JP7343139B2 - gaming machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine using gaming media.

In game machines such as pachinko machines, various performances are performed using image display devices equipped with liquid crystal screens, audio output devices (speakers), electric accessories, etc., in an effort to increase the interest of players.
For example, a performance pattern is determined based on the result of a lottery of symbols that is triggered by the entry of a game ball into the starting hole, and a performance image is displayed on the image display device according to this performance pattern (for example, patent (See Reference 1).

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-062748

In a game machine using such an image display device, there is a desire to provide a deep effect, and it is known that a plurality of transmissive liquid crystal display devices are arranged side by side in the depth direction.
However, when two transmissive liquid crystal display devices (liquid crystal modules) are stacked one on top of the other, the light transmittance is poor, and the problem is that only about 5% of the amount of light emitted from the backlight is emitted from the liquid crystal display device on the front side. be.
In response to such problems, making the backlight brighter (increasing the amount of light) increases power consumption, resulting in inconveniences such as having to reduce the number of accessories in gaming machines with limited power supply capacity. Naturally, this is not desirable from the viewpoint of energy saving.
Furthermore, there is also the problem that increasing the amount of light from the backlight increases the temperature of the liquid crystal module. The heat resistance temperature of a typical liquid crystal module is about 0 degrees to 50 degrees, and exceeding this temperature can cause various problems such as failure and shortened lifespan. Although such a problem can be solved by using a high-specification liquid crystal module with high heat resistance, such a liquid crystal module is often expensive and causes an increase in the overall cost of the gaming machine.
The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and it reduces power consumption and saves energy, avoids high costs, and improves the interest of games by providing new and deep effects using multiple liquid crystal modules. The purpose is to propose a gaming machine that can increase the

The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and can be realized by the following embodiments.
A first aspect of the present invention includes a plurality of light sources that emit light of different colors, a first liquid crystal display unit that displays an image in color using light emitted from the plurality of light sources, and a first liquid crystal display device that displays an image in color using the light emitted from the plurality of light sources. a second liquid crystal display means provided before the means, and a light emission control means for sequentially switching and controlling the plurality of light sources to emit light within one display period, the first liquid crystal display The means includes a first liquid crystal means including a plurality of pixels having a plurality of color elements, and controlling each pixel of the first liquid crystal means in accordance with light emission from each light source for each display period. a first display control means for performing display using light emitted from the first liquid crystal display means, and the second liquid crystal display means controls the first liquid crystal display during the same display period as the first liquid crystal display means. The image is displayed in color using light emitted from the display means using a display method different from that of the first liquid crystal display means, and the light emission control means has a cycle shorter than a period for controlling each pixel of the first liquid crystal display means. The gaming machine is characterized by performing control to periodically switch the light emission of the plurality of light sources.

With the above configuration, according to the present invention, it is possible to realize a gaming machine that can increase the interest of gaming.

1 is a front view of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an example of the back side of the gaming machine according to the present embodiment. It is a block diagram showing the configuration of a game control device included in the gaming machine according to the present embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an image control board. It is an explanatory diagram of various random numbers acquired in the main control board of the pachinko machine. 3 is a flowchart showing an example of timer interrupt processing executed by the CPU of the main control board. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of a starting port SW process executed by the CPU of the main control board. 3 is a flowchart showing an example of gate SW processing executed by the CPU of the main control board. It is a flowchart showing an example of special symbol processing executed by the CPU of the main control board. It is a flowchart showing an example of a customer waiting setting process executed by the CPU of the main control board. It is a flowchart showing an example of special game determination processing executed by the CPU of the main control board. 3 is a flowchart showing an example of a variation pattern selection process executed by the CPU of the main control board. It is a figure showing an example of a fluctuation pattern table. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an in-stop process executed by the CPU of the main control board. It is a flowchart showing an example of auxiliary symbol processing executed by the CPU of the main control board. It is a flowchart showing an example of the big winning opening process executed by the CPU of the main control board. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of setting the number of rounds/operation pattern. It is a flowchart showing an example of a game state setting process executed by the CPU of the main control board. It is a flowchart which showed an example of the 2nd starting port opening process performed by CPU of a main control board. It is a flowchart showing an example of timer interrupt processing executed by the CPU of the production control board. It is a flowchart showing an example of command reception processing executed by the CPU of the production control board. It is a flowchart showing an example of production selection processing executed by the CPU of the production control board. It is a flowchart showing an example of the process during the end of the variable performance executed by the CPU of the performance control board. It is a flowchart showing an example of a winning effect selection process executed by the CPU of the effect control board. It is a flowchart showing an example of an ending effect selection process executed by the CPU of the effect control board. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating the basic configuration of a first liquid crystal module. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing a laminated structure of elements constituting a first liquid crystal module. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating the basic function of a liquid crystal module using the TN method. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating in more detail the function of a liquid crystal module using the TN method. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating drive control of a liquid crystal module using a VA method. 5 is a timing chart illustrating display control of the first liquid crystal module. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing a laminated structure of elements constituting a second liquid crystal module. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating the basic configuration of a second liquid crystal module. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating the concept of color display in a second liquid crystal module. 7 is a timing chart illustrating display control of the second liquid crystal module. . 7 is a timing chart illustrating display control focusing on one pixel of the second liquid crystal module. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of an image display unit according to the present embodiment. 5 is a timing chart illustrating display control in the image display unit of this embodiment. 3 is a timing chart (part 1) illustrating a control signal for each pixel of the first liquid crystal module in the image display unit of the present embodiment; FIG. 12 is a timing chart (Part 2) illustrating control signals for each pixel of the first liquid crystal module in the image display unit of the present embodiment. It is a figure explaining an example of the image display mode of the image display unit of this embodiment. It is a figure which shows the modification of the image display unit of this embodiment. 43 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating image display by the image display unit of FIG. 42. FIG. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the basic configuration of a liquid crystal screen. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a synchronization signal of a liquid crystal module. FIG. 3 is a diagram (part 1) illustrating a synchronization signal for synchronizing vertical synchronization timing of two plurality of liquid crystal screens included in the image display unit of the present embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram (part 2) illustrating a synchronization signal for synchronizing the vertical synchronization timing of two plurality of liquid crystal screens included in the image display unit of the present embodiment.

Hereinafter, the present invention will be explained in detail with reference to embodiments shown in the drawings.
<Configuration of gaming machine>
FIG. 1 is a front view showing an example of the gaming machine according to the present embodiment, FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an example of the back side of the gaming machine according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 3 is a front view showing an example of the gaming machine according to the present embodiment. It is a block diagram showing the configuration of a game control device included in the game machine.

In the gaming machine 1 shown in FIG. 1, an inner frame (opening/closing frame) 3 is attached to an outer frame 2 which is attached to an island structure of a gaming hall so that it can be opened and closed, and a glass frame 4 is attached to this inner frame 3 so that it can be opened and closed. It is installed.
A window 4a is formed in the glass frame 4, and a transparent plate 4b is attached to the window 4a. A game board 10 having a board surface from which game balls are launched is mounted on the inner frame 3, and a game area 10a where game balls can roll and flow down between the board surface of the game board 10 and a transparent plate 4b on the front side thereof. is formed. The transparent plate 4b is, for example, a glass plate, and is detachably fixed to the glass frame 4.

The glass frame 4 is connected to the outer frame 2 via a hinge mechanism 5 at one end in the left-right direction (for example, on the left side when facing the gaming machine), and the other end in the left-right direction with the hinge mechanism 5 as a fulcrum. The side (for example, the right side when facing the gaming machine) can be rotated in a direction in which the outer frame 2 is opened. The glass frame 4 covers the game board 10 together with the glass plate 4b, and can open the inner part of the outer frame 2 including the game board 10 by rotating like a door about the hinge mechanism part 5 as a fulcrum. A locking mechanism for fixing the other end of the glass frame 4 to the outer frame 2 is provided at the other end of the glass frame 4 . The locking mechanism can be unlocked using a special key. Further, the glass frame 4 is provided with a door open switch 136 (see FIG. 3) that detects whether the glass frame 4 is opened from the outer frame 2 or not.

A tray unit 7 having a storage tray 6 (an upper tray 6a and a lower tray 6b) for storing game balls is provided at the lower part of the glass frame 4 (lower part of the window 4a). The game machine is equipped with a production button 8 that can be pressed and operated, a cross key 40 that allows the player to perform various selection operations, and a discharge button 9 that discharges the game balls stored in the lower tray 6b to the outside of the game machine. There is.
The effect button 8 becomes effective only when, for example, a message to operate the effect button 8 is displayed on the image display unit 31, which will be described later. The performance button 8 is provided with a performance button detection switch 8a (see FIG. 3), and when the performance button detection switch 8a detects an operation by the player, a further performance is executed in response to this operation.

An operation handle 11 is provided on the lower right side of the glass frame 4. When a player touches the operating handle 11, a touch sensor 11a (see FIG. 3) inside the operating handle 11 detects that the player has touched the operating handle 11, and a firing control board (described later) is activated. The touch signal is sent to 160. When the firing control board 160 receives a touch signal from the touch sensor 11a (see FIG. 3), it allows the firing solenoid 12a to be energized. When the rotation angle of the operating handle 11 is changed, a gear directly connected to the operating handle 11 rotates, and a knob of the firing volume 11b (see FIG. 3) connected to the gear rotates. A voltage corresponding to the detected angle of the firing volume 11b is applied to the firing solenoid 12a provided in the game ball firing mechanism. Then, when a voltage is applied to the firing solenoid 12a (see FIG. 3), the firing solenoid 12a operates according to the applied voltage, and the game ball is fired with a strength according to the rotation angle of the operating handle 11. It is fired to the game area 10a of the board 10.

Around the game area 10a on the game board 10, an outer rail R1 and an inner rail R2 are provided. These outer rail R1 and inner rail R2 guide the game ball fired from the game ball firing mechanism to the upper part of the game area 10a when the operation handle 11 is operated. The game ball guided to the upper part of the game area 10a falls within the game area 10a. At this time, the game ball will fall unpredictably due to the plurality of nails and windmills provided in the game area 10a.

A center member 12 is arranged approximately at the center of the game board 10. The center member 12 is provided with an image display unit 31 and an accessory device 32 for performance imitating a "sword".
The image display unit 31 includes a transmissive liquid crystal display module 31a that performs color display using a normal first method provided on the back side in the depth direction when viewed from the player, and a transmissive liquid crystal display module 31a that performs color display using a normal first method provided on the front side in the depth direction. It includes a liquid crystal display module (second liquid crystal module) 31b that performs color display using a second method different from the above, a backlight, and an LED (none of which is shown) serving as a light source for the backlight.
These liquid crystal display modules will be described in detail later, but in the following description, the liquid crystal display module 31a that performs color display using the first method will be referred to as the first liquid crystal module 31a, and the liquid crystal display module 31a that performs color display using the second method will be referred to as the first liquid crystal display module 31a. The module 31b will be referred to as a second liquid crystal module 31b.

Further, in the game area 10a at the lower center of the center member 12, a first starting opening 13 into which a game ball can enter is provided. A second starting port 14 is provided below the first starting port 13. The second starting port 14 has an opening/closing door 14b, and is movably controlled to have a first mode in which the opening/closing door 14b is maintained in a closed state and a second mode in which the opening/closing door 14b is in an open state. . Therefore, when the second starting port 14 is in the first mode, there is no chance of winning the game ball, and when it is in the second mode, the chance of winning the game ball increases.

In addition, in this embodiment, when the second starting port 14 is controlled in the first mode, the game ball is prevented from entering the second starting port 14. However, if there are fewer opportunities for the game ball to enter when the game ball is controlled in the first manner than when it is controlled in the second manner, then when the game ball is controlled in the first manner, It does not matter if a game ball enters the starting port 14. That is, the first aspect includes a state in which it is impossible or difficult for the game ball to enter the second starting port 14.

The first starting port 13 and the second starting port 14 are provided with a first starting port detection switch 13a (see FIG. 3) and a second starting port detection switch 14a, respectively, which detect the entry of a game ball. When these detection switches detect the entry of a game ball, a lottery is held to acquire the right to play a jackpot game (hereinafter referred to as "jackpot lottery"), which will be described later. Also, when the first starting port detection switch 13a and the second starting port detection switch 14a detect the entry of game balls, predetermined prize balls (for example, three game balls) are paid out.

In addition, in the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment, when a game ball enters the first starting port 13 and the second starting port 14, for example, three game balls are paid out. It is not always necessary to pay out the ball as it enters the ball. Further, the number of pieces to be dispensed may be different for each starting port, for example, the first starting port 13 dispenses three pieces and the second starting port 14 dispenses one piece.

Gates 15 through which game balls can pass are provided in the game area 10a on both sides of the center member 12. The gate 15 is provided with a gate detection switch 15a (see FIG. 3) that detects the passage of a game ball, and when this gate detection switch 15a detects the passage of a game ball, a lottery of normal symbols to be described later is performed. .

Further, in the gaming area 10a on the right side of the center member 12, a first grand prize opening 16 and a second grand prize opening 17 into which game balls can enter are provided. For this reason, the game ball is configured so that it will not enter the first grand prize opening 16 and the second grand prize opening 17 unless the operating handle 11 is rotated greatly and the game ball is launched with a strong force.

The first big prize opening 16 is normally maintained in a closed state by an opening/closing door 16b, making it impossible for game balls to enter. On the other hand, when a jackpot game to be described later is started, the opening/closing door 16b is opened, and this opening/closing door 16b functions as a tray that guides the game ball into the first big prize opening 16, so that the game ball enters the first big prize opening 16. It becomes possible to enter the ball into the 1st prize winning slot 16. The first big winning hole switch 16a is provided in the first big winning hole 16, and when this first big winning hole switch 16a detects the entry of game balls, a preset prize ball (for example, 15 balls) is selected. A game ball) is paid out.

The second big prize opening 17 is normally maintained in a closed state by the movable piece 17b, making it impossible for game balls to enter. On the other hand, when a jackpot game to be described later is started, the movable piece 17b is activated and opened, and this movable piece 17b functions as a guide path for guiding the game ball into the second big prize opening 17. The game ball can enter the second grand prize opening 17. The second grand prize opening 17 is provided with a second grand prize opening switch 17a, and when this second grand prize opening switch 17a detects the entry of a game ball, a preset prize ball (for example, 15 balls) is selected. A game ball) is paid out.

Furthermore, a plurality of general winning holes 18 are provided in the gaming area 10a. When a game ball enters each of these general winning holes 18, predetermined prize balls (for example, 10 game balls) are paid out.
At the bottom of the gaming area 10a, game balls that did not enter any of the general winning hole 18, first starting hole 13, second starting hole 14, first big winning hole 16, and second big winning hole 17 are stored. An outlet 19 is provided for discharging the water.

The image display unit 31 displays an image during standby when no game is being played, or displays an image according to the progress of the game. In particular, when a game ball enters the first starting port 13 or the second starting port 14, a performance pattern 35 for notifying the player of the lottery result is displayed in a fluctuating manner.
The production design 35 is, for example, a scroll display of three symbols (numbers), a first symbol (left symbol), a second symbol (right symbol), and a third symbol (middle symbol), and after a predetermined period of time, the corresponding It stops scrolling and displays specific symbols (numbers) in an array.
As a result, while the symbols are scrolling, the player is given the impression that a lottery is currently being held, and the lottery result is notified to the player by the symbols displayed when the scrolling is stopped. By displaying various images, characters, etc. during the variable display of the performance symbols 35, the player is given a high expectation that he may win a jackpot.

Although not shown, a fourth symbol is displayed on the image display unit 31 in addition to the effect symbol 35. The fourth symbol is a symbol showing the fluctuating state of the performance symbol 35 used for notification of the lottery result in the jackpot lottery process.
Note that the fourth symbol does not necessarily need to be displayed on the image display unit 31, and may be displayed by separately providing a fourth symbol display lamp.

The upper part of the glass frame 4 is equipped with a pair of lighting devices 33 for lighting on the left and right sides. Each of the performance lighting devices 33 includes a plurality of lights, and various performances are performed by changing the direction of light emitted from each light and the emitted light color.

Furthermore, each of the performance lighting devices 33 includes a plurality of lights, and various performances can be performed by changing the irradiation direction and emitted light color of each light.
Furthermore, although not shown in FIG. 1, the gaming machine 1 is provided with an audio output device 34 (see FIG. 3) consisting of a speaker. It also outputs SE (sound effects) and performs sound effects.

At the lower left side of the gaming area 10a, there are a first special symbol display device 20, a second special symbol display device 21, a normal symbol display device 22, a first special symbol reservation display 23, and a second special symbol reservation display 24, which will be described later. , a normal symbol reservation display 25, a round number display 26, and other display areas 28 are provided.

The first special symbol display device 20 is for notifying the result of a jackpot lottery that was triggered by the entry of a game ball into the first starting port 13, and is composed of a plurality of LEDs. In other words, a plurality of special symbols are provided corresponding to the jackpot lottery results, and by displaying the special symbols (lighting mode) corresponding to the jackpot lottery results on the first special symbol display device 20, the lottery results can be used in games. We are trying to notify people. The special symbols displayed in this manner are not displayed immediately, but are displayed in a variable manner (blinking) for a predetermined period of time, and then are stopped and displayed.

More specifically, when a game ball enters the first starting port 13, a jackpot lottery will be held, but the jackpot lottery result is not immediately announced to the player, but after a predetermined period of time. The player is notified when the time has elapsed. Then, after a predetermined period of time has elapsed, the special symbol corresponding to the jackpot lottery result is stopped and displayed, so that the player is informed of the lottery result.
The second special symbol display device 21 is for notifying the lottery result of a jackpot that was triggered by the entry of a game ball into the second starting port 14, and its display mode is based on the above-mentioned first special symbol. This is the same as the display mode of special symbols on the display device 20.

The normal symbol display device 22 is for notifying the result of a normal symbol lottery, which is triggered by the passing of a game ball through the gate 15. As will be described in detail later, when a predetermined win is won through this normal symbol lottery, the normal symbol display device 22 lights up, and then the second starting port 14 is controlled in the second mode for a predetermined period of time. Regarding this normal symbol, the lottery result is not announced immediately after the game ball passes through the gate 15, but the normal symbol changes, such as by blinking the normal symbol display device 22, until a predetermined time has elapsed. I am trying to display it.

Furthermore, if a game ball enters the first starting hole 13 or the second starting hole 14 during the display of changing special symbols or during a special game described later, and the jackpot lottery cannot be performed immediately, certain conditions apply. The right to draw the jackpot is reserved under. More specifically, the right to draw a jackpot that is reserved when a game ball enters the first starting port 13 is reserved as the first reservation, and the right is reserved when a game ball enters the second starting port 14. The right to draw the jackpot will be reserved as a second reservation.
For both of these reservations, the upper limit reservation number is set to 4, and the reservation numbers are displayed on the first special symbol reservation display 23 and the second special symbol reservation display 24, respectively.

