with the fluctuation of the first special symbol, the control related to the variable display of the second decorative symbol synchronized with the fluctuation of the second special symbol are also executed in one decorative symbol process process. To be done. In addition, the variable display of the first decorative symbol that is synchronized with the fluctuation of the first special symbol and the variable display of the second decorative symbol that is synchronized with the fluctuation of the second special symbol are executed by different decorative symbol process processing. You may comprise. Further, in this case, it may be determined which variable display of the special symbol is being executed depending on which decorative symbol process process is performing the variable display of the decorative symbol.

  Decorative pattern variation start processing (step S251): By receiving the variation pattern command, control is performed so that the variation of the decorative pattern is started. Then, the value of the decorative pattern process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the decorative pattern changing process (step S252).

  Decorative pattern changing process (step S252): The switching timing of the changing state (changing speed) of the decorative pattern is controlled. Then, when the design confirmation designating command is received, the value of the decorative design process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the decorative design variation stop processing (step S253).

  Decorative symbol variation stop processing (step S253): The control of deciding the variation of the decorative symbol and deriving and displaying the display result (stop symbol) is performed. Then, the value of the decorative design process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the decorative design variation start process (step S251).

  Note that, as shown in FIG. 31, in the decorative symbol process processing, it is not necessary to check whether any of the first temperature abnormality flag to the third temperature abnormality flag is set, and the steps S251 to S253 are performed. Since the process is executed, the variation display of the first decorative design and the second decorative design display 5B in the first decorative design display 5A are irrespective of whether the mode is shifted to any limit mode based on the temperature abnormality. The variable display of the second decorative pattern in is executed.

  Next, a display mode of the effect display device 5 when shifting to the restriction mode based on the temperature abnormality will be described. FIG. 32 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the display mode of the effect display device 5 when the mode is shifted to the restriction mode based on the temperature abnormality. First, in a normal mode in which no temperature abnormality is detected and no restriction mode is entered, as shown in FIG. 32 (A), a background image is displayed on the display screen of the effect display device 5. (In this example, an image including the pattern of the ground and the sun) is displayed, and the variable display of the effect symbols is displayed in the symbol display areas of the left 5L, the middle 5C, and the right 5R. In addition, the variable display 5S of the left, middle, and right small symbols is displayed at the upper left corner of the display screen of the effect display device 5, and a hold image and an active image are displayed below the display screen of the effect display device 5 (book. In the example, a case is shown in which three reserved images are displayed in the first reserved display area 5D and active images are displayed in the active display area AHA).

  Next, when the temperature of the effect control CPU 120 becomes 60 ° C. to 70 ° C. and shifts to the first restriction mode, the background image display is erased on the display screen of the effect display device 5 as shown in FIG. 32 (B). (See step S103). As shown in FIG. 32 (B), even when shifting to the first restriction mode, the variable display of the effect symbols in the symbol display areas of the left 5L, the middle 5C and the right 5R, and the variable display 5S of the small symbols, The display of the reserved image and the active image is continued. In the first restriction mode, the low speed operation of the cooling fan 142 is started (see step S104), and the first temperature abnormality notification E1 is displayed on the display screen of the effect display device 5 as shown in FIG. 32 (B). It is started (see step S105).

  Next, when the temperature of the effect control CPU 120 becomes 71 ° C. to 94 ° C. and the mode shifts to the second limit mode, as shown in FIG. The effect symbol display in the symbol display area of 5R is erased (see step S108). As shown in FIG. 32 (C), the variable display 5S for small symbols and the display of the hold image and the active image are continued even when the mode is changed to the second restriction mode. In the second restriction mode, the medium speed operation of the cooling fan 142 is started (see step S109), and as shown in FIG. 32C, the second temperature abnormality notification E2 is displayed on the display screen of the effect display device 5. Is started (see step S110).

  Furthermore, when the temperature of the effect control CPU 120 becomes 95 ° C. or higher and the mode shifts to the third limit mode, as shown in FIG. The image and the active image are also deleted, and all the displays (except the third temperature abnormality notification E1) on the effect display device 5 are deleted (see step S114). Further, in the third restriction mode, the high-speed operation of the cooling fan 142 is started (see step S115), and the third temperature abnormality notification E3 is displayed on the display screen of the effect display device 5 as shown in FIG. It is started (see step S116).

  Next, the control of the LEDs 9a to 9e will be described. The LEDs 9a to 9e are capable of emitting light (lighting, blinking, etc.) in a plurality of types of light emission patterns corresponding to effects to be executed. When the control data is set in the control data area provided in the RAM 122, the effect control CPU 120 can control the LEDs 9a to 9e to emit light (light, blink, etc.) in a predetermined light emission pattern. ing.

  The control data set in the control data area is data for controlling light emission (lighting, blinking, etc.) in each of the light emitter control boards 16C to 16F. Specifically, each light emission pattern is assigned an identifier for uniquely identifying them, and the control data described above is data indicating this identifier. When the control data is set in the control data area, the effect control CPU 120 reads the control data and outputs it to each of the light emitter control boards 16C to 16F. In each of the light emitter control boards 16C to 16F, the LEDs 9a to 9e are turned on by controlling the light emitter drivers 411a, 411b, 413a to 413c to emit light in the light emission pattern identified by the identifier indicated by the control data. / It is driven off. On the other hand, when the control data area is NULL, it is determined that the control data is not set in the control data area. Further, the timing at which the control data is set is a timing before the control is started by the control data or a timing before the control is started by the control data. In the following description, when describing an effect by any one of the LEDs 9a to 9e, it may be simply expressed as an LED effect.

  FIG. 33 is a diagram showing an example of the control data area. The control data area includes at least one control data area and another control data area. Specifically, in the case of this embodiment, five control data areas of layer 1, layer 2, layer 3, layer 4, and layer 5 are included. And each layer respond | corresponds to the sound production which outputs a sound. For example, the “error” effect is an effect in which a screen indicating an error is displayed on the effect display device 5, but corresponds to an effect that outputs an error sound. It should be noted that the sound effect includes an effect that does not produce a sound (silent effect), and there may be an LED effect corresponding to this silent effect. The LED effect corresponding to the silent effect is an effect of causing the LED to emit light, not turning off the LED.

  Further, the priority order is set for the layer 1, the layer 2, the layer 3, the layer 4, and the layer 5, and the layer 1, the layer 2, the layer 3, the layer 4, and the layer 5 (the layer 1 is the highest priority) The priority is low, and layer 5 has the highest priority). Here, "the priority order is set" specifically means that when the effect control CPU 120 controls the LEDs 9a to 9e, the layers 5, layer 4, layer 3, layer 2, layer 1 are in this order. Control for determining whether or not control data is set and outputting the control data set in the control data area determined to be set to each of the light emitter control boards 16C to 16F Therefore, the priority is given to the order of layer 5, layer 4, layer 3, layer 2, and layer 1. Note that the example of realizing the setting of the priority order is not limited to this, and for example, a value indicating the priority order may be assigned to each layer. In this case, the effect control CPU 120 first refers to the values assigned to all the layers for which the control data is set, and (even if the control data is set for a plurality of layers) The control data set in the layer to which the highest priority value (for example, the maximum value) is assigned is output to each of the light emitter control boards 16C to 16F.

  In this way, since the priority order is set for the layers, only one LED effect is performed in the LED effect, and a plurality of LED effects are not performed at the same time, but the sound effects corresponding to the LED effects are performed at the same time. It may be done. For example, when the control data for BGM effect is set in the control data area of layer 1 and the control data for other effects is not set in the control data area of a layer having a higher priority than layer 1, the BGM effect is set. BGM is performed as a sound effect together with the LED effect of the effect. In this state, for example, when control data of another effect is set in the control data area of the layer 3, in the LED effect, the LED effect of the BGM effect ends and the LED effect of the other effect is performed. In the sound effect, BGM and sound effects of other effects are simultaneously performed.

  When the control data is set in either one of the control data areas, the effect control CPU 120 emits (lights up) the LEDs 9a to 9e in a light emission pattern corresponding to the control data area in which the control data is set. , Blinking, etc.). Specifically, for example, when the game state is a low base state, as shown in FIG. 33, when the control data is set in the layer 1, it corresponds to the BGM effect (normal variation, reach variation) of the layer 1. The LEDs 9a to 9e are controlled to emit light (lighting, blinking, etc.) in the light emission pattern. In addition, when the control data is set in the layer 2, the LEDs 9a to 9e are controlled to emit light (light, blink, etc.) in the light emission pattern corresponding to the notice B effect of the layer 2. When the control data is set in the layer 3, the LEDs 9a to 9e are controlled to emit light (light, blink, etc.) in a light emission pattern corresponding to the notice A effect of the layer 3. Further, when the control data is set in the layer 4, the LEDs 9a to 9e are controlled to emit light (light, blink, etc.) in a light emission pattern corresponding to the confirmation notification effect of the layer 4. Further, when the control data is set in the layer 5, the LEDs 9a to 9e are controlled to emit light (light, blink, etc.) in a light emission pattern corresponding to the error effect of the layer 5.

  Further, when the gaming state is in the high base state, as shown in FIG. 33, when the control data is set in the layer 1, the LED 9a has a light emission pattern corresponding to the BGM effect (normal fluctuation) of the layer 1. Control is performed so that 9e emits light (lighting, blinking, etc.). When the control data is set in the layer 2, the LEDs 9a to 9e are controlled to emit light (light, blink, etc.) in a light emission pattern corresponding to the BGM effect (reach variation) of the layer 2. When the control data is set in the layer 3, the LEDs 9a to 9e are controlled to emit light (light, blink, etc.) in a light emission pattern corresponding to the notice effect (all) of the layer 3. Further, when the control data is set in the layer 4, the LEDs 9a to 9e are controlled to emit light (light, blink, etc.) in a light emission pattern corresponding to the confirmation notification effect of the layer 4. Further, when the control data is set in the layer 5, the LEDs 9a to 9e are controlled to emit light (light, blink, etc.) in a light emission pattern corresponding to the error effect of the layer 5.

  Further, when the gaming state is the big hit state, as shown in FIG. 33, when the control data is set in the layer 1, the LEDs 9a to 9e are emitted in the light emission pattern corresponding to the BGM effect (big hit) of the layer 1. Is controlled to emit light (lighting, blinking, etc.). Further, when the control data is set in the layer 2, the LEDs 9a to 9e are controlled to emit light (light, blink, etc.) in a light emission pattern corresponding to the notice effect (suspended series, promotion) of the layer 2. To do. When the control data is set in the layer 3, the LEDs 9a to 9e are controlled to emit light (light, blink, etc.) in a light emission pattern corresponding to the special winning opening winning effect of the layer 3. Further, when the control data is set in the layer 4, the LEDs 9a to 9e are controlled to emit light (light, blink, etc.) in a light emission pattern corresponding to the probability variation winning effect of the layer 4. Further, when the control data is set in the layer 5, the LEDs 9a to 9e are controlled to emit light (light, blink, etc.) in a light emission pattern corresponding to the error effect of the layer 5.

  When the control data is set in both of the control data areas, the effect control CPU 120 emits (turns on, the LEDs 9a to 9e in a light emission pattern corresponding to the control data area having a higher priority). It can be controlled so that it blinks). Specifically, for example, when the control data is set in both the control data areas of the layer 2 and the layer 3, the light emission pattern corresponding to the layer 3 which is the control data area having a high priority is set. The LEDs 9a to 9e can be controlled to emit light (lighting, blinking, etc.). Further, when the control data is set in the control data areas of the layers 2, 3, and 4, the LED 9a has the light emission pattern corresponding to the layer 4 which is the control data area having a higher priority. It is possible to control so that 9e emits light (lighting, blinking, etc.).

  Further, in the present embodiment, a light emission pattern when control data is set in one control data area during the first game state, and one control during the second game state different from the first game state The emission pattern is different when the control data is set in the data area. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 33, the control data area is provided for each gaming state (low base state, high base state, big hit state). Then, for example, a light emission pattern (light emission pattern corresponding to the notice A effect) when the control data is set in the control data area of the layer 2 in the low base state, for example, a high base state different from the low base state The light emission pattern (light emission pattern corresponding to the BGM effect) when the control data is set in the control data area of the layer 2 is different.

  The settings in the control data area shown in FIG. 33 are, in principle, reset each time one game ends. "One game", when the game state is low base state or high base state, indicates the game from the start of the variable display to the end by the stop display of the variable display, when the game state is the jackpot state Indicates a game from the start to the end of the big hit state.

  Therefore, when the gaming state is the low base state or the high base state, the control data is set at the start timing of the variable display or the start timing of the effect during the variable display, and is set for the stop display of the variable display or each effect It is reset at the timing when the specified time has elapsed. Even if the timing when the time determined for each effect has passed does not arrive, it is reset when the variable display is stopped and displayed.

