JP7037385B2 - Slot machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention comprises a variable display unit capable of variable display by moving a display band in which a plurality of types of identification information that can be identified by each are arranged, and after variable display of the variable display unit, variable display of the variable display unit. The present invention relates to a slot machine capable of deriving a display result by stopping and generating a prize according to the display result.

A slot machine generally has a variable display unit having a reel on which a plurality of types of symbols as identification information are drawn on the outer peripheral portion, and a start switch is operated in a state where a predetermined bet number is set. When the reel starts to rotate and the stop switch is operated to stop the rotation of the reel, a predetermined symbol combination on the winning line (for example, 7-7-7, hereinafter, the symbol combination is displayed as a combination of display results, or A prize is generated by deriving a role).

There are various types of roles such as small roles, special roles, and replay roles. Here, when the display result corresponding to the small winning combination is derived on the winning line, the number of medals determined for each type of small winning combination is paid out. When the display result corresponding to the special role is derived on the winning line, the game state can be controlled to a special game state that is advantageous to the player, such as a regular bonus or a big bonus. When the display result corresponding to the replay combination is derived on the winning line, the next game can be played without consuming a new medal for setting the bet number.

Some such slot machines include a stepping motor that rotates or stops the reel by exciting each excitation phase according to a predetermined procedure, and stops the rotation of the reel to derive a display result (for example,). Patent Document 1).

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2009-100810

In the slot machine described above, a series of processes such as stopping the rotation of the reel to derive a predetermined display result and generating a prize according to the derived predetermined display result are performed. However, it has not been considered how to deal with an unexpected event related to the derivation of the display result in the middle of such a series of processing.

The present invention has been conceived in view of such circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a slot machine capable of appropriately coping with an unexpected event related to the derivation of a display result. ..

It is equipped with a variable display unit that can be variablely displayed by moving the display band in which multiple types of identification information that can be identified by each are arranged.
In a slot machine in which a display result is derived by stopping the variable display of the variable display unit after variable display of the variable display unit and a prize can be generated according to the display result.
Switching between excitation states in which at least one of the plurality of excitation phases is excited, including a rotor incorporating a permanent magnet and a plurality of excitation phases arranged so as to surround the rotor, according to a predetermined procedure. With a stepping motor that moves the display band with
A detected portion that passes through the detected portion in response to the movement of the display band,
A specific means for identifying that the display band is normally moving based on the passage status of the detected portion, and
A movement start control means for performing a movement start control for causing the stepping motor to start the movement of the display band, and a movement start control means.
A derivation control means that controls the stepping motor to derive a display result by performing a movement stop control for stopping the movement of the display band.
It is equipped with a processing means that executes processing according to the display result.
The derivation control means performs the movement stop control after slip control is performed so that the display band moves by a predetermined amount in a predetermined situation in which a predetermined stop condition is satisfied in a predetermined game in which a predetermined display result can be derived. Controls to derive the predetermined display result with
When the slip control is performed in the predetermined situation and the display band normally moves by a predetermined amount, the detected unit passes through the detection unit while the display band moves by a predetermined amount.
The processing means said that even if an abnormality occurs in the movement of the display band while the slip control is being performed in the predetermined situation and the detected portion does not pass through the detected portion. Execute the process according to the display result and
The movement start control means is
In the next game of the predetermined game, the stepping motor is excited based on the excitation state of the stepping motor when the control for deriving the predetermined display result by the derivation control means is completed in the predetermined game, and the movement is started. Take control and
In the next game of the predetermined game, even if the movement of the display band is abnormal in the predetermined game and the predetermined display result is not derived, the predetermined display by the derivation control means is performed in the predetermined game. The movement start control is performed by exciting the stepping motor based on the excitation state of the stepping motor when the control for deriving the result is completed.
The slot machine may have the following configurations.
(1) A variable display unit capable of variable display by moving a display band (for example, reels 2L, 2C, 2R) in which a plurality of types of identification information that can be identified by each are arranged is provided.
In a slot machine (for example, slot machine 1) in which a display result is derived by stopping the variable display of the variable display unit after variable display of the variable display unit and a prize can be generated according to the display result.
A detection unit (for example, each reel sensor 33L, 33C, 33) corresponding to the movement of the display band.
A detected portion passing through R) (for example, a notch provided in each reel 2L, 2C, 2R) and
Specific means for identifying that the display band is normally moving based on the passage status of the detected unit (for example, a process in which the main control unit 41 detects the reel reference position).
A derivation control means (for example, a process in which the main control unit 41 executes stop control) for deriving a display result by performing control for stopping the movement of the display band (for example, stop control), and
Processing according to the display result (for example, specific processing (winning determination processing (Sa3) in FIG. 10, data processing for role ratio monitoring (Sa4), bonus end check processing (Sa5), game state setting processing (Sa8), medal payout). It is provided with a processing means (for example, specific processing executed by the main control unit 41) for executing processing (Sa9), external output signal output processing (Sa11))).
As shown in FIG. 4 (a1), the derivation control means is a predetermined stop condition (for example, a game in which a bell is won) in which a predetermined display result (for example, a bell symbol (winning symbol)) can be derived. , Operate the stop switch 8R at the timing when the symbol 2 (bell symbol) can be pulled in by sliding 3 frames on the right reel 2R), move the display band by a predetermined amount (for example, 3 frames) to display the display. By performing stop control to stop the movement of the band, the predetermined display result is derived (for example, as shown in FIG. 4A2, the bell symbol is derived).
The detected unit passes through the detected unit while moving the display band by a predetermined amount (for example, as shown in FIGS. 4A1 and 4A2), while the right reel 2R rotates three frames. The notch provided in the right reel 2R passes through the reel sensor 33R (to be detected).
The processing means executes processing according to the predetermined display result even when the detected unit does not pass through the detected unit while the stop control is being performed (for example, FIG. 4). As shown in (a3), even if the notch provided in the right reel 2R does not pass through the reel sensor 33R (the reel reference position is not detected), it is assumed that the bell symbol is derived. Specific processing (medal payout processing, etc.) is executed).

(2) In the slot machine of (1) above
Based on the display result derived in the previous game, the movement of the display band is started in this game (for example, based on the winning symbol combination derived in the previous game, reels 2L, 2C in this game. , 2R rotation start control means (for example, a process in which the main control unit 41 executes rotation start control) is further provided.
The movement start control means may not derive the predetermined display result due to an abnormality (for example, a stop failure) in the display band while the stop control is being performed in the previous predetermined game. In this game, the movement of the display band is started based on the predetermined display result (for example, as shown in FIGS. 7 (b1) and 7 (b2), in the game in which the previous bell was won, in the right reel 2R. When the stop switch 8R is operated at the timing when the bell symbol can be pulled in, the right reel 2R is set to the right reel 2R while the stop control is being performed (from the time when the operation is performed until the bell symbol is derived). Even if a stop failure occurs and the bell symbol is not derived, the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are started to rotate based on the bell symbol (bell winning symbol combination) in this game (FIG. 7 (b2)). ..

(3) In the slot machine of (2) above
After the movement of the display band is started and before the stop condition for stopping the movement of the display band (for example, the operation of the stop switch 8R) is satisfied, a situation occurs in which the detected portion does not pass through the detected portion. If so, the stop of movement of the display band is prohibited due to the satisfaction of the stop condition (for example, after the rotation of the reels 2L, 2C, 2R starts as shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B). Before the stop switch 8R that stops the rotation of the right reel 2R is operated, there is a situation where the notch provided in the right reel 2R does not pass through the reel sensor 33R (the value of the step count counter is 400 steps). When it is determined that a rotation abnormality has occurred), the stop of rotation of the right reel 2R by the operation of the stop switch 8R is prohibited).

(4) In any of the slot machines (1) to (3) above,
A state control means (for example, main control unit 41) that controls an abnormal state (for example, an error state) in which the progress of the game is interrupted when an abnormal condition (for example, detection of an error such as an input abnormality or a payout abnormality) is satisfied. Is further equipped with a process to control the error state)
The state control means does not control the abnormal state while the stop control is being performed (for example, as shown in FIGS. 9A to 9D), in the game in which the bell is won, the right reel 2R When the stop switch 8R is operated at the timing when the bell symbol can be pulled in, an error state occurs while the stop control is being performed (from the operation to the derivation of the bell symbol). Not controlled).

(A) is a front view of the slot machine according to the present embodiment, (b) is a diagram showing an example of a main internal configuration of the slot machine, and (c) is a table of a gaming machine information display. It is a figure which shows an example. It is a figure which shows the structure of a reel motor. It is a timing chart which shows an example of the excitation situation of a reel motor. It is a figure for demonstrating the processing when the reel stop failure (when it is scheduled to detect) occurs. It is a figure for demonstrating the processing when the reel stop failure (when the detection is not scheduled) occurs. It is a figure for demonstrating the processing when the stop failure of a reel (when it operates after stop) occurs. It is a figure for demonstrating the rotation start control in this game when a reel stop failure occurs. It is a figure for demonstrating the processing when the rotation abnormality of a reel is detected. It is a figure for demonstrating the processing when an error is detected while rotating a reel. It is a flowchart which shows the control content of the 3rd stop process executed by the main control unit. It is a timing chart for explaining the process executed at the start of a bonus. It is a timing chart for explaining the process executed at the end of a bonus. It is a timing chart for explaining the processing executed at the start of an advantageous section. It is a timing chart for explaining the processing executed at the end of an advantageous section.

An embodiment for carrying out the slot machine according to the present invention will be described below based on examples.

[Slot machine configuration]
1 (a) is a front view of the slot machine 1 according to the present embodiment, FIG. 1 (b) is a diagram showing an example of a main internal configuration of the slot machine 1, and FIG. 1 (c) is a diagram. , It is a figure which shows the display example of the game machine information display.

As shown in FIG. 1A, the slot machine 1 includes a liquid crystal display 51 for displaying an image. A perspective window (not shown) is formed below the liquid crystal display 51. The player can visually recognize the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R arranged side by side inside the slot machine 1 through the see-through window. On each reel 2L, 2C, 2R, symbols, which are a plurality of types of identification information that can be identified by each, are arranged in a predetermined order. Below the perspective window, there is an advantageous section lamp 19 that notifies the player that the advantageous section is in progress by turning on the lamp, and a start switch 7 that is operated when the game (game) is started. Stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R operated to stop the rotation of the reel and derive the display result are provided.

As shown in FIG. 1B, a main control unit 41 is provided inside the slot machine 1 to control the progress of the game and output various commands according to the progress of the game. The main control unit 41 includes a main CPU 41a that performs various controls related to the progress of the game, and a RAM 41c that stores various data related to the progress of the game. The main control unit 41 detects an operation on the start switch 7 and the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R, controls the lighting or extinguishing of the advantageous section lamp 19 according to the detected operation, and controls the lighting / extinguishing of the advantageous section lamp 19, and the gaming machine information display 50 described later. Display control. Further, an external output board 1000 for outputting an external output signal to the outside is connected to the main control unit 41.

Reel sensors 33L, 33C, 33R are provided inside the reels 2L, 2C, 2R. The reel sensors 33L, 33C, 33R detect the reference positions of the rotating reels 2L, 2C, 2R, respectively. The main control unit 41 drives and controls the reel motors 32L, 32C, 32R for rotating or stopping the reels 2L, 2C, 2R, respectively, based on the detection signals from the reel sensors 33L, 33C, 33R.

Specifically, each reel sensor 33L, 33C, 33R is provided with a light emitting unit and a light receiving unit, and each reel 2L, 2C, 2R is installed so as to be sandwiched between the light emitting unit and the light receiving unit. .. Further, each reel 2L, 2C, 2R is provided with a notch. When the notch provided in each reel 2L, 2C, 2R passes between the light emitting part and the light receiving part of each reel sensor 33L, 33C, 33R, the light receiving part receives the light from the light emitting part. , This will detect the reel reference position.

Inside the slot machine 1, a sub control unit 91 that controls the effect in response to a command from the main control unit 41 is provided. The sub control unit 91 includes a sub CPU 91a that performs various controls related to the effect, and a RAM 91c that stores various data related to the effect. The sub control unit 91 controls the display of the image on the liquid crystal display 51 based on the command from the main control unit 41. The effect data used for displaying the image of the liquid crystal display 51 is stored in the RAM 91c.

When playing a game on the slot machine 1, the player inserts medals into a medal insertion unit (not shown) or operates a BET switch (not shown) to set a predetermined number of bets. As a result, the winning line LN becomes valid, the operation to the start switch 7 becomes valid, and the game can be started. The winning line LN is a line for determining whether or not the combination of symbols on the reels 2L, 2C, 2R displayed on the fluoroscopic window matches the combination of winning symbols.

When the start switch 7 is operated while the game can be started, the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R rotate. At this time, an internal lottery is performed by the main control unit 41. The internal lottery is a process of determining a symbol combination (display result) that allows derivation. The fact that the derivation of the symbol combination is permitted by the internal lottery is also said to have won the role corresponding to the symbol combination. When the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R are operated, the rotation of the reel corresponding to the operated stop switch is stopped. As a result, the symbol combination is derived and displayed on the perspective window 3. Of the operations for the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R for stopping the rotation of the reels, the operation for stopping the rotation of the first reel is the first stop operation and the operation for stopping the rotation of the second reel. The operation for stopping the rotation of the third reel is also referred to as a second stop operation.

In the following, the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R may be simply referred to as reels when it is not necessary to distinguish them. Further, the reel 2L may be referred to as a left reel, the reel 2C may be referred to as a middle reel, and the reel 2R may be referred to as a right reel. Further, the reel sensors 33L, 33C, 33R may be simply referred to as reel sensors. Further, the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R may be simply referred to as stop switches. Further, the operation of stopping the reels 2L, 2C, 2R by operating the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R may be referred to as a stop operation.

When the combination of winning symbols stops on the winning line LN and a winning occurs, the main control unit 41 executes a process according to the winning. The process according to the winning includes, for example, the process of granting a privilege. Here, in the slot machine 1, since it is necessary to set a predetermined bet number in order to execute one game, a medal which is a game value is consumed every time one game is played. Benefits include granting game value and the right to play the game without consuming the game value (replay).

Among the winning roles, the special role includes two types of bonuses: a big bonus (hereinafter, the big bonus is referred to as BB) and a regular bonus (hereinafter, the regular bonus is referred to as RB). The bonus is won when a predetermined combination of bonus symbols (for example, "7-7-7") is aligned on the winning line. If you win the BB, you will get a big bonus. The big bonus ends when the BB end condition (for example, 316 or more medals have been paid out) is satisfied. In this embodiment, it is possible to win two types of BBs, BB1 and BB2, which have different bonus end conditions. Also, if you win the RB, you will be transferred to the regular bonus. Then, the regular bonus ends when the RB end condition (for example, one of the roles wins 6 times or 12 games are exhausted) is satisfied.