The upper limit reserved number of normal symbols is also set to 4, and the reserved number is displayed as a normal symbol reserved in the same manner as the first special symbol reserved display 23 and the second special symbol reserved display 24. displayed on the device 25.
The round number display 26 is for notifying the number of rounds of a round game played during a special game to be described later.

As shown in FIG. 2, the back of the gaming machine 1 is provided with a main control board 110, an effect control board 120, a payout control board 130, a power supply board 170, a game information output terminal board 27, and the like. Further, the power supply board 170 is provided with a power plug 171 for supplying power to the gaming machine and a power switch (not shown).

Next, the effect button 8 will be explained.
The production button 8 is built into the central part of the dish unit 7.
The production button 8 is configured to be able to move back and forth between a normal operating position (not shown), a pressed position that is retracted downward from the normal operating position, and a protruding operating position that projects upward from the normal operating position. . Further, the production button 8 is configured to be able to be pressed down from any position including the normal operation position and the protruding operation position to the pressed position.
Note that, in this specification, the detailed structure of the effect button 8 is disclosed in, for example, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2013-116168, so a description thereof will be omitted.

<Configuration of game control device>
Next, a game control device that controls the progress of the game in the game machine 1 of this embodiment will be explained using FIG. 3.
In FIG. 3, a main control board 110 controls the basic operations of the game. The main control board 110 includes at least a one-chip microcomputer 114 composed of a main CPU 111, a main ROM 112, and a main RAM 113, and an input port and an output port (not shown) for main control.
The main CPU 111 reads the program stored in the main ROM 112 and performs arithmetic processing based on input signals from each detection switch, and also directly controls each device and display, or performs arithmetic processing according to the result of the arithmetic processing. Send commands to other boards. The main RAM 113 functions as a data work area during arithmetic processing by the main CPU 111.

On the input side of the main control board 110, a first starting opening detection switch 13a, a second starting opening detection switch 14a, a gate detection switch 15a, a first big winning opening detection switch 16a, a second big winning opening detection switch 17a, A general winning a prize opening detection switch 18a is connected, and a game ball detection signal is input to the main control board 110.

In addition, on the output side of the main control board 110, there is a starting opening opening/closing solenoid 14c that opens and closes the opening/closing door 14b of the second starting opening 14, and a first big winning opening that opens and closes the opening/closing door 16b of the first big winning opening 16. The opening/closing solenoid 16c and the second big winning opening opening/closing solenoid 17c that opens and closes the movable piece 17b of the second big winning opening 17 are connected.
Further, on the output side of the main control board 110, a first special symbol display device 20, a second special symbol display device 21, a normal symbol display device 22, a first special symbol reservation display 23, and a second special symbol reservation display are provided. 24, a normal symbol reservation display 25, and a round number display 26 are connected, and various signals are outputted through the output port.
The main control board 110 also outputs external information signals necessary for managing gaming machines in a hall computer or the like of a gaming parlor to the gaming information output terminal board 27.

The main ROM 112 of the main control board 110 stores a game control program, which will be described later, as well as data and tables necessary for various games.
Further, the main RAM 113 of the main control board 110 has a plurality of storage areas.
For example, the main RAM 113 includes a normal symbol retention number (G) storage area, a normal symbol retention storage area, a first special symbol retention number (U1) storage area, a second special symbol retention number (U2) storage area, and a judgment storage area. , first special symbol storage area, second special symbol storage area, high probability game count (X) storage area, time-saving game count (J) storage area, round game count (R) storage area, open count (K) storage area , 1st big winning opening number of balls (C1) storage area, 2nd big winning opening number of balls (C2) storage area, gaming status storage area, gaming status buffer, stop symbol data storage area, performance transmission data storage area etc. are provided. The game state storage area includes a time-saving game flag storage area, a high probability game flag storage area, a special figure/special electric line processing data storage area, and a regular figure/general electric line processing data storage area. Note that the storage area described above is only an example, and many other storage areas are provided.

The game information output terminal board 27 is a board for outputting external information signals generated by the main control board 110 to a hall computer of a game parlor or the like. The game information output terminal board 27 is connected to the main control board 110 by wiring, and is also provided with a connector for connection to a hall computer or the like of a game parlor.

The power supply board 170 converts the power supply voltage supplied from the power plug 171 into a predetermined voltage and supplies it to each control board. In addition, the power supply board 170 is equipped with a backup power supply consisting of a capacitor, monitors the power supply voltage supplied to the gaming machine, and outputs a power failure detection signal to the main control board 110 when the power supply voltage falls below a predetermined value. do. More specifically, when the power outage detection signal becomes high level, the main CPU 111 becomes operational, and when the power outage detection signal becomes low level, the main CPU 111 becomes inactive. The backup power source is not limited to a capacitor, but may be a battery, for example, or a combination of a capacitor and a battery may be used.

The production control board 120 mainly controls various productions during play, on standby, and the like. This production control board 120 includes a sub CPU 121, a sub ROM 122, and a sub RAM 123, and is connected to the main control board 110 so as to be able to communicate in one direction from the main control board 110 to the production control board 120. .
The sub CPU 121 reads a program stored in the sub ROM 122 and performs calculations based on a command sent from the main control board 110 or an input signal from the production button detection switch 8a input via the lamp control board 140. While performing the processing, corresponding data is transmitted to the lamp control board 140 or the image control board 150 based on the processing. The sub-RAM 123 functions as a data work area when the sub-CPU 121 performs arithmetic processing.

The sub ROM 122 of the performance control board 120 stores programs for performance control, data and tables necessary for various games.
For example, a variable effect pattern determination table (not shown) for determining a effect pattern based on a variable pattern designation command received from the main control board 110, a effect pattern pattern determination table for determining a combination of effect patterns 35 to be stopped and displayed Tables (not shown) and the like are stored in the sub ROM 122. Note that the above-mentioned tables are merely listed as examples of characteristic tables among the tables in this embodiment, and many other tables and programs (not shown) may be provided in the course of the game. ing.

The sub-RAM 123 of the production control board 120 has a plurality of storage areas.
The sub RAM 123 includes a command reception buffer, a gaming state storage area, a performance mode storage area, a performance pattern storage area, a performance pattern storage area, a judgment storage area (0th storage area), a first reservation storage area, and a second reservation storage area. etc. are provided. Note that the storage area described above is only an example, and many other storage areas are provided.

Furthermore, the production control board 120 is equipped with an RTC (real-time clock) 124 that outputs the current time. The sub CPU 121 receives a date signal indicating the current date and a time signal indicating the current time from the RTC 124, and executes various processes based on the current date and time.
The RTC 124 normally operates with power from the gaming machine when power is supplied to the gaming machine, and operates with power supplied from a backup power supply mounted on the power supply board 170 when the gaming machine is powered off. Operate. Therefore, the RTC 124 can measure the current date and time even when the gaming machine is powered off. Note that the RTC 124 may be operated by providing a battery on the production control board 120.

The payout control board 130 controls the launch of game balls and the payout of prize balls. This payout control board 130 includes a payout CPU 131, a payout ROM 132, and a payout RAM 133, and is connected to the main control board 110 so as to be able to communicate in both directions. The payout CPU 131 reads out a program stored in the payout ROM 132 and performs arithmetic processing based on input signals from the payout ball counting switch 135 and the door release switch 136, which detect whether or not game balls have been paid out. Based on the processing, corresponding data is transmitted to the main control board 110.

Also, connected to the output side of the payout control board 130 is a payout motor 134 of a prize ball payout device for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls from the game ball storage section to the player. The payout CPU 131 reads out a predetermined program from the payout ROM 132 and performs arithmetic processing based on the payout number designation command transmitted from the main control board 110, and also controls the payout motor 134 of the prize ball payout device to issue a predetermined prize. Dispense the ball to the player. At this time, the payout RAM 133 functions as a work area for data during calculation processing by the payout CPU 131.
Also, check whether a game ball lending device (card unit) (not shown) is connected to the payout control board 130, and if the game ball lending device (card unit) is connected, cause the shooting control board 160 to fire the game balls. Transmit launch control data to allow for launch control.

When the launch control board 160 receives launch control data from the payout control board 130, it authorizes launch. Then, the touch signal from the touch sensor 11a and the input signal from the firing volume 11b are read out, and the firing solenoid 12a and the ball feeding solenoid 12b are energized and the game balls are fired.

The firing solenoid 12a is constituted by a rotary solenoid. A firing member (not shown) is directly connected to the firing solenoid 12a, and rotation of the firing solenoid 12a causes the firing member to rotate.
Here, the rotational speed of the firing solenoid 12a is set to approximately 99.9 times/min based on the frequency based on the output cycle of the crystal oscillator provided in the firing control board 160. As a result, the number of game balls fired per minute is approximately 99.9 (balls/minute) because one game ball is fired every time the firing solenoid rotates once. That is, the game ball will be fired approximately every 0.6 seconds.
The ball feeding solenoid 12b is constituted by a linear solenoid, and sends out the game balls in the upper tray 6a (see FIG. 1) one by one toward a shooting member directly connected to the shooting solenoid 12a.

The lamp control board 140 is connected to the production control board 120 for two-way communication, and the production button detection switch 8a provided on the production button 8 is connected to the input side of the lamp control board 140. When a detection signal is input from 8a, it is output to the production control board 120.
Further, the lamp control board 140 is connected to the performance accessory device 32 and the performance lighting device 33 provided on the game board 10, and the lamp control board 140 is connected to the data transmitted from the performance control board 120. Based on this, lighting control is performed on the production lighting device 33, and drive control is performed on a motor for changing the direction of light irradiation. Further, it controls the energization of a drive source such as a solenoid or a motor that operates the performance accessory device 32. In this embodiment, since the performance button 8 is configured to protrude, the performance accessory device 32 includes the performance button 8.

The image control board 150 is connected to the production control board 120 for two-way communication, and the image display unit 31 and the audio output device 34 are connected to the output side thereof.

<Configuration of image control board>
Here, the configuration of the image control board 150 will be explained using FIG. 4.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the image control board.
The image control board 150 includes a host CPU 151, a host RAM 152, a host ROM 153, a CGROM 154, a crystal oscillator 155, a VRAM 156, a VDP (video Display Processor) 200.
Furthermore, as will be described later, the VDP 200 includes an audio control circuit 300 for controlling audio output in the gaming machine.

The host CPU 151 instructs the VDP 200 to display the image data stored in the CGROM 154 on the image display unit 31 based on a production pattern designation command, which will be described later, received from the production control board 120. This instruction is performed by setting data in the control register 201 of the VDP 200 and outputting a display list consisting of a group of drawing control commands.
Further, upon receiving a V blank interrupt signal or a drawing end signal from the VDP 200, the host CPU 151 performs interrupt processing as appropriate.

Furthermore, the host CPU 151 also instructs the audio control circuit 300 included in the VDP 200 to output predetermined audio data to the audio output device 34 based on the performance pattern designation command received from the performance control board 120.
The host RAM 152 is built into the host CPU 151, functions as a data work area during arithmetic processing by the host CPU 151, and temporarily stores data read from the host ROM 153.

In addition, the host ROM 153 is composed of a mask ROM, and includes a program for controlling the host CPU 151, symbol arrangement information that associates the symbol numbers of the production symbols with the types of the production symbols 35, and a display for generating a display list. A list generation program, animation patterns for displaying animations of production patterns, animation scene information, etc. are stored.
This animation pattern is referred to when displaying the animation of the performance pattern, and stores the combination of animation scene information included in the performance pattern, the display order of each animation scene information, etc. In addition, the animation scene information stores information such as weight frames (display time), target data (sprite identification number, transfer source address, etc.), parameters (sprite display position, transfer destination address, etc.), drawing method, etc. are doing.

The CGROM 154 is composed of flash memory, EEPROM, EPROM, mask ROM, etc., and compresses and stores image data (sprite, movie), etc., which is a collection of pixel information in a predetermined range of pixels (for example, 32 x 32 pixels). ing. Note that the pixel information is composed of color number information that specifies a color number for each pixel and an α value that indicates the transparency of the image.
Furthermore, the CGROM 154 stores uncompressed palette data in which color number information for specifying a color number is associated with display color information for actually displaying the color.
Note that the CGROM 154 may have a configuration in which only a part of the image data is compressed without compressing all the image data. Further, as a movie compression method, various known compression methods such as MPEG4 can be used.
Furthermore, the CGROM 154 also stores a large amount of audio data, as will be described later.

The crystal oscillator 155 outputs a pulse signal to the clock generation circuit 205 of the VDP 200, and by dividing the frequency of this pulse signal, the clock generation circuit 205 synchronizes with the system clock and image display unit 31 for controlling the VDP 200. A synchronization signal and the like are generated to achieve this.

The VRAM 156 is composed of an SRAM that can write or read image data at high speed.
The VRAM 156 also includes a display list storage area 156a that temporarily stores the display list output from the host CPU 151, an expansion storage area 156b that stores image data expanded by the expansion circuit 206, and a display list storage area 156b that stores image data expanded by the expansion circuit 206. It has a first frame buffer 156c and a second frame buffer 156d for the first liquid crystal module 31a, and a first frame buffer 156e and a second frame buffer 156f for the second liquid crystal module 31b. Palette data is also stored in the VRAM 156.
Note that the two sets of frame buffers (156c and 156d, 156e and 156f) are alternately switched between "frame buffer for drawing" and "frame buffer for display" each time drawing starts.

The VDP 200 is a so-called image processor, which reads image data from one of the frame buffers (display frame buffer) based on instructions from the host CPU 151, and converts a video signal (R (red)) based on the read image data. , G (green), B (blue) signals, etc.) and outputs them to the image display unit 31.
However, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, the VDP 200 is not only an image processor, but also has an audio output function.
The VDP 200 also includes a control register 201, a CG bus I/F 202, a CPU I/F 203, a clock generation circuit 205, an expansion circuit 206, a drawing circuit 207, a display circuit 208, a memory controller 209, and an audio control circuit. A circuit 300 is provided.

The control register 201 is a register for the VDP 200 to control drawing and display, and writing and reading data to and from the control register 201 controls drawing and display. The host CPU 151 can write and read data to and from the control register 201 via the CPU I/F 203.
The control register 201 includes a system control register that makes basic settings necessary for the VDP 200 to operate, a data transfer register that makes settings necessary for data transfer, and a drawing control register that makes settings for controlling drawing. There are six types of registers: bus interface registers that make settings necessary for bus access, decompression registers that make settings necessary to decompress compressed images, and display registers that make settings for display control. It has a register.

The CG bus I/F 202 is an interface circuit for communication with the CGROM 154, and image data from the CGROM 154 is input to the VDP 200 via the CG bus I/F 202.
Further, the CPU I/F 203 is an interface circuit for communicating with the host CPU 151, and allows the host CPU 151 to output a display list to the VDP 200, access control registers, and perform various types of communication from the VDP 200 via the CPU I/F 203. The host CPU 151 inputs an interrupt signal.

The data transfer circuit 204 transfers data between various devices.
Specifically, data is transferred between the host CPU 151 and the VRAM 156, between the CGROM 154 and the VRAM 156, and between various storage areas (including a frame buffer) of the VRAM 156.
The clock generation circuit 205 receives a pulse signal from the crystal oscillator 155 and generates a system clock that determines the arithmetic processing speed of the VDP 200. It also generates a synchronization signal generation clock and outputs the synchronization signal to the image display unit 31 via the display circuit.

The decompression circuit 206 is a circuit for decompressing the image data compressed in the CGROM 154, and stores the decompressed image data in the decompression storage area 153b.
The drawing circuit 207 is a circuit that performs sequence control using a display list composed of a group of drawing control commands.

The display circuit 208 extracts R (red), G (green), and B (blue) signals indicating image color data as video signals from the image data (digital signals) stored in the "display frame buffer" in the VRAM 156. (analog signal) and outputs the generated video signals (R (red), G (green), B (blue) signals) to the first liquid crystal module 31a and the second liquid crystal module 31b. Furthermore, the display circuit 208 also provides synchronization signals (vertical synchronization signals, horizontal synchronization signals, etc.) for synchronizing the first liquid crystal module 31a and the second liquid crystal module 31b to the first liquid crystal module 31a and the second liquid crystal module 31b. and output it.
In this embodiment, as video signals, R (red), G (green), and B (blue) signals obtained by converting digital signals into analog signals are output to the first liquid crystal module 31a and the second liquid crystal module 31b. Although configured, the video signal may be output as a digital signal.

The memory controller 209 controls switching between a "drawing frame buffer" and a "display frame buffer" when a frame buffer switching instruction is received from the host CPU 151.
The audio control circuit 300 reads a predetermined program based on a command transmitted from the production control board 120 and controls the audio output in the audio output device 34.
The audio control circuit 300 outputs audio using the audio data stored in the CGROM 154. In this case, the CGROM 154 includes a sound source ROM for storing audio data.

Note that instead of storing the audio data in the CGROM 154, a sound source ROM may be provided separately in the VDP 200.
In this case, more image data can be stored without storing audio data in the CGROM 154, which has a fixed capacity, so that the effects using images can be made more diverse and impressive.

Further, the audio control circuit 300 may not be included in the VDP 200 and may be provided independently within the image control board 150. In that case, the sound source ROM may be included in the audio control circuit 300.
Note that the first liquid crystal module 31a and the second liquid crystal module 31b that constitute the image display unit 31 are equipped with an LCD driver 36a and an LCD driver 36b for driving the liquid crystal, respectively, and the control signal from the VDP 200 is transmitted to these LCDs. input to the driver.
Either the LCD driver 36a or the LCD driver 36b controls a plurality of LED light sources that cause the backlight to emit light.

<Main control board>
Next, various operations executed by the main control board 110, which is the main control board of the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, will be explained.
FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of various random numbers obtained in the main control board 110 of the pachinko machine 1, in which (a) is a random number for special symbol determination, (b) is a random number for jackpot symbol determination, and (c) is a reach determination diagram. (d) is a diagram showing an example of random numbers for auxiliary symbol determination.
In the main control board 110, a special symbol is determined by the special symbol determination random number shown in FIG. 5(a) and the jackpot symbol determination random number shown in FIG. 5(b). Further, the auxiliary symbol is determined by the auxiliary symbol determination random number shown in FIG. 5(d).

As the random number for special symbol determination shown in FIG. 5(a), one random value is obtained from among 300 random numbers from "0" to "299", for example, at the time of winning the starting opening.
In the case of the random number for special symbol determination shown in FIG. 5(a), in the low probability gaming state (normal gaming state), the jackpot ratio is set to 1/300, and the obtained random number for special symbol determination is "3". Sometimes it is considered a jackpot.
On the other hand, in the high-probability gaming state, the jackpot ratio is set to 10/300, which is 10 times as much as in the low-probability gaming state, and the acquired random numbers for special symbol determination are "3", "7", and "37". , "67", "97", "127", "157", "187", "217", and "247" are determined to be a jackpot. In addition, with the special symbol determination random numbers shown in FIG. 5(a), a small winning lottery, which is a type of loss, is also performed. Here, the small win ratio is set to 3/300, and a small win is determined when the acquired random number value for special symbol determination is "150", "200", or "250".