  When the gaming state is a big hit state, the control data is set in the special figure hit waiting process of S173 or the big hit game process of S176. When the big hit ends, when the round ends, or each effect. It is reset at the timing when the time set for each has passed.

  Exceptionally, the setting of the data for controlling the LED effect by the LEDs 9a to 9e corresponding to the effect (for example, the pre-reading notice effect or the effect including a plurality of big hits) performed over a plurality of games is reset by the end of the game. It will not be done. It should be noted that the LED effect performed over a plurality of games is a combination of one game that is different depending on the above-mentioned game state and is once again a single game, and the effect over a plurality of this one game is also an LED effect. Good.

  Next, each effect shown in FIG. 33 will be described. As described above, the LED control in this embodiment corresponds to the sound effect in each effect shown in FIG. In the following description, the LED that emits light (lights, blinks, etc.) is described in each effect, but only the described LED emits light (lights, blinks, etc.) and other LEDs also emit (lights, lights, blinks, etc.). Flashing).

  In FIG. 33, the error effect corresponds to the error designation command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 100, and an error image display operation in the display area of the effect display device 5 and an error sound output operation from the speakers 8L and 8R. , LED 9a to 9e is an effect in which an error is notified by an error light emitting operation or the like. The error effect in the present embodiment is an effect in which all the LEDs 9a to 9e emit light (light, blink, etc.). Then, as shown in FIG. 33, the effect control CPU 120 does not depend on the gaming state when the control data is set in the control data area (layer 5) in which the highest priority is set. The control is performed so that light is emitted (lighting, blinking, etc.) in a light emission pattern indicating an error effect.

  The confirmation notification effect is an effect in which LEDs arranged in a V shape blink or a V-shaped symbol is displayed in the display area of the effect display device 5. It is an effect (notice) that indicates the confirmation.

  In the probability variation winning presentation, for example, a V probability variation type gaming machine in which the state after the big hit is determined by the presence or absence of winning of the probability variation winning opening (or a predetermined area provided in the probability variation winning opening, hereinafter, probability variation winning opening, etc.) In the above, it is an effect that is performed when the probability variation winning opening or the like is won. It is general that when the probability variation winning a prize or the like is won, the state after the big hit is a probability variation state, and when the probability variation winning a prize or the like is not awarded, the state after the big hit is an uncertain variation state. In this case, there is provided an effect that allows the player to aim at the probability variation winning opening or the like, and this effect is referred to as a probability variation challenge effect in the present embodiment. The pachinko gaming machine 1 shown in FIG. 1 is not provided with a probability variation winning port, but in order to explain an example of LED control, the probability variation winning effect in this embodiment is, for example, in a special variable winning ball device 7. The above-mentioned predetermined area is provided, and when the player wins the predetermined area, an LED (for example, an LED provided in the special variable winning ball device 7) emits light (lights, blinks, etc.). In the present embodiment, the probability variation challenge effect is an effect in which an LED (for example, an LED provided in the special variable winning ball device 7) emits light (lights, blinks, etc.). The probability variation winning port is also called a probability variation attacker.

  In the present embodiment, the notice A effect and the notice B effect are effects in the display area of the effect display device 5 while the LEDs 9a to 9e emit light (lighting, blinking, etc.), and the notice A effect is The character A is an effect displayed in the display area of the effect display device 5, and the notice B effect is an effect in which the character B is displayed in the display area of the effect display device 5. In addition, "notice (all)" indicates notice A effect and notice B effect. In addition, among the “preliminary notice (holding series, promotion)”, the notice (holding series) is a big hit holding when there is a big hit holding before or during the big hit. It is a production that gives a big notice in advance. The notice (promotion) is the above-described big hit middle promotion effect or the number-of-rounds promotion effect in which the number of big hit rounds increases from 8 rounds to 16 rounds, for example. This "advance notice (holding sequence, promotion)" is an effect in the display area of the effect display device 5 while the LEDs 9a to 9e emit light (light, blink, etc.).

  The special winning opening winning effect is an effect that is performed when the special variable winning ball device 7 is won. The special winning opening winning effect in this embodiment is an effect in which the LEDs 9a to 9e emit light (lighting, blinking, etc.) each time the special variable winning ball device 7 is won. In this big winning award winning presentation, there is a case where an effect that is particularly noticeable at the time of so-called over-winning is performed.

  In each of the effects described above, not only the LED effect, but also effects other than the LED effect (for example, sound effect by sound, display effect by effect display device 5, or effect combining sound effect and display effect). Although it may be performed, in the following description, unless otherwise specified, "effect" indicates only the LED effect in the effect. When showing the entire effect including the LED effect and effects other than the LED, it is expressed as “effect (all)”. In addition, when an effect other than LED is shown, it is expressed as “effect (other than LED)”. For example, "BGM effect" indicates only LED effect, "BGM effect (all)" indicates the entire effect including effects other than LED such as sound effect, and "BGM effect (other than LED)". Indicates an effect other than the LED, such as a sound effect.

  Further, in each effect described above, the priority order of the BGM effect is set to be the lowest in any game state due to the nature of BGM. In the low base state, the notice A effect has a higher priority than the notice B effect because the notice A effect has a higher expectation of a big hit than the notice B effect. Further, in the low base state, the confirmation notification effect has a higher priority than the notice A effect, because the confirmation notification effect is an effect indicating a big hit confirmation.

  In the high base state, the BGM (reach variation) effect has a higher priority than the BGM (normal) effect, but this is because the BGM (reach variation) effect has a higher jackpot expectation than the BGM (normal) effect. Is. In the high base state, the notice (all) effect has a higher priority than the BGM (reach variation) effect, but this is because the notice (all) effect has a higher expectation of a big hit than the BGM (reach variation) effect. Is. In the high base state, the confirmation notification effect has a higher priority than the notice (all) effect, because the confirmation notification effect has a higher expectation of a big hit than the notice (all) effect.

  In the big hit state, the notice (holding series, promotion) effect has a higher priority than the BGM (big hit) effect, but this is an important effect for the player than the notice (holding series, promotion) than the BGM (big hit) effect. This is because. In the big hit state, the big winning award winning production has a higher priority than the notice (holding continuous, promotion) production, but this is because the big winning award winning presentation is performed every time a prize is won. ) The production (other than the LED) is generally performed in the display area of the production display device 5 for a relatively longer time than the special winning opening winning presentation, but the big winning opening winning presentation is announced (suspended, promoted) If the priority is set higher, the player can be notified of any of the effects, but if the priority of the notice (holding, promotion) is set higher than that of the special winning opening prize, a notice (hold) is given. This is because only the production is performed and the big winning award winning presentation is not performed. In addition, as described above, in the big winning mouth prize presentation, the production at the time of over-winning is generally performed, and since the over-winning is a profit that cannot be obtained by the player, the importance of the production is high. It is also because it is expensive.

  The setting of the control data of each effect is reset when the time set for each effect has passed, except for the BGM effect and the control data of the effect performed over a plurality of games. Note that, as an effect (all) in a general pachinko gaming machine, there is an effect (all) that branches into two or more effects (all). When branching to such a plurality of effects (all), the control data of the corresponding effect is reset when branching.

  The control data set in each control data area described above is an example, and is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 33, and is appropriately set according to the effect of the pachinko gaming machine or the like.

  34 and 35 are time charts showing LED control examples. First, in the time chart shown in FIG. 34, when the error notification is not executed, the game state is the low base state, the variable display is not performed, and there is no hold, there is a start winning prize at the time T1. , A production pattern starts to change, a notice B effect occurs at time T2, and a notice A effect occurs at time T3. The BGM effect (other than LED) is performed from time T1 to the end, the notice B effect (other than LED) is performed from time T2 to the end, and the notice A effect (other than LED) is performed from time T3 to the end. It is being appreciated. The control target LEDs are LEDs 9a to 9e, for example.

  In the time chart shown in FIG. 34, the vertical axis represents LED control corresponding to each layer, and the horizontal axis represents time.

  Further, in FIG. 34, the control data set in the control data area of layer 5 is used as the control data for the error effect, and the control data set in the control data area of the layer 4 is used for the control of the final notification effect. Data, the control data set in the control data area of layer 3 is the control data of the notice A effect, and the control data set in the control data area of layer 2 is the control data of the notice B effect , The control data set in the control data area of layer 1 is used as the control data for the BGM effect.

  The LEDs 9a to 9e emit light (lighting, blinking, etc.) with color A in the error production, emit light with color B (lighting, blinking, etc.) in the final notification production, and emit light with color C (lighting, blinking, etc.) in the notice A production. In the notice B effect, the color D is emitted (lighting, blinking, etc.), and in the BGM effect, the color E is emitted (lighting, blinking, etc.).

  Further, in the time chart shown in FIG. 34, a display mode showing the emission colors of the LEDs 9a to 9e and the like is shown. In this display mode, "off" indicates that the LEDs 9a to 9e are off, and the alphabet indicates that they emit light (light, blink, etc.) in the corresponding color. "Erase" and alphabetic expressions are also used in other time charts to be described.

  Further, in the time chart shown in FIG. 34, it is also shown whether or not an effect (other than LED) corresponding to each layer is executed. For example, since the BGM effect (all) is an effect that executes the sound effect together with the LED effect, the sound effect can be executed even when the LED effect is not executed because the priority order is low and the LED effect is not executed.

  Further, in the case of FIG. 34, each effect (other than the LED) can be simultaneously executed. For example, the notice A effect (other than LED) and the notice B effect (other than LED) can be executed simultaneously.

  Based on the above, the time chart of FIG. 34 will be described. First, since the control data is not set in each control data area, the LEDs 9a to 9e are turned off as shown in the LED display mode.

  At time T1, there is a start winning and the control data is set in the control data area of layer 1, so that the BGMLED control is turned on. As a result, the LEDs 9a to 9e emit light (light, blink, etc.) in the color E as shown in the LED display mode.

  Next, at time T2, control data is set in the control data area of layer 2 having a higher priority than layer 1, so that the notice BLED control is turned on and the BGMLED control is turned off. As a result, the LEDs 9a to 9e emit light of color D (lighting, blinking, etc.) as shown in the LED display mode.

  Next, at time T3, the control data is set in the control data area of the layer 3 having a higher priority than the layer 2, so that the notice ALED control is turned on and the notice BLED control is turned off. As a result, the LEDs 9a to 9e emit light (color, blink, etc.) in the color C as shown in the LED display mode. According to the control shown in FIG. 34, the notice B effect important to the player is prioritized over the BGM effect, and the notice A effect important over the notice B effect is prioritized. Since the visual effect can be given appropriately, the interest of the game can be improved.

  Next, in the time chart shown in FIG. 35, the game state is in the low base state, variable display is not performed, and there is no hold, there is a start winning prize at time T1, and the effect symbol starts to change. As in the case of FIG. 34, the notice B effect is generated at time T2, and the notice A effect is further generated at time T3, but this is a time chart when the error notification is being executed.

  In the example shown in FIG. 35, since the error notification is being executed, the error display (other than the LED) is being executed, and the control data is set in the control data area of the layer 5, so that the LED display mode is achieved. As shown in, the LEDs 9a to 9e emit light (light, blink, etc.) in the color A. Since the control data for error notification set in the layer 5 has the highest priority, it becomes the time T1, the time T2, and the time T3 at which the BGM effect, the notice B effect, and the notice A effect are generated. Also, the error LED control is continued, and the execution of the error effect (other than the LED) is also continued.

  As shown in FIG. 35, the BGM effect (other than LED), the notice B effect (other than LED), and the notice A effect (other than LED) can be simultaneously executed even while the error notification is being executed.

  34 and 35 show an example of LED control when the game state is the low base state as an example, but also when the game state is the high base state or the big hit game state LED control is performed according to the priority order of the layers indicated by 33.

  36 and 37 are flowcharts showing an example of the effect execution setting process executed in the effect symbol variation start process (step S74). In this flowchart, the control data area shown in FIG. 33 will be used as an example for description. Further, in the description of this flowchart, "setting the control data of the effect Y in the control data area of the layer N and setting the LED control data of the effect control pattern according to the start timing of the effect Y" is simply referred to as "effect. The Y control data is set in the layer N ”. For example, the description "set the control data of the notice effect in the layer 2" means "set the control data of the notice effect in the control data area of the layer 2 and change the effect control pattern according to the start timing of the notice effect. "Setting LED control data".

  In the effect execution setting process shown in FIG. 36, the effect control CPU 120 determines whether the error LED is emitting light (for example, whether the LEDs 9a to 9e are emitting light of color A (lighting, blinking, etc.)). Perform (step S901). The effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not the error notification process of step S54A has been executed.