The main control unit 41 can control any of a plurality of RT states in which the replay is won with a predetermined winning probability. The RT state includes an advantageous RT (RT2) and an unfavorable RT (RT0 and RT1). The winning probability of the replay is set so that advantageous RT> disadvantageous RT. The transition between RTs is made when a predetermined condition is satisfied. Predetermined conditions include winning a prize in a predetermined combination (deriving an RT transition symbol combination) and deriving a specific spilled eye when a bell winning is missed.

The main control unit 41 controls a plurality of types of game sections as a concept of a state different from the game state (RT state). The game section includes a normal section and an advantageous section. The normal section is a section in which navigation information cannot be notified. The advantageous section is a section in which navigation information can be notified, and is a section having performance related to an instruction function (navigation) for instructing the player of the operation mode of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R. After the setting is changed, it is controlled to the normal section and shifts to the advantageous section based on winning the transition to the advantageous section. The transition to the advantageous section will be won when certain conditions are met.

In the present embodiment, the main control unit 41 shifts to the advantageous section when the advantageous section transition combination (for example, a rare combination such as cherry) is won in the normal section. For example, the advantageous section is a section controlled by AT (assist time). The AT is controlled by the main control unit 41, and is in a notification state in which a navigation effect for notifying the player of the operation mode of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R is executed. When it is controlled to the advantageous section, it shifts to the normal section based on the condition that the end condition of the advantageous section (for example, the number of AT games becomes 0) is satisfied.

The gaming machine information display 50 shown in FIG. 1 (c) is installed inside the slot machine 1. The game machine information display 50 is composed of a 7-segment display and is arranged on a game control board that controls the game. A clerk or the like can visually recognize the display contents of the gaming machine information display 50 with the front door of the slot machine 1 open. The gaming machine information display 50 is also referred to as a combination ratio monitor.

The main control unit 41 causes the gaming machine information display 50 to display the advantageous section ratio, the bonus ratio, and the continuous bonus ratio aggregated by the data processing for the combination monitor (Sa4) described later.

The advantageous section ratio is the ratio of the number of games in the advantageous section digested in the game controlled to the advantageous section in the total game to the total number of games digested in all the games. The advantageous section is a period from the time when the AT is won in the state where the AT is not won to the time when all the control of the AT accompanying the winning AT is completed and the shift to the non-AT is completed.

The bonus ratio is the ratio of the number of bonus payouts given to the player in the game controlled by the bonus state (BB and RB) of all the games to the total number of payouts given to the player in all the games. Is.

The continuous bonus ratio is the ratio of the number of BB payouts given to the player in the BB-controlled game of all the games to the total number of payouts given to the player in all the games.

The total game may be, for example, the cumulative number of games since the data of the RAM 41c is initialized at the time of shipment from the factory or for some reason, or may be the latest 6000 games.

The main control unit 41 switches the advantageous section ratio, the bonus ratio, and the continuous bonus ratio every predetermined time (30 seconds in this embodiment) in the display order shown in FIG. 1 (c), and is a gaming machine information display. Display at 50.

At this time, the gaming machine information display 50 displays an abbreviation indicating the display content currently being displayed in the upper two digits. For example, "01" is displayed when the advantageous section ratio is displayed, "02" is displayed when the bonus ratio is displayed, and "03" is displayed when the continuous bonus ratio is displayed. It may be done.

At this time, the gaming machine information display 50 displays the ratio to be displayed at present corresponding to the above-mentioned abbreviation in the last two digits, and all the data are displayed in%. For example, as shown in FIG. 1 (c), "70" indicates that the advantageous section ratio is 70%, "60" indicates that the accessory ratio is 60%, and the continuous accessory ratio is 60%. "60" indicating that there is is displayed respectively.

Next, the stop control of the reels 2L, 2C, 2R will be described. The main control unit 41 drives and controls the reel motor based on the detection signal from the reel sensor to start the rotation of the reel, and when the reel is stopped and the reel still rotating remains. A stop control table is created for each spinning reel with reference to the winning number, the table index stored in the ROM 41b, and the table creation data. Then, when any operation corresponding to the rotating reel is effectively detected among the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R, the stop control table of the corresponding reel is referred to, and the referred stop control table slips. Based on the number of frames, control is performed to stop the rotation of the reels 2L, 2C, 2R corresponding to the operated stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R.

In the present embodiment, a value of 0 to 4 is set as the number of sliding frames, and it is possible to pull in a maximum of 4 symbols to stop the reel after detecting the stop operation. That is, the stop position of the symbol can be specified from a range of up to 5 frames including the stop operation position where the stop operation is detected. In addition, since it is necessary to move one frame to move the reel for one symbol, it is possible to pull in up to four symbols to stop the reel after detecting the stop operation, and stop when the stop operation is detected. It is possible to specify the stop position of a symbol from a range of up to 5 symbols including the operation position.

In the present embodiment, when the stop operation is performed, if the winning combinations can be aligned and stopped in the drawing range of up to 4 frames on the winning line, the control is performed to align and stop the winning combination. , The winning combination will be controlled to stop without aligning within the pull-in range of up to 4 frames.

[Reel motor configuration]
Next, the configurations of the reel motors 32L, 32C, 32R and the control method when exciting the reel motors will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3.

In the present embodiment, reels 2L, 2C, and 2R in which 21 pieces of each of a plurality of types of symbols that can be distinguished from each other are arranged on the outer peripheral portion are used. A continuous number (0 to 20) with respect to the symbol at the reel reference position is assigned in advance to each of the 21 symbols arranged on one reel. For example, as shown in FIG. 4A1, the symbol 2 corresponding to the symbol number 2 on the right reel 2R is a bell symbol. The symbol 0 corresponding to the symbol number 0 on the right reel 2R is a replay symbol. Further, in the reel motor, 16 steps are evenly assigned to each symbol, and the total number of steps is 336 steps (16 steps × 21 symbols).

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of the reel motors 32L, 32C, 32R. The reel motors 32L, 32C, 32R are hybrid stepping motors, and are composed of a stator 32b and a rotor 32a facing the stator 32b. The rotor 32a has a large number of gear-shaped salient poles (not shown), and a permanent magnet magnetized in the same direction as the rotation axis is incorporated therein.

The main control unit 41 rotates each reel motor 32L, 32C, 32R, setting 0 as the number of steps when the reel reference position is detected by the reel sensors 33L, 33C, 33R provided on the reels 2L, 2C, 2R. To control. Further, an excitation pattern for rotating the reel in a predetermined mode is set, and a control signal indicating the excitation state of each excitation phase of the stepping motor specified based on the excitation pattern and the number of steps from the reel reference position is driven by the motor. It is output to the circuit, and a phase signal indicating an excitation state based on the control signal is output to each reel motor 32L, 32C, 32R by the motor drive circuit. As a result, in each reel motor 32L, 32C, 32R, the excitation state of the excitation phase of the reel motor is switched from the phase signal, and each excitation phase φ1 to φ4 of the stator 32b is excited according to a predetermined procedure, thereby causing the reel motor. Each reel 2L, 2C, 2R corresponding to the above controls the rotation.

Further, the predetermined area of the RAM 41c of the main control unit 41 is updated according to the number of steps for exciting the reel motor, and is initialized every time the reel reference position is detected, so that each reel 2L, 2C, A step number counter for counting the number of steps after the reel reference position is detected for 2R is provided.

[Reel motor control method]
FIG. 3 is a timing chart showing an example of the excitation state of the reel motor. FIG. 3A is a timing chart showing a control method (rotation start control) at the time of starting the reel motors 32L, 32C, 32R. In the figure, φ1 to φ4 indicate each exciting phase, “ON” indicates an excited state, and “OFF” indicates a degaussed state. When the reel motors 32L, 32C, 32R are started, the main control unit 41 starts excitation in the rotational direction from a state in which only the stop phase is excited by a 1-2 phase excitation method described later with the stop phase as the starting point. Specifically, for example, when the stop phase is (φ3, φ4), φ1 is in the order of (φ4), (φ4, φ1), (φ1), etc. from the excited state of (φ3, φ4). ~ Φ4 is excited alternately with 1 phase, 2 phase and 1 phase.

In the rotation start control, the rotations of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are started in this game based on the winning symbol combination derived in the previous game. Therefore, in each reel, the excitation is started starting from the stop phase based on the derived winning symbol.

If excitation is started from a phase different from the stop phase, the permanent magnet of the rotor 32a is suddenly attracted to the excitation phase, and the reel vibrates at the start of rotation. In this embodiment, the excitation is started with the stop phase as the starting point, so that the reel integrally coupled with the rotor 32a starts smoothly. However, as shown in FIG. 7 (b2) described later, when a stop failure occurs, the reel is rotated faster and more rapidly than usual because the excitation is not started starting from the stop phase based on the winning symbol. There is also.

FIG. 3B is a timing chart showing a control method during rotation and when the reel motors 32L, 32C, 32R are rotating and stopped.

First, during rotation, that is, until the condition for stopping the reels is satisfied, the reel motor is driven by the 1-2 phase excitation method to rotate each reel 2L, 2C, 2R. For example, a pulse signal indicating that φ1 to φ4 are excited is turned ON / OFF at the timing shown in FIG. 5 (b), and (φ4, φ1), (φ1), (φ1, φ2), (φ2), (φ2, φ3), (φ3), (φ3, φ4), (φ4), (φ4, φ1) ... in that order, 2-phase, 1-phase, 2-phase, 1-phase The reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are rotated by rotating the rotor 32a by alternately exciting φ1 to φ4 for each of the two phases and one step.

Next, when the stop condition for stopping the rotating reel is satisfied, the reel stop control is started. Here, the "stop condition" is that a command to stop the reel is input by the operation of the stop switch by the player.

As shown in FIG. 3B, the reel stop control is performed by all-phase excitation stop control. In all-phase excitation stop control, when the reel motor is driven by the 1-2 phase excitation method, it is started from the time Ta when the state shifts from the state where one phase is excited to the state where two phases are excited, and all phases are excited. It is a control that holds the state to be performed for a predetermined hold time (T1 + T2). For example, as shown in FIG. 3 (b), the excited state of (φ1, φ2, φ3, φ4) is held from the time of shifting from the excited state of (φ1) to the excited state of (φ1, φ2). Hold only time T1 + T2. As a result, the rotor 32a of each reel motor that has been rotating at high speed is suddenly braked. After that, the rotor 32a of the reel motor rotates by several steps (4 steps in this embodiment) due to the inertial force and stops.

After all-phase excitation stop control is executed between T1 + T2 (Tc), φ1 and φ2 are degaussed, and the voltage applied to the reel motor is set to the normal value (High state) while maintaining the excited state of the stop phases φ3 and φ4. Lower than (Low state). Even after the rotor 32a is stopped, the rotor 32a maintains the excited state of the stop phases φ3 and φ4 at a voltage in the lower state than the normal value due to the phase difference between the holding torque and the detent torque and the deviation due to the influence of friction. This is to prevent deviation from the holding torque stable points of the stop phases φ3 and φ4.

The excited state of the stop phases φ3 and φ4, which is maintained even after the rotor 32a is stopped, shifts to a standby state (demo effect) for a predetermined time (30 seconds in this embodiment) without the start operation of the next game being performed. It is canceled when (Td) elapses (the same timing as the operation). That is, if a predetermined time elapses without performing the start operation of the next game after the rotor 32a is stopped, all of φ1 to φ4 are degaussed.

[Detection of reel reference position]
Next, the process of detecting the reel reference position (also referred to as “reference position”) by the main control unit 41 will be described. The notch provided in each reel passes through each reel sensor in response to the rotation (movement) of the reel. The main control unit 41 executes a process of detecting the reel reference position based on the passing state of the notch provided in the reel. Specifically, the reel reference position is detected when the notch provided in each reel passes between the light emitting portion and the light receiving portion of each reel sensor. This makes it possible to identify that the reel is moving normally.

The notch is provided at the lower end of the region portion where the symbol (symbol 0) corresponding to the symbol number 0 is arranged. That is, the position of the lower end of the region where the symbol 0 is arranged for each reel is the reel reference position.

Further, in the present embodiment, each reel sensor is installed so that the reference position is detected when the notch passes through the position of the lower end of the lower region portion. Hereinafter, the position of the lower end of the lower region where the reference position is detected is also referred to as a “detection position”.

For example, in the example shown in FIG. 4A1, a replay symbol is arranged as symbol 0 and a bell symbol is arranged as symbol 2 on the right reel 2R. The left arrow shown at the lower end of the area where the symbol 0 (replay symbol) is arranged indicates the "reference position". In addition, the right arrow shown at the lower end of the lower region indicates the "detection position".

In the state shown in FIG. 4A1, in the right reel 2R, symbol 0 (replay symbol) is located in the upper row, symbol 20 is located in the middle row, and symbol 19 is located in the lower row. When the right reel 2R rotates two frames in the downward direction, which is the forward rotation direction, the symbol 2 (bell symbol) is located in the upper row, the symbol 1 is located in the middle row, and the symbol 0 (replay symbol) is located in the lower row. At this time, the notch provided in the right reel 2R passes through the position of the lower end of the lower region portion, and the reel sensor detects the notch. As a result, the reel reference position is detected.

[Stop control and processing when a stop failure occurs]
As described above, the main control unit 41 stops the reels 2L, 2C, 2R and derives the symbol by performing the stop control after the stop condition is satisfied. When all the reels are stopped and the symbol combination is derived, the main control unit 41 executes various processes including the specific process. The "specific process" refers to a process executed according to the derived symbol combination among various processes executed after the symbol combination is derived.

Specifically, as will be described later with reference to FIG. 10, the specific processing includes a winning determination processing (Sa3), a combination ratio monitoring data processing (Sa4), a bonus end check processing (Sa5), and a game state setting processing (Sa8). ), Medal payout processing (Sa9), external output signal output processing (Sa11), and the like.

For example, when a bell winning symbol combination is derived, the main control unit 41 determines that a bell winning has occurred in the winning determination process, and performs a process of paying out medals according to the bell winning in the medal payout process. .. Further, when the BB1 symbol combination is derived, the main control unit 41 determines that the BB1 prize has occurred in the prize determination process, and performs a process of turning on the BB1 flag in the game state setting process. Further, when the replay symbol combination is derived, the main control unit 41 determines that a replay winning has occurred in the winning determination process, and performs a process of automatically setting the number of bets.