Next, as the random number for jackpot symbol determination shown in FIG. 5(b), one random value is obtained from among 250 random numbers from "0" to "249". Then, one jackpot is determined from among the plurality of types of jackpots based on the acquired random number value for jackpot symbol determination.
In this embodiment, a plurality of types of jackpots are prepared, such as a long win with normal time saving, a short win with normal time saving, a long win with high probability time saving, a short win with high probability time saving, and a high probability short win without time saving.
Note that the time-saving gaming state is a gaming state in which it is easier for game balls to enter the second starting port 14 than in the normal gaming state. That is, when a predetermined condition described later is satisfied, the second starting port opening/closing door 14b of the second starting port 14 is changed from a closed state in which it is difficult for a game ball to win a prize to an open state in which a game ball is easy to win a prize. This refers to a gaming state with opening support for the second starting port opening/closing door 14b that increases the probability of a game ball entering the starting port 14.

Normally, in long winning with time saving, the opening time of the first big prize opening 16 or the second big prize opening 17 during the jackpot game is relatively long, and a relatively large amount of balls can be expected to be paid out, and after the jackpot game is over, This is a jackpot that provides a time-saving game until the special symbol changes a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times).
Normally, in a short hit with time saving, the opening time of the first big winning hole 16 or the second big winning hole 17 during the jackpot game is short and the payout of the ball cannot be expected, but after the jackpot game is over, the special symbol will be displayed a predetermined number of times (e.g. 100 times) It is a jackpot that gives you a time-saving game until it changes.

In the long winning with high probability time saving, the opening time of the first big winning hole 16 or the second big winning hole 17 during the jackpot game is long, and you can expect the largest amount of balls to be paid out, as well as the probability of winning the jackpot after the jackpot game is over. This is a jackpot that offers both a high probability game and a time saving game.
In the short winning with high probability time saving, although the opening time of the first big prize opening 16 or the second big prize opening 17 during the jackpot game is short and the payout of the ball cannot be expected, it increases the probability of winning the jackpot after the jackpot game is over. This is a jackpot that offers both high-probability games and time-saving games.
In the high probability short win without time saving, although the opening time of the first big prize opening 16 or the second big prize opening 17 during the jackpot game is short and the payout of the ball cannot be expected, it increases the probability of winning the jackpot after the jackpot game is over. This is a jackpot that gives you a high probability game.

In addition, in the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, some types of jackpots cannot be selected depending on whether a game ball enters the first starting port 13 or a game ball enters the second starting port 14. The ratio of
For example, the ratio at which the long winning with normal time saving is selected is the same at 35/250 in both cases where a game ball wins in the first starting port 13 and when a game ball wins in the second starting port 14. . Similarly, the rate at which the short winning with normal time saving is selected is the same at 15/250 in both cases where the game ball enters the first starting port 13 and when the game ball enters the second starting port 14. .
Specifically, as shown in FIG. 5(b), the random number value for jackpot symbol determination obtained when a game ball enters the first starting hole 13 or the second starting hole 14 is "0" to "34". If it is ``35'' to ``49'', a long win with normal time saving is selected, and if it is ``35'' to ``49'', a short win with normal time saving is selected.

On the other hand, the proportion of high-probability long wins with time savings and high-probability short wins with time savings being selected differs depending on whether the game ball wins in the first starting port 13 or the game ball wins in the second starting port 14. For example, the rate at which a long win with high probability time saving is selected is 25/250 when the game ball wins in the first starting port 13, and 175/250 when the game ball wins in the second starting port 14. Ru.
In addition, the probability of selecting a short win with high probability time saving is 75/250 when a game ball wins in the first starting port 13, and 25/250 when a game ball wins in the second starting port 14. Ru.
Further, the ratio of selecting the high probability short win without time saving is set to 100/250 only when the game ball wins in the first starting opening 13.
Specifically, if the random number value for determining the jackpot symbol obtained when the game ball enters the first starting hole 13 is "50" to "74", the long hit with high probability time saving is selected, and "75" is selected. ” to “149”, a high probability short win with time saving is selected, and if “150” to “249”, a high probability short win without time saving is selected.
On the other hand, if the random number value for determining the jackpot symbol obtained when the game ball enters the second starting slot is "50" to "224", a long hit with high probability time saving is selected, and "225" is selected. ~ “249”, a short hit with high probability time saving is selected.

In addition, the random number for reach determination shown in FIG. It is determined that there is a reach when the random number is between 0 and 21, and there is no reach when the obtained random number for determining the reach is between 22 and 249.

Further, as the random number for auxiliary symbol determination shown in FIG. 5(d), one random value is obtained from among ten random numbers from "0" to "9" when passing through the gate.
Then, in a low probability gaming state in which both the time saving flag and the high accuracy flag are OFF, or in a high probability no time saving gaming state in which the time saving flag is OFF and the high accuracy flag is ON, the acquired random number value for auxiliary symbol determination is "7". ”, it is judged as a hit.
On the other hand, in a low-probability time-saving gaming state where the time-saving flag is ON and the high-accuracy flag is OFF, or in a high-probability time-saving gaming state where both the time-saving flag and the high-accuracy flag are ON, the acquired random value for auxiliary symbol determination is A win is determined when the number is between "0" and "9".

Next, the main processes executed by the main control board 110 of the pachinko machine 1 according to this embodiment will be explained. Note that the processing described below can be realized by the CPU 212 of the main control board 110 executing a program stored in the ROM 213. Note that a description of the random number update process will be omitted.

[Timer interrupt processing]
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of timer interrupt processing executed by the CPU of the main control board.
The CPU 212 performs random number update processing (S10), starting gate SW processing (S20), gate SW processing (S30), special symbol processing (S40), customer waiting setting processing (S50), and auxiliary symbol processing (S50) as timer interrupt processing. S60), big prize opening processing (S70), second starting opening opening processing (S80), etc. are executed.

Next, various processes executed as the timer interrupt process will be explained.
[Starting port SW processing]
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the starting port SW process executed by the CPU of the main control board.
In this case, the CPU 212 determines whether the first starting port SW13a of the first starting port 13 is on in step S101, and if it is determined that the first starting port SW13a is on, the CPU 212 performs step S102. At this point, it is determined whether or not the number U1 of reservations at the first starting port SW13a is less than "4".

Here, if it is determined that the number of reservations U1 is less than "4", "1" is added to the number of reservations U1 in step S103. After that, in step S104, a special symbol determination random value, a jackpot symbol determination random value, a reach determination random value, a fluctuation pattern random value, etc. are acquired and stored in the RAM 214.
In this embodiment, it is assumed that 180 variation pattern random values (0 to 179) are prepared.

Next, in step S105, the CPU 212 increases the number of reservations displayed on the first special symbol reservation display 23 and sets a first reservation number increase command. When the first hold count increase command is set, the CPU 212 transmits the first hold count increase command to the production control board 120. Note that if a negative result is obtained in step S102, that is, if it is determined that the pending number U1 is "4", which is the maximum possible pending number, steps S103 to S105 are skipped and the process proceeds to step S106.

Next, in step S106, the CPU 212 determines whether the second starting port SW14a of the second starting port 14 is on, and if it is determined that the second starting port SW14a is on, step S107 At this point, it is determined whether or not the number U2 of reservations at the second starting port SW14a is less than "4".
Here, if it is determined that the number of reservations U2 is less than "4", "1" is added to the number of reservations U2 in step S108. After that, in step S109, a special symbol determination random value, a jackpot symbol determination random value, a reach determination random value, a fluctuation pattern random value, etc. are acquired and stored in the RAM 214 in step S109.

Next, in step S110, the CPU 212 increases the number of reservations on the second special symbol reservation display 24 and sets a second reservation number increase command. When the second hold count increase command is set, the CPU 212 transmits the second hold count increase command to the production control board 120, and ends the starting opening SW process. Note that if a negative result is obtained in step S107, that is, if it is determined that the pending number U2 is "4", which is the maximum possible pending number, the starting port SW process is ended.

[Gate SW processing]
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the gate SW process executed by the CPU of the main control board.
In step S121, the CPU 212 determines whether or not the gate SW15a of the gate 15 is on. If it is determined that the gate SW15a is on, the CPU 212 determines in step S122 that the number of gate passes G of the gate SW15a is "4". ” is determined.

If it is determined in step S122 that the number of times G of passing through the gate is less than "4", "1" is added to the number of times G of passing through the gate in step S123, and in the subsequent step S124, a random number for auxiliary symbol determination is obtained. The data is stored in the RAM 214, and the gate SW processing is completed.
Note that if it is determined in step S121 that the gate SW 15a is not on, or if a negative result is obtained in step S122, that is, if it is determined that the number of gate passages G is "4" which is the maximum number of items that can be held, the gate End the SW process.

[Special pattern processing]
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of special symbol processing executed by the CPU of the main control board.
In step S131, the CPU 212 determines whether or not the special game flag is ON, that is, whether or not a jackpot game or a small win game is in progress, and if it is determined that a jackpot game or a small win game is not in progress. In the following step S132, it is determined whether the special symbols on the first special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21 are changing.
If it is determined in step S132 that the special symbol is not changing, then in step S133 it is determined whether or not the number U2 of pending symbols in the second starting port SW14a to be consumed preferentially is greater than "1". If it is determined in step S133 that the number of reservations U2 is greater than "1", "1" is subtracted from the number of reservations U2 in step S134.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S133 that the number of pending items U2 is not ≧1, that is, if the number of pending items U2 is "0", then in step S135, the number of pending items U1 of the first starting port SW13a is "1". If it is determined in step S135 that the pending number U1 is greater than "1", "1" is subtracted from the pending number U1 in the subsequent step S136.

Next, in step S137, if the customer waiting flag is ON, the CPU 212 turns it OFF, and then in step S138, executes a special game determination process (FIG. 11) to be described later. After the special game determination process is executed in step S138, a variation pattern selection process (FIG. 12) to be described later is executed in step S139. After executing the variation pattern selection process in step S139, in step S140, symbol variation of the corresponding first special symbol display device 20 or second special symbol display device 21 is started, and in subsequent step S141, the effect control board 120 Set the fluctuation start command to be sent to.
The fluctuation start command includes a fluctuation pattern command that shows the fluctuation time of the special symbol, a jackpot or small win command that shows the lottery result of the jackpot lottery, a jackpot symbol command that shows the lottery result of the jackpot symbol, and a reach that shows the lottery result of the reach lottery. This includes commands, gaming status commands related to the current gaming status, and the like.

Next, in step S142, the CPU 212 determines whether or not the variation time of the first or second special symbol has passed a predetermined variation time.
If it is determined in step S142 that the predetermined variation time has elapsed, in the subsequent step S143, the variation of the first special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21 is stopped and a predetermined special symbol is displayed.
After this, in step S144, a fluctuation stop command is set, and in the subsequent step S145, a stopping process (FIG. 14), which will be described later, is executed to end the special symbol process.

In addition, if it is determined in step S131 that the special game flag is ON, or if it is determined in step S142 that the variation time of the special symbol has not reached the predetermined variation time, the special symbol process is ended.
Moreover, in step S132, when it is determined that the special symbol is changing, the process proceeds to step S142, and it is determined whether or not the fluctuation time of the special symbol has passed a predetermined fluctuation time.
Further, in step S135, if it is determined that the number of items on hold U1 is not ≧1, that is, if it is determined that the number of items on hold U1 or U2 is not on hold, in step S146, the customer waiting setting process shown in FIG. 10 is executed. Finish special symbol processing.

[Customer waiting setting process]
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a customer waiting setting process executed by the CPU of the main control board.
In step S151, the CPU 212 determines whether or not the customer waiting flag is ON. If the CPU 212 determines that the customer waiting flag is ON, the CPU 212 ends the customer waiting setting process.
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S151 that the customer waiting flag is not ON, a customer waiting command is set in step S152, and in the subsequent step S153, the customer waiting flag is turned ON, and the customer waiting setting process is ended.
It should be noted that the customer waiting flag is turned from OFF to ON when the state is not a jackpot state and no special symbols are reserved for a predetermined period of time.

[Special game judgment processing]
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of special game determination processing executed by the CPU of the main control board.
In step S161, the CPU 212 determines the random number value for special symbol determination stored in the RAM 214, and in the subsequent step S162, determines whether or not the jackpot has been won.
In step S162, if it is determined that the jackpot has been won, in the subsequent step S163, the random number value for jackpot symbol determination stored in the RAM 214 is determined, and in step S164, based on the determination result, the first special symbol A jackpot symbol to be displayed on the display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21 is set, and the special game determination process is ended.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S162 that the jackpot has not been won, then in step S165, it is determined whether or not the small hit has been won based on the random number value for special symbol determination.
In step S165, if it is determined that the small winning has been won, in the subsequent step S166, the small winning symbol to be displayed on the first special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21 is set, and the special game determination process is performed. end.
In addition, in step S165, if it is determined that the small hit has not been won, in step S167, a losing symbol to be displayed on the first special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21 is set, and the special game determination process is performed. end.

[Variation pattern selection process]
FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of a variation pattern selection process executed by the CPU of the main control board.
First, in step S171, the CPU 212 determines whether or not the time saving flag indicating the time saving gaming state is ON. If it is determined in step S171 that the time-saving flag is ON, in the subsequent step S172, a time-saving game state table is set as the fluctuation pattern table, and the process proceeds to step S174.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S171 that the time-saving flag is not ON, in step S173, a table for non-time-saving gaming states is set as the fluctuation pattern table, and the process proceeds to step S174.
Next, in step S174, the CPU 212 determines the previously obtained fluctuation pattern random value, and in subsequent step S175, sets a fluctuation pattern based on the set fluctuation pattern table and the fluctuation pattern random value. Then, the variation pattern selection process ends.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a variation pattern table, in which (a) is a diagram showing an example of a variation pattern table for a non-time-saving gaming state, and (b) is a diagram showing an example of a variation pattern table for a time-saving gaming state.

First, the variable pattern table for the non-time-saving gaming state shown in FIG. 13(a) will be explained.
In the fluctuation pattern table for the non-time-saving game state shown in FIG. A long variation pattern 1 of 90 seconds is selected. When variation pattern 1 is selected, a winning effect with reach A is performed.

Further, when the random number value for special symbol determination is a jackpot of "3" and the variation pattern random number value is "90 to 179", variation pattern 2 in which the variation time is 60 seconds is selected. When variation pattern 2 is selected, a winning effect with reach B is performed.
In addition, in the case of a small hit with a random number value for special symbol determination of "150, 200, 250", variation pattern 3 with a variation time of 60 seconds will be used regardless of the selected variation pattern random number value "0 to 179". select. When variation pattern 3 is selected, a chance performance is performed.

Next, a case where the random number value for special symbol determination is a loss other than "3, 150, 200, 250" and the gaming state is a non-time-saving gaming state will be explained.
If the special symbol determination random value is a loss, a fluctuation pattern is determined based on the number of reserved balls of the first special symbol, the reach determination random value, the fluctuation pattern random value, etc.
Specifically, if the total number of reserved balls of the first and second special symbols is "0 to 2" and the random number for reach determination is "22 to 249" and there is no reach, the selected fluctuation pattern Regardless of the random number value "0 to 179", a variation pattern 4 in which the variation time is 12 seconds is selected. When variation pattern 4 is selected, normal variation A is performed.

On the other hand, the total number of reserved balls of the first and second special symbols is "0 to 2", the random number for reach determination is "0 to 21" with reach, and the fluctuation pattern random number is "0 to 29". In this case, variation pattern 5 in which the variation time is 90 seconds is selected. When variation pattern 5 is selected, a loss effect with reach A is performed.
In addition, the total number of reserved balls of the first and second special symbols is "0 to 2", the random number for reach judgment is "0 to 21" with reach, and the fluctuating pattern random number is "30 to 179". In this case, variation pattern 6 in which the variation time is 30 seconds is selected. When variation pattern 6 is selected, a loss effect with reach B is performed.

Next, if the total number of reserved balls of the first and second special symbols is "3" and the random number for reach determination is "22 to 249" and there is no reach, the selected fluctuation pattern random number "0"179'', the variation pattern 7 in which the variation time is 8 seconds is selected. When variation pattern 7 is selected, normal variation B is performed.
Also, if the total number of reserved balls of the first and second special symbols is "3", the random number for reach determination is "0-21" with reach, and the variable pattern random number is "0-29", , select variation pattern 5 in which the above-mentioned variation time is 90 seconds.
In addition, if the total number of reserved balls of the first and second special symbols is "3", the random number for reach determination is "0-21" with reach, and the variable pattern random number is "30-179", , select variation pattern 6 in which the above-mentioned variation time is 30 seconds.

In addition, if the total number of reserved balls of the first and second special symbols is "4 to 8" and the random number for reach determination is "22 to 249" and there is no reach, the selected fluctuation pattern random number " 0 to 179'', select variation pattern 8 in which the variation time is 4 seconds. When variation pattern 8 is selected, shortening variation A is performed.
In addition, the total number of reserved balls of the first and second special symbols is "4 to 8", the random number for reach judgment is "0 to 21" with reach, and the fluctuating pattern random number is "0 to 29". In this case, variation pattern 5 in which the above-mentioned variation time is 90 seconds is selected.
In addition, the total number of reserved balls of the first and second special symbols is "4 to 8", the random number for reach determination is "0 to 21" with reach, and the fluctuation pattern random number is "30 to 179". In this case, variation pattern 6 in which the above-mentioned variation time is 30 seconds is selected.

Next, the time-saving gaming state variation pattern table shown in FIG. 13(b) will be explained. In addition, the variation pattern table for the time-saving gaming state shown in FIG. 13(b) is the same as the variation pattern table for the non-time-saving gaming state shown in FIG. Therefore, the explanation will be omitted, and only the case where the random number value for special symbol determination is a loss and the gaming state is the time-saving gaming state will be explained here.

If the special symbol determination random value is a loss, a fluctuation pattern is determined based on the number of reserved balls of the second special symbol, the reach determination random value, the fluctuation pattern random value, etc.
Specifically, if the total number of reserved balls of the first and second special symbols is "0 to 5" and the random value for reach determination is "22 to 249" and there is no reach, the selected fluctuation pattern Regardless of the random number value "0 to 179", a variation pattern 4 in which the variation time is 12 seconds is selected. When variation pattern 4 is selected, normal variation A is performed.