  When the error LED is emitting light (step S901; Yes), the error effect has the highest priority, and therefore the effect control CPU 120 proceeds to step S915 without setting the control data in the lower layer.

  When the error LED is emitting light (step S901; Yes), the effect control CPU 120 determines whether the game state is the high base state (step S902). When the gaming state is the high base state (step S902; Yes), the effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not the variation pattern is a reach variation pattern (step S903). When the variation pattern is the reach variation pattern (step S903; Yes), the effect control CPU 120 sets the BGM (reach variation) effect control data in the layer 2 (step S904), and proceeds to step S906. When the variation pattern is not the reach variation pattern (step S903; NO), the effect control CPU 120 sets the BGM (normal variation) effect control data in the layer 1 (step S905), and proceeds to step S906.

  Next, the effect control CPU 120 performs an advance notice determination process for determining whether to execute the advance notice effect (step S906). Here, it is determined by using a lottery process based on a variation pattern or a random number. For example, when the variation pattern indicates super reach α, β, it is determined by using a lottery process based on a random number. The effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not to execute the notice effect from the determination result of the notice determination process (step S907). When the notice effect is not executed (step S907; No), the process proceeds to step S909. When executing the notice effect (step S907; Yes), the effect control CPU 120 sets the control data of the notice effect in the layer 3 (step S908).

  Next, the effect control CPU 120 performs a confirmation notification determination process for determining whether to execute the confirmation notification effect (step S909). Here, it is determined by using a lottery process based on a variation pattern or a random number. For example, when the variation pattern indicates a big hit, it is determined by using a lottery process based on a random number. The effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not to execute the confirmation notification effect from the determination result of the confirmation notification determination process (step S910). When the confirmation notification effect is not executed (step S910; No), the process proceeds to step S912. When the confirmation notification effect is executed (step S910; Yes), the effect control CPU 120 sets the control data of the confirmation notification effect in the layer 4 (step S911). Next, the effect control CPU 120 selects each effect control pattern determined in each determination process (step S912). Then, the effect execution setting process ends.

  Returning to the processing of step S902, if the gaming state is the low base state (step S902; No), the process proceeds to step S913 of FIG. The effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not the variation pattern is a reach variation pattern (step S913). When the variation pattern is the reach variation pattern (step S913; Yes), the effect control CPU 120 sets the BGM (reach variation) effect control data in the layer 1 (step S914), and proceeds to step S916. When the variation pattern is not the reach variation pattern (step S913; NO), the effect control CPU 120 sets the BGM (normal variation) effect control data in layer 1 (step S915), and proceeds to step S916.

  Next, the effect control CPU 120 performs the notice B determination process for determining whether to execute the notice B effect (step S916). Here, it is determined by using a lottery process based on a variation pattern or a random number. For example, when the variation pattern indicates super reach α, β, it is determined by using a lottery process based on a random number. The effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not to execute the notice B effect from the determination result of the notice B determination process (step S917). When the notice B effect is not executed (step S917; No), the process proceeds to step S919. When executing the notice B effect (step S917; Yes), the effect control CPU 120 sets the control data of the notice B effect in the layer 2 (step S918).

  Next, the effect control CPU 120 performs the notice A determination process for determining whether to execute the notice A effect (step S919). Here, it is determined by using a lottery process based on a variation pattern or a random number. For example, when the variation pattern indicates super reach α, β, it is determined by using a lottery process based on a random number. The effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not to execute the notice A effect from the determination result of the notice A determination process (step S920). When the notice A effect is not executed (step S920; No), the process proceeds to step S922. When executing the notice A effect (step S920; Yes), the effect control CPU 120 sets the control data of the notice A effect in the layer 3 (step S921).

  Next, the effect control CPU 120 performs a finalization notification determination process for determining whether to execute the finalization notification effect (step S922). Here, it is determined by using a lottery process based on a variation pattern or a random number. For example, when the variation pattern indicates a big hit, it is determined by using a lottery process based on a random number. The effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not to execute the final notification effect based on the determination result of the final notification determination process (step S923). When the confirmation notification effect is not executed (step S923; No), the process proceeds to step S912. When executing the confirmation notification effect (step S923; Yes), the effect control CPU 120 sets the control data of the confirmation notification effect in the layer 4 (step S924).

  In addition to the control of the LEDs 9a to 9e in the effect symbol variation start process described above, the control of the LEDs 9a to 9e is also performed in the variation pattern command reception waiting process, the effect symbol variation process, and the big hit game process. For example, in the variation pattern command reception waiting process, when the customer waiting demonstration designation command is received when the pachinko gaming machine 1 is powered on, the effect control CPU 120 immediately displays the LEDs 9a to 9e in the LED mode in the customer waiting demonstration effect. . On the other hand, when the BGM effect is performing an effect in which a certain pattern is repeated, the effect control CPU 120 causes the LEDs 9a to 9e to be displayed in the LED mode in the customer waiting demonstration effect a few seconds after receiving the customer waiting demonstration designation command. In this way, even if the same customer waiting demo designation command is received, the control content differs depending on the situation.

  In the effect symbol variation process, the effect control CPU 120 controls the LEDs 9a to 9e based on the start timing set in the effect symbol variation start process, and whether or not the time set for each effect elapses. When the variable display ends, the setting of the control data of the effect is reset. Further, in the effect symbol changing process, the effect control CPU 120 may control the LEDs 9a to 9e according to the operation of the player. An example of the player's operation is, for example, a pressing operation of a trigger button of the stick controller 31A. In accordance with such a pressing operation, the effect control CPU 120 controls the LEDs 9a to 9e in the effect during the change of effect symbol. In the big hit game process, the CPU 120 for effect control sets the control data shown in FIG. 33 in the control data area to control the LEDs 9a to 9e, and the time set for each effect elapses. Then, the setting of the control data of the effect is reset. Also, in the big hit game processing, the LEDs 9a to 9e may be controlled according to the operation of the player, so the effect control CPU 120 controls the LEDs 9a to 9e according to the pressing operation.

  As described above, in this embodiment, the data setting area (in this example, the control shown in FIG. 33) having a plurality of layers (in this example, layer 1 to layer 5 shown in FIG. 33) in which the priority order is set. Data area). Further, in each layer of the data setting area, it is possible to set light emission data for performing light emission control of at least the light emitters (LEDs 9a to 9e in this example) of the electric components. Then, the control means (in this example, the production control CPU 120) can control the light emission of the light emitter based on the light emission data, and the light emission data is set in a plurality of layers of the data setting area. In addition, the light emission control of the light emitter is performed based on the light emission data set in the layer having the higher priority. Therefore, it is possible to easily switch the priority order by switching the layers and control the light emission of the light emitter.

  In addition, in this embodiment, a plurality of types of light emission patterns (for example, BGM effect, notice effect, confirmation notification effect, big winning award winning effect, probability variation winning effect, error effect, etc.) (for example, BGM effect, notice effect, confirmation notification effect, etc.) A light emitting device (for example, LEDs 9a to 9e) capable of emitting light in a color pattern, a blinking pattern, and the like, and a control unit capable of controlling the light emitting device (for example, CPU 120 for effect control) are provided, and the control unit controls. When the control data is set in the control data area, the light emitting device can be controlled to emit light in a predetermined light emission pattern. The control data area is one control data area (for example, the layer of FIG. 33). 1, Layer 2, Layer 3, Layer 4, Layer 5 control data areas, etc.) and other control data areas (eg Layer 1, Layer 2, Layer 3, Layer 4, Layer 5) Of the control data areas, at least one control data area different from one control data area) is included, and one of the control data areas (for example, layer 1, layer 2, layer 3, layer 4, When the control data is set in one of the control data areas of the layer 5), the light emission pattern (for example, the light emission pattern corresponding to the control data area in which the control data is set) is set. The light emitting device is controlled to emit light in the BGM effect, the notice effect, the confirmation notification effect, the big winning opening prize effect, the probability variation prize effect, and the light emission pattern corresponding to the error effect, and both control data areas (for example, If control data is set in two control data areas of the control data areas of layer 1, layer 2, layer 3, layer 4, and layer 5), the priority order is set. (For example, layer 1, layer 2, layer 3, layer 4, layer 5 in order of decreasing priority) can be controlled so that the light emitting device emits light in a light emission pattern corresponding to the control data area in which the setting is high. In the first gaming state (for example, the low base state of FIG. 33), one control data area (for example, the control data area of the layer 2 of the low base state of FIG. 33) is used for the control data (for example, , The light emission pattern when the data for control of the notice B effect set in the control data area of the layer 2 in the low base state of FIG. 33) is set and the second game state different from the first game state Control data in one control data area (for example, high base state in FIG. 33) (for example, BGM rendering control data set in the control data area in layer 2 in the high base state in FIG. 33). The light emission pattern when is set is different. Therefore, since the lamp effect can be performed in the priority order according to the game state, the enjoyment of the game can be improved.

  In addition, in this embodiment, a plurality of types of light emission patterns (for example, BGM effect, notice effect, confirmation notification effect, big winning award winning effect, probability variation winning effect, error effect, etc.) (for example, BGM effect, notice effect, confirmation notification effect, etc.) A light emitting device (for example, LEDs 9a to 9e) capable of emitting light in a color pattern, a blinking pattern, and the like, and a control unit capable of controlling the light emitting device (for example, CPU 120 for effect control) are provided, and the control unit controls. When the control data is set in the control data area, the light emitting device can be controlled to emit light in a predetermined light emission pattern. The control data area is one control data area (for example, the layer of FIG. 33). 1, Layer 2, Layer 3, Layer 4, Layer 5 control data areas, etc.) and other control data areas (eg Layer 1, Layer 2, Layer 3, Layer 4, Layer 5) Of the control data areas, at least one control data area different from one control data area) is included, and one of the control data areas (for example, layer 1, layer 2, layer 3, layer 4, When the control data is set in one of the control data areas of the layer 5), the light emission pattern (for example, the light emission pattern corresponding to the control data area in which the control data is set) is set. The light emitting device is controlled to emit light in the BGM effect, the notice effect, the confirmation notification effect, the big winning opening prize effect, the probability variation prize effect, and the light emission pattern corresponding to the error effect, and both control data areas (for example, If control data is set in two control data areas of the control data areas of layer 1, layer 2, layer 3, layer 4, and layer 5), the priority order is set. (For example, layer 1, layer 2, layer 3, layer 4, layer 5 in order of decreasing priority) can be controlled so that the light emitting device emits light in a light emission pattern corresponding to the control data area in which the setting is high. In the control data area, the first data area (for example, the layer 1 control data area), the second data area (for example, the layer 2 control data area), the Three data areas (for example, a control data area of layer 3) are provided, and as control data set in the second data area, control data for controlling the light emitting device to emit light (for example, special data There is control data for controlling the LED provided in the variable winning ball device 7 to emit light, and turn-off control data for controlling the light emitting device to turn off, and the first data area When control data (for example, BGM effect control data, etc.) is set in the second data area, turn-off control data is set in the second data area, and when the turn-off control data is set, It is possible to set control data (for example, control data for a special winning opening winning effect) in the three data areas. Therefore, the light emission pattern having a high priority can be made conspicuous, and the enjoyment of the game can be improved.

  The effect description shown in FIGS. 34 to 37 is an example, and the effect shown in this embodiment may be applied to other than the gaming state shown in FIGS. 34 to 37. Specifically, for example, the game state shown in FIG. 34 is a low base state, but it may be applied to a big hit state.

  Further, although the effect in the control of the LEDs 9a to 9e described above is the sound effect, the effect is not limited to the sound effect, and may be an effect executed in the effect display device 5, an effect for operating the accessory, or the like. Although the number of layers is 5, the number of layers may be 2 or more. Further, although the setting data area is provided for each of the low base state, the high base state, and the big hit state, the setting data area is not limited to this, and may be provided for each of various states such as the low accurate high base state and the high accurate high base state. You may

  As the control data set in the control data area described above, the control data to be output to the lamp control board 14 is taken as an example. May be

  When the address of the data indicating the light emission pattern is set in the control data area, the effect control CPU 120 refers to the address set in the control data area and lamps the control data stored in the address. When the data is output to the control board 14 and the control data area is NULL, it is determined that the control data is not set.