Here, the "stop condition" when performing stop control includes a "predetermined stop condition". The "predetermined stop condition" is a condition that is satisfied when the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R are operated at a timing when the winning symbol can be pulled in.

In the winning game of a predetermined combination (for example, bell, replay, cherry, bonus), the main control unit 41 rotates the reel by a predetermined amount to stop the reel when the predetermined stop condition is satisfied. Executes stop control to derive the winning symbol. Specifically, when the stop switch 8R is operated at the timing when the symbol 20 is located on the middle line on the right reel 2R (see FIG. 4 (a1)), the right reel 2R is rotated by 3 frames (by 3 frames slip). ) Stop control for deriving the bell symbol is executed by stopping the rotation of the right reel 2R. At this time, the right reel 2R is stopped in a state where the symbol 2 (bell symbol) is located on the middle line (see FIG. 4 (a2)).

Further, the main control unit 41 performs stop control for deriving the winning symbols on each reel so that the winning symbol combination of the predetermined winning combination is derived in the winning game of the predetermined winning combination. For example, when the predetermined stop condition is satisfied by the first stop operation, the winning symbol is derived to the left reel 2L, and when the predetermined stop condition is satisfied by the second stop operation, the winning symbol is derived to the middle reel 2C, and the winning symbol is derived by the third stop operation. When the stop condition is satisfied, the winning symbol is derived to the right reel 2R, and as a result, the winning symbol combination of the predetermined combination is derived.

When the predetermined stop condition is satisfied, the reel reference position is detected (provided on the reel) while the reel is rotated by a predetermined amount (from the time when the predetermined stop condition is satisfied until the winning symbol is derived). When the notch is scheduled to pass through the reel sensor (hereinafter referred to as "detection schedule"), the winning symbol is derived while the reel is rotated by a predetermined amount (after the predetermined stop condition is satisfied). There is a case where the reel reference position is not detected (the notch provided in the reel does not pass through the reel sensor) (hereinafter referred to as "detection unscheduled").

Next, a process executed when a reel stop failure occurs will be described. In the present embodiment, "stop failure" means that the symbol that should be originally derived was not derived due to some abnormality during the execution of the stop control. For example, the design that should be originally derived cannot be derived because the reel rotation control is stopped for a very short time due to a momentary power cutoff, or the reel does not rotate normally due to catching or idling. Can be mentioned.

When such a reel stop failure occurs, a situation may occur in which the reference position is not detected even though it is scheduled to be detected, or the reference position is detected even though it is not scheduled to be detected. be. When such a situation occurs, the main control unit 41 performs the following processing.

When the predetermined stop condition is satisfied and the reference position is scheduled to be detected (is scheduled to be detected) in the predetermined winning combination winning game, the main control unit 41 is performing stop control to stop the rotation of the reels. Even if the reference position is not detected (that is, the notch does not pass through the reel sensor) (that is, even if the winning symbol is not derived), the winning symbol of the predetermined combination is derived. Specific processing (for example, medal payout processing) is executed as a reel. Specific examples will be described later with reference to FIG.

Further, the main control unit 41 performs stop control to stop the rotation of the reel when the predetermined stop condition is satisfied in the predetermined game and the detection of the reference position is not scheduled (detection is not scheduled). In the meantime, even if the reference position is detected (that is, even if the notch passes through the reel sensor) (that is, even if the winning symbol is not derived), the winning symbol of the predetermined combination is derived. (For example, medal payout processing) is executed as. Specific examples will be described later with reference to FIG.

Further, in the predetermined winning combination winning game, the main control unit 41 determines a specific combination after the winning symbol of the predetermined winning combination is derived on a specific reel and before the winning symbol of the predetermined winning combination is derived on a reel other than the specific reel. Even when the reference position is detected on the reel (the notch passes through the reel sensor), after the symbol combination is derived, the specific processing (for example, the medal) is performed assuming that the winning symbol combination of the predetermined combination is derived. Execute the payout process). Specific examples will be described later with reference to FIG.

How to execute the rotation start control in the next game when the above-mentioned reel stop failure occurs will be described later with reference to FIG. 7.

[Processing when a stop failure occurs (when detection is planned)]
FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining a process when a reel stop failure (when it is scheduled to be detected) occurs. FIG. 4 describes a case where the detection of the reference position is scheduled.

FIGS. 4 (a1) to 4 (a3) describe a case where the right reel 2R is normally stopped and a case where a stop failure occurs in the right reel 2R when the right reel 2R is operated to stop the third when the bell is won. It is a figure to do. FIGS. 4 (b1) to 4 (b3) describe a case where the right reel 2R is normally stopped and a case where a stop failure occurs in the right reel 2R when the right reel 2R is operated to stop the third when the bonus is won. It is a figure to do.

First, the time when the bell is won will be explained. The bell winning symbol combination is "bell-bell-bell". As shown in FIG. 4 (a1), in the game in which the bell is won, the bell symbol (bell winning symbol) stops at the middle line (winning line LN) in the left reel 2L and the middle reel 2C, respectively, and the tempai It is in a state. At this time, the right reel 2R is in a rotating state.

As shown in the figure, the lower end of the area where the symbol 0 is arranged for each reel 2L, 2C, 2R (left arrow in the figure; reference position) is the lower end of the lower area (right arrow in the figure. Detection). The reel reference position is detected when passing through the position).

It is assumed that the stop operation is performed at the timing when the symbol 20 is located on the middle line in the rotating right reel 2R. Since the bell has been won, the main control unit 41 executes a stop control for stopping the bell symbol (symbol 2) on the middle line by sliding three frames (rotating three frames) on the right reel 2R.

When the right reel 2R stops normally, as shown in FIG. 4 (a2), the bell symbol (symbol 2) stops at the middle line, so that the bell winning symbol combination "bell" is added to the middle line (winning line LN). -Bell-Bell "is derived.

In this way, in the game in which the bell is won, when the stop switch 8R is operated at the timing when the symbol 2 (bell symbol) can be pulled in by sliding three frames, the reel is rotated three frames (the operation is performed). The reel reference position is detected (until the symbol 2 (bell symbol) is derived) (the notch provided in the right reel 2R passes through the reel sensor 33R (to be detected)).

After the bell winning symbol combination is derived, the main control unit 41 executes the specifying process. As a specific process, for example, in the prize determination process (Sa3) of FIG. 10, it is determined that a bell prize has occurred. Further, in the medal payout process (Sa9), the medal payout process is executed based on the bell winning.

On the other hand, in the state of FIG. 4 (a1), there is a case where a stop failure occurs in the right reel 2R even though the stop operation is performed at the timing when the bell symbol can be pulled in, in FIG. 4 (a3). ). It is assumed that one frame slips and stops in response to the stop operation of the right reel 2R. At this time, as shown in FIG. 4A3, the replay symbol (symbol 0) stops at the middle line on the right reel 2R. At this time, the bell winning symbol combination is not derived to the middle line, and the "bell-bell-replay" is derived. In this case, the reel reference position is not detected in the stop control from the operation of the stop switch 8R to the stop of the reel.

However, even if the bell symbol is not derived in this way (that is, even if the bell winning symbol combination is not derived), the main control unit assumes that the bell winning symbol combination is derived. 41 executes a specific process. As a specific process, for example, in the prize determination process (Sa3) of FIG. 10, it is determined that a bell prize has occurred. Further, in the medal payout process (Sa9), the medal payout process is executed based on the bell winning.

As described above, in the game in which the bell is won, when the stop switch 8R is operated at the timing when the symbol 2 (bell symbol) can be pulled in by sliding three frames, the stop control for stopping the rotation of the right reel 2R is performed. Even if the reel reference position is not detected during the process (the notch provided in the right reel 2R does not pass through the reel sensor 33R), it is assumed that the bell symbol has been derived. Winning judgment processing and medal payout processing are executed.

Next, the time when the bonus is won will be described. The BB1 winning symbol combination is "7-7-7". As shown in FIG. 4 (b1), in a game in which BB1 is won and BB1 can be won, 7 symbols (BB1 winning symbols) are placed on the middle line (winning line LN) in the left reel 2L and the middle reel 2C. It has stopped and is in a tempai state. At this time, the right reel 2R is in a rotating state.

It is assumed that the stop operation is performed at the timing when the symbol 20 is located on the middle line in the rotating right reel 2R. Since BB1 has been elected, the main control unit 41 executes a stop control for stopping the 7 symbols (symbol 3) on the right reel 2R by sliding 4 frames (rotating 4 frames).

When the right reel stops normally, as shown in FIG. 4 (b2), the 7 symbols (design 3) stop at the middle line, so that the middle line (winning line LN) is combined with the BB1 winning symbol combination "7-". 7-7 "is derived.

In this way, in the game in which the bonus is won, when the stop switch 8R is operated at the timing when the symbol 3 (7 symbols) can be pulled in by sliding 4 frames, the reel is rotated 4 frames (the operation is performed). The reel reference position is detected (to be detected) until the symbol 3 (7 symbols) is derived from.

After the BB1 winning symbol combination is derived, the main control unit 41 executes the specifying process. As a specific process, for example, in the prize determination process (Sa3) of FIG. 10, it is determined that the BB1 prize has occurred. Further, in the game state setting process (Sa8), the BB1 flag is set to ON based on the BB1 winning.

On the other hand, in the state of FIG. 4 (b1), there is a case where a stop failure occurs in the right reel 2R even though the stop operation is performed at the timing when the 7 symbols can be pulled in, in FIG. 4 (b3). ). It is assumed that one frame slips and stops in response to the stop operation of the right reel 2R. At this time, as shown in FIG. 4A3, the replay symbol (symbol 0) stops at the middle line on the right reel 2R. At this time, the BB1 winning symbol combination is not derived to the middle line, and "7-7-replay" is derived. In this case, the reel reference position is not detected in the stop control from the operation of the stop switch 8R to the stop of the reel.

However, even if the BB1 winning symbol combination is not derived in this way (that is, even if the BB1 winning symbol combination is not derived), it is assumed that the BB1 winning symbol combination is derived and the main control is performed. The unit 41 executes the specific process. As a specific process, for example, in the prize determination process (Sa3) of FIG. 10, it is determined that the BB1 prize has occurred. Further, in the game state setting process (Sa8), the BB1 flag is set to ON based on the BB1 winning.

In this way, in the game in which BB1 is won, when the stop switch 8R is operated at the timing when the symbol 3 (7 symbols) can be pulled in by sliding 4 frames, the stop control for stopping the rotation of the right reel 2R is performed. Even if the reel reference position is not detected during the process, the winning determination process, the game state setting process, and the like are executed assuming that the BB1 winning symbol has been derived.

As described above, in the present embodiment, in the case where the predetermined stop condition is satisfied and the predetermined stop condition is to be detected in the predetermined winning combination winning game, the main control unit 41 is based on the reel while the stop control is being performed. Even if the position is not detected, the specific process is executed assuming that the winning symbol of the predetermined winning combination is derived.

It should be noted that the combination is not limited to the example described with reference to FIG. 4, and any combination may be used as the predetermined combination, and may be applied to cherries, replays, and the like. Further, it may be applied when a stop failure occurs in any reel, or may be applied when a stop failure occurs in a plurality of reels. Further, the predetermined stop condition may be any timing as long as it is a stop operation timing in which the winning symbol can be drawn.

[Processing when a stop failure occurs (when detection is not scheduled)]
FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining a process when a reel stop failure (when detection is not scheduled) occurs. In the example of FIG. 4, the case where the detection is scheduled has been described, but in the example of FIG. 5, the case where the detection is not scheduled will be described.

5 (a1) to 5 (a3) explain the case where the right reel 2R is normally stopped and the case where the right reel 2R has a stop failure when the right reel 2R is operated to stop the third when the bell is won. It is a figure to do. FIGS. 5 (b1) to 5 (b3) describe a case where the right reel 2R is normally stopped and a case where a stop failure occurs in the right reel 2R when the right reel 2R is operated to stop the third when the bonus is won. It is a figure to do.

First, the time when the bell is won will be explained. As shown in FIG. 5 (a1), in the game in which the bell is won, the bell symbol (bell winning symbol) stops at the middle line (winning line LN) in the left reel 2L and the middle reel 2C, respectively, and the tempai It is in a state. At this time, the right reel 2R is in a rotating state.

It is assumed that the stop operation is performed at the timing when the symbol 18 is located on the middle line in the rotating right reel 2R. Since the bell has been won, the main control unit 41 executes stop control in the right reel 2R to stop the bell symbol (symbol 19) at the middle line by sliding one frame (rotating one frame).

When the right reel 2R stops normally, as shown in FIG. 5 (a2), the bell symbol (symbol 19) stops at the middle line, so that the bell winning symbol combination "bell" is added to the middle line (winning line LN). -Bell-Bell "is derived.

In this way, in the game in which the bell is won, when the stop switch 8R is operated at the timing when the symbol 19 (bell symbol) can be pulled in by sliding one frame, the reel is rotated by one frame (the operation is performed). The reel reference position is not detected (until the symbol 19 (bell symbol) is derived from) (the notch provided in the right reel 2R does not pass through the reel sensor 33R (to be detected)).

After the bell winning symbol combination is derived, the main control unit 41 executes the specifying process. As a specific process, for example, in the prize determination process (Sa3) of FIG. 10, it is determined that a bell prize has occurred. Further, in the medal payout process (Sa9), the medal payout process is executed based on the bell winning.

On the other hand, in the state of FIG. 5 (a1), there is a case where a stop failure occurs in the right reel 2R even though the stop operation is performed at the timing when the bell symbol can be pulled in, in FIG. 5 (a3). ). It is assumed that 6 frames are slipped and stopped in response to the stop operation of the right reel 2R. At this time, as shown in FIG. 5 (a3), the 7 symbols (symbol 3) stop at the middle line on the right reel 2R. At this time, the bell winning symbol combination is not derived to the middle line, and "Bell-Bell-7" is derived. In this case, the reel reference position is detected in the stop control from the operation of the stop switch 8R to the stop of the reel.

However, even if the bell symbol is not derived in this way (that is, even if the bell winning symbol combination is not derived), the main control unit assumes that the bell winning symbol combination is derived. 41 executes a specific process. As a specific process, for example, in the prize determination process (Sa3) of FIG. 10, it is determined that a bell prize has occurred. Further, in the medal payout process (Sa9), the medal payout process is executed based on the bell winning.