On the other hand, the total number of reserved balls of the first and second special symbols is "0 to 5", the random number for reach judgment is "0 to 21" with reach, and the fluctuation pattern random number is "0 to 29". In this case, variation pattern 5 in which the variation time is 90 seconds is selected. When variation pattern 5 is selected, a loss effect with reach A is performed.
In addition, the total number of reserved balls of the first and second special symbols is "0 to 5", the random number for reach determination is "0 to 21" with reach, and the fluctuating pattern random number is "30 to 179". In this case, variation pattern 6 in which the variation time is 30 seconds is selected. When variation pattern 6 is selected, a loss effect with reach B is performed.

On the other hand, if the total number of reserved balls of the first and second special symbols is "6 to 8" and the random number for reach judgment is "22 to 249" and there is no reach, the selected fluctuation pattern random number " 0 to 179'', select variation pattern 9 in which the variation time is 2 seconds. When variation pattern 9 is selected, shortening variation B is performed.
In addition, the total number of reserved balls of the first and second special symbols is "6 to 8", the random number for reach judgment is "0 to 21" with reach, and the fluctuating pattern random number is "0 to 29". In this case, the variation pattern 5 is selected.
In addition, the total number of reserved balls of the first and second special symbols is "6 to 8", the random number for reach judgment is "0 to 21" with reach, and the fluctuation pattern random number is "30 to 179". In this case, the variation pattern 6 is selected.

In addition, in this embodiment, when winning a jackpot, the fluctuation pattern is determined based on the random number value for special symbol determination and the fluctuation pattern random value, but this is just an example, and the random number value for special symbol determination The variation pattern may be determined based on the random number value for jackpot symbol determination, or the variation pattern may be determined based on the random number value for special symbol determination, the random number value for jackpot symbol determination, and the fluctuation pattern random number value.

[Stopped processing]
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing an example of the stop processing executed by the CPU of the main control board.
In step S181, the CPU 212 determines whether the time-saving flag is ON, and if it is determined that the time-saving flag is ON, in the subsequent step S182, the number of remaining games of the time-saving game stored in the RAM 214 is determined. Subtract "1" from J.

Next, in step S183, the CPU 212 determines whether the remaining number of games J is "0" or not, and if the remaining number of games J is "0", the variable display of the special symbol in the time saving game is changed to a predetermined value. This means that the process has been performed a number of times (for example, 100 times), so in the subsequent step S184, the time saving flag is turned OFF.
Note that if it is determined in step S181 that the time saving flag is not ON, or if it is determined in step S183 that the number of remaining games J is not "0", the process moves to step S185.

Next, in the following step S185, the CPU 212 determines whether or not the high accuracy flag is ON, and if it is determined that the high accuracy flag is ON, in the following step S186, the CPU 212 determines whether or not the high accuracy flag is ON. Subtract "1" from the remaining number of games X of the high probability game.
Next, in step S187, the CPU 212 determines whether the remaining number of games X is "0" or not, and if the remaining number of games X is "0", the special symbols are not displayed in a variable manner in the high probability game. This means that the process has been performed a predetermined number of times (for example, 10,000 times), so in the subsequent step S188, the high accuracy flag is turned OFF.
Note that if it is determined in step S185 that the high accuracy flag is not ON, or if it is determined in step S187 that the number of remaining games X is not "0", the process moves to step S189.

Next, in step S189, the CPU 212 determines whether or not it is a jackpot based on the special symbols set in the first special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21, and if it is determined that it is not a jackpot, Then, in step S190, it is determined whether the set special symbol is a "small hit" or not. Here, if it is determined that it is a small win, the small win game flag is turned on in step S191. Thereafter, in step S192, a jackpot opening is started, and in step S193, a jackpot opening command is set, and the stopped processing is ended.

On the other hand, in step S190, if it is determined that there is no small win, the fluctuation stopping process is ended without turning on the small win game flag.
In addition, if it is determined in step S189 that it is a jackpot, then in step S194 it is determined whether the jackpot is a long hit or not, and if it is determined that it is a long hit, in step S195, a long The winning game flag (special game flag) is turned ON, and if not, the short winning game flag (special game flag) is turned ON in step S196. After that, in step S197, the remaining number of games J of the time-saving game and the remaining number of games X of the high-probability game are set to "0", and the remaining number of games J/X is reset, and then, in step S198, the time-saving flag Then, the high accuracy flag is turned OFF and the process proceeds to step S192.

[Auxiliary pattern processing]
FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of auxiliary symbol processing executed by the CPU of the main control board.
In step S201, the CPU 212 determines whether or not the auxiliary game flag is ON, and if it is determined that the auxiliary game flag is ON, it ends the auxiliary symbol processing.
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S201 that the auxiliary game flag is not ON, it is determined in step S202 whether or not the auxiliary symbols are changing. If it is determined in step S202 that the auxiliary symbol is not changing, it is determined in step S203 whether or not the gate passing number G, which stores the number of times the game ball has passed through the gate SW15a, is greater than "1". If the gate passing number G is more than "1", "1" is subtracted from the gate passing number G in the following step S204, and if it is determined that the gate passing number G is not more than "1", that is, "0". If so, the auxiliary symbol processing ends.

Next, in step S205, the CPU 212 determines the random number value for auxiliary symbol determination, in the subsequent step S206, sets a stop symbol to be stopped and displayed on the auxiliary symbol display device 22, and in step S207, sets a fluctuation time. .
Here, the variation time of the auxiliary symbol may be set to, for example, 4.0 seconds if the time saving flag is OFF, and to 1.5 seconds, for example, if the time saving flag is ON.

Next, in step S209, the CPU 212 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed in the variation time of the auxiliary symbol, and if it is determined that the predetermined variation time has elapsed, the variation is stopped in step S210. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S209 that the variation time of the auxiliary symbol has not elapsed for a predetermined period of time, the auxiliary symbol process is ended.
Next, in step S211, the CPU 212 determines whether or not the auxiliary symbol is a winning symbol. If the auxiliary symbol is a winning symbol, in step S212, the CPU 212 turns on the auxiliary game flag and processes the auxiliary symbol. end.
In addition, in step S211, if it is determined that the stop symbol is not a winning symbol, the auxiliary symbol process is ended without turning on the auxiliary game flag.
If it is determined in step S202 that the auxiliary symbol is changing, the process proceeds to step S209, and it is determined whether or not the auxiliary symbol fluctuation time has passed a predetermined fluctuation time.

[Big winning opening processing]
FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of the big winning opening process executed by the CPU of the main control board.
In step S221, the CPU 212 determines whether the small winning game flag or the special game flag is ON, and if it is determined that the small winning game flag or the special game flag is ON, in step S222, the opening It is determined whether or not it is inside. If it is determined in step S222 that the jackpot opening is in progress, then in step S223 it is determined whether or not the opening time has elapsed. If it is determined in step S223 that the opening time has elapsed, in the subsequent step S224, the value of the number of rounds R is set to "0" and the number of rounds (R number)/operation pattern is set.

FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of setting the number of rounds/operation pattern. For example, if the special game is a long game with a normal time saving, the number of rounds (R number) is 4R, and the operation pattern in 1R is 29. .Set to open for 5 seconds x 1 time. Further, if the jackpot is a short hit with a normal time saving, the number of rounds (R number) is set to 2R, and the operation pattern during 1R is set to 0.1 seconds open x 1 time. Furthermore, if the jackpot is a long hit with a high probability of time saving, the number of rounds (R number) is set to 16R, the operation pattern during 1R is set to 29.5 seconds open x 1 time, and the jackpot is a short win with a high probability of time saving. And if it is a high probability short hit with no time saving, the number of rounds (R number) is set to 2R and the operation pattern during 1R is set to 0.1 seconds open x 1 time.
If it is a small hit, for example, the number of rounds (R number) is set to 1R, and the operation pattern during 1R is set to 0.1 seconds open x 2 times.

Next, in step S225, the CPU 212 sets a number counter C indicating the number of winnings per round to the first big winning hole 16 or the second big winning hole 17 to "0", and in the following step S226, Add "1" to the value of the number of rounds R. Then, in the subsequent step S227, the operation of the first big winning hole 16 or the second big winning hole 17 is started. In other words, either the first big winning opening 16 or the second big winning opening 17 is changed from the closed state to the open state.

Next, in step S228, the CPU 212 determines whether or not the operating time of the first big winning hole 16 or the second big winning hole 17 has passed a predetermined time, and determines whether the operating time has not passed the predetermined time. If it is determined that, in the subsequent step S229, it is determined whether the value of the number counter C has reached the specified number.
In step S229, if it is determined that the value of the number counter C is the specified number C, then in step S230, the operation of the first big winning hole 16 or the second big winning hole 17 is ended. In other words, the first big winning hole 16 or the second big winning hole 17, which is in the open state, is brought into the closed state.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the value of the number counter C has not reached the specified number, the big winning opening process is ended.
In addition, in step S228, if the operating time of the first big winning hole 16 or the second big winning hole 17 has passed the predetermined operating time, the process of step S229 is skipped and the number of pieces in the number counter C is Without checking, the operation of the first big winning hole 16 or the second big winning hole 17 is ended in step S230.

Next, the CPU 212 determines whether the number of jackpot rounds is the maximum number of rounds R in step S231. In other words, it is determined whether the jackpot round is the final round.
If it is determined in step S231 that the jackpot round is the final round, an ending is started in step S232, and an ending command is set in step S233.

Next, the CPU 212 sets the value of the number of rounds R to "0" in step S234. After that, in step S235, it is determined whether or not the ending time has elapsed, and if it is determined that the ending time has elapsed, then in the subsequent step S236, a game state setting process to be described later is executed. After that, in step S237, the special game flag is turned OFF and the big winning opening process is ended.

In addition, if it is determined in step S222 that the opening of the jackpot is not in progress, it is determined in step S238 whether or not the ending is in progress. If it is determined that the ending is in progress, the process proceeds to step S235, and If it is determined not to be the case, it is determined in step S239 whether or not the big prize opening is in operation.

In step S239, if it is determined that the first big winning hole 16 or the second big winning hole 17 is in operation, the process moves to step S228, and the first big winning hole 16 or the second big winning hole 17 is in operation. If it is determined that this is not the case, the process moves to step S225.
In addition, in step S221, when it is determined that the opening time has not elapsed, the big winning a prize opening process is ended. Similarly, in step S229, it is determined that the value of the number counter C has not reached the specified number, in step S231, it is determined that the jackpot round is not the final round, or in step S235, the ending time has elapsed. If it is determined that there is no such thing, the big winning opening process is also terminated.

[Game status setting process]
FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing an example of the game state setting process executed by the CPU of the main control board.
First, in step S241, the CPU 212 determines whether or not it is a small win. If it is determined that it is a small win, the CPU 212 ends the game state setting process.
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S241 that it is not a small win, then in step S242 it is determined whether or not it is a normal win (long win with normal time saving or short win with normal time saving), and it is determined whether it is a normal win. If it is determined that, in step S243, the time saving flag is turned ON, and in step S244, the remaining number of games J of the time saving game is set to, for example, "100", and the game state setting process is ended.

In addition, if it is determined in step S242 that it is not a normal win, it is a jackpot that gives a high probability game, so in step S245 the high probability flag is turned ON, and in step S246, the number of remaining games of the high probability game is For example, set "10000" to X.

Next, in step S247, the CPU 212 determines whether or not the win is a time-saving win. If it is determined that the win is a time-saving win, in step S248, the CPU 212 turns on the time-saving flag, and in step S249 In this step, the number of remaining games J of the time-saving game is set to, for example, "10000", and the game state setting process is ended. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S247 that there is no time-saving win, the time-saving flag is turned OFF in step S250, and the remaining number of games J of the time-saving game is reset in step S251, and the game state setting process is ended. .

[Second starting port opening process]
FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing an example of the second starting port opening process executed by the CPU of the main control board.
In step S261, the CPU 212 determines whether the auxiliary game flag is ON, and if it is determined that the auxiliary game flag is ON, then in step S262, the second starting port opening/closing door 14b is activated. It is determined whether or not it is inside. In step S262, if the second starting opening opening/closing door 14b is not operating (opening), in step S263, an operation pattern of the second starting opening opening/closing door 14b is set according to the gaming state, and in step S264, the second starting opening opening/closing door 14b is set. 2. Start operation of the starting port opening/closing door 14b.
Here, the operation pattern (time) of the second starting port opening/closing door 14b to be set is, for example, if the time saving flag is OFF, it is opened for 0.15 seconds x 1 time, and if the time saving flag is ON, it is opened for 1.80 seconds. It is conceivable to set the number of times to be opened three times.

Next, in step S265, the CPU 212 determines whether or not the operating time of the second starting port opening/closing door 14b has passed a predetermined time, and if it is determined that the predetermined operating time has elapsed, step S266 In this step, the auxiliary game flag is turned OFF and the second starting port opening process is completed.
Note that if it is determined in step S262 that the second starting port opening/closing door 14b is in operation, the process moves to step S265.
Further, if it is determined in step S261 that the auxiliary game flag is not ON, or if it is determined in step S265 that the operating time of the second starting port 14 has not elapsed, the second starting port opening process is ended. .

In this way, in the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, for example, when the special symbols displayed on the first special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21 have stopped changing, the first starting port 13 is opened. When a game ball enters the ball, this entry is used as an opportunity to obtain random numbers for special symbol determination, random number values for jackpot symbol determination, random number values for reach determination, etc. by lottery, and the first special symbol display device 20 Display special symbols in a variable manner. Then, when it is determined that the acquired random number value for special symbol determination has won the special game, the first special symbol on the first special symbol display device 20 is stopped at a specific symbol. After this, any one of the above-mentioned special games of long winning, short winning, or small winning is executed.

During the long winning game, a ball can be won by shooting a game ball aiming at the first big winning hole 16 or the second big winning hole 17 which is in an open state.
On the other hand, during a short winning game, the opening time of the big prize opening is extremely short, so even if you fire the game ball aiming at the first big winning hole 16 or the second big winning hole 17, you will hardly get any balls. It is now impossible to do so.

Similarly, for example, if a game ball enters the second starting port 14 while the special symbol displayed on the first special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21 has stopped changing, this input ball enters the second starting port 14. Taking the ball as an opportunity, a random number value for special symbol determination, a random number value for jackpot symbol determination, a random number value for reach determination, etc. are obtained by lottery, and the second special symbol on the second special symbol display device 21 is displayed in a variable manner.
Then, when it is determined that the acquired special symbol determination random number value has won the special game, the second special symbol on the second special symbol display device 21 is stopped at a specific symbol. After this, a special game of either the above-mentioned jackpot (long win or short win) or small win is executed. During the long winning game, a ball can be won by shooting a game ball aiming at the first big winning hole 16 or the second big winning hole 17 which is open for a predetermined period of time. On the other hand, as above, during short winning games, the opening time of the big winning hole is extremely short, so even if you shoot the game ball aiming at the first big winning hole 16 or the second big winning hole 17, you will almost never get a ball. It is no longer possible to do so.

After the jackpot game ends, based on the lottery results of random numbers for jackpot symbol determination, as a bonus game, a normal time-saving game in which a time-saving game with opening support of the second starting opening opening/closing door 14b is performed for a predetermined period, the above-mentioned time-saving game and a jackpot Either a high-probability time-saving game where you play a high-probability game with a high probability of winning for a predetermined period (so-called variable probability game), or a high-probability non-time-saving game where you play only high-probability games for a predetermined period (so-called latent probability variable game). Shift to the game state.
The high probability game is continued until the number of variations of the special symbol reaches a preset number (for example, 10,000 times) or until the player wins the jackpot again.

On the other hand, time-saving games continue until the number of changes in the special symbol reaches a preset number (for example, 100 times for normal time-saving games, 10,000 times for high-probability time-saving games) or until you win the jackpot again. It is done as follows.
Also, during the time-saving game, the varying time from the start of the variation of the special symbol to the stop of the variation is set to be shorter than that during the normal game, and the winning probability of the auxiliary symbol is set to a higher probability than during the normal game.
Furthermore, the opening time of the second starting opening opening/closing door 14b at the time of winning the auxiliary symbol is set longer than during the normal game.
Therefore, during the time-saving game, the winning rate of the game ball to the second starting port 14 is higher than during the normal game, so the player can shoot the game ball aiming at the second starting port 14 during the normal game. Compared to this, gaming efficiency can be significantly increased.

Furthermore, in the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, when a game ball enters the second starting port 14, the probability of winning a jackpot is more advantageous to the player than when a game ball enters the first starting port 13. Since this is higher, the player is more likely to win a jackpot advantageous to the player during the time-saving game than during the normal game.

Next, the processing executed by the production control board 120 will be explained.
[Timer interrupt processing]
FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing an example of a timer interrupt process executed by the CPU of the production control board. Note that the timer interrupt process shown in FIG. 20 can be realized by the sub CPU 121 of the production control board 120 executing a program stored in the ROM 223.
In this case, the sub CPU 121 of the production control board 120 executes command reception processing (step S310), production button processing (step S320), command transmission processing (step S330), etc. as timer interrupt processing.

Next, an example of a main process executed by the sub CPU 121 of the production control board 120 as a timer interrupt process will be described. Note that the processing described below can also be realized by the sub CPU 121 of the production control board 120 executing a program stored in the ROM 223.

[Command reception processing]
FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing an example of a command reception process executed by the CPU of the production control board.
In step S401, the sub CPU 121 determines whether or not the command to increase the number of reservations has been received, and if it is determined that the command to increase the number of reservations has been received, the sub CPU 121 executes a command reception process to increase the number of reservations in step S402.

Next, in step S403, the sub CPU 121 determines whether or not a fluctuation start command has been received, and if it is determined that a fluctuation start command has been received, then in the subsequent step S404, the sub CPU 121 executes an effect selection process.
The performance selection process in step S404 is a process for selecting a performance to be performed while the special symbols are changing.
Note that if it is determined in step S403 that the fluctuation start command has not been received, the process proceeds to step S405 without executing the effect selection process.

Next, in step S405, the sub CPU 121 determines whether or not a fluctuation stop command has been received, and if it is determined that a fluctuation stop command has been received, in the subsequent step S406, the sub CPU 121 executes a process during the end of fluctuation production. .
The processing during the completion of the variation performance includes analysis of the variation stop command, various processes such as changing a mode flag based on the analysis result, processing for setting a variation production end command, and the like.
In addition, in step S405, if it is determined that the fluctuation stop command has not been received, the process proceeds to step S407 without executing the fluctuation production completion process.

Next, in step S407, the sub CPU 121 determines whether or not an opening command has been received. If it is determined that an opening command has been received, the sub CPU 121 executes a special game performance selection process in the subsequent step S408.
The special game performance selection process includes analysis of an opening command, special game performance pattern selection process, and processing for setting an opening performance start command.
Note that if it is determined in step S407 that the opening command has not been received, the process proceeds to step S409 without executing the special game performance selection process.