  When 1-bit data indicating ON / OFF is set in the control data area, the effect control CPU 120 corresponds to the control data area when “1” indicating ON is set in the control data area. When the control data indicating the light emission pattern of the effect to be output is output to the lamp control board 14 and "0" indicating OFF is set in the control data area, it is determined that the control data is not set. Therefore, when "0" is set, the control data indicating the light emission pattern of the effect corresponding to the control data area is not output to the lamp control board 14, so that the lamp 9 does not emit light in the light emission pattern. Becomes

  Further, as the light emission pattern of the lamp, the embodiment according to the difference in color has been described, but the light emission pattern is not limited to this, and a blinking pattern having different light emission intervals may be used. Furthermore, specific examples of the colors A, B, C, D, and E include blue, yellow, green, red, gold, and rainbow, but light may be emitted in a plurality of colors.

  In addition, in this embodiment, the control means determines that the control data is set in the control data area in which the highest priority is set (for example, the control data area of layer 5 in FIG. 33). Controls the light emission pattern to indicate an error regardless of the game state. Therefore, the error can be appropriately notified.

  In addition, in this embodiment, first control data (for example, control data for the notice A effect of FIG. 33) that causes the light emitting device to emit light in the first light emission pattern when set in the control data area, There is second control data that causes the light emitting device to emit light in the second light emission pattern when set in the control data area, and in one game state (for example, the low base state of FIG. 33), The first control data (for example, the control data for the notice A effect set in layer 3 in FIG. 33) is the second control data (for example, the control data for the notice B effect set in layer 2 in FIG. 33). In a gaming state different from the one gaming state (for example, the high base state of FIG. 33B) set in the control data area having higher priority than the first controlling data (for example, FIG. 33 ( Set on layer 2 of B) The data for control of the notice A effect to be performed) is placed in a control data area having a lower priority than the second control data (for example, the control data for the notice B effect set in layer 3 of FIG. 33B). Is set. Therefore, since the lamp effect can be performed in the priority order according to the game state, the enjoyment of the game can be improved.

  FIG. 38 is a flowchart showing an example of the process executed in step S55C of FIG. 23 as the in-control memory inspection process. In the in-control memory inspection process shown in FIG. 38, the effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not the memory inspection is in progress (step S1251). In step S1251, for example, the memory inspection flag is set when executing the memory inspection, and whether the memory inspection is being performed or not is determined according to whether the memory inspection flag is ON or OFF. Just make a decision. When it is determined in step S1251 that the memory inspection is not being performed (step S1251; No), it is determined whether or not the waiting time, which is the memory inspection interval, has elapsed (step S1252). The effect control CPU 120 may determine that the memory inspection interval has elapsed when a time-out signal output from a timer circuit (not shown) included in the CTC is on, for example. Alternatively, the effect control CPU 120 passes the memory inspection interval when the current time specified using, for example, an RTC (real-time clock: not shown) has passed the time set as the memory inspection interval. It may be determined that.

  When the memory inspection interval has elapsed in step S1252 (step S1252; Yes), it is determined whether the demo display is being performed (step S1253). In step S1253, when the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is not proceeding and the demonstration display for displaying the demonstration effect image on the screen of the effect display device 5 is being executed, it is determined that the demonstration display is in progress. do it. If the memory inspection interval has elapsed in step S1252, the memory inspection interval may be set again. When it is determined in step S1253 that the demo display is not in progress (step S1253; No), a predetermined time (for example, 10 minutes) set in advance as the control-inspection standby time is set (step S1254), and control is in progress. The memory inspection process ends. The predetermined time set as the control waiting time during control in step S1254 can normally restore the data stored in the CGROM 141 corresponding to the case where data refresh or data transfer is executed after the memory inspection interval has elapsed. Alternatively, it may be set within a range in which data refresh and data transfer can be normally executed so that transfer is possible (substitute). For example, the predetermined time, which is the inspection waiting time during control, may be set to a different time depending on the number of times the CGROM 141 is read before the memory inspection interval elapses. In this case, when the number of readings of the CGROM 141 executed before the memory inspection interval elapses is equal to or more than a predetermined number-of-times determination value, a shorter time is set than when it is less than the number-of-times determination value. May be. Alternatively, the predetermined time which is the inspection waiting time during control may be set to a different time according to the number of error bits generated before the memory inspection interval elapses. In this case, when the number of error bits detected before the memory inspection interval elapses is greater than or equal to a predetermined error determination value, a shorter time is set than when it is less than the error determination value. Good.

  When the memory inspection interval has not elapsed in step S1252 (step S1252; No), it is determined whether or not the in-control inspection standby time set in step S1254 has elapsed (step S1255). When the inspection waiting time during control has not elapsed (step S1255; No), it is determined whether the demo display is in progress (step S1256). When it is determined in step S1256 that the demo display is not in progress (step S1256; No), the in-control memory inspection process ends.

  When it is determined in step S1253 that the demo is being displayed (step S1253; Yes), when the control waiting time for control is elapsed in step S1255 (step S1255; Yes), or in step S1256, the demo is being displayed. If it is determined to be (step S1256; Yes), it is controlled to start the in-control memory inspection for inspecting the storage data of the CGROM 141 during the effect control (step S1257). For example, the effect control CPU 120 inspects the storage data of the CGROM 141 by executing a memory inspection process. At this time, for example, the memory inspection flag is set and turned on, and the corresponding setting is made during the memory inspection (step S1258), and the in-control memory inspection processing ends. If the memory inspection interval has elapsed in step S1252, the process proceeds to step S1257 without determining whether the demo display is being performed in step S1253, and the in-control memory inspection is immediately started. You may do it.

  When it is determined in step S1251 that the memory inspection is being performed (step S1251; Yes), it is determined whether the memory inspection is completed (step S1259). When it is determined that the memory inspection has not been completed (step S1259; No), the in-control memory inspection processing ends. On the other hand, when it is determined that the memory inspection is completed (step S1259; Yes), control corresponding to the end of the controlled memory inspection is performed (step S1260). At this time, for example, the memory inspection flag is cleared and turned off, and the corresponding setting is made after the memory inspection (step S1261), and the in-control memory inspection processing is ended.

  FIG. 39 is a flowchart showing an example of the process executed in step S55D of FIG. 23 as the control effect data transfer process. In the control effect data transfer processing shown in FIG. 39, the effect control CPU 120 determines whether effect data is being read (step S271). In step S271, it may be determined whether the effect data is being read, for example, depending on whether the effect data reading flag is on or off. When it is determined in step S271 that the effect data is not being read (step S271; No), it is determined whether the effect data read condition is satisfied (step S272). In step S272, for example, when it is necessary to transfer the storage data of the CGROM 141 to the VRAM 126 from the content of the effect control execution data (display control execution data included in the process data) included in the effect control pattern, the effect data read condition is set. It may be determined that it has been established.

  When it is determined in step S272 that the effect data read condition is not satisfied (step S272; No), the normal WDT clear setting is performed (step S273). In step S273, the watchdog timer is cleared and the measurement time is initialized before the monitoring time of the watchdog timer (not shown) elapses, corresponding to the case where the storage data of the CGROM 141 is not read. Just restart it. For example, the production control CPU 120 may periodically clear the watchdog timer by sequentially writing a plurality of WDT clear data in the WDT clear register.

  When the effect data read condition is satisfied in step S272 (step S272; Yes), control is performed to start the effect data read (step S274). For example, the effect control CPU 120 may read the storage data of the CGROM 141, transfer it to the VRAM 126, and store it. At this time, for example, the effect data reading flag is set and turned on, and the corresponding setting is performed during effect data reading (step S275), and the in-control effect data transfer process ends. Further, in step S275, a predetermined fixed time is set as the reading clear time.

  When it is determined in step S271 that the effect data is being read (step S271; Yes), it is determined whether the effect data has been read (step S276). When it is determined that the effect data reading is completed (step S276; Yes), control corresponding to the end of effect data reading is performed (step S277). At this time, a corresponding setting is performed after the effect data is read, for example, by clearing the effect data reading flag and turning it off (step S278), and the effect data transfer process during control is ended.

  When it is determined in step S276 that the reading of the effect data is not completed (step S276; No), it is determined whether or not the clearing time during reading has elapsed (step S279). At this time, if the reading clear time has elapsed (step S279; Yes), it is determined whether the reading clear count has reached a predetermined clear upper limit determination value (step S280). The number of times of clearing during reading indicates the number of times that the watchdog timer has been cleared by the setting of step S281 since the reading of the effect data was started by the control in step S274. For example, in step S275, "0" is set as the count initial value of the reading clear counter, and the count value may be updated so that 1 is added by the setting in step S282.

  If the clear time during reading has not elapsed in step S279 (step S279; No) or if the clear upper limit determination value has been reached in step S280 (step S280; Yes), control effect data transfer processing To finish. On the other hand, when the clear upper limit determination value is not reached in step S280 (step S280; No), the reading WDT clear setting is performed (step S281). In step S281, the watchdog timer is cleared and the measurement time is initialized before the monitoring time of the watchdog timer elapses, corresponding to the case where the storage data of the CGROM 141 is being read. Just start it. When the reading WDT clear setting is performed in step S281, the number of times of clearing during reading is updated by adding 1 or the like (step S282), and the control effect data transfer process is ended.

  In the reading WDT clear setting in step S281, the watchdog timer may be set to be cleared at a cycle different from that of the normal WDT clear setting in step S273. For example, in the reading WDT clear setting in step S281, the watchdog timer is cleared in a longer cycle than in the normal WDT clear setting in step S273. In this case, the normal WDT clear setting in step S273 clears the watchdog timer every time the setting is performed, whereas the read-in-time WDT clear setting in step S281 causes the watchdog timer to be set multiple times. You may clear it. In the case where the watchdog timer is cleared by sequentially setting a plurality of WDT clear data in the WDT clear register, when the normal WDT clear setting in step S273 is performed once, the plurality of WDT clear data are all ordered. On the other hand, when the WDT clear setting during reading is performed once in step S281, only the WDT clear data of 1 is set, and the WDT clear setting during reading is repeated a plurality of times to thereby clear a plurality of WDT clear data. The data may be set in order. Conversely, in the reading WDT clear setting in step S281, the watchdog timer may be cleared in a shorter cycle than in the normal WDT clear setting in step S273.

  In this way, in the control effect data transfer process, when the normal WDT clear setting in step S273 is performed, the time measured by the watchdog timer is initialized before the watchdog timer monitoring time elapses. In addition, if the reading of the effect data is started by the control in step S274, and if it is determined in step S276 that the reading of the effect data is not completed, the watch during the reading WDT clear setting in step S281 is performed. The watchdog timer measurement time is initialized before the dog timer monitoring time elapses. This makes it possible to appropriately clear the watchdog timer and suppress improper resetting of the effect control CPU 120 when the read time of the effect data is prolonged, so that a problem can be prevented.

  In the control effect data transfer processing shown in FIG. 39, it is determined in step S271 whether or not effect data is being read, thereby determining whether or not it is during a read period in which the storage data of the CGROM 141 is being read. . If data refresh or data transfer (alternative processing) in the CGROM 141 is executed during this read period, the read period may be extended and the normal WDT clear setting in step S273 may not be possible. is there. Therefore, if it is determined in step S271 that the effect data is being read, and if it is determined in step S276 that the effect data has not been read, the watchdog timer is monitored by the reading WDT clear setting in step S281. The time measured by the watchdog timer can be initialized before the time elapses. In this case, when it is determined in step S280 that the number of times of clear during reading does not reach the clear upper limit determination value, the setting of WDT clear during reading in step S281 can be performed. If it is determined in step S280 that the number of times of clearing during reading has reached the clear upper limit determination value, the setting of WDT clear during reading in step S281 is not performed, so initialization of the measurement time by the watchdog timer is limited. . In this way, after the number of clearing during reading reaches the clear upper limit determination value, when the watchdog timer monitoring time has elapsed, a time-out signal that is a time elapsed signal is generated and the effect control CPU 120 is reset. And reboot. If the number of clears during reading reaches the clear upper limit determination value, the effect control CPU 120 may be immediately reset and restarted without waiting until the watchdog timer monitoring time elapses. For example, when it is determined in step S280 that the number of times of clear during reading has reached the clear upper limit determination value, a reset interrupt of the effect control CPU 120 may be generated and the effect control CPU 120 may be reset.

  FIG. 40 is a flowchart showing an example of the memory inspection process executed by the effect control CPU 120. In this embodiment, the case where the effect control CPU 120 executes the memory inspection processing and the like using the VDP function is shown, but the effect control microcomputer 120A is provided with a memory controller (not shown). Alternatively, the memory controller may be configured to start execution of the memory inspection process based on the supply of the inspection request signal from the effect control CPU 120. In this case, the memory controller only needs to be able to execute the memory inspection process on condition that the signal is supplied from the effect control CPU 120. Alternatively, the memory controller can execute the memory inspection process based on the setting at the time of power-on, the end of the memory inspection interval, etc. without the condition that the signal is supplied from the effect control CPU 120. Good.