As described above, in the game in which the bell is won, when the stop switch 8R is operated at the timing when the symbol 19 (bell symbol) can be pulled in by sliding one frame, the rotation of the right reel 2R is stopped. Even if the reel reference position is detected while the control is being performed (the notch provided in the right reel 2R passes through the reel sensor 33R), the bell symbol is assumed to be derived and the prize is won. Judgment processing, medal payout processing, etc. are executed.

Next, the time when the bonus is won will be described. As shown in FIG. 5 (b1), in a game in which BB1 is won and BB1 can be won, 7 symbols (BB1 winning symbols) are placed on the middle line (winning line LN) in the left reel 2L and the middle reel 2C. It has stopped and is in a tempai state. At this time, the right reel 2R is in a rotating state.

It is assumed that the stop operation is performed at the timing when the symbol 17 is located on the middle line in the rotating right reel 2R. Since the BB1 has been won, the main control unit 41 executes a stop control in the right reel 2R to stop the 7 symbols (symbol 18) on the middle line by sliding one frame (rotating one frame).

When the right reel 2R stops normally, as shown in FIG. 5 (b2), the 7 symbols (symbol 18) stop at the middle line, so that the middle line (winning line LN) is combined with the BB1 winning symbol combination "7". -7-7 "is derived.

In this way, in the game in which the bonus is won, when the stop switch 8R is operated at the timing when the symbol 18 (7 symbols) can be pulled in by sliding one frame, the reel is rotated by one frame (the operation is performed). The reel reference position is not detected (detection is not planned) until the symbol 18 (7 symbols) is derived from.

After the BB1 winning symbol combination is derived, the main control unit 41 executes the specifying process. As a specific process, for example, in the prize determination process (Sa3) of FIG. 10, it is determined that the BB1 prize has occurred. Further, in the game state setting process (Sa8), the BB1 flag is set to ON based on the BB1 winning.

On the other hand, in the state of FIG. 5 (b1), there is a case where a stop failure occurs in the right reel 2R even though the stop operation is performed at the timing when the bell symbol can be pulled in, in FIG. 5 (b3). ). It is assumed that 6 frames are slipped and stopped in response to the stop operation of the right reel 2R. At this time, as shown in FIG. 5 (a3), the bell symbol (symbol 2) stops at the middle line on the right reel 2R. At this time, the BB1 winning symbol combination is not derived to the middle line, and "7-7-bell" is derived. In this case, the reel reference position is detected in the stop control from the operation of the stop switch 8R to the stop of the reel.

However, even if the BB1 winning symbol combination is not derived in this way (that is, even if the BB1 winning symbol combination is not derived), it is assumed that the BB1 winning symbol combination is derived and the main control is performed. The unit 41 executes the specific process. As a specific process, for example, in the prize determination process (Sa3) of FIG. 10, it is determined that the BB1 prize has occurred. Further, in the game state setting process (Sa8), the BB1 flag is set to ON based on the BB1 winning.

In this way, in the game in which BB1 is won, when the stop switch 8R is operated at the timing when the symbol 18 (7 symbols) can be pulled in by sliding one frame, the stop control for stopping the rotation of the right reel 2R is performed. Even if the reel reference position is detected during the process, the winning determination process, the game state setting process, and the like are executed assuming that the BB1 winning symbol has been derived. In addition, specific processing such as data processing for role ratio monitoring (Sa4) will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

As described above, in the present embodiment, in the case where the predetermined stop condition is satisfied and the detection is not scheduled in the predetermined winning combination winning game, the main control unit 41 reels while the stop control is being performed. Even when the reference position is detected, the specific process is executed assuming that the winning symbol of the predetermined winning combination is derived.

It should be noted that the combination is not limited to the example described with reference to FIG. 5, and any combination may be used as the predetermined combination, and may be applied to cherries, replays, and the like. Further, it may be applied when a stop failure occurs in any reel, or may be applied when a stop failure occurs in a plurality of reels. Further, the predetermined stop condition may be any timing as long as it is a stop operation timing in which the winning symbol can be drawn.

[Processing when a stop failure occurs (when operating after stopping)]
Next, a case will be described in which a reel that has already stopped moves again and a stop failure occurs in which the reel reference position is detected for the reel. FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining a process when a reel stop failure (when the reel operates after the stop) occurs.

6 (a) to 6 (c) are diagrams illustrating a case where a stop failure does not occur. 6 (a) and 6 (d) to 6 (f) are diagrams illustrating a case where a stop failure occurs in the left reel 2L.

First, a case where a stop failure does not occur will be described. As shown in FIG. 6A, in the game in which the bell is won, the bell symbol (design 0, bell winning symbol) is stopped at the middle line (winning line LN) on the left reel 2L. At this time, the middle reel 2C and the right reel 2R are in a rotating state.

When the second stop operation is performed at the timing when the bell symbol can be pulled in the middle reel 2C, the bell symbol stops at the middle line as shown in FIG. 6 (b). When the third stop operation is performed at the timing when the bell symbol can be pulled in on the right reel 2R, the bell symbol stops at the middle line as shown in FIG. 6 (c). As a result, the bell winning symbol combination is derived.

After the bell winning symbol combination is derived, the main control unit 41 executes the specifying process. As a specific process, for example, in the prize determination process (Sa3) of FIG. 10, it is determined that a bell prize has occurred. Further, in the medal payout process (Sa9), the medal payout process is executed based on the bell winning.

On the other hand, in the state of FIG. 6A, the case where a stop failure occurs in the left reel 2L even though the bell symbol is derived is the state of FIG. 6D. It is assumed that the left reel 2L, which has been stopped, starts to move due to a malfunction of the reels in a state where the symbols are not derived in the middle reel 2C and the right reel 2R. As a result, as shown in FIG. 6D, the position of the lower end of the region where the symbol 0 is arranged (reference position) passes the position of the lower end of the lower region (detection position), and the reel The reference position is detected. Then, the replay symbol (symbol 2) is derived to the middle line.

In this state, when the second stop operation is performed at the timing when the bell symbol can be pulled in the middle reel 2C, the bell symbol stops at the middle line as shown in FIG. 6 (e). When the third stop operation is performed at the timing when the bell symbol can be pulled in on the right reel 2R, the bell symbol stops at the middle line as shown in FIG. 6 (f). At this time, the bell winning symbol combination is not derived to the middle line, and the "replay-bell-bell" is derived.

However, even when the bell winning symbol combination is not derived in this way, the main control unit 41 executes the specific process assuming that the bell winning symbol combination is derived. As a specific process, for example, in the prize determination process (Sa3) of FIG. 10, it is determined that a bell prize has occurred. Further, in the medal payout process (Sa9), the medal payout process is executed based on the bell winning.

In this way, in the game in which the bell is won, after the bell symbol is derived to the left reel 2L and before the bell symbol is derived to the middle reel 2C or the right reel 2R other than the left reel 2L, the left reel 2L The bell winning symbol combination was derived when the symbol combination was derived regardless of whether or not the reel reference position of was detected (the notch provided in the reel 2L passed through the reel sensor 33L). As a result, a winning determination process, a medal payout process, and the like are executed.

As described above, in the present embodiment, in the predetermined combination winning game, the main control unit 41 derives the winning symbol of the predetermined combination by satisfying the predetermined stop condition in the specific reel, and then the specific reel. Even if the reel reference position is detected on a specific reel before the rotation of the reels other than the above is stopped, it is assumed that the winning symbol combination of the predetermined combination is derived after the symbol combination is derived. Changed to execute specific processing.

The predetermined role is not limited to the example described with reference to FIG. 6, and may be applied to bonuses, cherries, replays, and the like. Further, it may be applied when a stop failure occurs in any reel, or may be applied when a stop failure occurs in a plurality of reels. Further, the predetermined stop condition may be any timing as long as it is a stop operation timing in which the winning symbol can be drawn.

[Rotation start control after stop failure occurs]
The following describes how to perform rotation start control in the next game when a stop failure occurs as described with reference to FIGS. 4 to 6 and a normal symbol combination is not derived.

FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining rotation start control in this game when a reel stop failure occurs. 7 (a1) and 7 (a2) show the case where the symbol combination was normally derived in the previous game, and FIGS. 7 (b1) and 7 (b2) show that the symbol combination was not normally derived in the previous game due to a stop failure. Each case is shown.

First, the case where the symbol combination is normally derived in the previous game will be described. Since the situation of FIG. 7 (a1) is the same as the situation of FIG. 4 (a2), detailed description thereof will be omitted. As shown in FIG. 7 (a1), the bell winning symbol combination "Bell-bell-bell" is derived in the game in which the bell is won.

In this game, the main control unit 41 executes rotation start control when the start switch 7 is operated. As a result, as shown in FIG. 7A2, the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R start to rotate. At this time, the rotation start control starts the rotation of the reels 2L, 2C, 2R based on the bell winning symbol combination "bell-bell-bell" derived in the previous game. That is, the excitation is started with the stop phase at the time of the previous stop as the starting point. As a result, each reel starts smoothly.

Next, a case where the symbol combination is not normally derived in the previous game due to a stop failure will be described. The situation of FIG. 7 (b1) is the same as the situation of FIG. 4 (a3). Specifically, in the game in which the bell is won, when the stop switch 8R is operated at the timing when the symbol 2 (bell symbol) can be pulled in by sliding three frames (FIG. 4 (a1)), the rotation of the right reel 2R This is a situation (FIG. 4 (a3)) in which the bell symbol is not derived due to a stop failure and the “bell-bell-replay” is derived while the stop control for stopping the reel is being performed.

In this game, the main control unit 41 executes rotation start control when the start switch 7 is operated. As shown in FIG. 7 (b2), the main control unit 41 derives the bell winning symbol combination even when the "bell-bell-replay" is derived as described above due to a stop failure. The rotation start control is executed as a thing.

In the right reel 2R, the symbol 0 (replay symbol) is stopped, but it is assumed that the symbol 2 (bell symbol) is stopped, and the rotation of the right reel 2R is started. Specifically, the excitation is started from a phase different from the stopped phase as a starting point. Therefore, the permanent magnet of the rotor 32a is suddenly attracted to the exciting phase, and the reel operates suddenly at the start of rotation.

As described above, in the game in which the bell was won last time, when the stop switch 8R is operated at the timing when the bell symbol can be pulled in on the right reel 2R, while the stop control is being performed (the operation is performed). Even if the bell symbol is not derived due to a stop failure in the right reel 2R (that is, the bell winning symbol combination is not derived) between the time when the bell symbol is derived (that is, the bell symbol combination is not derived), this time. In the game of, the rotation of the reels 2L, 2C, 2R is started based on the bell winning symbol combination.

By doing so, even if a physical problem occurs such that the bell symbol that should be originally derived in the previous game is not derived, the reel 2L is based on the bell symbol (bell winning symbol combination) in this game. Since the rotation of, 2C, and 2R is started and the rotation start control is executed, the rotation start control process is not complicated.

[Processing when reel rotation abnormality is detected]
Next, processing when a reel rotation abnormality is detected will be described. When the value of the step number counter for the rotating reel becomes the predetermined number of steps or more, the main control unit 41 determines that a rotation abnormality has occurred in the reel. The predetermined number of steps is a number of steps set more than 336 steps required for the reel to make one revolution, and is, for example, 400 steps.

As described above, each reel rotates by driving each reel motor based on the number of steps (value of the step number counter) from the reel reference position. Each reel detects the reel reference position every one lap, and the step number counter is initialized each time the reel reference position is detected. That is, in the state where the reel continues to rotate normally, the step number counter is initialized every 336 steps required for the reel to make one revolution.

However, for example, when the reel is caught and the rotation stops, the reel motor tries to rotate the reel by an excitation pattern based on the value of the step count counter, but the reel is actually rotating. do not have. That is, although the step counter has been updated, the reel is not located at the position corresponding to the step counter. Further, when the reel is stopped, the reel reference position is not detected, so that the reel counter is not initialized even if the number of steps exceeds 336.

In the present embodiment, when such a state continues and the value of the step number counter for the rotating reel becomes the predetermined number of steps (400 steps) or more, the occurrence of the rotation abnormality is detected. In addition, a momentary power failure occurs and the reel rotation control is stopped for a very short time, the reel motor does not operate according to the excitation pattern due to insufficient torque, etc., or the reference position is not detected due to a malfunction of the reel sensor. In such cases, rotation abnormalities can occur. When the above-mentioned stop failure occurs, the rotation abnormality does not always occur at the same time.

In the present embodiment, the main control unit 41 invalidates the operation of the stop switch 8R when a rotation abnormality occurs after the rotation of the reel starts and before the operation of the corresponding stop switch is performed.

FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining a process when a reel rotation abnormality is detected. In this example, the same situation as in FIG. 4 (a1) will be described as an example. As shown in FIG. 8A, in the game in which the bell is won, the bell symbols are stopped at the middle line (winning line LN) in the left reel 2L and the middle reel 2C, respectively, and are in a tempai state. .. At this time, the right reel 2R is in a state of being normally rotated.

When the right reel 2R is rotating normally, the reference position is detected every time the right reel 2R makes one revolution, and the step number counter is initialized in 336 steps.

Here, as shown in FIG. 8B, it is assumed that the right reel 2R is illegally stopped in a state where the symbol 0 (replay symbol) is stopped on the middle line due to catching. As a result, the reference position is not detected, and the step count counter is not initialized. Further, as described above, even if the reel is stopped, the value of the step number counter is continuously updated. Therefore, the main control unit 41 causes a rotation abnormality when the value of the step number counter becomes 400 steps or more. It is determined that it is.

When a rotation abnormality occurs, the main control unit 41 invalidates the operation of the stop switch 8R. As a result, the player cannot operate the stop switch 8R to stop the rotation of the reel 2R.

When a rotation abnormality occurs, the main control unit 41 may send a command that can identify that the rotation abnormality has occurred to the sub control unit 91. In this case, for example, the sub control unit 91 may notify the liquid crystal display 51 that a rotation abnormality has occurred. Further, a lamp or the like may be used to notify that a rotation abnormality has occurred.

By doing so, the clerk of the amusement shop or the like can recognize that the rotation abnormality has occurred. After the rotation abnormality is resolved by the treatment of the clerk, the player can continue the game. In the present embodiment, when a rotation abnormality occurs, the error state described later is not controlled, but the progress of the game may be interrupted and controlled to the error state.

As described above, after the rotation of the reels 2L, 2C, 2R has started and before the stop switch 8R for stopping the rotation of the right reel 2R is operated, a situation occurs in which the reel reference position is not detected, and the step When the value of the number counter becomes 400 steps or more and it is determined that a rotation abnormality has occurred, the stop of the rotation of the right reel 2R by the operation of the stop switch 8R is prohibited.