Next, in step S409, the sub CPU 121 determines whether or not an ending command for executing the ending effect selection process has been received, and if it is determined that the ending command has been received, in the subsequent step S410, the sub CPU 121 performs the ending effect selection process. Execute processing.
Examples of the ending effect selection process include analysis of an ending command, selection of an ending effect pattern, and processing for setting an ending effect start command.

Note that if it is determined in step S409 that the ending command has not been received, the process proceeds to step S411 without executing the ending effect selection process.
Next, in step S411, the sub CPU 121 executes a customer waiting command reception process, and ends the command reception process.

[Production selection process]
FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing an example of the production selection process executed by the CPU of the production control board.
In this case, the sub CPU 121 first analyzes the fluctuation start command in step S421, and subtracts the number of reserved balls stored in the RAM 224 in the subsequent step S422.
Next, in step S423, a variable effect pattern is selected based on the analysis result of the variable start command, and in the subsequent step S424, a variable effect start command is set, and the effect selection process is ended.

[Processing while the variable performance is ending]
FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing an example of the process during the end of the variable performance executed by the CPU of the performance control board.
In this case, the sub CPU 121 analyzes the fluctuation stop command in step S431, performs various processing such as changing the mode flag based on the analysis result, and then sets a fluctuation effect end command in the next step S432. Then, the process during the completion of the variable performance ends.

[Opening production selection process]
FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing an example of the winning effect selection process executed by the CPU of the effect control board.
In this case, the sub CPU 121 analyzes the opening command in step S441, and performs a winning effect pattern selection process in the subsequent step S442. Thereafter, in step S443, an opening performance start command is set, and the opening performance selection process is ended.

[Ending effect selection process]
FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing an example of the ending effect selection process executed by the CPU of the effect control board.
In this case, the sub CPU 121 analyzes the ending command in step S451, and selects an ending effect pattern in the subsequent step S452. After that, in step S453, an ending effect start command is set, and the ending effect selection process is ended.

Below, the display mode and display control of the image display unit 31, which is a characteristic configuration of the gaming machine of this embodiment, will be explained.
As described above, the image display unit 31 according to the present embodiment includes a first liquid crystal module 31a that performs color display using a first method using color filters, and a first liquid crystal module 31a that performs color display using a second method that does not use color filters. This is a display device that combines two liquid crystal modules 31b.
In the image display unit 31, a backlight 100, a first liquid crystal module 31a, and a second liquid crystal module 31b are arranged from the back side as seen from the player.
In this specification, the term "backlight" refers to a light guide plate or light emitting plate such as an acrylic plate that emits light from a surface by guiding light incident from an LED as a light source toward the front side.

Before explaining the characteristic configuration of the image display unit 31 of this embodiment, the basic configurations of the first liquid crystal module 31a and the second liquid crystal module 31b will be explained.
<Basic configuration of the first liquid crystal module>
FIG. 26 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the basic configuration of the first liquid crystal module.
Generally, a liquid crystal display device includes a white LED 115W serving as a light source, a backlight (light guide plate) 100 that emits light from the LED 115W, and a first liquid crystal module 31a disposed on the front side of the backlight 100. The white LED 115W emits white light, and the backlight 100 emits white light. White light emitted from the backlight 100 enters the first liquid crystal module 31a.
Note that in the image display unit 31 of this embodiment, which will be described in detail later, the light incident on the first liquid crystal module 31a is not the white backlight light from the white LED 115W, but is sequentially emitted based on the second method of color display. Multi-color backlight that can be switched. However, the function as a liquid crystal module is the same, and the case where a white LED 115W is used will be explained.
Briefly, the first liquid crystal module 31a includes a layer in which liquid crystal molecules are arranged (liquid crystal molecule layer), a color filter laminated on the front side of the layer, and a polarizing filter. In the color filter, one pixel is composed of sub-pixels of three colors: R (red), G (green), and B (blue).

Note that in this specification, a liquid crystal molecule layer in which liquid crystal molecules are arranged is sometimes simply referred to as a liquid crystal molecule or a liquid crystal for simplicity of explanation.
Although the function of the liquid crystal molecules will be described in detail later, the liquid crystal molecules of the first liquid crystal module 31a are driven by a drive signal (drive voltage) applied from the LCD driver 36a based on the video signal from the VDP 200.
The liquid crystal molecules driven based on the drive signal perform polarization control on the light that has entered the liquid crystal molecule layer so that it can or cannot be emitted from the polarizing filter after passing through the color filter of each sub-pixel.

In FIG. 26, for example, for one pixel of the first liquid crystal module 31a, the light emitted from the R sub-pixel (color filter) can pass through the polarizing filter, and the light emitted from the G sub-pixel (color filter) If the liquid crystal molecules are controlled so that the light emitted from the B sub-pixel (color filter) cannot pass through the polarizing filter, that pixel emits R (red) light.
Regarding another pixel, the light emitted from the G sub-pixel (color filter) can pass through the polarizing filter, and the light emitted from the R sub-pixel (color filter) can pass through the polarizing filter, If the liquid crystal molecules are controlled so that the light emitted from the B sub-pixel (color filter) cannot pass through the polarizing filter, that pixel emits G (green) light.
When expressing a neutral color in one pixel, the liquid crystal molecules are controlled so that the light emitted from all sub-pixels (color filters) can pass through the polarizing filter, while the amount of light entering each sub-pixel (liquid crystal molecules The liquid crystal molecules are controlled to adjust the amount of light emitted from the layer.
By controlling the driving of liquid crystal molecules corresponding to sub-pixels for all pixels, the entire image can be displayed on the screen.

Display control of the first liquid crystal module will be explained in detail using FIGS. 27 to 31.
FIG. 27 is a schematic diagram showing a laminated structure of elements constituting the first liquid crystal module.
As shown in FIG. 27, the first liquid crystal module 31a includes, from the backlight 100 side, an incident side polarizing filter 101a, a glass substrate 102a, an incident side transparent electrode 103a, an incident side light distribution film 104a, a liquid crystal molecule 105a, an output side polarizing filter 101a, A light film 106a, a transparent electrode 107a on the output side, a color filter 108, and a polarizing filter 109a on the output side are laminated.
A current for applying a voltage to the liquid crystal molecules 105a is applied to the incident side transparent electrode 103a and the output side transparent electrode 107a. That is, a driving voltage for driving the liquid crystal molecules 105a is applied between the incident side transparent electrode 103a and the output side transparent electrode 107a.

The function of a liquid crystal module in a typical driving method will be explained below. Although the function of the first liquid crystal module will be explained, the second liquid crystal module described later also performs the same function.
As will be described later, the second liquid crystal module 31b includes, from the backlight 100 side, an incident side polarizing filter 101b, a glass substrate 102b, an incident side transparent electrode 103b, an incident side light distribution film 104b, a liquid crystal molecule 105b, and an output side light distribution film 106b. , an output-side transparent electrode 107b, and an output-side polarizing filter 109b are laminated.
In the following description of the function of the liquid crystal module in a typical drive method, the elements that the first liquid crystal module 31a and the second liquid crystal module 31b have in common will not be distinguished by the symbols a and b. explain.

FIG. 28 is a diagram illustrating the basic operation of a TN type liquid crystal module.
In a liquid crystal module that adopts the TN (Twisted Nematic) method, when the voltage applied to the liquid crystal molecules is OFF, the liquid crystal molecules 105 are arranged horizontally, so that the light incident from the input side polarizing filter 101 is transferred from the output side polarizing filter 109. The light emitted from the color filter 108 is controlled by allowing the light to pass through, or by blocking the light by the output-side polarizing filter 109 due to the rise of liquid crystal molecules when the voltage is ON, to perform color display.
As shown in FIG. 28(a), the liquid crystal molecules 105 have a property of aligning along the grooves provided in the light distribution film. When a liquid crystal molecule 105 is sandwiched between two light distribution films (incidence side light distribution film 104, exit side light distribution film 106) having grooves in directions perpendicular to each other (a direction, b direction), the liquid crystal molecule 105 has 90 Twisted and arranged.

As shown in FIG. 28(b), when no voltage is applied to the liquid crystal molecules 105, the light L from the backlight 100 that enters the light distribution film 104 on the incident side has a polarization plane according to the twist direction of the liquid crystal molecules 105. The light rotates 90 degrees, exits from the light distribution film 106 on the exit side, and enters a color filter 108 (not shown).
As shown in FIG. 28C, when a voltage is applied to the liquid crystal molecules 105 through the transparent electrode 103, the liquid crystal molecules 105 are aligned along the electric field in a direction perpendicular to the main surfaces of the light distribution films 104 and 106. As a result, the light L from the backlight 100 that has entered the light distribution film 104 on the input side exits the light distribution film 106 on the output side and enters the color filter 108 (not shown) without the plane of polarization rotating.

FIG. 29 is a diagram illustrating in more detail the function of the TN type liquid crystal module.
As described with reference to FIG. 27 for the first liquid crystal module 31a, the liquid crystal molecules 105, light distribution films 104 and 106, and transparent electrode 103 in FIG. 28 are further sandwiched between polarizing filters 101 and 108.
The polarization direction of the input side polarizing filter 101 is the a direction, and the polarization direction of the output side polarizing filter 109 is the b direction, and the a direction and the b direction are orthogonal to each other. That is, the polarization directions of the incident side polarizing filter 101 and the output side polarizing filter 109 are orthogonal to each other.
The polarization direction of the input side polarizing filter 101 and the direction of the grooves of the input side light distribution film 104 are parallel to each other in the a direction, and the polarization direction of the output side polarization filter 109 and the direction of the grooves of the output side light distribution film 106 are parallel to each other. is in the b direction.

The light L from the backlight 100 is mixed with various lights with different directions of polarization planes, but when the light L enters the polarizing filter 101 on the incident side, the polarization plane becomes light in the a direction due to the action of the polarizing filter. Only La is emitted and taken out.
The extracted light La is not emitted from the exit-side polarizing filter 109 whose polarization direction is in the b direction, but as explained in FIG. 28, the direction of the polarization plane is twisted by the liquid crystal molecules to be in the b direction. (becomes light Lb), so that it can be output from the output-side polarizing filter 109.
The liquid crystal molecules perform control to switch the polarization plane of the light from the backlight 100 into a state in which the light can pass through the exit-side polarizing filter 109 or a state in which it cannot pass through.

As shown in FIG. 29, when the light L from the backlight 100 enters the incident-side polarizing filter 101, the incident-side polarizing filter 101 emits light La having a plane of polarization in the direction a.
The light La passes through the glass substrate 102 and the incident side transparent electrode 103 (both not shown), and then passes through the incident side light distribution film 104.
As shown in FIG. 29(a), when no voltage is applied to the liquid crystal molecules 105 by the incident-side transparent electrode 103 and the exit-side transparent electrode 107, and the liquid crystal molecules 105 are twisted (as shown in FIG. 28(b) Correspondingly), the light La becomes light Lb whose polarization plane is rotated by 90 degrees to be in the b direction by the liquid crystal molecules 105.
The light Lb passes through the output-side light distribution film 106 and the color filter 108 (not shown), and is output from the output-side polarizing filter 109 whose polarization direction is the b direction.
As a result, light corresponding to the color of the color filter 108 that has passed is emitted from the liquid crystal module, and the sub-pixel emits light.

As shown in FIG. 29(b), when a voltage is applied to the liquid crystal molecules 105 by the incident-side transparent electrode 103 and the exit-side transparent electrode 107, and the liquid crystal molecules 105 are aligned (corresponding to FIG. 28(c) above) , the light La passes through the output-side light distribution film 106 and the color filter 108 (not shown) with its polarization plane unchanged in the direction a, and is blocked by the output-side polarization filter 109 whose polarization direction is in the direction b. As a result, the subpixel does not emit light.
In this way, in the first liquid crystal module 31a, the voltage applied to the liquid crystal molecules 105 is controlled for each color of the color filter 108 (for each subpixel), and the light that has passed through the color filter 108 is controlled from the light distribution film 106 on the output side. By switching between passing and blocking, it is possible to control the light emission and color of each pixel.

FIG. 30 is a diagram illustrating drive control of a liquid crystal module using the VA method.
The basic idea is the same as the above-mentioned TN method, and the laminated structure of each element constituting the liquid crystal module is also the same as the structure shown in FIG. 27.
In the VA method, like the TN method, the voltage applied to the liquid crystal molecules 105 is controlled for each color (sub-pixel) of the color filter to allow or block the light that has passed through the color filter from the light distribution film 106 on the output side. By switching, the light emission and emission color of each pixel are controlled.
The liquid crystal molecules 105 used in the VA (Vertical Alignment) method are aligned in a direction perpendicular to the light distribution film when the voltage applied to the liquid crystal molecules 105 is OFF, as shown in FIG. 30(a). This is the opposite of the TN method.
The light La extracted from the incident side polarizing filter 101 is blocked by the output side polarizing filter 109 without having its polarization plane twisted by the liquid crystal molecules 105. As a result, the subpixel does not emit light.

Conversely, as shown in FIG. 30(b), when the voltage applied to the liquid crystal molecules 105 is ON, the aligned liquid crystal molecules 105 fall down, and the fallen liquid crystal molecules 105 cause birefringence.
Thereby, the light La becomes light Lb whose polarization plane has been rotated by 90 degrees in the b direction, and is emitted from the output side polarizing filter 109. As a result, light corresponding to the color of the color filter 108 (not shown) that has passed is emitted from the liquid crystal module, and the sub-pixel emits light.

FIG. 31 is a timing chart illustrating display control of the first liquid crystal module.
The display of the first liquid crystal module 31a is controlled by a display control signal shown in FIG. 31.
One frame is displayed during an image valid period (pixel valid period, display period) excluding a blanking period in a vertical synchronization period controlled by a vertical synchronization signal.
The gaming machine 1 of this embodiment displays 60 frames of images per second. Therefore, the image valid period per frame is 1/60 second.
Note that if the video (image) data that is the source of the image displayed on the first liquid crystal module 31a is created at 30 frames per second (30 fps), displaying the same image twice will create a pseudo 30 fps speed. It is also possible to display .
In the first liquid crystal module 31a, during the image validity period, the first liquid crystal A liquid crystal drive signal for driving the liquid crystal molecules 105a of the module 31a is input to the liquid crystal drive circuit from the LCD driver 36a of the first liquid crystal module 31a.
The liquid crystal drive signal is a signal generated by the LCD driver 36a based on a video signal input from the VDP 200 to the LCD driver 36a. As a result, each pixel emits light in a desired color, and one frame image is displayed.

The LCD driver 36a inputs a liquid crystal drive signal forming one frame image to the liquid crystal drive circuit based on the video signal from the VDP 200.
The liquid crystal drive circuit of the first liquid crystal module 31a is configured to drive liquid crystal molecules 105a provided between the incident side transparent electrode 103a and the output side transparent electrode 107a of the first liquid crystal module 31a. Apply driving voltage. That is, the liquid crystal drive circuit applies a current to the incident side transparent electrode 103a and the output side transparent electrode 107a based on the input liquid crystal drive signal.
In this example, the LED 115 that is the light source of the backlight 100 emits white light during the image validity period, and the backlight 100 emits white light.

Next, the configuration of the second liquid crystal module 31b will be explained.
The first liquid crystal module 31a described above causes one pixel to continuously emit light in a color corresponding to the displayed image using backlight light during the image effective period (1/60 seconds) for displaying one frame of image. Displays a color image.
Color display for each pixel is achieved by controlling the drive of liquid crystal molecules for each sub-pixel (R (red), G (green), B (blue) color filter) that makes up the pixel and switching whether or not it emits light. are doing.
In contrast, the second liquid crystal module 31b described below does not have the concept of sub-pixels because it performs color display for each pixel.

Although detailed description will be given later, the second liquid crystal module 31b, unlike the first liquid crystal module 31a, performs color display in the following manner without using a color filter.
Three LED light sources capable of emitting light in R (red), G (green), and B (blue) are provided as light sources for a backlight provided on the back surface of the second liquid crystal module 31b. Then, during the image effective period (1/60 second) during which one frame of image is displayed, the LED light source that emits light is switched every 1/180 second, which is one-third of the same period.
As a result, the color of the backlight is switched every 1/180 seconds.

The driving of liquid crystal molecules in the second liquid crystal module 31b is controlled in accordance with the switching timing of the backlight light every 1/180 seconds, and passing or blocking of light in each pixel of the second liquid crystal module 31b can be switched.
As a result, in each pixel of the second liquid crystal module 31b, either R (red), G (green), or B (blue) is displayed at an extremely high speed every 180 seconds, or the backlight is blocked. As a result, no color is displayed.
To the eyes of a person viewing the second liquid crystal module 31b, one or more of R (red), G (green), and B (blue) are combined to produce a color as shown in FIG. 34 below. is visually recognized. As a result, color display is performed on the second liquid crystal module 31b.
Note that if the video (image) data that is the source of the image displayed on the second liquid crystal module 31b is created at 30 frames per second (30 fps), displaying the same image twice will create a pseudo 30 fps speed. It can be displayed in

<Basic configuration of the second liquid crystal module>
FIG. 32 is a schematic diagram showing a laminated structure of elements constituting the second liquid crystal module.
The second liquid crystal module 31b can basically have the same configuration as the first liquid crystal module 31a. Here, the second liquid crystal module 31b does not have the color filter 108, and for example, from the backlight side, the incident side polarizing filter 101b, the glass substrate 102b, the incident side transparent electrode 103b, the incident side light distribution film 104b, the liquid crystal molecule 105b, The light distribution film 106b on the output side, the transparent electrode 107b on the output side, and the polarizing filter 109b on the output side are laminated.
In the second liquid crystal module 31b, during the image validity period, the liquid crystal molecules 105b of the second liquid crystal module 31b are driven so that the emitted light corresponding to each pixel is emitted from the exit side polarizing filter 109b of the second liquid crystal module 31b. The liquid crystal drive signal is input from the LCD driver 36b of the second liquid crystal module 31b to the liquid crystal drive circuit.
The liquid crystal drive signal is a signal generated by the LCD driver 36b based on a video signal input from the VDP 200 to the LCD driver 36b. As a result, each pixel emits light in a desired color, and one frame image is displayed.
The LCD driver 36b inputs a liquid crystal drive signal forming one frame image to the liquid crystal drive circuit based on the video signal from the VDP 200.
The liquid crystal drive circuit of the second liquid crystal module 31b is configured to drive the liquid crystal molecules 105b provided between the incident side transparent electrode 103b and the output side transparent electrode 107b of the second liquid crystal module 31b. Apply driving voltage. That is, the liquid crystal drive circuit of the second liquid crystal module 31b applies a current to the incident side transparent electrode 103b and the output side transparent electrode 107b of the second liquid crystal module 31b based on the input liquid crystal drive signal.