  In the memory inspection process shown in FIG. 40, the effect control CPU 120 (or the memory controller) reads out the status information stored in the CGROM 141 or the like (step S451). The status information may include management information of erase unit block, management information of error bit number, management information of error correction, management information of data refresh, and the like. The management information of the number of error bits may be information that is created each time sector data is read from the CGROM 141 and indicates the number of error bits specified by the error detection of each sector data. The error correction management information may be information that is created when the sector data read from the CGROM 141 is error-corrected and indicates whether or not the error correction of each sector data is successful. The data refresh management information may be information that is created when the data of the sector data stored in the CGROM 141 is refreshed or the like and indicates the number of times the data refresh has been performed and the date and time of execution.

  Then, it is determined whether or not the data refresh condition is satisfied based on the content of the status information read in step S451 (step S452). For example, when there is sector data in which the number of error bits indicated in the error bit number management information exceeds a predetermined error threshold, it may be determined that the data refresh condition is satisfied. Further, it may be determined that the data refresh condition is satisfied when there is sector data for which error correction cannot be performed, which is indicated in the error correction management information.

  When the data refresh condition is satisfied in step S452 (step S452; Yes), control for executing data refresh is performed (step S453). In step S453, for example, the storage data of the erase unit block including the sector data to be data refreshed is read out, and error correction is performed to restore correct data. Then, for the erase unit block from which the stored data is read, the stored data may be erased and then the restored correct data may be written. Alternatively, the restored correct data may be written in an erase unit block different from the erase unit block from which the stored data is read. When the restored correct data is written, the written data may be read again and compared with the data before writing to determine whether or not the data refresh is normally completed.

  If the data refresh condition is not satisfied in step S452 (step S452; No) or after performing the control in step S453, it is determined whether or not the data transfer condition is satisfied (step S454). For example, it may be determined that the data transfer condition is satisfied when there is sector data that cannot be error-corrected as indicated by the error-correction management information. Further, it may be determined that the data transfer condition is satisfied when there is sector data in which the number of times of data refresh indicated in the data refresh management information exceeds a predetermined transfer threshold. . When the data refresh is not normally completed in step S453, it may be determined that the data transfer condition is satisfied.

  If the data transfer condition is not satisfied in step S454 (step S454; No), the memory inspection process ends. On the other hand, when the data transfer condition is satisfied (step S454; Yes), control for executing the data transfer is performed (step S455), and then the memory inspection process is ended. In step S455, for example, the storage data of the erase unit block including the sector data that is the target of data transfer is read and error correction is performed to restore correct data. At this time, the erase unit block from which the stored data is read is set as a defective block as a defective area. Then, the restored data may be written in the alternative block which is the alternative area in the redundant area. Further, the arrangement information included in the address conversion table is updated so that the storage data of the substitute block can be read instead of the defective block.

  In the memory inspection process shown in FIG. 40, when the data refresh condition is satisfied in step S452, the data refresh is enabled by the control in step S453. As a result, even when a memory cell deteriorated due to read disturb, data retention, or the like occurs in the CGROM 141, the stored data can be restored to correct data and protected. Further, when the data transfer condition is satisfied in step S454, the alternative process of transferring data is made executable by the control in step S455. Accordingly, in the CGROM 141, when there is a defective block that becomes a defective area that cannot be recovered even if the memory cell is refreshed, the stored data in the defective area can be transferred to the alternative block that is the alternative area for protection.

  In the effect control main process shown in FIG. 23, the power-on memory inspection setting is performed in step S51B, and the memory inspection process shown in FIG. 40 is executed at power-on. At this time, the data refresh may be executed under the control of step S453, or the data transfer may be executed under the control of step S455. For example, the status information of the CGROM 141 is updated after the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is started, such as before the last power-off, and the data refresh condition can be satisfied or the data transfer condition can be satisfied. Sometimes. However, when power supply is terminated by power-off without performing data refresh or data transfer, deterioration of the memory cell is left in a state where it is left unattended and further progresses, and the data stored in the CGROM 141 includes many errors. May be. Therefore, when the power supply is started by turning on the power again, the memory inspection process shown in FIG. 40 is executed, and if the data refresh condition is satisfied in step S452, the data refresh is executed by the control in step S453. Then, if the data transfer condition is satisfied in step S454, the data transfer is executed by the control in step S455. In the effect control main process shown in FIG. 23, the memory inspection interval is set in step S51C.

  In the in-control memory inspection process shown in FIG. 38, if the memory inspection interval has elapsed in step S1252, it is determined in step S1253 or step S1256 that the demo display is being performed, or in step S1255. Under the condition that it is determined that the inspection waiting time during control has elapsed, the memory inspection under control can be executed by the control in step S1257. In this way, data refresh and data transfer can be executed based on the elapse of the memory inspection interval not only when the power is turned on, but also when the progress of the performance is being controlled. Even if a long time elapses without stopping the supply, the processing for protecting the storage data of the CGROM 141 can be executed. In particular, since the alternative process of transferring data can be executed based on the lapse of the memory inspection interval, the stored data of the defective block, which becomes the defective area where the unrecoverable data error occurs even if the memory cell is refreshed, It can be appropriately transferred and stored in a substitute block which is a substitute area.

  FIG. 41 shows a configuration example of a storage area in the CGROM 141. The storage area of the CGROM 141 has three areas such as a data area, a control area, and a redundant area. A management table and various effect data can be stored in the data area and the redundant area. The effect data may be voice data, lamp drive data, motor drive data, etc., in addition to image data including still image data and moving image data. The data area is a normal use area used for normal access of the CGROM 141. The program for controlling the progress of the effect and the effect data used for executing the effect are written and stored in the data area as long as the access is not hindered. The redundant area is an alternative use area that can be used as an alternative to a defective area that has trouble in writing and reading in the data area. A defective area such as a defective block that is determined to have a hindrance to access in the data area is prohibited from use, and stored data in the defective area is stored in an alternative area such as an alternative block in the redundant area. The control area is a control information area that stores correspondence information indicating the relationship between the defective area of the data area and the alternative area of the redundant area. As the correspondence information, for example, arrangement information indicating the correspondence between the data area address and the redundant area address is stored. The address of the data area or the address of the redundant area may be designated by the page number or the block number, or may be designated by the start address and the end address. The arrangement information indicating the correspondence between the address of the data area and the address of the redundant area may be collectively stored in the address conversion table. The address change table is composed of table data of arrangement information that enables conversion of a logical block address designated when the effect control CPU 120 requests access to the CGROM 141 into a physical block address assigned to an actual storage area. It should have been done.

  In the data area shown in FIG. 41, there are three defective areas A, B, and D. In this case, the redundant areas are provided with alternative areas A, B and D to which the storage data of defective areas A, B and D are transferred. The control area stores placement information A, B, D that specifies the correspondence between the defective areas A, B, D and the alternative areas A, B, D. History information may be written in the redundant area. The history information may be information indicating the history of data transfer in the CGROM 141, and may include, for example, date information on the data transfer. History information C is stored in the redundant area shown in FIG. Arrangement information C corresponding to history information C is stored in the control area. The placement information C is different from the placement information indicating the correspondence between the defective area and the alternative area, and includes a history flag indicating that the history information is placement information and address information of the redundant area in which the history information is stored. It only needs to be included. The history information stored in the redundant area can be read by reading the address information included in the arrangement information in which the history flag is on. The number of times the data transfer is performed in the CGROM 141 may be specified based on the data transfer date information included in the history information, and it may be determined whether the CGROM 141 can be continuously used or should be discarded. In the control area, in addition to the placement information, various management information constituting status information such as management information of erase unit block, management information of error bit number, management information of error correction, and management information of data refresh. It may be stored.

  FIG. 42 (A) shows an example of the structure of moving image data included in image data among the effect data stored in the CGROM 141. FIG. 42B shows an operation example in which moving image data is separated into video data and audio data and decoded. FIG. 42C shows an execution example of moving image reproduction using moving image data. The moving image data only needs to be configured by multiplexing compression-encoded video data and audio data in a predetermined container format. In the moving image data, if the header information is followed by a video data block in which packetized video data is stored and an audio data block in which packetized audio data is stored are arranged in a predetermined order. Good. The moving image data read from the CGROM 141 is input to the demultiplexer and separated into video data and audio data. The video data output from the demultiplexer is supplied to the video decoder. The audio data output from the demultiplexer is supplied to the audio decoder. The video decoder decodes the video data supplied from the demultiplexer and outputs the decoded video data at the timing matched with the header information or the time stamp added to each packet. The audio decoder decodes the audio data supplied from the demultiplexer and outputs the decoded audio data at the timing matched with the header information or the time stamp added to each packet.

  As described above, by using the moving image data configured by multiplexing the video data and the audio data, the video data and the audio data are separated and decoded, and then output according to the time stamp. As a result, it becomes possible to reproduce a moving image in which the video output and the audio output are synchronized. The CGROM 141 stores video data relating to display control of the effect display device 5 and audio data relating to output control of effect sounds in the speakers 8L and 8R as a series of moving image data. The effect control CPU 120 and the sound processing circuit (not shown) of the sound control board 13 reproduce the moving image using the moving image data read from the CGROM 141, thereby controlling the display of the effect display device 5 and the speaker. Output control of effect sounds in 8L and 8R can be executed in synchronization.

  43 to 45 are sequence diagrams showing an example of reproduction control of a moving image corresponding to the case where a moving image reproduction command is supplied. FIG. 43 shows a case in which the inspection result of the moving image data (readout data) read from the CGROM 141 is normal and the inspection is OK. FIG. 44 shows the case where the data refresh is successful in the CGROM 141 and the data refresh is successful. FIG. 45 shows a case of defective block detection in which a defective block is detected in the CGROM 141. 43 to 45, the VDP and the memory controller of the functions of the effect control CPU 120 are shown as one block. In addition, although the case where the effect control CPU 120 having the VDP function is used is shown in this embodiment, a VDP and a memory controller may be provided separately from the effect control CPU 120.

  As shown in FIG. 43, in the VDP, when a moving image reproduction command is received from the effect control CPU 120, a moving image data read request for requesting reading of moving image data specified from a register value as a parameter is stored in the memory. Supply to the controller. In response to receiving the moving image data read request, the memory controller sets the read standby signal output to the effect control CPU 120 to ON. After that, the reading of the moving image data is started. When the reading of the moving image data is completed, the error detection and the error correction of the read moving image data are performed. As a result, when the reading of the moving image data is completed, the VDP starts reproducing and displaying the moving image on the screen of the effect display device 5. It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the case where the reproduction and display of the moving image is not started until the reading of all the moving image data is completed, and the read moving image data is used every time the reading of the moving image data of a predetermined unit is completed. The moving image may be sequentially reproduced and displayed. Further, as shown in FIGS. 42 (A) to (C), in the reproduction display of the moving image, the video output in the effect display device 5 and the audio output in the speakers 8L, 8R are executed in synchronization with each other, and cooperate with each other. And proceed.

  Further, the memory controller checks the read data using the execution results of error detection and error correction. For example, the inspection result of the read data is determined depending on whether the number of error bits specified by error detection exceeds an error threshold value or whether there is sector data that cannot be corrected by error correction. At this time, if it is determined that the inspection result of the read data is normal, the data stored in the CGROM 141 has been normally read, so the read standby signal output to the effect control CPU 120 is set to OFF. After that, when the reproduction display of the moving image by the control of VDP or the like is completed, the VDP may notify the effect control CPU 120 of the completion of the moving image reproduction.

  In the case shown in FIG. 44, the memory controller determines that the inspection result of the read data is abnormal. In this case, the data refresh is started with respect to the sector data stored in the CGROM 141. After that, when the data refresh ends normally, the stored data in the CGROM 141 can be newly read, so the read standby signal output to the production control CPU 120 is set to OFF. Since the data refresh based on the inspection result of the read data is executed according to the execution result of the error detection or the error correction, it may be executed after the reproduction display of the moving image is started by the control of VDP or the like. Good. As a result, even when the data refresh for the data stored in the CGROM 141 is executed, it is possible to prevent delay in the reproduction display of the moving image and execute the effect by the appropriate reproduction display of the moving image. On the other hand, when the reproduction and display of the moving image under the control of VDP or the like is not started until the data refresh is finished, the reproduction and display of the moving image is delayed.