In this embodiment, the stop switches corresponding to the reels in which the rotation abnormality has occurred are disabled, but all the stop switches may be disabled. Further, in the present embodiment, an example in which a rotation abnormality occurs in the right reel 2R has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this, and when a rotation abnormality occurs in the middle reel 2C or the left reel 2L, all the stop switches are turned on. You may try to invalidate it. Further, when a rotation abnormality occurs in any reel in a state where a plurality of reels are rotating, all the stop switches may be disabled. Further, the device is not limited to the one that invalidates the stop switch, and may accept the stop switch or may not execute the stop control.

[What to do if an error is detected while the reel is rotating]
Next, processing when an error (for example, a charging abnormality or a payout abnormality) is detected during the rotation of the reel will be described. In the present embodiment, the game starts when the start switch 7 is operated while the operation of the start switch 7 is valid, and the game ends when all the reels are stopped. Specifically, the main control unit 41 controls one game by performing a main process described later. In the main process, various processes related to the progress of the game are executed.

When the error is detected, the main control unit 41 interrupts the progress of the game and controls the error state. After that, when the error state is cleared, the progress of the game is restarted (details will be described in "Error determination processing (Sa2)" described later). However, immediately after the stop condition is satisfied by operating the stop switch, the error state is not controlled immediately, and the processing as described below is performed.

FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining a process when an error is detected while the reel is rotating. The state of FIG. 9 (a) is the same as the state of FIG. 8 (a). As shown in FIG. 9A, in the game in which the bell is elected, the bell symbols are stopped at the middle line (winning line LN) in the left reel 2L and the middle reel 2C, respectively, and are in a tempai state. .. At this time, the right reel 2R is in a state of being normally rotated.

Here, as shown in FIG. 9B, it is assumed that the stop switch 8R is operated at a timing when the bell symbol can be pulled in. The stop condition is satisfied by the operation of the stop switch 8R, and the main control unit 41 starts the stop control. In the stop control, the process of stopping the reel 2R is executed so that the bell symbol is derived.

Then, it is assumed that an error is detected during the period from the operation of the stop switch 8R to the derivation of the bell symbol. However, in the present embodiment, even if an error is detected in the above period, as shown in FIG. 9C, the error state is not controlled and the progress of the game continues.

Then, as shown in FIG. 9D, when the bell symbol is derived on the right reel 2R, it is controlled to an error state. Specifically, the following processing is executed.

First, when the right reel 2R is stopped, the bell winning symbol combination is derived (symbol combination derivation (Sa1) in FIG. 10). Next, the error determination process (Sa2) is executed. The main control unit 41 is controlled to an error state based on the detected abnormality in the error determination process. As a result, the progress of the game is interrupted.

Further, the main control unit 41 transmits an error command that can identify that an error has occurred to the sub control unit 91. The sub-control unit 91 notifies that an error has occurred based on the received error command. For example, the sub-control unit 91 causes the liquid crystal display 51 to display the character "error is occurring".

As described above, in the game in which the bell is won, when the stop switch 8R is operated at the timing when the bell symbol can be pulled in on the right reel 2R, while the stop control is being performed (the operation is performed). Until the bell symbol is derived from), it is not controlled to the error state.

[Third stop processing]
As described above, in the present embodiment, the processing when the reel stop failure occurs when the predetermined combination is won has been described with reference to FIGS. 4 to 7. Further, the process when an abnormality in the rotation of the reel is detected using FIG. 8 and the process when an error is detected during the rotation of the reel are described with reference to FIG. In the above explanation, the case where the bell or BB1 is won as a predetermined combination is taken as an example, but as described above, the case is not limited to the bell winning or the BB1 winning, and even if any winning combination is won. Applicable.

In the description of FIGS. 4 to 7, even if the winning symbol combination is not derived due to the occurrence of the stop failure, the “specific processing” to be executed assuming that the winning symbol combination has occurred has been described. In the following, specific processing such as data processing for role ratio monitoring will be described in detail by taking as an example the time of controlling a bonus in a game in which BB1 is won and the medal payout processing in a game in which a bell is won.

Hereinafter, in the present embodiment, an example in which the accessory ratio and the advantageous section ratio are calculated in the role ratio monitoring data processing (Sa4) described later will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 to 14. First, when calculating the bonus ratio, the "bonus data" required to determine whether or not it is in a bonus state, and when calculating the advantageous section ratio, whether or not it is an advantageous section. The "data in the advantageous section" necessary for making a judgment will be explained.

[Data during bonus]
In the present embodiment, the main control unit 41 stores the bonus data in a predetermined storage area of the RAM 41c. The bonus data is data that can specify the control to the bonus state. For example, the data that can identify that the control to the bonus state (“during bonus”) is “FFh”. The main control unit 41 updates (sets ON) the bonus data from "00h" to "FFh" when controlled to the bonus state. The data that can identify that the bonus state is not controlled (“non-bonus”) is “00h”. When the bonus state ends, the main control unit 41 updates the bonus data from "FFh" to "00h" (sets OFF).

In the present embodiment, the main control unit 41 stores the bonus flag in a predetermined storage area of the RAM 41c. The bonus flag is data that can identify the type of bonus state under control. Bonus flags include the BB1 flag, the BB2 flag, and the RB flag. When the main control unit 41 wins the BB1 after winning the BB1, the BB1 flag is set to ON. When the end condition of BB1 is satisfied, the main control unit 41 sets the BB1 flag to OFF. The same applies to BB2 and RB. The bonus flag is updated in the game state setting process (Sa8) and the bonus end check process (Sa5), which will be described later.

The bonus data is set in the "external output signal output process (Sa11)" described later. When any of the bonus flags is set to ON, the main control unit 41 sets the bonus data to ON, and when all the bonus flags are set to OFF, the main control unit 41 sets the bonus data to OFF.

Subsequently, in the external output signal output processing, the main control unit 41 generates a bonus intermediate signal for causing the test device for testing the slot machine 1 to specify control to the bonus state. The bonus signal is generated based on the bonus data. Specifically, the main control unit 41 turns the bonus signal in the ON state when the bonus data is set to ON, and turns the bonus signal in the OFF state when the bonus data is set to OFF. The bonus data is also used in the "data processing for role ratio monitoring (Sa4)" to determine whether or not the bonus is controlled.

In this way, using the bonus data, the process of generating the bonus signal is executed in the external output signal output process, and the process of determining whether or not the bonus is controlled in the role ratio monitor data process is performed. Will be executed.

[Data during advantageous section]
In the present embodiment, the main control unit 41 stores the data in the advantageous section in the predetermined storage area of the RAM 41c. The data in the advantageous section is data that can specify the control to the advantageous section. For example, the data that can identify that the control to the advantageous section (“during the advantageous section”) is “FFh”. The main control unit 41 updates (sets ON) the data in the advantageous section from "00h" to "FFh" when the data is controlled in the advantageous section. The data that can specify that it is not controlled to the advantageous section (“non-advantageous section”) is “00h”. When the advantageous section ends, the main control unit 41 updates the data in the advantageous section from "FFh" to "00h" (sets OFF).

In the present embodiment, the advantageous section is a section controlled by AT. When the main control unit 41 wins the advantageous section transition combination (when the control to AT is determined), the advantageous section flag is set to ON. When the end condition of the advantageous section is satisfied (when the number of AT games becomes 0), the main control unit 41 sets the advantageous section flag to OFF. The advantageous section flag is updated in the advantageous section management process (Sa7) described later.

The data in the advantageous section is set in the "advantageous section ramp processing (Sa12)" described later. When the advantageous section flag is set to ON, the main control unit 41 sets the advantageous section data to ON, and when the advantageous section flag is set to OFF, the main control unit 41 sets the advantageous section data to OFF.

Subsequently, the main control unit 41 executes a process of controlling the lighting or extinguishing of the advantageous section lamp 19 in the advantageous section lamp processing. The lighting mode of the advantageous section lamp 19 is specified by the data during the advantageous section. Specifically, the main control unit 41 turns on the advantageous section lamp 19 when the advantageous section data is set to ON (ON state), and sets the advantageous section lamp 19 when the advantageous section data is set to OFF. Is turned off (OFF state). Then, the data in the advantageous section is used in "data processing for role ratio monitoring (Sa4)" when determining whether or not the data is controlled in the advantageous section.

In this way, using the data in the advantageous section, the process of turning on or off the advantageous section lamp 19 in the advantageous section lamp processing is executed, and whether or not the data processing for the combination ratio monitor is controlled to the advantageous section. The judgment process is executed.

[Third stop processing]
The main control unit 41 executes the main process. The main process is a process that is repeatedly executed for each unit of game. And one cycle of the main process corresponds to one unit of the game.

In the main process, the main control unit 41 waits in a state where the bet number can be set, sets a predetermined number of bets according to the game state, and starts the game when the start switch 7 is operated. Execute. Then, the main control unit 41 performs an internal lottery to determine whether or not to allow the occurrence of a prize based on the random number value for the internal lottery acquired at the same time as the start of the game by the detection of the start switch 7. Then, the main control unit 41 executes a process of rotating the reel based on the start of the game.

The main control unit 41 executes the third stop process when the third stop operation (stop operation of the final reel) is performed after the reel has rotated. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the control contents of the third stop process executed by the main control unit.

As shown in FIG. 10, the main control unit 41 stops the final reel when the third stop operation is performed. As a result, the symbol combination is derived (Sa1). For example, when BB1 is won, the bonus symbol combination of BB1 is derived.

The main control unit 41 executes an error determination process in the step of Sa2. The main control unit 41 determines whether or not an abnormality related to medal insertion from the medal insertion unit (insertion abnormality) or an abnormality related to medal payout from the hopper (payout abnormality) is detected in the error determination process. Execute error check processing.

In the input / payout error check process, the main control unit 41 has a payout error flag indicating that an abnormality has been detected in the signal transition of the payout sensor, and an input indicating that an abnormality has been detected in the signal transition of the input / payout medal sensor. It is determined whether or not the error flag is set in the predetermined area of the RAM 41c, and if the payout error flag or the input error flag is not set, the input / payout error check process is terminated. On the other hand, when the payout error flag and the input error flag are set, the main control unit 41 performs error processing. In the error processing, the main control unit 41 transmits an error command capable of specifying an error code to the sub control unit 91, and controls the game auxiliary display to display the error code. After that, the main control unit 41 controls the error state until it is specified that the condition for canceling the error state corresponding to the error code is satisfied. The error determination process may be executed after the Sa3 step (winning determination process), or may be executed both after the Sa1 step and after the Sa3 step.

The main control unit 41 executes the winning determination process in the step of Sa3. In the winning determination process, the main control unit 41 executes a process of determining whether or not a winning has occurred according to the display results derived on the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R. For example, by deriving the bonus symbol combination of BB1, the prize of BB1 is generated.

In the winning determination process, even if a stop failure as described with reference to FIGS. 4 to 6 occurs, the determination process is executed assuming that the winning symbol combination has been derived. For example, as described with reference to FIG. 4 (a3), when the stop control from which the "bell-bell-bell" is derived is performed, the "bell-bell-replay" is derived due to the occurrence of a stop failure. Even if this is the case, a bell prize will be awarded. Further, as described with reference to FIG. 4 (b3), when the stop control for deriving the "7-7-7" symbol is performed, the "7-7-replay" is derived due to the occurrence of a stop failure. Even if it is done, a prize of BB1 will occur.

The main control unit 41 executes data processing for role ratio monitoring in the step of Sa4. In the combination monitor data processing, the main control unit 41 first executes a process of updating the total number of payouts used for calculating the bonus ratio, the number of bonus payouts, and the bonus ratio. The total number of payouts, the number of bonus payouts, and the bonus ratio are stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 41c.

The total number of payouts is updated by adding the number of medals (number of payouts) given to the player by the winning prize generated this time to the current total number of payouts.

The number of payouts during the bonus is updated when the data during the bonus is set to ON. When the bonus data is set to ON, the bonus payout number is updated by adding the number of medals (payout number) given to the player by the winning prize generated this time.

Next, the main control unit 41 calculates the accessory ratio. The main control unit 41 uses the ratio of the number of bonus payouts given to the player in the game controlled to the bonus state of all the games to the total number of payouts given to the player in all the games as the bonus ratio. calculate.

The updated number of payouts, the number of bonus payouts, and the bonus ratio are stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 41c.

Here, the bonus data is data updated in the external output signal output process (Sa11) executed after the combination monitor data process (Sa4). Therefore, even if the player wins BB1 in this game, the bonus data is not updated from the OFF setting to the ON setting in the data processing for the role ratio monitor, so that the number of bonus payouts is not updated. Will be updated in the next game controlled by BB1.

Further, in this game, even if the end condition of BB1 is satisfied, the bonus data is not updated from the ON setting to the OFF setting in the combination monitor data processing, so that the number of bonus payouts is updated. Then, the number of payouts during the bonus will not be updated from the next game when BB1 actually ends.

Next, the main control unit 41 executes a process of updating the total number of games used for calculating the advantageous section ratio, the number of games in the advantageous section, and the advantageous section ratio. The total number of games, the number of games in the advantageous section, and the ratio of the advantageous section are stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 41c.

The total number of games is updated by adding one game to the current total number of games.

The number of games in the advantageous section is updated when the data in the advantageous section is set to ON. When the data in the advantageous section is set to ON, the number of games in the advantageous section is updated by adding one game.

Next, the main control unit 41 calculates the advantageous section ratio. The main control unit 41 calculates the ratio of the number of games in the advantageous section digested in the advantageous section of all the games to the total number of games digested in all the games as the advantageous section ratio.

The updated total number of games, the number of games in the advantageous section, and the advantageous section ratio are stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 41c.

Here, the data in the advantageous section is the data updated in the advantageous section lamp processing (Sa12) executed after the data processing for the combination monitor (Sa4). Therefore, in this game, even if the start condition of the advantageous section is satisfied, the number of games in the advantageous section is updated because the data in the advantageous section is not updated from the OFF setting to the ON setting in the data processing for the combination monitor. It will be updated in the next game that is actually controlled in the advantageous section without being done.

Further, in this game, even if the end condition of the advantageous section is satisfied, the number of games in the advantageous section is updated because the data in the advantageous section is not updated from the ON setting to the OFF setting in the data processing for the role ratio monitor. Will be done. Then, the number of games in the advantageous section will not be updated from the next game in which the advantageous section actually ends.

The main control unit 41 causes the gaming machine information display 50 to display the calculated accessory ratio and advantageous section ratio. The process of displaying on the gaming machine information display 50 may be executed, for example, in the timer interrupt process (main). The timer interrupt process (main) is a process executed by the main control unit 41 at regular time intervals (for example, 2 milliseconds).