FIG. 33 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the basic configuration of the second liquid crystal module.
Like the first liquid crystal module 31a, the second liquid crystal module 31b performs image display by controlling whether or not the backlight light is emitted from the emission side polarizing filter 109 by driving the liquid crystal molecules 105.
That is, the liquid crystal molecules 105 of the second liquid crystal module 31b switch the plane of polarization of the backlight light using a mechanism similar to that explained in FIGS. You can control whether or not it is possible.

The backlight 100 provided on the back surface of the second liquid crystal module 31b includes a red LED 115R, a green LED 115G, and a blue LED 115B as light sources, and the emitting LEDs can be switched to switch between R (red), G (green), and B. It can emit light in any color (blue).
When backlight light of any color R (red), G (green), or B (blue) enters the second liquid crystal module 31b, liquid crystal molecules are activated based on the liquid crystal drive signal generated by the LCD driver 36b. 105 is driven to switch between passing and blocking backlight light on a pixel-by-pixel basis. Since the mechanism for performing color display is different from that of the first liquid crystal module 31a, the concept of sub-pixels does not exist.

Note that the liquid crystal molecules 105b used in the second liquid crystal module 31b require a response speed (driving speed) three times or more as compared to those used in the first liquid crystal module 31a.
A red LED 115R, a green LED 115G, and a blue LED 115B are arranged on the side or back side of the backlight 100 (light guide plate, light emitting plate, lens), and the LEDs that cause light to enter the backlight 100 are arranged at predetermined intervals (1/180 seconds). can be switched sequentially. Thereby, the backlight 100 can switch its emission color between R (red), G (green), and B (blue) every 1/180 seconds.

During the period in which the backlight 100 emits R (red) light as shown in FIG. ) of the corresponding second liquid crystal module 31b so that the R (red) backlight light in a specific pixel is emitted from the output-side polarizing filter 109b of the second liquid crystal module 31b and the pixel emits R (red) light. Liquid crystal molecules 105b are controlled. For other pixels, the liquid crystal molecules 105b are controlled so that the backlight light is blocked.
As described above, the control of the liquid crystal molecules 105b is performed using a liquid crystal drive signal (R component drive signal) corresponding to the R component of one frame image generated by the LCD driver 36b of the second liquid crystal module 31b based on the video signal from the VDP 200. ).

After 1/180 seconds, during the period in which the backlight 100 emits G (green) as shown in FIG. The G (green) backlight light is emitted from the output-side polarizing filter 109b of the second liquid crystal module 31b at a specific pixel (for which you want to display the color containing the color), so that the corresponding pixel emits G (green) light. The liquid crystal molecules 105b of the second liquid crystal module 31b are controlled. For other pixels, the liquid crystal molecules 105b are controlled so that the backlight light is blocked.
As described above, the liquid crystal molecules 105b are controlled by the liquid crystal drive signal (G component drive signal) corresponding to the G component of one frame image generated by the LCD driver 36b of the second liquid crystal module 31b based on the video signal from the VDP 200. It is done on the basis of

After 1/180 seconds, during the period in which the backlight 100 emits B (blue) as shown in FIG. B (blue) backlight light is emitted from the output-side polarizing filter 109b of the second liquid crystal module 31b in a specific pixel (the color that you want to display) so that the pixel emits B (blue) light. The corresponding liquid crystal molecules 105b are controlled. For other pixels, the liquid crystal molecules 105b are controlled so that the backlight light is blocked.
As described above, the liquid crystal molecules 105b are controlled by the liquid crystal drive signal (B component drive signal) corresponding to the B component of one frame image generated by the LCD driver 36b of the second liquid crystal module 31b based on the video signal from the VDP 200. It is done on the basis of
As a result of controlling the liquid crystal molecules 105b of the second liquid crystal module 31b as shown in FIG. For the pixels on the right side of the figure, "green" is visually recognized, and for the pixels on the right side of the figure, "blue" is visually recognized.

Through such control, it is possible to display one frame of color in the second liquid crystal module 31b, but this is based on the concept explained below.For each pixel of the second liquid crystal module 31b, R (red), G (green), B (blue) is displayed at extremely high speed every 1/180 seconds. Alternatively, no light is emitted due to light being blocked. As a result, the eyes of a person viewing the second liquid crystal module 31b see a color as shown in FIG. 34 below, which is a combination of one or more colors. Depending on the second liquid crystal module 31b, color display can be realized without having a color filter.

FIG. 34 is a diagram illustrating the concept of the second method of color display in the second liquid crystal module.
For example, in an image of one frame (1/60 second), if you want to make a certain pixel of the second liquid crystal module 31b into a transparent state, every 1/180 second, R (red) → G (green) → B (blue) ) and the emitted light color, all of the light is transmitted, and the pixel is in a transmissive state.
In addition, in the image of one frame (1/60 second), if you want a specific pixel of the second liquid crystal module 31b to emit yellow light, every 1/180 second, R (red) emission → G (green) emission → By switching between no light emission due to light blocking and light emission, the human eye perceives a ``yellow'' color for that pixel.
In one frame (1/60 seconds) of an image, if you want a specific pixel of the second liquid crystal module 31b to emit magenta light, every 1/180 seconds R (red) emission → no emission due to light interruption → B ( By switching between light emission (blue) and light emission, the human eye sees ``magenta'' for that pixel.

In an image of one frame (1/60 second), if you want a specific pixel of the second liquid crystal module 31b to emit cyan light, change the sequence from no light emission due to light interruption to G (green) light emission to B ( By switching between light emission (blue) and light emission, the human eye perceives ``cyan'' for that pixel.
If you want a specific pixel of the second liquid crystal module 31b to emit light in R (red) color in one frame (1/60 seconds) of an image, the R (red) emission is changed every 1/180 seconds → no light is blocked. By switching from emitting light to non-emitting light by blocking light and emitting light, the human eye visually perceives "R (red)" for that pixel.
In an image of one frame (1/60 seconds), if you want a specific pixel of the second liquid crystal module 31b to emit light in G (green) color, the light is blocked every 1/180 seconds to emit no light → G (green). By switching from emitting light to non-emitting light by blocking light and emitting light, the human eye perceives "magenta" for that pixel.
In an image of one frame (1/60 second), if you want a specific pixel of the second liquid crystal module 31b to emit light in B (blue) color, change the cycle from no light emission due to light blockage to no light emission due to light blockage every 1/180 seconds. By switching between light emission → B (blue) light emission and light emission, "B (blue)" is visually perceived by the human eye for that pixel.
If you want to express black in a specific pixel of the second liquid crystal module 31b in one frame (1/60 second) of an image, by blocking light for one frame (1/60 second) so that no light is emitted, The human eye visually perceives "black" in that pixel.

FIG. 35 is a timing chart illustrating the display control signal of the second liquid crystal module.
One frame is displayed during the image valid period excluding the blanking period in the vertical synchronization period.
During the image validity period, the LCD driver 36b of the second liquid crystal module 31b inputs current to the red LED 115R, green LED 115G, and blue LED 115B every 1/180 seconds, and as a result, the LEDs that emit light are switched.
The backlight 100 sequentially switches the emission color from R (red) to G (green) to B (blue) every 1/180 seconds.
The LCD driver 36b of the second liquid crystal module 31b generates a liquid crystal drive signal for the R component (R component drive signal) constituting one frame image, and a liquid crystal drive signal for the G component in response to changes in the emission color of the backlight 100. A signal (G component drive signal) and a liquid crystal drive signal for the B component (B component drive signal) are generated.

As will be described later, the R component drive signal is used when the backlight 100 is set to R for a pixel of the second liquid crystal module 31b that is desired to emit light in a color including an R component during a display period of one frame (1/60 seconds). This is a signal for driving and controlling the liquid crystal molecules 105b of the second liquid crystal module 31b so that the light is emitted from the output side polarizing filter 109b of the corresponding second liquid crystal module 31b at the timing of emitting light in red.
In addition, the G component drive signal is used when the backlight 100 is G (green) for a pixel of the second liquid crystal module 31b that is desired to emit light in a color containing a G component during the display period of one frame (1/60 seconds). This is a signal for driving and controlling the liquid crystal molecules 105b so that the light is emitted from the output-side polarizing filter 109b of the corresponding second liquid crystal module 31b at the timing of light emission.
In addition, the B component drive signal is used when the backlight 100 is set to R (red) for a pixel of the second liquid crystal module 31b that is desired to emit light in a color containing the B component during the display period of one frame (1/60 seconds). This is a signal for driving and controlling the liquid crystal molecules 105b so that the light is emitted from the output-side polarizing filter 109b of the corresponding second liquid crystal module 31b at the timing of light emission.

FIG. 36 is a timing chart illustrating display control focusing on one pixel of the second liquid crystal module.
During the image validity period, the LCD driver 36b inputs current to the red LED 115R, green LED 115G, and blue LED 115B every 1/180 seconds, and as a result, the LEDs that emit light are switched.
Note that in all cases shown in FIG. 36, the backlight 100 sequentially switches the emission color from R (red) to G (green) to B (blue) every 1/180 seconds.

(1) When a specific pixel of the second liquid crystal module 31b is desired to be in a transparent state, the backlight 100 emits R (red) light based on the R component drive signal, G component drive signal, and B component drive signal for the pixel. The corresponding liquid crystal molecules 105b are controlled at the timing when the R (red) light is emitted from the output side polarization filter 109b of the second liquid crystal module 31b, and the corresponding liquid crystal molecules 105b are controlled at the timing when the backlight 100 emits G (green) light. 105b to emit G (green) light from the output side polarizing filter 109b, and at the timing when the backlight 100 emits B (blue) light, the corresponding liquid crystal molecules 105b are controlled to output B (from the output side polarizing filter 109b). Blue) emits light.
As a result, the pixel in question emits R (red) light for the first 1/180 second in one frame (1/60 second), G (green) light for the next 1/180 second, and the last 1/180 second. /180 seconds, it emits B (blue) light. As a result, as shown in FIG. 34, the pixel is visually recognized as being in a transparent state in each frame.

(2) When it is desired to cause a specific pixel of the second liquid crystal module 31b to emit yellow light consisting of an R component and a G component, the backlight is At the timing when 100 emits R (red) light, the corresponding liquid crystal molecule 105b is controlled to emit R (red) light from the output side polarizing filter 109b of the second liquid crystal module 31b, and the backlight 100 is G (green). The corresponding liquid crystal molecules 105b are controlled at the timing of light emission to emit G (green) light from the output side polarizing filter 109b, and the corresponding liquid crystal molecules 105b are controlled at the timing of the backlight 100 to emit B (blue) light. No light is allowed to exit from the exit side polarizing filter 109b.
As a result, the pixel in question emits R (red) light for the first 1/180 second in one frame (1/60 second), G (green) light for the next 1/180 second, and the last 1/180 second. /180 seconds, the light is blocked. As a result, as shown in FIG. 34, the pixel is visually recognized as yellow in each frame.

(3) When it is desired to cause a specific pixel of the second liquid crystal module 31b to emit magenta light consisting of an R component and a B component, the backlight is At the timing when 100 emits R (red) light, the corresponding liquid crystal molecule 105b is controlled to emit R (red) light from the output side polarizing filter 109b of the second liquid crystal module 31b, and the backlight 100 is G (green). At the timing of light emission, the corresponding liquid crystal molecule 105b is controlled to prevent light from being emitted from the output side polarizing filter 109b, and at the timing when the backlight 100 emits B (blue) color, the corresponding liquid crystal molecule 105b is controlled to polarize the output side. B (blue) light is emitted from the filter 109b.
As a result, the pixel emits R (red) light for the first 1/180 seconds of one frame (1/60 seconds), the light is blocked for the next 1/180 seconds, and the last 1/180 seconds. Then, it emits light in B (blue) color. As a result, as shown in FIG. 34, the pixel is visually recognized as magenta in each frame.

(4) When it is desired to cause a specific pixel of the second liquid crystal module 31b to emit cyan light consisting of a G component and a B component, the backlight is At the timing when 100 emits R (red) light, the corresponding liquid crystal molecule 105b is controlled so that no light is emitted from the output side polarizing filter 109b of the second liquid crystal module 31b, and the backlight 100 emits G (green) light. controls the corresponding liquid crystal molecule 105b to emit G (green) light from the output side polarizing filter 109b, and controls the corresponding liquid crystal molecule 105b at the timing when the backlight 100 emits B (blue) light to output the output side polarized light. B (blue) light is emitted from the filter 109b.
As a result, the pixel in question is blocked from light for the first 1/180 second in one frame (1/60 second), emits G (green) light for the next 1/180 second, and then emits light in the last 1/180 second. Then, it emits light in B (blue) color. As a result, as explained above, the pixel is visually recognized as cyan in each frame.

(5) When you want to express black with a specific pixel of the second liquid crystal module 31b, the backlight emits R (red) based on the R component drive signal, G component drive signal, and B component drive signal for the pixel. The corresponding liquid crystal molecules 105b are controlled at different timings to prevent light from being emitted from the output side polarizing filter 109b of the second liquid crystal module 31b, and the corresponding liquid crystal molecules 105b are also controlled at the timing when the backlight emits G (green) light. Light is not emitted from the output side polarizing filter 109b, and even when the backlight emits B (blue) light, the corresponding liquid crystal molecule 105b is controlled to prevent light from being output from the output side polarizing filter 109b.
As a result, no light is emitted from the pixel during one frame (1/60 second). As a result, as explained above, the pixel is visually recognized as black in each frame.

The basic configurations and display principles of the first liquid crystal module 31a and second liquid crystal module 31b used in the image display unit 31 of this embodiment have been described above.
Below, the configuration of the image display unit 31 of this embodiment will be explained in detail.
The image display unit 31 of this embodiment has two liquid crystal modules lined up in the depth direction to create an impressive display.
However, as described above, when the two first liquid crystal modules 31a are arranged in front of the backlight, the amount of light emitted from the first liquid crystal module 31a on the front side is about 5% of the amount of light from the backlight. be.
On the other hand, increasing the amount of light from the backlight increases power consumption, and in gaming machines with limited power supply capacity, problems arise in terms of performance, such as having to reduce the number of accessories. This is also undesirable from the standpoint of energy saving.
Furthermore, increasing the amount of light from the backlight increases the temperature of the liquid crystal display unit. The heat resistance temperature of a typical liquid crystal module is about 0 degrees to 50 degrees, and exceeding this temperature can cause problems. Although this problem can be solved by using a liquid crystal module with specifications that have a high heat resistance, this will cause an increase in costs.

These problems can be solved by using the second display method for the liquid crystal module placed on the front side (placing the second liquid crystal module 31b on the front side of the first liquid crystal module 31a).
The second method, in which the amount of light per pixel is not divided by sub-pixels, has clearly better light efficiency than the first method, in which the amount of light per pixel is divided by color filters into three sub-pixels. It is.
The second method does not require a large amount of light compared to the first method, so there is no need to significantly increase the amount of light compared to the case where two first liquid crystal modules 31a are arranged, and the above-mentioned problems regarding heat resistance and power consumption can solve the problem.
However, even if the second liquid crystal module 31b is simply placed in front of the first liquid crystal module 31a in the configuration shown in FIG. 26 using a white LED as a backlight light source, color display cannot be performed in the second liquid crystal module 31b. do not have.
As explained above, in order for the second liquid crystal module 31b to perform color display, the emission colors of the backlight must change completely between R (red), G (green), and B (blue) every 1/180 seconds. This is because, while it is necessary to switch, such switching cannot be performed for the light emitted from the first liquid crystal module 31a using a color filter.
That is, in the first liquid crystal module 31a, the 1/60 second image display period is not divided as in the second liquid crystal module 31b, but the entire image display period is used to switch whether or not light is emitted from the color filter (sub-pixel). Display in color.
Therefore, during an image display period of 1/60 seconds, each pixel of the first liquid crystal module 31a always emits three colors of light: R (red), G (green), and B (blue). G (green) and B (blue) are mixed.
If such light is a mixture of R (red), G (green), and B (blue), the second liquid crystal module 31b cannot perform a good color display.
Therefore, in the image display unit of this embodiment, the second liquid crystal module 31b is not disposed on the front side of the first liquid crystal module 31a using a backlight that emits white light as described in FIG. As explained in 33, using a backlight that sequentially emits light from R (red) → G (green) → B (blue) by red LED 115R, green LED 115G, and blue LED 115B whose emission can be switched every 1/180 seconds, Color display is performed on the first liquid crystal module 31a and the second liquid crystal module 31b.

FIG. 37 is a diagram showing the configuration of the image display unit of this embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 37(a), in the image display unit 31 of this embodiment, a backlight 100, a first liquid crystal module 31a, and a second liquid crystal module 31b are sequentially arranged from the back side in the depth direction. Image display is performed simultaneously on both display elements.
The first liquid crystal module 31a and the second liquid crystal module 31b share a backlight 100.
Further, as shown in FIG. 37(b), a red LED 115R, a green LED 115G, and a blue LED 115B are arranged on the side surface of the backlight 100.
The red LED 115R, the green LED 115G, and the blue LED 115B may be provided on the back surface of the backlight 100.
The red LED 115R, green LED 115G, and blue LED 115B are connected to the LCD driver 36b of the second liquid crystal module 31b, and their light emission is controlled.
The red LED 115R, the green LED 115G, and the blue LED 115B may be connected to the LCD driver 36a of the first liquid crystal module 31a to control their light emission.
In that case, the LCD driver 36a also performs control to switch the light emission of the red LED 115R, green LED 115G, and blue LED 115B every 1/180 seconds.
The LCD driver 36b outputs a red LED 115R, a green LED 115G, and a blue LED at a timing synchronized with the R component drive signal, G component drive signal, and B component drive signal that are generated based on the video input from the VDP 200 and output to the liquid crystal drive circuit. A current is applied to the LED 115B to cause it to emit light.
Alternatively, the LCD driver 36b outputs an R component drive signal, a G component drive signal, and a B component drive signal to the liquid crystal drive circuit in synchronization with the timing of applying current to the red LED 115R, green LED 115G, and blue LED 115B to cause them to emit light. .
In either case, the timing of applying current to the red LED 115R, green LED 115G, and blue LED 115B (light emission timing of each LED) is synchronized with each of the R component drive signal, the G component drive signal, and the B component drive signal.

By sequentially switching the light sources that emit light among the red LED 115R, green LED 115G, and blue LED 115B, the backlight 100 changes the emission color to R every 1/180 seconds for the second method of color display by the second liquid crystal module 31b. (red) → G (green) → B (blue).
Only when the emission timings of the red LED 115R, green LED 115G, and blue LED 115B and the drive signals of each color component are synchronized can an appropriate color display of the second method be performed.