  In the case shown in FIG. 45, after the data refresh is started in the memory controller, the data refresh is interrupted by the detection of the defective block which becomes the defective area. In this case, data transfer is started with respect to the sector data of the erase unit block stored in the CGROM 141 corresponding to the detection of the defective block. After that, in the CGROM 141, when the data transfer from the defective block, which is the defective area in the data area, to the alternative block, which is the alternative area in the redundant area is completed and the stored data in the CGROM 141 can be newly read, the effect control CPU 120 The read standby signal to be output to is set to OFF. The data transfer that is executed subsequent to the data refresh based on the detection result of the read data may be executed after the reproduction and display of the moving image is started under the control of VDP or the like, similarly to the data refresh. As a result, even when the data transfer to the storage data of the CGROM 141 is executed, it is possible to prevent delay in the reproduction display of the moving image and execute the effect by the reproduction display of the appropriate moving image. On the other hand, when the data transfer from the defective area to the alternative area is completed and the video image reproduction and display by the control of VDP or the like is not started and is on standby, it is compared with the case where the data refresh is normally completed. As a result, a further delay will occur in the playback display of the moving image.

  In the cases shown in FIGS. 44 and 45, when it is determined that the inspection result of the read data is abnormal, the data refresh is continuously started. In the case shown in FIG. 45, after the data refresh is started, the data transfer is continuously started when the defective block which becomes the defective area is detected. As described above, depending on the inspection result of the read data of the CGROM 141, the data refresh or the data transfer may be executable immediately after the read. On the other hand, the execution results of error detection and error correction on the read data of the CGROM 141 are stored in the CGROM 141, and when the memory inspection interval has elapsed, the data refresh condition and the data transfer condition are met. Therefore, the data refresh and the data transfer may be executable.

  In the example of moving image reproduction control shown in FIGS. 43 to 45, when a moving image reproducing command is supplied from the production control CPU 120 to the VDP, the VDP supplies a moving image data read request to the memory controller to generate a moving image. Reading of image data has started. On the other hand, the command corresponding to the moving image data read request may be supplied from the effect control CPU 120 to the memory controller. In the effect control CPU 120, when the reproduction start of the moving image is determined from the effect control execution data included in the effect control pattern (display control execution data included in the process data), the control effect effect data transfer process shown in FIG. 39. In step S272, it is determined that the effect data read condition is satisfied. Therefore, under the control of step S274, the CPU 120 for effect control may supply a command corresponding to the moving image data read request to the memory controller. However, when the production control CPU 120 supplies a moving image reproduction command to the VDP and the production control CPU 120 supplies a command corresponding to the moving image data read request to the memory controller, the production control CPU 120 Processing load may increase. On the other hand, as in the moving image reproduction control examples shown in FIGS. 43 to 45, when the VDP receives the moving image reproduction command supplied from the effect control CPU 120, the VDP requests the memory controller to read the moving image data. By supplying the above, the processing load for reading the moving image data is dispersed, so that the processing load on the effect control CPU 120 can be reduced.

  When starting playback display of a moving image, a delay may occur due to various factors. For example, as in the reproduction control example of the moving image shown in FIGS. 44 and 45, a delay may occur due to data refresh or data transfer based on the inspection result of the read data. In addition, when the control to start the in-control memory inspection is performed in step 257 of the in-control memory inspection processing shown in FIG. There may be a delay in image reproduction display. Further, in the CGROM 141 configured by using the NAND flash memory, there may be a delay in reproducing and displaying a moving image due to the reading of stored data by random access. The CGROM 141 configured by using the NAND flash memory reads the storage data in sector units. Since the moving image data tends to have a larger data capacity than other effect data, it may be stored in the CGROM 141 over a plurality of sectors. In the CGROM 141, when effect data such as moving image data is stored over a plurality of sectors, it is necessary to access each sector and read the stored data. In this case, random access frequently occurs to the CGROM 141, which causes a delay in reading the stored data, which also affects the reproduction and display of the moving image.

  Among the effects executed in the pachinko gaming machine 1, there is an effect in which a delay is likely to occur depending on the read permission / prohibition state of the CGROM 141, as in the case where reproduction display of a moving image is executed. On the other hand, there is an effect that can be executed without delay regardless of the read permission / prohibition state of the CGROM 141. For example, the effect control execution data (display control execution data) stored in the ROM 135 may include effect control execution data (display control execution data) for executing the start winning notification SH1. The start winning notification SH1 is a voice output from the speakers 8L, 8R, a top frame LED 9a, a left frame LED 9b, a right frame LED 9c, a panel side LED 9d, 9e, etc. at the time of the start opening winning when the first start winning or the second starting winning occurs. The occurrence of the start winning is notified by the lighting mode of the decorative LED, the operation of the effect movable member, and a combination of some or all of these. The effect control execution data (display control execution data) stored in the ROM 135 may include effect control execution data (display control execution data) for executing the after-reach effect AR1 and the after-reach effect AR2. . The post-reach effect AR1 corresponds to the fact that the variable display state of the effect symbol is in the reach state, for example, in response to the period when the reproduction display of the moving image is normally started, the voice output from the speakers 8L and 8R. , Top frame LED 9a, left frame LED 9b, right frame LED 9c, panel side LEDs 9d, 9e and other decorative LEDs, lighting mode, operation of the movable member for performance, a combination of some or all of these, to notify the start of reach production To do. In addition, the effect control execution data (display control execution data) stored in the ROM 135 may include effect control execution data (display control execution data) for executing the error notification EH1. The error notification EH1 is, when various errors occur, an audio output from the speakers 8L and 8R, a top frame LED 9a, a left frame LED 9b, a right frame LED 9c, a board side LED 9d, 9e and other decorative LED lighting modes, The combination of some or all of them notifies the occurrence of an abnormality. Alternatively, the effect control execution data (display control execution data) stored in the ROM 135 may include effect control execution data (display control execution data) for executing the notice effect YA1. The notice effect YA1 is the sound output from the speakers 8L, 8R, the top frame LED 9a, the left frame LED 9b, the right frame LED 9c, the panel side LEDs 9d, 9e and other decorative LED lighting modes and effects during the variable display of the effect design. It suggests that the operation of the movable member for use, a combination of some or all of these, is controlled to the jackpot gaming state as an advantageous state.

  46 and 47 are sequence diagrams showing a control example in the case of executing the start winning notification SH1. FIG. 46 shows a case where there is no delay in reading moving image data and there is no reading delay. FIG. 47 shows a case where there is a read delay in which there is a delay in reading the moving image data. In the control examples shown in FIGS. 46 and 47, the control up to the start of the reach effect is common. Specifically, when the variable display of the special symbol on the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B is started, a variable display start command is transmitted from the main substrate 11 to the effect control substrate 12. To be done. For example, the CPU 103 of the game control microcomputer 100 mounted on the main board 11 makes settings for transmitting the variable display result notification command and the variation pattern designation command. In the production control board 12, in response to the reception of the variable display start command, the production control CPU 120 executes the production symbol variation start process to start the variable display of the production symbols. In this way, in response to the start of variable display of the special symbol, the variable display start setting of the effect symbol is performed, and the variable display of the effect symbol is started. After that, the pre-reach effect BR1 may be executed. The pre-reach effect BR1 may be an effect that suggests that the jackpot gaming state is controlled by a variable display mode of effect symbols such as a variable display effect of “slip” or “pseudo-relation”. Alternatively, the pre-reach effect BR1 may be an effect such as a notice effect that suggests that the big hit game state is controlled regardless of the variable display mode of the effect symbol. After that, in response to the reach establishment in which the variable display state of the effect design reaches the reach state, the reach effect start is started in which the execution of the reach effect is started.

  In the control example shown in FIG. 46, the reproduction display of the moving image is started without delay as the reach effect. After the reproduction display of the moving image is started, the start winning notification SH1 is executed at the time of the starting winning when the first starting winning and the second starting winning occur. The start winning notification SH1 can be executed without delay at the time of starting winning by reading the effect control execution data (display control execution data) stored in the ROM 135 in response to the occurrence of the starting winning. The starting winning notification SH1 is a passage area (starting area) through which a game ball can pass, such as a first starting winning opening formed in the normal winning ball device 6A or a second starting winning opening formed in the normal variable winning ball device 6B. ) Is included in the passage assistance effect regarding that the game ball has passed. The reach effect by reproducing and displaying the moving image includes audio output from the speakers 8L and 8R that is executed in synchronization with the video output on the screen of the effect display device 5. This audio output is included in the display assisting effect related to the display of the effect display device 5.

  After the execution of the reach effect is started in the control example shown in FIG. 46, the after-reach effect AR10 may be executed. The post-reach effect AR10 may be, for example, a cut-in display of an effect image prepared in advance, which is an effect that suggests that the jackpot gaming state is controlled. Alternatively, the post-reach effect AR10 may be an effect that does not suggest that the jackpot gaming state is controlled, such as video output and audio output for explaining the content of the reach effect. In the control example shown in FIG. 46, the swing display of the effect symbol is started after the reproduction display of the moving image started without delay is completed. Subsequently, the reach effect ends when the execution of the reach effect ends, and the display result in the variable display of the effect symbol is stopped and displayed (complete stop display) in response to the end of the variable display in which the variable display of the special symbol ends The effect design is displayed.

  In the control example shown in FIG. 47, there is a delay in reading out the moving image data used for executing the reproducing display of the moving image included in the reach effect, and the display is stopped without starting the reproducing display of the moving image. There is. When the first start prize or the second start prize occurs during the display stop period, the start prize notification SH1 is executed even during the display stop period. For example, the effect control execution data (display control execution data) used for executing the start winning notification SH1 includes voice control data, lamp control data, and some or all of motor control data, but does not include display control data. It should be configured in. Alternatively, the effect control execution data (display control execution data) used for executing the start winning notification SH1 includes effect control execution data including a part or all of voice control data, lamp control data, and motor control data, and display control data. Production control execution data including only may be prepared separately. The effect control CPU 120 does not use the effect control execution data including only the display control data, but uses the effect control execution data including a part or all of the voice control data, the lamp control data, and the motor control data, and notifies the start winning award. SH1 may be made executable. For example, the effect control CPU 120 reads, from the ROM 135, effect control execution data prepared for the first start prize and the second start prize. Since the starting winning notification SH1 is executed using the effect control execution data read at this time, the starting winning notification SH1 can be executed even during the display stop period without being affected by the delay in the reproduction display of the moving image.

  In the control example shown in FIG. 47, after the execution of the reach effect in which the reproduction display of the moving image is delayed is started, the post-reach effect AR10 may be executed. In this control example, the swing display of the effect symbol is started before the reproduction display of the delayed moving image is finished. The timing at which the swing display of the effect design is started is, regardless of whether or not the reproduction display of the moving image is delayed, the effect control process timer determination value set in the effect control pattern (process data) read from the ROM 135, etc. May be determined in advance. In the swing display of the effect design, in the effect pattern display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R of “left”, “middle”, and “right”, the effect design to be finalized is accompanied by a slight shake or expansion / contraction. Is displayed, and the display is in a standby state until it is stopped (full stop). The effect design that is the target of the final display is the final effect design that is derived as the display result in the variable display of the effect design, and may be the final stop design determined in step S201 of the variable display start setting process shown in FIG. Good. The wobbling display period in which the wobbling display of the effect design is performed may be a period such as, for example, 2 seconds until a time preset in the effect control pattern (process data) elapses. During this shaking display period, the playback display of the delayed moving image is continuously executed. The reach effect by reproducing and displaying the moving image includes an audio output that is executed in synchronization with the video output, as a display assisting effect related to the display on the screen of the effect display device 5. Therefore, when a delay occurs in the playback display of the moving image, it is possible to delay and execute the audio output that is the display assisting effect according to the playback display stop period due to the delay, and even in the shake display period, The control of the audio output that is the delayed display assistance effect is executed. In this way, the shake display period can be set to a period in which the control delayed by the occurrence of the read delay can be executed.

  For example, when the variable display time from the start of the variable display to the derivation of the display result becomes long, the moving image data used for executing the reach effect by the reproduction display of the moving image also has a data capacity. Is likely to be large. Therefore, there is a high possibility that the reproduction and display of the moving image will be delayed. Therefore, when the variable display corresponding to the variation pattern having the long variable display time is executed, the shaking display period is longer than that when the variable display corresponding to the variation pattern having the short variable display time is executed. May be set to. As a result, even if the playback display of the moving image is likely to be delayed, it is possible to improve the possibility of completing the reach effect by the playback display of the delayed moving image, and it is possible to prevent the occurrence of a defect by an appropriate effect without a sense of discomfort. .

  Note that in the control example shown in FIG. 47, when the execution of the reach effect in which the playback display of the moving image is delayed is started, the video output by the playback display of the moving image may be faded in. For example, when the reproduction display of the delayed moving image is started, the blending ratio of the moving image may be initialized to “0”, and the blending ratio may be updated so as to increase with the passage of time. In this way, by fading in the video output by the delayed reproduction and display of the moving image, it is possible to suppress the discomfort of the display effect using the moving image when the reproduction and display of the moving image is delayed.