In this way, the process of updating the total number of payouts and the number of bonus payouts used to calculate the bonus ratio and the process of updating the total number of games and the number of games in the advantageous section used to calculate the advantageous section ratio are both role ratio monitors. Executed in data processing.

The main control unit 41 executes the bonus end check process in the step of Sa5. In the bonus end check process, the main control unit 41 executes the bonus end condition determination process among the processes related to the bonus executed in the game state setting process (Sa8).

In the determination process of the bonus end condition, the main control unit 41 is in a state of being controlled by any of the bonuses of RB, BB1 and BB2, and when the bonus end condition of the bonus is satisfied, the bonus ends. Set the bonus flag to OFF. For example, the main control unit 41 sets the BB1 flag if the end condition of BB1 (316 or more medals have been paid out) is satisfied in the state of being controlled by BB1 (BB1 flag is set to ON). Set to OFF.

The main control unit 41 executes RT-related processing in the step of Sa6. In the RT-related processing, the main control unit 41 determines whether or not the combination of RT transition symbols accompanied by the transition of the RT state to the reel is stopped, and if the combination of RT transition symbols is stopped, the RAM 41c The current RT state set in the predetermined area of is updated to the RT state corresponding to the combination of the RT transition symbols.

The main control unit 41 executes the advantageous section management process in the step of Sa7. In the advantageous section management process, the main control unit 41 executes a process related to the state transition related to the advantageous section. Specifically, the main control unit 41 executes an AT start condition / end condition determination process, an AT game number update process, and the like.

In the determination process of the AT start condition, the main control unit 41 determines that the start condition of the advantageous section is satisfied when the control to the AT is determined by winning the advantageous section transition combination, and the advantageous section flag. Is set to ON. Further, in the AT end condition determination process, the main control unit 41 determines that the end condition of the advantageous section is satisfied when the number of AT games becomes 0, and sets the advantageous section flag to OFF.

The start condition and end condition of the advantageous section may be established based on the derived symbol combination (winning of a predetermined combination). In such a case, even if the stop failure as described with reference to FIGS. 4 to 6 occurs and the symbol combination that satisfies the start condition of the advantageous section is not derived, it is assumed that the start condition of the advantageous section is satisfied. , The advantageous section flag may be set to ON. Further, even if a stop failure as described with reference to FIGS. 4 to 6 occurs and a symbol combination for which the end condition of the advantageous section is satisfied is not derived, it is assumed that the end condition of the advantageous section is satisfied and the advantageous section is satisfied. The flag may be set to OFF.

The main control unit 41 executes the game state setting process in the step of Sa8. In the game state setting process, the main control unit 41 executes a process other than the bonus end condition determination process executed in the bonus end check process (Sa5). Specifically, the main control unit 41 executes a determination process of a bonus start condition, an update process of various data such as a bonus middle flag, the number of payouts during the bonus, and the number of games.

In the determination process of the bonus start condition, the main control unit 41 is in a state where it is not controlled by any of the bonuses of RB, BB1 and BB2, and when the start condition of any of the bonuses is satisfied, the start condition is satisfied. Set the bonus flag of the bonus that is established to ON. For example, the main control unit 41 sets the BB1 flag ON if the start condition of BB1 (BB1 winning) is satisfied in a state where the bonus is not controlled (all bonus flags are set to OFF). As described above, even if a stop failure as described with reference to FIGS. 4 to 6 occurs, the BB1 flag is set to ON assuming that a BB1 prize has occurred.

The main control unit 41 executes the medal payout process in the step of Sa9. In the medal payout process, the main control unit 41 grants a predetermined number of medals predetermined for each winning combination to the player according to the generated winnings, and adds the number of medals to be given to the credits. When the number of credits reaches the upper limit (50 in this embodiment), the hopper motor is driven to pay out the medals not added to the credits from the medal payout exit.

Further, the main control unit 41 generates a medal OUT signal in the medal payout process. The medal OUT signal is a signal in which the number of medals given to the player can be specified in the test device for testing the slot machine 1. The generated medal OUT signal is externally output as a test signal. As described above, even if a stop failure as described with reference to FIGS. 4 to 6 occurs, the payout process is executed assuming that a prize (for example, a bell prize) has occurred.

The main control unit 41 executes a notification effect command transmission process in the step of Sa10. In the notification effect command transmission process, the main control unit 41 transmits a notification effect command in order to notify the information that can specify the control to the bonus state or the information that can specify the control to the advantageous section. The sub-control unit 91 executes the notification effect by receiving the notification effect command. For example, using the liquid crystal display 51, a notification effect for notifying the start / end of the bonus and a notification effect for notifying the start / end of the AT are executed.

The main control unit 41 executes the external output signal output process in the step of Sa11. In the external output signal output process, the main control unit 41 first executes a process of setting bonus data. When the bonus flag is set to OFF in the bonus end check process (Sa5), the main control unit 41 sets the bonus data to OFF. Further, when the bonus flag is set to ON in the game state setting process (Sa8), the main control unit 41 sets the bonus data to ON.

Then, the main control unit 41 executes a process of generating a test signal transmitted to the test device for testing the slot machine 1 based on the bonus data. For example, the main control unit 41 generates a bonus signal for specifying control to the bonus state. The main control unit 41 turns the bonus signal in the ON state when the bonus data is set to ON, and turns the bonus signal in the OFF state when the bonus data is set to OFF.

For example, when the BB1 flag is set to ON, the main control unit 41 sets the bonus data to ON. The main control unit 41 turns on the bonus signal based on the bonus data. The main control unit 41 externally outputs the bonus signal as a test signal. As described above, the bonus data is data prepared for turning the bonus signal externally output as a test signal into an ON state or an OFF state. For example, in the timer interrupt process (main), the bonus signal may be turned ON or OFF based on the bonus data and output externally.

As described above, even if a stop failure as described with reference to FIGS. 4 to 6 occurs, the BB1 flag is set to ON assuming that a BB1 prize has occurred. As a result, the bonus data is set to ON, and the bonus signal is turned ON. Further, in the combination ratio monitor data processing, the bonus mid-payout number is updated by setting the bonus mid-data to ON. In this way, even if the BB1 winning symbol combination that should be originally derived is not derived, the specific process is executed assuming that the BB1 winning symbol combination is derived.

The main control unit 41 executes the advantageous section ramp processing in the step of Sa12. In the advantageous section lamp processing, first, the main control unit 41 executes a process of setting data in the advantageous section. In the advantageous section management process (Sa7), the main control unit 41 sets the advantageous section flag to OFF when the advantageous section flag is set to OFF, and sets the advantageous section flag to ON when the advantageous section flag is set to ON. Is set to ON.

Then, the main control unit 41 executes a process of setting advantageous section data based on the advantageous section data. The main control unit 41 turns on the advantageous section lamp 19 when the advantageous section data is set to ON (ON state), and turns off the advantageous section lamp 19 when the advantageous section data is set to OFF (OFF state). State). As described above, the advantageous section data is data prepared for turning on or off the advantageous section lamp 19. For example, in the timer interrupt process (main), the advantageous section lamp 19 may be turned on or off based on the advantageous section data.

As described above, when the start condition of the advantageous section is established based on the derived symbol combination, even if the stop failure as described in FIGS. 4 to 6 occurs, the symbol combination is derived. As a matter of fact, the advantageous section flag is set to ON. As a result, the data in the advantageous section is set to ON, and the advantageous section lamp 19 is turned on (ON state). Further, in the combination monitor data processing, the number of games in the advantageous section is updated by setting the data in the advantageous section to ON. In this way, even if the symbol combination that should be originally derived is not derived, the specific process is executed assuming that the symbol combination is derived.

The processing of Sa5 to Sa8 needs to be executed before the processing of the medal payout processing (Sa9), the external output signal output processing (Sa11), and the advantageous section lamp processing (Sa12). It may be executed after or before the data processing for the role ratio monitor (Sa4). The bonus flag and advantageous section flag set in Sa5 to Sa8 are used in external output signal output processing, etc., but are not used in the combination monitor data processing, and the processing order with the combination monitor data processing does not matter. Because there isn't. Further, the notification effect command transmission process (Sa10) may be executed at any timing as long as the bonus flag and the advantageous section flag are set in Sa5 to Sa8.

After the third stop process is completed, the process returns to the main process. When a process of transmitting a game end command to the sub-control unit 91 is executed, the process related to the control of one unit of the game is completed, and the main process is repeatedly executed for each unit of the game.

Hereinafter, specific processing flows will be described with reference to FIGS. 11 to 14 at the start / end of the bonus and at the start / end of the advantageous section.

[Process to be executed at the start of bonus]
FIG. 11 is a timing chart for explaining the process executed at the start of the bonus. In the timing chart of FIG. 11, the horizontal axis indicates the timing t. From the top, the vertical axis shows reel rotation, error determination processing (Sa2), winning determination processing (Sa3), combination ratio monitoring data processing (Sa4), medal payout processing (Sa9), and notification effect command transmission processing (Sa10). , Bonus data, external output signal processing (Sa11), advantageous section data, and advantageous section ramp processing (Sa12) ON / OFF. Hereinafter, a game in which the start condition of BB1 is satisfied during the non-bonus will be described.

At the time of t1, since it is not controlled by any of the bonuses, the data during the bonus is set to OFF. Moreover, since it is in the non-bonus, the data in the advantageous section is set to OFF. At t1, when the start operation is performed by the start switch 7, the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R start rotating. At this time, it is assumed that BB1 is won by an internal lottery.

When the third stop operation of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R is performed and the bonus symbol combination of BB1 is derived, the error determination process is executed at t2. In the example of FIG. 11, it is assumed that an error such as a medal insertion error has not occurred.

At t3, the winning determination process is executed. Since the bonus symbol combination of BB1 is derived, it is determined that BB1 has won a prize.

At t4, the data processing for the combination monitor is executed. For example, currently, the total number of payouts is "500", the number of bonus payouts is "300", the bonus ratio is "60%", the total number of games is "1000 games", and the number of games in the advantageous section is "700 games". , The advantageous section ratio is "70%".

Since no payout is generated due to the BB1 winning, the total number of payouts remains "500" (the process of adding "0" to "500" is executed). Since the bonus data is set to OFF, the process of adding the number of bonus payouts is not executed. The accessory ratio is calculated as "60%" (= 300 sheets / 500 sheets).

The total number of games is updated to "1001 games" by adding "1 game" to "1000 games". Since the data in the advantageous section is set to OFF, the addition process of the number of payouts in the advantageous section is not executed. The advantageous section ratio is calculated as "70%" (= 700 games / 1001 games).

In this way, in the case where the bonus symbol combination is controlled based on the derivation of the bonus symbol combination in the non-bonus state, after the bonus symbol combination is derived in t2, the data processing for the role ratio monitor is executed in t4. In the meantime, the error determination processing of t2 to t3 is executed.

Although not shown in FIG. 11, in the game state setting process (Sa8), the BB1 flag is set to ON by the BB1 winning.

At t5, the medal payout process is executed. Since there is no medal payout due to BB1 winning, no medal payout will be made.

In this way, when the bonus symbol combination is controlled based on the derivation of the bonus symbol combination in the non-bonus state, from the derivation of the bonus symbol combination in t2 to the execution of the medal payout process in t5. In the meantime, the data processing for the combination monitor of t4 to t5 is executed.

At t6, the notification effect command transmission process is executed. The main control unit 41 transmits a notification effect command capable of specifying control to the BB1. The sub-control unit 91 executes a notification effect for notifying the start of BB1 on the liquid crystal display 51 based on the notification effect command.

At t7, the external output signal output process is executed. In the external output signal output process, first, the process of setting the bonus data is executed. Since the BB1 flag is set to ON, the data during the bonus is set to ON. Further, since the bonus data is set to ON, the bonus signal changes from the OFF state to the ON state.

As described above, in the case where the bonus symbol combination is controlled based on the fact that the bonus symbol combination is derived in the non-bonus state, the bonus symbol combination is derived in t2, and then the bonus data is set in t7. In the meantime, the data processing for the combination monitor of t4 to t5 is executed. Further, after the medal payout processing of t5 to t6 is executed, the bonus intermediate signal is generated in the external output signal output processing in t7. Further, before the bonus data is set in t7, the notification effect command transmission processing of t6 to t7 is executed.

Further, the bonus data is data set in the external output signal output process in order to generate the bonus signal transmitted to the test apparatus. The bonus data (bonus signal) is data used for the slot machine test, and is data commonly used even if the slot machine models are different (model-independent data). Therefore, by executing the data processing for the role ratio monitor using the data used in the test, the data processing program for the role ratio monitor can be made into a common program that does not depend on the model. In this embodiment, three types of bonuses, BB1, BB2, and RB, are prepared, but since these bonuses differ depending on the model, the bonus flag of such a bonus is used for the role ratio monitor. Not suitable for data processing.

[Process to be executed at the end of the bonus]
FIG. 12 is a timing chart for explaining the processing executed at the end of the bonus. Hereinafter, a game in which the end condition of BB1 is satisfied during BB1 will be described.

At the time of t1, since it is controlled by BB1, the bonus data is set to ON. Moreover, since it is in the non-bonus, the data in the advantageous section is set to OFF. At t1, when the start operation is performed by the start switch 7, the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R start rotating. At this time, it is assumed that the bell of the eight-card role is won by the internal lottery.

When the third stop operation of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R is performed, if the symbol combination in which the bell prize is generated is derived, the error determination process is executed at t2. In the example of FIG. 12, it is assumed that an error such as a medal insertion error has not occurred.

At t3, it is determined that the bell has been won in the prize determination process. In addition, it is assumed that the end condition of BB1 is satisfied by paying out by winning a bell.

At t4, the data processing for the combination monitor is executed. For example, currently, the total number of payouts is "500", the number of bonus payouts is "300", the bonus ratio is "60%", the total number of games is "1000 games", and the number of games in the advantageous section is "700 games". , The advantageous section ratio is "70%".

When 8 payouts are made due to the bell winning, the total payout number is updated to "508" by adding "8" to "500". Since the bonus data is set to ON, the number of bonus payouts is updated to "308" by adding "8" to "300". The accessory ratio is calculated as "61%" (= 308 sheets / 508 sheets).

The total number of games is updated to "1001 games" by adding "1 game" to "1000 games". Since the data in the advantageous section is set to OFF, the addition process of the number of payouts in the advantageous section is not executed. The advantageous section ratio is calculated as "70%" (= 700 games / 1001 games).