Furthermore, in the image display unit 31 of this embodiment, the emission color of the backlight 100 is sequentially switched between R (red), G (green), and B (blue), and the first liquid crystal module 31a sequentially emits light from the backlight 100. By passing each emitted light color through a color filter 108, a desired color is displayed.
Note that due to the interaction between the change in the emitted light color of the backlight 100 and the color filter 108, only one color of light that is the same as the emitted light color of the backlight 100 can be emitted from the color filter 108 of each pixel.
This is due to the following characteristics of the color filter. That is, the R (red) light, G (green) light, and B (blue) light from the backlight 100 can pass through the color filter 10 of the same color as that color, but can pass through the color filter 10 of a different color from that color. It is cut at 108.
As a result of the color filter 108 of each pixel emitting only one color of light that is the same as the emitted light color of the backlight 100, the first liquid crystal module 31a allows each pixel to emit light of the same color as the emitted light color of the backlight 100. By changing the emitted light color of the pixel, display is performed using a mechanism similar to that of the second liquid crystal module 31b.
The second liquid crystal module 31b uses R (red) light, G (green) light, and B (blue) light that sequentially pass through the first liquid crystal module 31a according to changes in the emission color of the backlight 100. Then, color display is performed in the same manner as described in FIGS. 33 to 36.
Note that in order for the first liquid crystal module 31a to perform display using the same mechanism as the second liquid crystal module 31b, in the first liquid crystal module 31a, the liquid crystal drive signal is sent to the liquid crystal display in synchronization with the change in the emitted light color of the backlight 100. It is necessary to input it to the drive circuit to control the pixel.
For this purpose, the LCD driver 36b of the second liquid crystal module 31a, which controls the light emission control of the backlight 100 (lighting control of the red LED 115R, green LED 115G, and blue LED 115B), sends RGB signals to the LCD driver via the VDP 200 at the timing to cause each LED to emit light. 36a.
The LCD driver 36a outputs a liquid crystal drive signal generated based on the video signal input from the VDP 200 to the liquid crystal drive circuit in synchronization with the RGB signal.
As a result, in the first liquid crystal module 31a, a liquid crystal drive signal synchronized with the change in the emission color of the backlight 100 is inputted to the liquid crystal drive circuit to control the pixels, and display is performed using the same mechanism as the second liquid crystal module 31b. be able to.
Note that since the light emitting time of each color of the backlight 100 is reduced to 1/3 and the amount of light is reduced, control is performed to increase the amount of light emitted from the red LED 115R, green LED 115G, and blue LED 115B.

FIG. 38 is a timing chart illustrating display control in the image display unit of this embodiment.
Image display by the image display unit of this embodiment is controlled by control signals shown in FIG.
One frame is displayed during the image valid period excluding the blanking period in the vertical synchronization period.
During the image validity period, the LCD driver 36b inputs current to the red LED 115R, green LED 115G, and blue LED 115B every 1/180 seconds, and as a result, the LEDs that emit light are switched.
In all cases shown in FIG. 36, the backlight 100 sequentially switches the emission color from R (red) to G (green) to B (blue) every 1/180 seconds.

The second liquid crystal module 31b has the same basic configuration as described above.
In response to the light emission of each color by the backlight 100 whose light emission color changes from R (red) to G (green) to B (blue), the LCD driver 36b of the second liquid crystal module 31b selects the R color that forms one frame image. A liquid crystal drive signal for the component, a liquid crystal drive signal for the G component, and a liquid crystal drive signal for the B component are input to the liquid crystal drive circuit.
The liquid crystal drive circuit of the second liquid crystal module 31b inputs a current based on this liquid crystal drive signal to the incident side transparent electrode 103b and the output side transparent electrode 107b of the second liquid crystal module 31b, and inputs the current based on the liquid crystal drive signal to the incident side transparent electrode 103b and the output side transparent electrode A driving voltage for driving the liquid crystal molecules 105b is applied to the liquid crystal molecules 105b of the second liquid crystal module 31b provided between the liquid crystal molecules 107b and the second liquid crystal module 31b.

That is, based on the video signal from the VDP 200, the LCD driver 36b of the second liquid crystal module 31b generates a liquid crystal drive signal for the R component (R component drive signal) and a liquid crystal drive signal for the G component ( A liquid crystal drive signal for the B component (G component drive signal) is generated and input to a liquid crystal drive circuit (not shown) in response to light emission from the backlight 100.
The liquid crystal drive circuit of the second liquid crystal module 31b controls the incident side transparent electrode 103b and the output side transparent electrode 107b of the second liquid crystal module 31b based on the input R component drive signal, G component drive signal, and B component drive signal. During this period, a driving voltage for driving the liquid crystal molecules 105b is applied.
The R component drive signal generated by the LCD driver 36b is determined by the backlight 100 for pixels of the second liquid crystal module 31b that are desired to emit light in a color including the R component during the display period of one frame (1/60 seconds). Input is input to the liquid crystal drive circuit of the second liquid crystal module 31b in order to drive and control the liquid crystal molecules 105b of the second liquid crystal module 31b so that the light is emitted from the corresponding output side polarizing filter 109b at the timing of emitting light in R (red). be done.
The G component drive signal generated by the LCD driver 36b is determined by the backlight 100 for pixels of the second liquid crystal module 31b that are desired to emit light in a color including the G component during the display period of one frame (1/60 seconds). An input signal is input to the liquid crystal drive circuit of the second liquid crystal module 31b in order to drive and control the liquid crystal molecules 105b of the second liquid crystal module 31b so that the light is emitted from the corresponding output side polarizing filter 109b at the timing of G (green) emission. be done.
The B component drive signal generated by the LCD driver 36b is generated by the backlight 100 for pixels of the second liquid crystal module 31b that are desired to emit light in a color containing the B component during the display period of one frame (1/60 seconds). Input is input to the liquid crystal drive circuit of the second liquid crystal module 31b in order to drive and control the liquid crystal molecules 105b of the second liquid crystal module 31b so that the light is emitted from the corresponding output side polarizing filter 109b at the timing of emitting light in R (red). be done.

While the backlight 100 is emitting light in R (red), the liquid crystal drive circuit of the second liquid crystal module 31b generates polarized light on the output side corresponding to a pixel that is desired to emit light in a color including the R component, based on an R component drive signal. The liquid crystal molecules 105b of the second liquid crystal module 31b are controlled so that R (red) light can pass through the filter 109b.
When the backlight 100 emits G (green) light, the liquid crystal drive circuit of the second liquid crystal module 31b includes an output-side polarizing filter 109b corresponding to a pixel that is desired to emit light in a color including the G component based on a G component drive signal. The liquid crystal molecules 105b of the second liquid crystal module 31b are controlled so that G (green) light can pass therethrough.
When the backlight 100 emits B (blue) light, the liquid crystal drive circuit of the second liquid crystal module 31b sends a B component drive signal to the output side polarizing filter 109b corresponding to the pixel that is desired to emit light containing the B component. The liquid crystal molecules 105b of the second liquid crystal module 31b are controlled to allow blue) light to pass through.
Each pixel of the second liquid crystal module 31b displays R (red), G (green), and B (blue) at an ultra-high speed. By switching to green), B (blue) at ultra-high speed, or blocking light so that no light is emitted, the human eye can see a color that is a combination of one or more colors.

On the other hand, the first liquid crystal module 31a performs processing different from the basic configuration described above.
The first liquid crystal module 31a is equipped with a color filter, and the R (red) light, G (green) light, and B (blue) light from the backlight 100 is transmitted to sub-pixels of the same color (color filter 108). ), but it is cut by a sub-pixel (color filter 108) of a color different from that color.
Therefore, in a specific pixel of the first liquid crystal module 31a, sub-pixels (color filters 108) that do not correspond to the emission color of the backlight 100 have their light cut off and do not emit light, but sub-pixels (color filters 108) that do not correspond to the emission color of the backlight 100 If the light that has passed through the color filter 108) can further pass through the output-side polarizing filter 109a of the first liquid crystal module 31a, the pixel in question emits light in the light emission color of the emitting sub-pixel (the light emission color of the backlight 100). .

On the other hand, in the specific pixel of the first liquid crystal module 31a, sub-pixels (color filters 108) that do not correspond to the emission color of the backlight 100 have their light cut off and do not emit light, and sub-pixels corresponding to the emission color of the backlight 100 do not emit light. If the light that has passed through the (color filter 108) cannot pass through the exit-side polarizing filter 109a of the first liquid crystal module 31a, none of the sub-pixels will emit light and the pixel will not emit light.
In this way, the pixel can emit light only when the backlight 100 emits light in the same color as the subpixel (color filter 108) that is controlled to emit light, and the emitted light color is the same as the emitted light color of the subpixel (backlight color). ).
Since only the sub-pixels of the same color as the emitted light color of the backlight 100 can emit light, it is not possible to simultaneously emit R, G, and B light from each sub-pixel constituting one pixel, and as explained in FIG. It is not possible to perform color display for each pixel using the normal method.
Therefore, as explained below, in the first liquid crystal module 31a of this embodiment, drive control of the liquid crystal molecules 105a (control of whether or not light can be emitted from the sub-pixel) is performed in response to changes in the emitted light color of the backlight. Color display is performed using a display method similar to that of the second liquid crystal module 31b.
The LCD driver 36a of the first liquid crystal module 31a generates a liquid crystal drive signal for the R component (R component drive signal) and a liquid crystal drive signal for the G component (G component) based on the video signal from the VDP 200. A liquid crystal drive signal for the B component (B component drive signal) is generated and input to a liquid crystal drive circuit (not shown) in response to light emission from the backlight 100.
The liquid crystal drive circuit of the first liquid crystal module 31a controls the incident side transparent electrode 103a and the output side transparent electrode 107a of the first liquid crystal module 31a based on the input R component drive signal, G component drive signal, and B component drive signal. During this period, a driving voltage is applied to drive the liquid crystal molecules 105a of the first liquid crystal module 31a.
That is, the liquid crystal drive circuit of the first liquid crystal module 31a inputs a current based on a liquid crystal drive signal to the incident side transparent electrode 103a and the output side transparent electrode 107a of the first liquid crystal module 31a, and A driving voltage for driving the liquid crystal molecules 105a is applied to the liquid crystal molecules 105a of the first liquid crystal module 31a provided between the first liquid crystal module 31a and the electrode 107a.

The R component drive signal generated by the LCD driver 36a is determined by the backlight 100 for pixels of the first liquid crystal module 31a that are desired to emit light in a color including the R component during the display period of one frame (1/60 seconds). The light is input to the liquid crystal drive circuit in order to drive and control the liquid crystal molecules 105a of the first liquid crystal module 31a so that the corresponding output-side polarizing filter 109 emits R (red) light at the timing of R (red) light emission. .
The G component drive signal generated by the LCD driver 36a is determined by the backlight 100 for pixels of the first liquid crystal module 31a that are desired to emit light in a color including the G component during the display period of one frame (1/60 seconds). The light is input to the liquid crystal drive circuit in order to drive and control the liquid crystal molecules 105a of the first liquid crystal module 31a so that the G (green) light is emitted from the corresponding output-side polarizing filter 109 at the timing of G (green) light emission. .
The B component drive signal generated by the LCD driver 36a is determined by the backlight 100 for pixels of the first liquid crystal module 31a that are desired to emit light in a color containing the B component during the display period of one frame (1/60 seconds). The light is input to the liquid crystal drive circuit in order to drive and control the liquid crystal molecules 105a of the first liquid crystal module 31a so that the B (blue) light is emitted from the corresponding output-side polarizing filter 109 at the timing of B (blue) light emission. .

Specifically, while the backlight 100 is emitting light in R (red), the liquid crystal drive circuit of the first liquid crystal module 31a controls the pixels to emit light in a color including the R component based on the R component drive signal. The liquid crystal molecules 105a of the first liquid crystal module 31a are controlled so that R (red) light can pass through the corresponding exit-side polarizing filter 109.
When the backlight 100 emits G (green) light, the liquid crystal drive circuit of the first liquid crystal module 31a uses an output side polarizing filter 109 corresponding to a pixel that is desired to emit light in a color containing the G component based on a G component drive signal. The liquid crystal molecules 105a of the first liquid crystal module 31a are controlled so that G (green) light can pass therethrough.
When the backlight 100 emits B (blue) light, the liquid crystal drive circuit of the first liquid crystal module 31a uses an output-side polarizing filter 109 that corresponds to a pixel that is desired to emit light containing the B component based on a B component drive signal. The liquid crystal molecules 105a of the first liquid crystal module 31a are controlled so that B (blue) light can pass therethrough.
Each pixel of the first liquid crystal module 31a displays R (red), G (green), and B (blue) at an ultra-high speed (the emitted light from each pixel of the first liquid crystal module 31a is (green), B (blue) at an ultra-high speed), or by blocking the light so that it does not emit light, the color that is a combination of one or more colors can be visible to the eyes.

The light emitting mode of the first liquid crystal module in the image display unit 31 of this embodiment will be explained focusing on one pixel.
39 and 40 are timing charts illustrating control signals for each pixel of the first liquid crystal module 31a in the image display unit of this embodiment.
During the image validity period, the LCD driver 36b inputs current to the red LED 115R, green LED 115G, and blue LED 115B every 1/180 seconds, and as a result, the LEDs that emit light are switched.
In all the cases shown in FIGS. 39 and 40, the emission color of the backlight 100 is sequentially switched from R (red) to G (green) to B (blue) every 1/180 seconds.
As shown in FIG. 39(a), when displaying a specific pixel of the first liquid crystal module 31a transparently, the LCD driver 36a of the first liquid crystal module 31a controls the R sub-pixel, the G sub-pixel, Input drive signals (R component drive signal, G component drive signal, B component drive signal) that drive the liquid crystal molecules 105a so that light can pass through the output side polarizing filter 109a of the first liquid crystal module 31a corresponding to all B sub-pixels. do.
By doing this, the R sub-pixel emits light during the 1/180 second period in which the backlight 100 emits R (red) light, and the R sub-pixel emits light in the 1/180 second period in which the backlight 100 emits G (green) light. During the period, the G sub-pixel emits light, and during the 1/180 second period in which the backlight 100 emits B (blue) light, the B sub-pixel emits B (blue) light.
By emitting light continuously in the order of R (red) → G (green) → B (blue) over one frame, the pixel is visually recognized as being in a transparent state, similarly to the second method.

As shown in FIG. 39(b), when a specific pixel of the first liquid crystal module 31a is caused to emit yellow light, light passes through the output-side polarizing filter 109 corresponding to the R sub-pixel and the G sub-pixel for one frame. Drive signals (R component drive signal, G component drive signal, B component drive signal) that drive the liquid crystal molecules 105 so that the light can pass through and cannot pass through the exit-side polarizing filter 109 corresponding to the B sub-pixel. Enter.
By doing this, the R sub-pixel emits light during the 1/180 second period in which the backlight 100 emits R (red) light, and the R sub-pixel emits light in the 1/180 second period in which the backlight 100 emits G (green) light. During the period, the G sub-pixel emits light. On the other hand, during the 1/180 second period in which the backlight 100 emits B (blue) light, none of the subpixels emits light.
By continuously switching between R (red) emission → G (green) emission → no emission and emission due to light interruption over one frame, the pixel emits yellow light (visually visible as yellow), as in the second method. ).

Further, as shown in FIG. 40(a), when a specific pixel of the first liquid crystal module 31a is caused to emit cyan light, the emission of the first liquid crystal module 31a corresponding to the G sub-pixel and the B sub-pixel is performed for one frame. A drive signal (R component) that drives the liquid crystal molecules 105a of the first liquid crystal module 31a so that light can pass through the side polarization filter 109a and cannot pass through the output side polarization filter 109a corresponding to the R sub-pixel. drive signal, G component drive signal, and B component drive signal).
During the 1/180 second period in which the backlight 100 emits R (red) light, none of the sub-pixels emit light. Then, during the 1/180 second period in which the backlight 100 emits G (green) light, the G sub-pixel emits light, and during the 1/180 second period in which the backlight 100 emits B (blue) light, the G sub-pixel emits B (blue) light. The subpixel emits light.
By continuously emitting light in the sequence of no light emission due to light interruption → G (green) light emission → B (blue) light emission over one frame, the pixel emits cyan color (visually recognized as cyan), as in the second method. ).

As shown in FIG. 40(b), when expressing black with a specific pixel of the first liquid crystal module 31a, the emission side corresponding to any of the R sub-pixel, G sub-pixel, and B sub-pixel is displayed over one frame. Drive signals (R component drive signal, G component drive signal, B component drive signal) are inputted to drive the liquid crystal molecules 105a of the first liquid crystal module 31a so that light cannot pass through the polarizing filter 109.
During the 1/180 second period in which the backlight 100 emits R (red) light, during the 1/180 second period in which the backlight 100 emits G (green) light, the backlight 100 emits B (blue) light. During the 1/180 second period, none of the sub-pixels emit light. A pixel does not emit light for one frame, and the pixel is visually perceived as black.

An example of the light emission mode of the display device of this embodiment due to the above-described control will be described.
FIG. 41 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image display mode of the image display unit of this embodiment.
In FIG. 41, to simplify the explanation, only the liquid crystal molecules 105 and the color filter 108 are shown for the first liquid crystal module 31a, but in reality it is equipped with all the elements shown in FIG. There is. The light emitted from the sub-pixel of the first liquid crystal module 31a is polarized by the liquid crystal molecules 105a so as to be able to pass through the output-side polarizing filter 109a of the first liquid crystal module 31a.
Further, for the sake of simplicity of explanation, only the liquid crystal molecules 105b are shown for the second liquid crystal module 31b, but in reality it includes all the elements shown in FIG. 32. The light emitted from the second liquid crystal module 31b is polarized by the liquid crystal molecules 105b such that it can pass through the polarizing filter 109b on the output side of the second liquid crystal module 31b.
The displays of both liquid crystal modules constituting the image display unit 31 can be viewed simultaneously from the front side.
In addition, in the explanation of FIG. 41, the pixels of the first liquid crystal module 31a and the second liquid crystal module 31b are in one-to-one correspondence for convenience, but since light is diffused, the pixels of the first liquid crystal module 31a and the second liquid crystal module 31b are Light does not enter or exit only between one pixel.

In FIG. 41, even if the light output from the color filter 108 of the first liquid crystal module 31a appears to be blocked by the cutoff point of the second liquid crystal module 31b, the light output from the color filter 108 through some path will still be transmitted to the outside. It is emitted.
As an example, in the case of FIG. 41, all sub-pixels of the first pixel, second pixel, and third pixel of the first liquid crystal module 31a receive light from the output-side polarizing filter 109a of the first liquid crystal module 31a over one frame. shall be controlled so that it can pass through.
In that case, during the 1/180 second period in which the backlight 100 shown in FIG. Light is emitted from the corresponding exit-side polarizing filter 109a. No light is emitted from the exit-side polarizing filter 109a corresponding to the G sub-pixel and the B sub-pixel.