  As described above, according to this embodiment, the control means (the book) having the display control function (the VDP function in this example) for performing the display control of the effect display means (the effect display device 5 in this example). In the example, the CPU 120 for effect control and the temperature monitoring means (in this example, the temperature sensor 136) for monitoring the temperature of the control means are provided. Further, the display control function can be stepwise restricted according to the temperature of the control means (in this example, when the temperature of the effect control CPU 120 reaches 60 ° C. to 70 ° C., the display control function shifts to the first restriction mode and effect control is performed. When the temperature of the CPU 120 for use becomes 71 ° C. to 94 ° C., the second limit mode is entered, and when the temperature of the CPU 120 for effect control becomes 95 ° C. or higher, the third limit mode is entered). Therefore, it is possible to realize more appropriate heat countermeasure of the control means having the display control function. In other words, if all the effect displays are not displayed immediately when the temperature abnormality of the effect control CPU 120 is detected, the interest in the game will be greatly reduced. On the other hand, in this embodiment, not all the effect display is not immediately performed, but the effect display is controlled so as to be limited stepwise, so that the interest in the game is lowered more than necessary. It is possible to prevent this, and it is possible to realize more appropriate heat countermeasures.

  In this embodiment, the case where the effect control CPU 120 determines the temperature abnormality by determining the specific temperature of the effect control CPU 120 based on the temperature information from the temperature sensor 136 has been described. It is not limited to such a mode. For example, rather than outputting temperature information that can specify a specific temperature from the temperature sensor 136, a predetermined interrupt signal is generated when a certain specific temperature is reached, and the interrupt signal is input. It may be configured to determine that the temperature abnormality has occurred based on the above. In this case, for example, transition to the first limit mode at the timing of inputting the interrupt signal, transition to the second limit mode at the timing of a predetermined period (for example, 30 seconds) after the input of the interrupt signal, The display control function may be limited stepwise according to the elapsed time from the input of the interrupt signal.

  Further, in this embodiment, the background image is deleted in the first restriction mode, the variable display of the effect symbol is also deleted in the second restriction mode, and the small symbol, the hold image, and the active image are also deleted in the third restriction mode. Although the case has been shown, it is not limited to such a limited mode. For example, as a limitation mode of the display control function, the limitation may be configured according to the type of the effect, such as limiting the notice effect before the reach in a certain restriction mode. In addition, for example, in a certain limit mode, it may be configured to limit the display area unit, such as limiting not to display only the end portion of the display screen of the effect display device 5. In addition, for example, when a plurality of display devices such as a main liquid crystal display device and a sub liquid crystal display device are provided, the sub liquid crystal display device is not displayed in a limited mode and only the main liquid crystal display device continues to display. It may be configured to limit the unit.

  Further, in this embodiment, the case where the display control function is restricted to the three levels of the first restriction mode to the third control mode has been described, but the present invention is not limited to such a mode, and for example, only the restriction of the two levels is performed. Alternatively, the restriction may be performed in four steps or more.

  Further, according to this embodiment, the display control function can be restricted by a plurality of kinds of restriction modes including at least the first restriction mode and the second restriction mode having a higher restriction degree than the first restriction mode (this example). Then, as shown in FIG. 32 (B), only the background image is erased on the display screen of the effect display device 5 in the first restriction mode, and as shown in FIG. 32 (C), in the second restriction mode, the effect display device. Further, on the display screen of 5, the effect symbol display in the symbol display areas of the left 5L, the middle 5C and the right 5R is also deleted). Therefore, it is possible to prevent a decrease in interest in the game. For example, in this embodiment, only the display of the background image or the like is restricted in the first restriction mode, and the variable display of the effect symbol and the simple notice display are continued, so that part of the effect display can be continued. It is possible to suppress a decrease in interest in the game.

  Further, according to this embodiment, the display control function can be restricted in the first restriction mode when the temperature of the control means reaches a predetermined temperature (60 ° C. to 70 ° C. in this example), and the control is performed. The display control function can be restricted by the second restriction mode when the temperature of the means reaches a specific temperature (71 ° C. to 94 ° C. in this example) higher than the predetermined temperature. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a decrease in interest in the game.

  Further, according to this embodiment, when the temperature of the control means reaches the special temperature (95 ° C. or higher in this example) higher than the specific temperature, the display stop of the display control of the effect display means is stopped. The display control function can be limited depending on the mode (in this example, as shown in FIG. 32 (D), all the displays (except for the third temperature abnormality notification E1) on the effect display device 5 are erased. ). In addition, the restriction of the display control function in the display stop mode can be released according to the decrease of the temperature of the control means from the special temperature (in the present example, the effect control CPU 120 during the transition to the third restriction mode). When the temperature falls below 90 ° C., the second limit mode is entered). Therefore, it is possible to reinforce the heat countermeasure of the control means having the display control function and to automatically recover from the display stop mode after shifting to the display stop mode.

  Further, according to this embodiment, when the display control function is restricted by the first restriction mode, control is performed so as not to execute a part of the effect (in this example, the background image is displayed on the display screen of the effect display device 5). Or to display an image with the scaler function stopped). Therefore, it is possible to realize appropriate display control according to the temperature of the control means.

  In this embodiment, the background image is erased or the scaler function is stopped in the first restriction mode, but the present invention is not limited to such a mode. For example, the effect control microcomputer 120A side may restrict not to select or determine a part of the effect such as the notice effect.

  Further, according to this embodiment, it is possible to limit the sound output according to the type of the restriction mode (in the present example, in the first restriction mode, some effect effects such as a preliminary announcement effect during variable display of effect symbols are displayed. The sound output of the sound and BGM is limited, and in the second limit mode and the third limit mode, the sound output regarding the variable display of the effect symbol is not performed at all). Therefore, it is possible to prevent inconsistency in the effects of the display control and the sound output.

  It is desirable that the error sound be continuously output regardless of whether the display control function is being restricted. With such a configuration, it is possible to appropriately continue the notification regarding the error.

  Further, according to this embodiment, the display control of the information regarding the progress of the game is performed by causing the light-emitting body (in this example, the first decorative symbol display device 5A and the second decorative symbol display device 5B) to emit light. Further, it is possible to perform display control in which the light-emitting body emits light regardless of the limitation mode (in this example, the first decorative symbol display is performed regardless of whether or not any limitation mode based on the temperature abnormality is entered. The variable display of the first decorative pattern in the device 5A and the variable display of the second decorative pattern in the second decorative pattern display device 5B are executed). Therefore, the progress of the game can be appropriately notified.

  In addition, in this embodiment, as a light-emitting body that controls the light emission on the side of the production control microcomputer 120A, the display control function of the first decorative pattern display device 5A and the second decorative pattern display device 5B is being restricted. Although the case where the display control is continued regardless of whether or not it is shown is not limited to such a mode. For example, as a light-emitting body for controlling light emission on the side of the production control microcomputer 120A, a lamp (LED) for displaying a hold display, an error lamp (LED), and a right-handing display lamp (LED) for urging a right-handing operation The display control may be continued regardless of whether the display control function is being restricted.

  In addition, in this embodiment, when the display control is continued for the light-emitting bodies such as the first decorative pattern display device 5A and the second decorative pattern display device 5B regardless of whether the display control function is being restricted or not. However, when the effect control CPU 120 has reached a certain temperature or higher, the display control of these light emitters may be stopped.

  Further, according to this embodiment, it is possible to notify the temperature abnormality according to the temperature of the control means (in the present example, as shown in FIGS. 32B to 32D, the first temperature abnormality notification E1 to E1). The third temperature abnormality notification E3 is displayed). Therefore, it is possible to give an appropriate notification according to the temperature of the control means.

  In addition, in this embodiment, a case is shown in which the first temperature abnormality notification E1 to the third temperature abnormality notification E3 are displayed stepwise according to which of the first restriction mode to the third restriction mode. Not limited to such an aspect, for example, regardless of which one of the first limit mode to the third limit mode, when the effect control CPU 120 reaches a certain temperature, the common mode temperature abnormality notification is displayed. You may comprise.

  In addition, in this embodiment, the case where the third temperature abnormality notification E3 is displayed even in the third restriction mode is shown (see FIG. 32D), but the temperature abnormality notification is not displayed in the third restriction mode. The display screen of the effect display device 5 may be configured not to display at all, including the temperature abnormality notification.

  Further, according to this embodiment, the cooling means (in this example, the cooling fan 142) for cooling the control means is provided. Further, the operation mode of the cooling means can be changed according to the temperature of the control means (in this example, the cooling fan 142 is operated at a low speed in the first restriction mode, and the cooling fan 142 is operated at a medium speed in the second restriction mode. , The cooling fan 142 is operated at high speed in the third restriction mode). Therefore, it is possible to realize more appropriate heat countermeasure of the control means having the display control function.

  Further, according to this embodiment, the first board (in this example, the effect control board 12) provided with the control means (in this example, the effect control CPU 120) and effect information related to the effect control (the effect). In the example, a second substrate (reproduction control relay substrate 16A in this example) provided with a storage unit (CGROM 141 in this example) for storing various image data is provided. Further, the storage unit stores the authentication information in advance (in this example, the CGROM 141 stores the authentication data), and the control unit performs the authentication process based on the authentication information stored in the storage unit. Execution is possible (in this example, the effect control CPU 120 performs authentication processing by collating the authentication data read from the CGROM 141 with the authentication data stored in the ROM 135). Then, the effect control can be executed based on the successful authentication in the authentication process (in this example, the effect control CPU 120 executes the initial effect data transfer process (S51D) based on the successful authentication. Performs various production control processes including). Therefore, it is possible to secure an appropriate connection relationship between the board provided with the control means and the board provided with the storage means.

  For example, when the effect control microcomputer 120A having the VDP function as in this embodiment is mounted on one board (in this example, the effect control board 12) and distributed as one effect control unit, this effect is produced. After the game machine equipped with the control unit is removed at the game store, the effect control unit is removed from this game machine, and the effect control unit is used in the game machines of other game machine makers other than the official purchase manufacturer of the effect control unit. Can be diverted. In this case, it is not possible to ensure the quality of the gaming machine in which the used production control unit is installed, and the component cost increases as the regular distribution volume of the production control unit decreases. There is a problem that the manufacturing cost (cost) increases. Therefore, in this embodiment, in the effect control board 12, by performing an authentication process with another board (in this example, the effect control relay board 16A), a gaming machine other than a regular purchase maker. It is possible to prevent the production control unit from being used by the manufacturer. On the other hand, a regular purchase maker can reduce the manufacturing cost of the gaming machine by regularly reusing the effect control unit.

  In addition, regarding the authentication data stored in the ROM 135 built in the effect control microcomputer 120A and the authentication data stored in the CGROM 141 on the effect control relay board 16A, a unique value for each ROM is used as the authentication data. It may be configured to be stored, or may be configured to store a unique value for each model of the gaming machine as authentication data. Furthermore, a unique value may be stored as authentication data for each gaming machine manufacturer.

  Further, according to this embodiment, the control unit can execute the transfer process of the effect information stored in the storage unit (in this example, the initial effect data transfer process (S51D)), and the authentication process is performed. The transfer process can be executed based on the successful authentication (in this example, the effect control CPU 120 can execute the initial effect data transfer process (S51D) based on the successful authentication). . Therefore, it is possible to execute a proper transfer process of the effect information.

  In addition, according to this embodiment, the game control means for controlling the progress of the game (in this example, the game control microcomputer 100) is provided, and the game control means starts the power supply to the gaming machine. It is possible to output a power start command (in this example, a power-on designation command) indicating that and a power failure recovery command (in this example, a power failure recovery designation command) indicating recovery from the power failure state. Further, the control means can execute the authentication process based on the input of the power start command or the power failure recovery command (in this example, the production control CPU 120 receives the power on specification command or the power failure recovery specification command. It is possible to perform the authentication process based on what was done). Therefore, the authentication process can be executed based on the fact that the game control means side is normally activated.

  In addition, in this embodiment, a case is shown in which the authentication process is executed based on the reception of the power-on designation command or the power failure restoration designation command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 100, but such a mode I can't stop. For example, on the production control microcomputer 120A (specifically, the production control CPU 120) side, it is confirmed whether or not the power supply voltage has reached a predetermined value based on a detection signal from a power supply monitoring circuit (not shown). The authentication processing may be executed based on the power supply voltage reaching a predetermined value. FIG. 48 is a flowchart showing a modification of the effect control main process when the power supply voltage is monitored on the effect control microcomputer 120A side.