In this way, when the bonus state ends based on the derivation of the symbol combination that causes the bell winning in the bonus state, the combination monitor data processing is executed in t4 after the symbol combination is derived in t2. The error determination processing of t2 to t3 is executed until the data is processed.

Although not shown in FIG. 12, in the bonus end check process (Sa5), the BB1 flag is set to OFF when the end condition of BB1 is satisfied. As a result, all bonus flags are set to OFF.

At t5, the medal payout process is executed. The process of paying out eight medals by winning the bell is executed.

In this way, when the bonus state ends based on the derivation of the bell winning symbol combination in the bonus state, the period from the derivation of the symbol combination in t2 to the execution of the medal payout process in t5. In addition, the data processing for the combination monitor of t4 to t5 is executed.

At t6, the notification effect command transmission process is executed. The main control unit 41 transmits a notification effect command that can specify the end of BB1. The sub-control unit 91 executes a notification effect for notifying the end of BB1 on the liquid crystal display 51 based on the notification effect command.

At t7, the external output signal output process is executed. In the external output signal output process, first, the process of setting the bonus data is executed. Since all the bonus flags are set to OFF, the data during the bonus is set to OFF. Further, since the bonus data is set to OFF, the bonus signal changes from the ON state to the OFF state.

As described above, when the bonus state ends based on the derivation of the symbol combination that causes the bell winning in the bonus state, the bonus data is set in t7 after the symbol combination is derived in t2. In the meantime, the data processing for the combination monitor of t4 to t5 is executed. Further, after the medal payout processing of t5 to t6 is executed, the bonus intermediate signal is generated in the external output signal output processing of t7. Further, before the bonus data is set in t7, the notification effect command transmission processing of t6 to t7 is executed.

[Processing executed at the start of the advantageous section]
FIG. 13 is a timing chart for explaining the processing executed at the start of the advantageous section. Hereinafter, a game in which the start condition of the advantageous section is satisfied during the non-advantageous section will be described.

At the time of t1, since the non-bonus is in progress, the bonus data is set to OFF. Further, since it is in the non-advantageous section, the data in the advantageous section is set to OFF. At t1, when the start operation is performed by the start switch 7, the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R start rotating. At this time, it is assumed that the advantageous section transition combination (for example, cherry) is won by the internal lottery.

When the third stop operation of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R is performed and the symbol combination in which the cherry winning is generated is derived, the error determination process is executed at t2. In the example of FIG. 13, it is assumed that an error such as a medal insertion error has not occurred.

At t3, it is determined in the winning determination process that the cherry has been won.

At t4, the data processing for the combination monitor is executed. For example, currently, the total number of payouts is "500", the number of bonus payouts is "300", the bonus ratio is "60%", the total number of games is "1000 games", and the number of games in the advantageous section is "700 games". , The advantageous section ratio is "70%".

Assuming that one payout is generated due to the cherry winning, the total number of payouts is updated to "501" by adding "1" to "500". Since the bonus data is set to OFF, the process of adding the number of bonus payouts is not executed. The bonus ratio is calculated as "60%" (= 300 sheets / 501 sheets).

The total number of games is updated to "1001 games" by adding "1 game" to "1000 games". Since the data in the advantageous section is set to OFF, the addition process of the number of payouts in the advantageous section is not executed. The advantageous section ratio is calculated as "70%" (= 700 games / 1001 games).

In this way, when the symbol combination is controlled in the advantageous section based on the derivation of the symbol combination in the non-advantageous section, the combination monitoring data processing is executed in t4 after the symbol combination is derived in t2. In the meantime, the error determination processing of t2 to t3 is executed.

Although not shown in FIG. 13, in the advantageous section management process (Sa7), the advantageous section flag is set to ON by winning the advantageous section transition combination.

At t5, the medal payout determination process is executed. By winning the cherry, the process of paying out one medal is executed.

At t6, the notification effect command transmission process is executed. The main control unit 41 transmits a notification effect command that can specify control to an advantageous section. The sub-control unit 91 executes a notification effect for notifying the start of an advantageous section on the liquid crystal display 51 based on the notification effect command.

At t7, the advantageous section ramp process is executed. In the advantageous section lamp processing, first, a process of setting data in the advantageous section is executed. Since the advantageous section flag is set to ON, the data in the advantageous section is set to ON. Further, since the data in the advantageous section is set to ON, the advantageous section lamp 19 is turned on (ON state).

As described above, in the case where the symbol combination is controlled in the advantageous section based on the derivation of the symbol combination in the non-advantageous section, the data in the advantageous section is set in t7 after the symbol combination is derived in t2. In the meantime, the data processing for the combination monitor of t4 to t5 is executed. Further, before the data in the advantageous section is set in t7, the notification effect command transmission processing of t6 to t7 is executed.

Further, the data in the advantageous section is used for processing the advantageous section lamp 19 for notifying the player that the section is advantageous. Therefore, by using the data as common data, it is possible to determine the transition of the advantageous section according to the situation actually notified to the player in the data processing for the role ratio monitor.

[Processing executed at the end of the advantageous section]
FIG. 14 is a timing chart for explaining the processing executed at the end of the advantageous section. Hereinafter, a game in which the end condition of the advantageous section is satisfied during the advantageous section will be described.

At the time of t1, since the non-bonus is in progress, the bonus data is set to OFF. Further, since it is in the advantageous section, the data in the advantageous section is set to ON. At t1, when the start operation is performed by the start switch 7, the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R start rotating.

At t2, when the third stop operation of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R is performed and the symbol is derived, the error determination process is executed. In the example of FIG. 14, it is assumed that an error such as a medal insertion error has not occurred.

It is assumed that in t3, it is determined by the winning determination process that no winning has occurred. However, it is assumed that the number of AT games becomes 0 and the end condition of the advantageous section is satisfied.

At t4, the data processing for the combination monitor is executed. For example, currently, the total number of payouts is "500", the number of bonus payouts is "300", the bonus ratio is "60%", the total number of games is "1000 games", and the number of games in the advantageous section is "700 games". , The advantageous section ratio is "70%".

Since no payout occurs, the total number of payouts remains "500" (the process of adding "0" to "500" is executed). Since the bonus data is set to OFF, the process of adding the number of bonus payouts is not executed. The accessory ratio is calculated as "60%" (= 300 sheets / 500 sheets).

The total number of games is updated to "1001 games" by adding "1 game" to "1000 games". Since the data in the advantageous section is set to ON, the number of payouts in the advantageous section is updated to "701 games" by adding "1 game" to "700 games". The advantageous section ratio is calculated as "70%" (= 701 games / 1001 games).

In this way, when the advantageous section ends based on the derivation of the symbol combination in the advantageous section, from the derivation of the symbol combination in t2 to the execution of the combination monitoring data processing in t4. In the meantime, the error determination processing of t2 to t3 is executed.

Although not shown in FIG. 14, in the advantageous section management process (Sa7), the advantageous section flag is set to OFF when the advantageous section end condition is satisfied.

At t5, the medal payout determination process is executed. No medals will be paid out because no prizes have been awarded.

At t6, the notification effect command transmission process is executed. The main control unit 41 transmits a notification effect command that can specify control to an advantageous section. The sub-control unit 91 executes a notification effect for notifying the end of the advantageous section on the liquid crystal display 51 based on the notification effect command.

At t7, the advantageous section ramp process is executed. In the advantageous section lamp processing, first, a process of setting data in the advantageous section is executed. Since the advantageous section flag is set to OFF, the data in the advantageous section is set to OFF. Further, since the data in the advantageous section is set to OFF, the advantageous section lamp 19 is turned off (OFF state).

As described above, when the advantageous section ends based on the fact that the symbol combination is derived in the advantageous section, from the time when the symbol combination is derived in t2 until the data in the advantageous section is set in t7. In the meantime, the data processing for the combination monitor of t4 to t5 is executed. Further, before the data in the advantageous section is set in t7, the notification effect command transmission processing of t6 to t7 is executed.

[Main effect]
Next, the main effects obtained by the above-described embodiment will be described.

(1-1) As shown in FIG. 4 (a2), in the game in which the bell is won, the symbol 2 (bell symbol) is slipped by 3 frames (rotated by 3 frames) on the right reel 2R and stopped at the timing when it can be pulled in. The bell symbol (winning symbol) can be derived when the switch 8R is operated. Further, as shown in FIGS. 4 (a1) and 4 (a2), while the reel is rotated three frames (from the time when the above operation is performed until the symbol 2 (bell symbol) is derived), the right reel 2R is used. The provided notch passes through the reel sensor 33R (to be detected). Further, as shown in FIG. 4A3, when the above operation is performed, the reel reference position is not detected while the stop control for stopping the rotation of the right reel 2R is being performed. However, the specific processing (medal payout processing, etc.) is executed assuming that the bell symbol is derived. As described above, in the game in which the bell is won, the reel reference position that should be originally detected is not detected due to the occurrence of a stop failure while the stop control is being performed, and as a result, the bell symbol that should be originally derived is obtained. Even if a physical problem such as not being derived occurs, the specific process (medal payout process, etc.) is executed assuming that the bell symbol is derived. In this way, even if an unexpected event occurs in connection with the derivation of the winning symbol, it can be appropriately dealt with.

(1-2) As shown in FIG. 5 (a2), in the game in which the bell is won, the symbol 19 (bell symbol) is stopped at the timing at which the symbol 19 (bell symbol) can be pulled in by sliding one frame (rotating one frame) on the right reel 2R. The bell symbol (winning symbol) can be derived when the switch 8R is operated. Further, as shown in FIGS. 5 (a1) and 5 (a2), while the reel is rotated one frame (from the time when the above operation is performed until the symbol 19 (bell symbol) is derived), the right reel 2R is used. The provided notch does not pass through the reel sensor 33R (detection is not planned). Further, as shown in FIG. 5A3, even when the reel reference position is detected while the stop control for stopping the rotation of the right reel 2R is being performed in the case where the above operation is performed. , Specific processing (medal payout processing, etc.) is executed assuming that the bell symbol is derived. As described above, in the game in which the bell is won, the reel reference position that is not originally detected due to the occurrence of a stop failure is detected while the stop control is being performed, and as a result, the bell that should be originally derived is detected. Even if a physical problem such as the symbol not being derived occurs, the specific process (medal payout process, etc.) is executed assuming that the bell symbol is derived. In this way, even if an unexpected event occurs in connection with the derivation of the winning symbol, it can be appropriately dealt with.

(1-3) As shown in FIGS. 6 (a), 6 (d) to (f), in the game in which the bell is won, after the bell symbol is derived to the left reel 2L, it is transferred to the middle reel 2C or the right reel 2R. Even if the notch provided in the left reel 2L passes through the reel sensor 33L (reel reference position is detected) until the bell symbol is derived, after the symbol combination is derived, the bell is used. Specific processing (medal payout processing, etc.) is executed assuming that the winning symbol combination is derived. As described above, in the game in which the bell is won, after the bell symbol is derived to the left reel 2L, a stop failure occurs in the reel and a reel reference position that is not originally detected is detected, and as a result, the reel reference position is originally detected. Even if a physical problem occurs such that the bell winning symbol combination to be derived is not derived, the specific processing (medal payout processing, etc.) is executed assuming that the bell winning symbol combination is derived. In this way, even if an unexpected event occurs in connection with the derivation of the winning symbol combination, it is possible to appropriately deal with it.

(1-4) As shown in FIGS. 7 (b1) and 7 (b2), when the stop switch 8R is operated at a timing in which the bell symbol can be pulled in the right reel 2R in the previous game in which the bell was won. Even if a stop failure occurs on the right reel 2R and the bell symbol is not derived while the stop control is being performed (from the operation being performed until the bell winning symbol combination is derived). In this game, rotation start control for starting the rotation of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R is executed based on the bell symbol (bell winning symbol combination) (FIG. 7 (b2)). In this way, even if a physical problem occurs such that the bell symbol that should be originally derived in the previous game is not derived, the reels 2L, 2C, based on the bell symbol (bell winning symbol combination) in this game, Since the rotation of 2R is started and the rotation start control is executed, the rotation start control process is not complicated.

(1-5) As shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, after the rotation of the reels 2L, 2C and 2R has started, before the stop switch 8R for stopping the rotation of the right reel 2R is operated. , When the notch provided on the right reel 2R does not pass through the reel sensor 33R (when the value of the step number counter is 400 steps or more and it is determined that a rotation abnormality has occurred), the stop switch. Stopping the rotation of the right reel 2R by the operation of 8R is prohibited. In this way, when the reel 2R should be rotating and the reel reference position is not detected due to a rotation abnormality or the like, the operation of the stop switch 8R is invalidated, so that the reel 2R is rotated. It is possible to prevent the symbol from being derived in a situation where the rotation is not normal.

(1-6) As shown in FIGS. 9A to 9D, stop control is performed when the stop switch 8R is operated at a timing when the bell symbol can be pulled in the right reel 2R in the game in which the bell is won. While the game is being performed (from the time the operation is performed until the bell symbol is derived), the error state that interrupts the progress of the game is not controlled, so that the unintended symbol is derived due to the interruption of the progress of the game. It is possible to prevent it from being done.

(2-1) As shown in FIG. 11, when the bonus symbol combination is controlled in the bonus state based on the derivation of the bonus symbol combination in the non-bonus state, after the bonus symbol combination is derived in t2, the outside of t7. Until the bonus data is set to ON in the output signal processing, t4 to t5 combination monitor data processing (update processing of the total number of payouts used to calculate the bonus ratio and the number of bonus payouts) is executed. , The bonus ratio is displayed on the game machine information display 50. By doing so, it is possible to prevent the number of medals paid out in the non-bonus state from being treated as the number of medals paid out in the bonus state. Furthermore, when diverting the bonus data used in other processing such as external output signal output processing as the data for determining whether or not it is in the bonus state, separate data is prepared for the data processing for the role ratio monitor. There is no need to do this, and the program capacity and storage capacity for the processing do not become excessive. In this way, it is possible to confirm that the slot machine is as designed by displaying the bonus ratio on the gaming machine information display 50, and the processing necessary for confirmation (total number of payouts and number of payouts during bonus). The update process) can be suitably processed.

(2-2) As shown in FIG. 11, when the bonus symbol combination is controlled in the bonus state based on the derivation of the bonus symbol combination in the non-bonus state, the medal in t5 after the bonus symbol combination is derived in t2. Before the payout process is executed, the combination monitor data processing of t4 to t5 is executed. By doing so, the data that can specify the number of medals to be paid out to the player used in the data processing for the combination ratio monitor can be diverted to the medal payout processing, so that the data can be used for the medal payout processing. There is no need to prepare separately.