  In the modification shown in FIG. 48, the effect control CPU 120 first confirms whether or not the power supply voltage has reached a predetermined value based on a detection signal from a power supply monitoring circuit (not shown) (S50X). For example, when VCC (5V) is supplied as the power supply voltage to the effect control CPU 120, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the power supply voltage VCC has reached 4.5V. Then, when the power supply voltage reaches the predetermined value, the effect control CPU 120 executes the authentication process (S50B). Note that the processes after step S50B are the same as those shown in FIG.

  According to the modification shown in FIG. 48, the control means can monitor the power supply voltage (in the modification shown in FIG. 48, the effect control CPU 120 is based on the detection signal from the power supply monitoring circuit (not shown). And confirms whether or not the power supply voltage has reached a predetermined value), and it is possible to execute authentication processing based on the power supply voltage having reached a predetermined value (in the modification example shown in FIG. 48, the effect control CPU 120). , The authentication process can be executed based on the fact that the power supply voltage has reached a predetermined value). Therefore, the authentication process can be executed based on the fact that the power supply voltage of the control means itself can be secured.

  Further, according to this embodiment, the production display means is notified of the authentication failure based on the authentication failure in the authentication processing (in this example, the production control CPU 120 causes the authentication error to occur). The notification process (S50D) is executed). Therefore, it is possible to notify that the connection relationship between the board provided with the control means and the board provided with the storage means could not be secured.

  According to this embodiment, the game control means (in this example, the game control microcomputer 100) for controlling the progress of the game is provided, and the second board is provided with a connection portion for connecting to the game control means. (In this example, the connector 16Z) and a plurality of effect means (in this example, effect display device 5, first decorative symbol display device 5A, second decorative symbol display device 5B, LEDs 9a to 9e, speakers 8L, 8R, A connection portion (in this example, the connector 16S) for connecting the movable portion 302, the movable member 321 and the like is provided. Therefore, since the second board may be designed for each model of the gaming machine, the first board can be shared by different models of the gaming machine, and the development cost and the manufacturing cost of the gaming machine can be reduced. it can.

  Further, according to this embodiment, it is possible to suppress inappropriate resetting of the effect control CPU 120 by performing the reading WDT clear setting in step S281 of the effect data transfer during control shown in FIG. The occurrence of defects can be prevented.

  In the in-control memory inspection process shown in FIG. 38, if it is determined in step S1252 that the memory inspection interval has elapsed, the memory inspection is executed by the control in step S1257, and if the data transfer condition is satisfied. Since the alternative process of transferring the stored data in the defective area to the alternative area can be executed, the protection process for protecting the stored data can be appropriately executed.

  In the control example shown in FIG. 47, since the start winning award notification SH1 can be executed even during the display stop period in which the reproduction display of the moving image is not started and the display is stopped, the effect can be appropriately executed.

  As shown in FIG. 41, the storage area of the CGROM 141 includes a data area that is a normal use area and a redundant area that is an alternative use area, so that it is possible to prevent a defect from occurring and protect the stored data. Can properly perform the protection process.

  In step S455 of the memory inspection process shown in FIG. 40, the stored data of the defective block which is the defective area of the data area is transferred to the alternative area which is the alternative area of the redundant area. Moreover, the protection process for protecting the stored data can be appropriately executed.

  In step S271 of the effect data transfer process during control shown in FIG. 39, whether or not the effect data stored in the CGROM 141 is being read is determined, so that the occurrence of a problem can be prevented.

  As shown in FIG. 42 (A), the moving image data is configured by multiplexing video data relating to display control and audio data relating to output control of effect sound as a series of data, and displaying control and output of effect sound. Since it can be executed in synchronization with the control, the effect can be executed appropriately.

  In the control effect data transfer process shown in FIG. 39, when the number of clearing during reading reaches the clear upper limit determination value in step S280, the clearing of the watchdog timer by the setting in step S281 is limited, so that a malfunction occurs. Can be prevented.

  Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to these embodiments, and the present invention is applicable even if changes and additions are made without departing from the scope of the present invention. include.

  For example, in the above embodiment, the pachinko gaming machine 1 is illustrated as an example of a gaming machine, but the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, a gaming ball having a predetermined number of balls is a gaming machine. The number of balls used for the game is subtracted while the number of balls used for the game is added, while the balls are circulated inside and lent out according to the player's request for lending and the number of prize balls given according to the prize. The present invention can be applied to a so-called enclosed game machine that is stored by being stored. It should be noted that, in these enclosed gaming machines, points and points are given to the player instead of the game balls, and thus these points and points correspond to the game value. It can also be applied to slot machines.

  Further, in the above embodiment, the first special symbol display 4A and the second special symbol display 4B each variably display a plurality of types of special symbols including the final stop symbol that is the variable display result, and then the final stop symbol. Although it is designed to be stopped and displayed, the present invention is not limited to this, and after the variable display of plural kinds of special symbols without including the final stop symbol which is the variable display result, the final stop symbol is stopped. It may be displayed. That is, the final stop symbol which is the variable display result may be a symbol different from the special symbol used for the variable display.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, in order to notify the production control microcomputer of the variation pattern indicating the variation time and the variation mode such as the type of reach production and the presence / absence of pseudo-relation, one variation is set when starting the variation. Although the example of transmitting the variation pattern command is shown, the variation pattern may be notified to the effect control microcomputer by two or more commands. Specifically, in the case of notifying with two commands, the game control microcomputer 100 uses the first command to determine whether or not there is a pseudo-relation and whether or not there is a sliding effect before reaching (so-called when not reaching. A command indicating the variation time and variation mode before the second stop) is transmitted, and the second command indicates the type of the reach and the presence / absence of the re-lottery effect. You may make it transmit the command which shows the fluctuation | variation time and the fluctuation mode of (after 2 stop). In this case, the effect control microcomputer may perform effect control in the variable display based on the variable time derived from the combination of the two commands. Note that the game control microcomputer 100 notifies the variation time by each of two commands, and the effect control microcomputer selects the specific variation mode executed at each timing. May be. When sending two commands, two commands may be sent within the same timer interrupt, and after a predetermined period has elapsed after sending the first command (for example, the next timer interrupt). (In) the second command may be transmitted. Note that the variation mode indicated by each command is not limited to this example, and the transmission order can be changed as appropriate. By thus notifying the fluctuation pattern by two or more commands, it is possible to reduce the amount of data that must be stored as the fluctuation pattern command.

  Further, in the above-mentioned embodiment, “the ratio is different” is not limited to only the ratio being different due to the relationship such as A: B = 70%: 30% or A: B = 30%: 70%. It is a concept including a relationship in which the ratio is different due to the relationship of A: B = 100%: 0% (that is, one allocation is 100% and the other allocation is 0%).

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, the production control board 12, the sound control board 13, the drive control board 16B, the light emitter control boards 16C to 16F, and the like are provided as the boards on which the circuits for controlling the effect device are mounted. However, a circuit for controlling the effect device may be mounted on one board. Further, a first effect control board (display control board) having a circuit for controlling the effect display device 5 and the like, and a circuit for controlling other effect devices (a movable body, a light emitter, a speaker, etc.) are installed. You may make it provide two boards, a 2nd production | generation control board.

  Further, in the above embodiment, the game control microcomputer 100 directly sends the command to the effect control microcomputer, but the game control microcomputer 100 sends the effect control command to another board. However, it may be transmitted to the effect control microcomputer in the effect control board 12 via another board. In that case, the command may simply pass through on another board, or control related to the movable body, the light-emitting body, the speaker, etc. may be executed, and the received command may be directly or, for example, a simplified command. It may be changed and transmitted to the effect control microcomputer that controls the effect display device 5. Even in that case, the effect control microcomputer performs display control according to the received command in the same manner as performing display control according to the effect control command directly received from the game control microcomputer 100 in the above-described embodiment. It can be performed.

  Further, in the above embodiment, there are probability variation big hit and normal big hit as the big hit type, and based on the fact that it was decided as the probability variation big hit as the big hit type, the gaming machine controlled to the probability variation state after the big hit game was shown. , But is not limited to such a gaming machine. For example, a special variable winning ball device having a predetermined probability variation area provided therein (the probability variable area may be provided in only one special variable winning ball device, or a plurality of special variable prize balls may be provided). Probability variation area may be provided in part of the device), the probability variation is determined based on the game ball passing through the probability variation area in the special variable winning ball device during the big hit game, and the big hit game It is also possible to apply the configuration shown in the above embodiment to the gaming machine that is controlled to the probability changing state after the end.

  Further, in the above embodiment, the game control microcomputer 100 side performs the display result (whether it is a big hit or not) and the variation pattern type winning time determination (pre-reading determination), and the command (symbol) indicating the winning determination result. (Specified command, variation category command), and the case where the pre-reading notice effect is executed on the side of the effect control microcomputer based on the command indicating the winning determination result, but not limited to such an aspect, For example, the effect control microcomputer may be configured to make a winning determination (prefetch determination). In this case, for example, the game control microcomputer 100 transmits a command designating only the value of the random number extracted when the start winning is generated, and the random numbers designated by these commands on the production control microcomputer side. The winning determination (prefetch determination) may be performed based on the value of.

  It should be understood that the embodiments disclosed this time are exemplifications in all points and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is shown not by the above description but by the scope of the claims, and is intended to include meanings equivalent to the scope of the claims and all modifications within the scope.

  In addition, in the embodiment shown above, the characteristic configuration of the gaming machine as shown in the following (1) to (7) is also shown.

(1) A gaming machine that can play a game (for example, a pachinko gaming machine 1 or the like), and a storage unit (for example, a CGROM 141 or the like) that can store data relating to display control, and the stored data in the storage unit is read and displayed. Display control means (for example, CPU 120 for effect control) capable of controlling the means, and signal generation means (for example, watchdog timer) for generating a time lapse signal when the measurement time exceeds the monitoring time, display control The means reads the stored data in the storage means and the first control for initializing the measurement time by the signal generating means before the monitoring time elapses (for example, the control in step S273 of the effect data transfer process during control). When a predetermined event in which the first control is not executed occurs during the reading period, the signal generation means is used before the monitoring time elapses. The second control (for example, control by the step S281 of the control in the presentation data transfer process) and the gaming machine is capable of executing to initialize the measurement time. With such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of trouble.

(2) In the gaming machine of (1) above, the storage means may include a normal use area (for example, a data area) and an alternative use area (for example, a redundant area) (see, for example, FIG. 41). In such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of trouble.

(3) In the gaming machine of (1) or (2) above, as a predetermined event, a process of storing the data stored in the normal use area of the storage means in the alternative use area of the storage means (for example, a step of memory inspection processing). S455, etc.) may be executed. In such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of trouble.

(4) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (3) above, a determination unit that determines whether or not the reading period is in progress (for example, the effect control CPU 120 that executes step S271 of the effect data transfer process during control). Etc.) may be provided. In such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of trouble.

(5) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (4) above, a voice control unit (for example, a voice processing circuit) capable of controlling the output of the effect sound is provided, and the storage unit stores data relating to display control. Data related to output control of effect sound may be stored as a series of data (for example, moving image data), and control by the display control unit and control by the voice control unit may be executed in synchronization with each other ( For example, see FIG. 42). In such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of trouble.

(6) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (5), a period during which control delayed by the occurrence of a predetermined event can be executed before the display result is derived after the variable display is started (for example, A period during which the effect symbols are displayed in a sway may be provided. In such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of trouble.

(7) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (6), the number of times the measurement time is initialized by the second control reaches a predetermined number, and the signal generation means initializes the measurement time. May be limited (for example, in the case of Yes in step S280 of the effect data transfer process during control, etc.). In such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of trouble.

1 Pachinko gaming machine 5 effect display device 5A 1st decorative pattern display device 5B 2nd decorative pattern display device 12 effect control board 16A effect control relay board 100 game control microcomputer 102 RAM
120 CPU for production control
120 Production Control Microcomputer 126 VRAM
135 ROM
136 Temperature sensor 141 CGROM
142 Cooling fan 321 Movable member

Claims (1)

A gaming machine capable of playing a game,
Main control means,
A first substrate provided with a control means for effect control,
A second substrate provided with a storage unit for storing effect information related to effect control,
The storage means stores authentication information in advance,
The control means is
It is possible to perform an authentication process based on the authentication information stored in the storage unit after receiving information from the main control unit,
Based on the success of the authentication in the authentication process, it is possible to execute the production control and set the standby time,
Based on that the waiting time has elapsed, Ri executable der inspection process for error detection to the presentation information stored in the storage means,
The storage unit includes a first area and a second area,
In the inspection process, the control means stores the data stored in the first area in the second area in accordance with the result of the error detection .