(2-3) As shown in FIG. 11, when the bonus symbol combination is controlled in the bonus state based on the derivation of the bonus symbol combination in the non-bonus state, the bonus symbol combination is derived in t2 and then the combination is performed in t4. The error determination processing of t2 to t3 is executed until the ratio monitoring data processing is executed. By doing so, it is possible to prevent the data processing for the role ratio monitor from being executed in the situation where an abnormality has occurred.

(2-4) As shown in FIG. 11, before the bonus data is set to ON in t7, the notification effect command transmission process of t6 to t7 for notifying the transition to the bonus state is executed. By doing so, it is possible to promptly notify the transition to the bonus state.

(2-5) As shown in FIG. 10, the process of turning on the bonus data is executed in the external output signal output process (Sa11). By doing so, the bonus data used in the external output signal output processing can also be used for the role ratio monitor data processing, so that the program capacity and storage capacity for the role ratio monitor data processing become excessive. It doesn't become.

(2-6) The process of generating the medal OUT signal for the test device is executed in the medal payout process, and as shown in FIG. 11, after the medal payout process of t5 to t6 is executed, a bonus is executed in the external output signal output process in t7. A medium signal is generated. In this way, by signaling during the bonus after generating the medal OUT signal, it is possible to prevent the test device from treating the number of medals paid out in the non-bonus state as the number of medals paid out in the bonus state. can do.

(3-1) As shown in FIG. 12, when the bonus state ends based on the fact that the symbol combination is derived in the bonus state, after the symbol combination is derived in t2, in the external output signal processing of t7. Until the bonus data is set to OFF, t4 to t5 combination monitor data processing (update processing of the total number of payouts used to calculate the bonus ratio and the number of bonus payouts) is executed, and the game machine information. The accessory ratio is displayed on the display 50. By doing so, it is possible to prevent the number of medals paid out in the bonus state from being treated as the number of medals paid out in the non-bonus state. Furthermore, when diverting the bonus data used in other processing such as external output signal output processing as the data for determining whether or not it is in the bonus state, separate data is prepared for the data processing for the role ratio monitor. There is no need to do this, and the program capacity and storage capacity for the processing do not become excessive. In this way, it is possible to confirm that the slot machine is as designed by displaying the bonus ratio on the gaming machine information display 50, and the processing necessary for confirmation (total number of payouts and number of payouts during bonus). The update process) can be suitably processed.

(3-2) As shown in FIG. 12, when the bonus state ends based on the fact that the symbol combination is derived in the bonus state, the medal payout process is executed at t5 after the symbol combination is derived at t2. In the meantime, the data processing for the combination monitor of t4 to t5 is executed. By doing so, the data that can specify the number of medals to be paid out to the player used in the data processing for the combination ratio monitor can be diverted to the medal payout processing, so that the data can be used for the medal payout processing. There is no need to prepare separately.

(3-3) As shown in FIG. 12, when the bonus state ends based on the fact that the symbol combination is derived in the bonus state, after the symbol combination is derived in t2, the role ratio monitoring data is obtained in t4. Before the processing is executed, the error determination processing of t2 to t3 is executed. By doing so, it is possible to prevent the data processing for the role ratio monitor from being executed in the situation where an abnormality has occurred.

(3-4) As shown in FIG. 12, before the bonus data is set to OFF in t7, the notification effect command transmission process of t6 to t7 for notifying the end of the bonus state is executed). By doing so, it is possible to promptly notify the end of the bonus state.

(3-5) The process of generating the medal OUT signal for the test device is executed in the medal payout process, and as shown in FIG. 12, after the medal payout process of t5 to t6 is executed, a bonus is executed in the external output signal output process in t7. A medium signal is generated. In this way, by signaling during the bonus after generating the medal OUT signal, it is possible to prevent the test device from treating the number of medals paid out in the bonus state as the number of medals paid out in the non-bonus state. can do.

(4-1) As shown in FIG. 13, when the symbol combination is controlled to the advantageous section based on the derivation of the symbol combination in the non-advantageous section, after the symbol combination is derived in t2, the advantageous section of t7 Data processing for role ratio monitoring of t4 to t5 (update processing of the total number of games used to calculate the advantageous section ratio and the number of games in the advantageous section) is executed until the data in the advantageous section is set to ON in the ramp processing. Then, the advantageous section ratio is displayed on the game machine information display 50. By doing so, it is possible to prevent the number of games executed in the non-advantageous section from being treated as the number of games executed in the advantageous section. Further, when the data in the advantageous section used in other processing such as the advantageous section ramp processing is diverted as the data for determining whether or not the data is in the advantageous section, it is separately used for the data processing for the role ratio monitor. There is no need to prepare data, and the program capacity and storage capacity for the processing do not become excessive. In this way, it is possible to confirm that the slot machine is as designed by displaying the advantageous section ratio on the gaming machine information display 50, and the processing required for confirmation (total number of games and number of games in the advantageous section). The update process) can be suitably processed.

(4-2) As shown in FIG. 10, the total number of payouts used to calculate the bonus ratio and the number of bonus payouts are updated, and the total number of games used to calculate the advantageous section ratio and the number of games in the advantageous section are updated. All the processes are executed in the data processing for role ratio monitoring (Sa4). By doing so, the opportunity to update the data used for calculating the winning combination ratio and the advantageous section ratio displayed on the winning combination monitor is not dispersed.

(4-3) As shown in FIG. 13, when the symbol combination is controlled in the advantageous section based on the derivation of the symbol combination in the non-advantageous section, the symbol combination is derived in t2 and then the combination is used in t4. The error determination processing of t2 to t3 is executed until the ratio monitoring data processing is executed. By doing so, it is possible to prevent the data processing for the role ratio monitor from being executed in the situation where an abnormality has occurred.

(4-4) As shown in FIG. 13, before the data in the advantageous section is set to ON in t7, the command transmission process for notification effect of t6 to t7 for notifying the transition to the advantageous section is executed. .. By doing so, it is possible to promptly notify the transition to the advantageous section.

(4-5) As shown in FIG. 10, the advantageous section lamp 19 is turned on or off according to the data in the advantageous section. As described above, since the data in the advantageous section used in the advantageous section lamp processing can also be used in the data processing for the role ratio monitor, the program capacity and the storage capacity for the data processing for the role ratio monitor do not become excessive.

(5-1) As shown in FIG. 14, when the advantageous section ends based on the fact that the symbol combination is derived in the advantageous section, after the symbol combination is derived in t2, the data in the advantageous section is derived in t7. Data processing for role ratio monitoring from t4 to t5 (update processing of the total number of games used to calculate the advantageous section ratio and the number of games in the advantageous section) is executed until is set to OFF, and the game machine information display is displayed. The advantageous section ratio is displayed at 50. By doing so, it is possible to prevent the number of games executed in the advantageous section from being treated as the number of games executed in the non-advantageous section. Further, when the data in the advantageous section used in other processing such as the advantageous section ramp processing is diverted as the data for determining whether or not the data is in the advantageous section, it is separately used for the data processing for the role ratio monitor. There is no need to prepare data, and the program capacity and storage capacity for the processing do not become excessive. In this way, it is possible to confirm that the slot machine is as designed by displaying the advantageous section ratio on the gaming machine information display 50, and the processing required for confirmation (total number of games and number of games in the advantageous section). The update process) can be suitably processed.

(5-2) As shown in FIG. 14, when the advantageous section ends based on the fact that the symbol combination is derived in the advantageous section, after the symbol combination is derived in t2, it is used for the role ratio monitor in t4. Before the data processing is executed, the error determination processing of t2 to t3 is executed. By doing so, it is possible to prevent the data processing for the role ratio monitor from being executed in the situation where an abnormality has occurred.

(5-3) As shown in FIG. 14, before the data in the advantageous section is set to OFF in t7, the notification effect command transmission process of t6 to t7 for notifying the end of the advantageous section is executed. By doing so, it is possible to promptly notify the end of the advantageous section.

[Modification example]
The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications and applications are possible. Hereinafter, a modified example of the above embodiment applicable to the present invention will be described.

[About detection of reference position]
In the present embodiment, the position of the notch provided on each reel becomes the reel reference position, and when the notch provided on each reel passes through each reel sensor, the reel reference position of the reel is detected. I made it like this. However, the present invention is not limited to the notch, and a protrusion installed on the reel may be used to detect the reel reference position by passing through the reel sensor. In this case, the protrusion installed on the reel may be installed at any position on the reel. Further, for example, it may be installed in a motor to detect a reel reference position. Further, the reel reference position is not limited to the one that detects once every one turn of the reel, and may detect a plurality of reference positions every one turn of the reel.

[Rotation start control after stop failure occurs]
In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, the rotation start control has been described by taking as an example the time when a stop failure occurs in FIG. 4 (a3), but the present invention is not limited to this, and FIG. 4 described above is not limited to this. It may be applied to (b3), FIG. 5 (a3), and (b3) when a stop failure occurs.

In the example shown in FIG. 4 (b3), symbol 0 (replay symbol) is stopped in the right reel 2R, but rotation of the right reel 2R is started assuming that symbol 3 (7 symbols) is stopped. The rotation start control is executed. In the example shown in FIG. 5 (a3), the symbol 3 (7 symbols) is stopped in the right reel 2R, but the rotation of the right reel 2R is started assuming that the symbol 19 (bell symbol) is stopped. Rotation start control is executed. In the example shown in FIG. 5 (b3), it is assumed that the symbol 2 (bell symbol) is stopped in the right reel 2R, but the symbol 18 (7 symbols) is stopped, and the rotation of the right reel 2R is started. The rotation start control is executed.

Further, not limited to the above example, when a symbol combination different from the symbol combination determined to be derived by stop control in the previous game stops, in this game, the reel is based on the determined symbol combination. The rotation start control for starting the rotation of 2L, 2C, and 2R may be executed. The reel in which the stop failure occurs is not limited to the right reel 2R, but may be the left reel 2L or the middle reel 2C, or may be a combination thereof.

[When an error is detected while the reel is rotating]
In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9, in the game in which the bell is won, while the stop control is performed on the right reel 2R (from the third stop operation to the derivation of the bell symbol). When an error is detected during the period), the error state is no longer controlled during that period. However, it may be applied not only to the right reel 2R but also to the left reel 2L and the middle reel 2C.

Further, it may be applied not only to the third stop operation but also to the first stop operation and the second stop operation. For example, even if an error occurs in the period from the first stop operation to the derivation of the bell symbol when the bell is won, the error state is not controlled in that period and the bell symbol is derived. Sometimes controlled by an error state. In this case, the second stop operation becomes effective after the error state is cleared. Further, even if an error occurs in the period from the second stop operation to the derivation of the bell symbol, the error state is not controlled in the period, and the error state occurs when the bell symbol is derived. Is controlled by. In this case, the third stop operation becomes effective after the error state is cleared.

Further, the application is not limited to the game in which the bell is won, but may be applied to the game in which any combination is won. Further, the case is not limited to the case where the symbols constituting the winning symbol combination are pulled in, and the error state may not be controlled during the period from the simple stop operation to the derivation of the symbols.

In the above-described embodiment, a plurality of reels capable of variablely displaying a plurality of types of symbols, each of which can be identified, are provided, and after the reels are variablely displayed, the display result is derived by stopping the variable display of the reels, and a plurality of reels are derived. We have described a slot machine that can generate prizes according to the combination of reel display results. That is, a plurality of variable display units capable of variablely displaying a plurality of types of identification information, each of which can be identified, are provided, and after the variable display unit is variablely displayed, the variable display of the variable display unit is stopped to derive a display result. Then, a slot machine in which a prize can be generated according to a combination of display results of a plurality of variable display units has been described. However, a variable display unit capable of variablely displaying a plurality of types of identification information that can be identified by each is provided, and after the variable display unit is variablely displayed, the variable display of the variable display unit is stopped to derive a display result. A slot machine capable of generating a prize according to the display result is not limited to a slot machine having three reels, but a slot machine having only one reel or a slot machine having a plurality of reels other than three. May be good.

It should be considered that the embodiments disclosed this time are exemplary in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is shown by the scope of claims rather than the above description, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the scope of claims.

1 slot machine, 2L, 2C, 2R reel, 3 see-through window, 7 start switch, 8L, 8C, 8R stop switch, 19 advantageous section lamp, 32 reel motor, 33 reel sensor, 41 main control unit, 41a main CPU, 41c RAM, 50 game machine information display, 51 liquid crystal display, 53 speaker, 91 sub control unit, 91a sub CPU, 91c RAM.

Claims (1)

It is equipped with a variable display unit that can be variablely displayed by moving the display band in which multiple types of identification information that can be identified by each are arranged.
In a slot machine in which a display result is derived by stopping the variable display of the variable display unit after variable display of the variable display unit and a prize can be generated according to the display result.
Switching between excitation states in which at least one of the plurality of excitation phases is excited, including a rotor incorporating a permanent magnet and a plurality of excitation phases arranged so as to surround the rotor, according to a predetermined procedure. With a stepping motor that moves the display band with
A detected portion that passes through the detected portion in response to the movement of the display band,
A specific means for identifying that the display band is normally moving based on the passage status of the detected portion, and
A movement start control means for performing a movement start control for causing the stepping motor to start the movement of the display band, and a movement start control means.
A derivation control means that controls the stepping motor to derive a display result by performing a movement stop control for stopping the movement of the display band.
It is equipped with a processing means that executes processing according to the display result.
The derivation control means performs the movement stop control after slip control is performed so that the display band moves by a predetermined amount in a predetermined situation in which a predetermined stop condition is satisfied in a predetermined game in which a predetermined display result can be derived. Controls to derive the predetermined display result with
When the slip control is performed in the predetermined situation and the display band normally moves by a predetermined amount, the detected unit passes through the detection unit while the display band moves by a predetermined amount.
The processing means said that even if an abnormality occurs in the movement of the display band while the slip control is being performed in the predetermined situation and the detected portion does not pass through the detected portion. Execute the process according to the display result and
The movement start control means is
In the next game of the predetermined game, the stepping motor is excited based on the excitation state of the stepping motor when the control for deriving the predetermined display result by the derivation control means is completed in the predetermined game, and the movement is started. Take control and
In the next game of the predetermined game, even if the movement of the display band is abnormal in the predetermined game and the predetermined display result is not derived, the predetermined display by the derivation control means is performed in the predetermined game. A slot machine that performs the movement start control by exciting the stepping motor based on the excitation state of the stepping motor when the control for deriving the result is completed .

Images