Next, during a period of 1/180 seconds during which the backlight 100 emits G (green) light as shown in FIG. Light is emitted from the corresponding exit-side polarizing filter 109a. No light is emitted from the exit-side polarizing filter 109a corresponding to the R sub-pixel and the B sub-pixel.
Next, during a period in which the backlight 100 emits B (blue) light as shown in FIG. Light is emitted from the filter 109a. No light is emitted from the exit-side polarizing filter 109a corresponding to the R sub-pixel and the G sub-pixel.
In this case, the first pixel, second pixel, and third pixel of the first liquid crystal module 31a all change their light emission from R (red) emission → G (green) emission → B (blue) emission, so each pixel is visually recognized as "transparent" in each frame.

Of course, this is not limited to this, and in the first pixel, second pixel, third pixel, and other pixels, control is performed so that light does not exit from the output-side polarizing filter 109 corresponding to the R sub-pixel, G sub-pixel, and B sub-pixel. By doing so, various colors can be expressed according to the principle shown in FIG. This is as explained above.
For example, in the first pixel in FIG. 41, control is performed so that no light is emitted from the exit-side polarizing filter 109a of the first liquid crystal module 31a corresponding to the R sub-pixel.
In that case, the first pixel of the first liquid crystal module 31a does not emit light due to light interruption in FIG. 41(a). Therefore, the light emission of the first pixel changes as follows: no light emission due to light interruption → G (green) light emission → B (blue) light emission, so that the first pixel is visually recognized as cyan in each frame.
Similarly, in the first pixel of the first liquid crystal module 31a, control is performed so that no light is emitted from the exit-side polarizing filter 109a of the first liquid crystal module 31a corresponding to the G sub-pixel.
In that case, the first pixel of the first liquid crystal module 31a does not emit light due to light interruption in FIG. 41(b). Therefore, the first pixel of the first liquid crystal module 31a changes its light emission from R (red) emission to non-emission due to light interruption to B (blue) emission, so that each pixel is visually recognized as magenta in one frame unit.
Furthermore, in the first pixel of the first liquid crystal module 31a, control is performed so that no light is emitted from the exit side polarizing filter 109a of the first liquid crystal module 31a corresponding to the B sub-pixel.
In that case, the first pixel of the first liquid crystal module 31a does not emit light due to light interruption in FIG. 41(c). Therefore, the first pixel of the first liquid crystal module 31a changes its light emission from R (red) emission to G (green) emission to non-emission due to light interruption, so each pixel is visually recognized as yellow in one frame unit.

Next, the second liquid crystal module 31b will be explained.
During the light emission period of each color of the backlight 100 shown in FIGS. 41(a) to 41(c), only the light of the emission color of the backlight 100 is emitted from the first liquid crystal module 31a, and the The space between the first liquid crystal module 31a and the second liquid crystal module 31b is filled with diffused light due to the color of the backlight 100.
In FIG. 41A, where the backlight 100 emits R (red) light, the space between the first liquid crystal module 31a and the second liquid crystal module 31b is filled with R (red) diffused light.
In FIG. 41(b) where the backlight 100 emits G (green) light, the space between the first liquid crystal module 31a and the second liquid crystal module 31b is filled with G (green) diffused light.
In FIG. 41C, where the backlight 100 emits B (blue) light, the space between the first liquid crystal module 31a and the second liquid crystal module 31b is filled with B (blue) diffused light.

The second liquid crystal module 31b uses these diffused lights to perform color display of the second method described in FIGS. 33 to 36.
As a result, in the case shown in FIG. 41, the three pixels of the second liquid crystal module 31b are each visually recognized as follows.
The first pixel of the second liquid crystal module 31b is visually recognized as yellow by switching between R (red) emission → G (green) emission → no emission due to light interruption, and emission.
Further, the second pixel of the second liquid crystal module 31b is visually recognized as cyan due to the switching of light emission from no light emission due to light interruption, to G (green) light emission, to B (blue) light emission.
Further, the third pixel of the second liquid crystal module 31b is visually recognized as magenta as the light emission switches from R (red) emission to no emission due to light interruption to B (blue) emission.
With the configuration described above, the image display unit 31 of the present embodiment can reduce power consumption without increasing the amount of light from the backlight, thereby achieving energy savings, while avoiding high costs, and is capable of using multiple liquid crystal modules. New effects with depth can enhance the interest of the game.

Note that because the backlight 100 is lit in R (red), G (green), and B (blue) behind the color filter, the first liquid crystal module 31a and the second liquid crystal module 31b produce almost the same color. This has the effect of allowing display to be performed.
The wavelength (color width) of the light that has passed through the color filter is narrowed down compared to when it is emitted from the LED, so by passing through the color filter, the difference in color between the first liquid crystal module 31a and the second liquid crystal module 31b can be reduced. becomes less.

Furthermore, as a feature of the image display unit of this embodiment, in the second liquid crystal module 31b, by controlling the amount of light passing through the pixels of the second liquid crystal module 31b for each color component, the light amount ratio for each color component can be adjusted. You can achieve a neutral color by changing the color.
In order to vary the amount of light for each color component, the LCD driver 36b may vary the amount of light from the backlight 100 by the red LED 115R, green LED 115G, and blue LED 115B for each color. In that case, the current values applied to the red LED 115R, green LED 115G, and blue LED 115B may be different.
By adjusting the applied current value, the amount of light from the red LED 115R, the green LED 115G, and the blue LED 115B can be adjusted to eliminate unevenness in the amount of light emitted by each color of the backlight 101.
By providing a plurality of red LEDs 115R, green LEDs 115G, and blue LEDs 115B as shown in FIG. 37(b) and changing the number for each color, the light amount ratio for each color component of the backlight 100 may be varied. Alternatively, by making the numbers of red LEDs 115R, green LEDs 115G, and blue LEDs 115B different, the amount of light for each color component of the backlight 100 may be made equal to eliminate unevenness in the amount of light.

Incidentally, the speed and time (excitation time, response speed, response time) from when the LCD driver 36b applies current to the LED element until the light is emitted differs depending on the color of the emitted light.
That is, there is a problem in that the time from when the LCD driver 36b applies current to the red LED 115R, the green LED 115G, and the blue LED 115B until the light is emitted differs for each LED 115. The time from when current is applied to the LED to when light is actually emitted is the longest for the red LED 115R, the second longest for the green LED 115G, and the shortest for the blue LED 115B.
When current is applied at the same timing, the blue LED 115B starts emitting light the earliest, the green LED 115G starts emitting light the next earliest, and the red LED 115R starts emitting light the latest.
In the image display of the second method explained with reference to FIGS. 33 to 36, accurate color cannot be obtained unless the drive timing of the liquid crystal module based on the drive signal for each color component is synchronized with (at least) the emission start timing of the LED, that is, the backlight. Unable to express.
Assume that a current is applied to the red LED 115R at a timing when the emission start timing of any one LED, for example, the red LED 115R matches the driving timing of the liquid crystal molecules, and the same timing is applied to the green LED 115G and the blue LED 115B.
In that case, the green LED 115G emits light too quickly, causing green to be mixed with the emitted light color of the backlight 100 that should emit red light, and the blue LED 115B starts emitting light too late, causing the drive timing of the liquid crystal molecules based on the B component drive signal to be mixed. A problem arises in that the backlight 100 does not emit B (blue) light in time.

Therefore, the LCD driver 36b adjusts the current application timing according to the response characteristics of the LEDs 115 of each color so that light emission is synchronized with the drive signal of each color component, and the backlight 100 can start emitting light at a desired timing. Control as follows.
Therefore, the LCD driver 36b sets the timing at which the backlight 100 should start emitting light to be t0, the timing at which a current is applied to the red LED 115R to cause the backlight 100 to emit red light at timing t0, to t1, and the timing at which the backlight 100 should start emitting red light at timing t0. The timing at which a current is applied to the green LED 115G to cause the backlight 100 to emit green light is t2, and the timing at which a current is applied to the blue LED 115B to cause the backlight 100 to emit blue light at timing t0 is t3.
As described above, the time from when current is applied to the LED until light is actually emitted increases in the order of red LED 115R, green LED 115G, and blue LED 115B.
Therefore, the LCD driver 36b determines that the time from each timing t1, t2, t3 to timing t0 is |t-t1|>|t-t2|>|t-t3|
The timing of applying current to the LEDs 115 of each color is controlled so as to satisfy the following relationship.
As explained above, the LCD driver 36b applies current to the red LED 115R at the earliest timing before the timing for emitting light from the backlight in each color, and applies current to the green LED 115G at the next earliest timing with respect to the same timing. A current is applied to the blue LED 115B at the latest timing.

The same applies to the red LED 116R, green LED 116G, and blue LED 116B in the modification example of FIG. 42 whose light emission timing is synchronized with the red LED 115R, green LED 115G, and blue LED 115B.
The LCD driver 36b applies current to the same colors (red LED 115R and red LED 116R, green LED 115G and green LED 116G, blue LED 115B and blue LED 116G) at the same timing.

Furthermore, in the image display unit 31 of this embodiment, the first liquid crystal module 31a is arranged on the back side (rear side), and the second liquid crystal module 31 is arranged on the near side (front side).
However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the backlight 100 capable of emitting light in three colors of R (red), G (green), and B (blue) is used, and a plurality of second liquid crystal modules 31b are arranged in front and back, and each second liquid crystal The module 31b may perform a second method of color display.

Also, in the image display unit 31 of this embodiment, the amount of light output from the color filter 108 of the liquid crystal module 31a is substantially 1/3 or less of the amount of incident light in each sub-pixel.
On the other hand, as the red LED 115R, green LED 115G, and blue LED 115B of the backlight 100, stronger LEDs with increased light amount can be used.
In the image display unit 31 of this embodiment, in which the second liquid crystal module 31b that does not use a color filter is arranged on the front side of the first liquid crystal module 31a that uses a color filter, when the first liquid crystal module is used on the front side (transmission amount 5%), the light loss of the entire unit is small, and the amount of light required from the LED is also relatively small, about three times that of a normal one. Compared to the case where the first liquid crystal modules 31a are arranged one behind the other, it is possible to reduce concerns about economic efficiency, heat resistance, etc.

FIG. 42 is a diagram showing a modification of the image display unit of this embodiment.
The modification shown in FIG. 42 has a configuration in which a light-emitting accessory 500 is arranged between the first liquid crystal module 31a and the second liquid crystal module 31b in FIG. 37.
The light-emitting accessory 500 includes a third liquid crystal module 31c having the same configuration as the first liquid crystal module 31a placed on the front side thereof, and a backlight 501 placed on the back side of the third liquid crystal module 31c.

A backlight (light emitting plate, light guide plate, lens) 501 included in the light emitting accessory 500 has a red LED 116R, a green LED 116G, and a blue LED 116 arranged on its side or back surface. By switching the LEDs that cause light to enter the backlight 501, the backlight 501 can switch the emission color from R (red) to G (green) to B (blue).
Furthermore, the light-emitting accessory 500 includes an LED driver 37 that controls the light emission of the red LED 116R, the green LED 116G, and the blue LED 116.
The LED driver 38 switches the LED to emit light every predetermined time (1/180 seconds) at the same timing as the LCD driver 36b, and changes the color of the backlight 501.
Furthermore, a drive signal synchronized with the drive signal for each color component sent to the first liquid crystal module 31a is input from the VDP 200 to the third liquid crystal module 31c.
As described above, the LCD driver 36b of the second liquid crystal module 31b externally outputs RGB signals for synchronization when lighting the red LED 115R, green LED 115G, and blue LED 115B.
The RGB signals of the second liquid crystal module 31b are input to the LED driver 38 via the VDP 200 and the host CPU 151 of the image control board 150.
Then, when the second liquid crystal module should cause the red LED 116R, green LED 116G, and blue LED 116 to emit light in synchronization with the red LED 115R, green LED 115G, and blue LED 115B, the second liquid crystal module causes the red LED 116R, green LED 116G, and blue LED 116 to emit light in accordance with the RGB signal. A lighting signal for lighting is input to the LED driver 38.
Normally, the LED driver 38 passes RGB signals, and controls the color LED 116R, green LED 116G, and blue LED 116 to be lit when a lighting signal is input.
Note that the LED driver 38 does not always output RGB signals, but rather outputs RGB signals as lighting signals to cause the red LED 116R, green LED 116G, and blue LED 116 to emit light in synchronization with the red LED 115R, green LED 115G, and blue LED 115B. may be input to the LED driver 38.
As a result, the image display unit can display images as described below.

FIG. 43 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating image display by the image display unit of FIG. 42.
As shown in FIG. 43, part of the light emitted from the first liquid crystal module 31a by the display method described in FIGS. 38 to 41 is blocked by the light-emitting accessory 500, and cannot be visually recognized by the player.
However, the backlight 501 of the light-emitting accessory 500 is synchronously R( It can emit light in red), G (green), and B (blue).
Furthermore, a drive signal synchronized with the drive signal input to the first liquid crystal module 31a is input to the first liquid crystal module 31c of the light emitting accessory 500.
The first liquid crystal module 31c displays images similar to those of the first liquid crystal module 31a using the method described in FIGS. 38 to 41 using drive signals synchronized with the first liquid crystal module 31a and RGB backlight lights that are sequentially switched. It will be done.
As a result, the display content of the first liquid crystal module 31a hidden by the light-emitting accessory 500 is displayed on the first liquid crystal module 31c of the light-emitting accessory 500.
Therefore, the display by the first liquid crystal module 31a and the first liquid crystal module 31c allows the player to visually recognize the content that should originally be displayed on the first liquid crystal module 31a.

What is more characteristic is the display on the second liquid crystal module 31b.
The second liquid crystal module 31b has no light-emitting accessory 500 behind it, and is located in an area 600 where R (red) light, G (green) light, and B (blue) light from the first liquid crystal module 31a can directly reach. The second method of image display is performed mainly using R (red) light, G (green) light, and B (blue) light from the first liquid crystal module 31a.
On the other hand, the second liquid crystal module 31b has a light-emitting accessory 500 behind it, so that the R (red) light, G (green) light, and B (blue) light from the first liquid crystal module 31a cannot directly reach it. In the region 601, the second method of image display is performed mainly using R (red) light, G (green) light, and B (blue) light from the first liquid crystal module 31c of the light-emitting accessory 500.
By doing so, the image display unit of this embodiment can save energy by reducing power consumption without increasing the amount of light from the backlight, and avoid high costs, while also providing depth due to the use of multiple liquid crystal modules. New effects can increase the interest of the game. Furthermore, it is possible to further enhance the interest of the game by arranging accessories between the plurality of liquid crystal modules without sacrificing the display content.
By the way, considering the direction of the polarization plane of the light explained in FIG. 29, the light emitted from the output-side polarizing filter 109a of the first liquid crystal module 31a and the output-side polarizing filter 109c (not shown) of the third liquid crystal module 31c is as follows. In this state, the light cannot pass through the incident-side polarizing filter 101b of the second liquid crystal module 31b.
This is because the direction of the polarization plane of the light emitted from the first liquid crystal module 31a and the third liquid crystal module 31c (direction b in FIG. 29) does not match the direction of polarization (direction a) of the incident side polarizing filter 101b of the second liquid crystal module. be.
Therefore, in the image display unit 31 of this embodiment configured as shown in FIGS. 37 and 42, a problem may arise that an image cannot be displayed on the second liquid crystal module 31b.
Therefore, in the image display unit 31 of this embodiment, between the output side polarizing filter 109a of the first liquid crystal module 31a and the input side polarizing filter 101b of the second liquid crystal module 31b, the output side polarizing filter 109c of the third liquid crystal module 31c is It is necessary to provide a retardation film (1/2 wavelength plate) between the polarizing filter 101b on the incident side and the polarizing filter 101b on the incident side of the second liquid crystal module 31b.
Specifically, in the configuration of FIG. 37 that includes only the first liquid crystal module 31a and the second liquid crystal module 31b, a retardation film may be attached to the front side of the output side polarizing filter 109a of the first liquid crystal module 31a. , it may be attached to the rear surface side of the incident side polarizing filter 101b of the second liquid crystal module 31b.
In the configuration of FIG. 42 in which the third liquid crystal module 31c is provided between the first liquid crystal module 31a and the second liquid crystal module 31b, a retardation film is attached to the rear surface side of the incident side polarizing filter 101b of the second liquid crystal module 31b, or It is desirable to attach a retardation film to the front side of the output side polarizing filter 109a of the first liquid crystal module 31a and the front side of the output side polarizing filter 109c of the third liquid crystal module 31c.
The retardation film as a 1/2 wavelength plate imparts a phase difference of λ/2 (180°) to the output light from the output side polarizing filter 109a of the first liquid crystal module 31a and the output side polarizing filter 109c of the third liquid crystal module 31c. The plane of polarization can be rotated by 90 degrees to be in the direction a.
As a result, the light emitted from the first liquid crystal module 31a and the third liquid crystal module 31c can pass through the polarizing filter 101b on the incident side of the second liquid crystal module 31b, and images can be displayed on the second liquid crystal module 31b without any problem. be able to.

In the example of FIG. 43, a light-emitting accessory 500 including a third liquid crystal module 31c and a backlight 116 is provided between the first liquid crystal module 31a and the second liquid crystal module 31b. A movable accessory imitating a predetermined shape may be provided between the first liquid crystal module 31a and the second liquid crystal module 31b.
The movable accessory can include only a red LED 116R, a green LED 116G, and a blue LED 116 on its front side.
Then, the LED driver 37 controls the red LED 116R, green LED 116G, and blue LED 116 as in the case of FIG. 43, and directs R (red) light and G (green) light toward the second liquid crystal module 31b every 1/180 seconds. ) light and B (blue) light are emitted.
In the second liquid crystal module 31b, the light-emitting accessory 500 blocks R (red) light, G (green) light, and B (blue) light from the first liquid crystal module 31a, but the red LED 116R and green LED 116G included in the movable accessory Color display can be performed using the second method using R (red) light, G (green) light, and B (blue) light from the blue LED 116B.
In the second liquid crystal module 31b, in an area where the R (red) light, G (green) light, and B (blue) light from the first liquid crystal module 31a is not blocked by the movable accessory, the R (red) light from the first liquid crystal module 31a is ) light, G (green) light, and B (blue) light. Color display is performed using the second method.
Since the light emitted from the LED has low diffusivity and emits point light without being diffused, it is not suitable for the second method of color display in the second liquid crystal module 31b as it is. This is because light does not evenly spread to the pixels of the second liquid crystal module 31b.
On the other hand, since the light emitted from the backlight 100 is diffused into the backlight serving as a light guide plate (the backlight emits light from a surface), it can be suitably used for the second method of color display in the second liquid crystal module 31b. .
The red LED 116R, green LED 116G, and blue LED 116 provided on the front of the movable accessory naturally do not emit backlight, so it is desirable to attach a diffusion film to the front side of the movable accessory to prevent point light emission. .
As mentioned above, the light emission timing of the red LED 116R, green LED 116G, and blue LED 116 is completely synchronized with the light emission timing of the red LED 115R, green LED 115G, and blue LED 115B, which are the light sources of the backlight 100, and the second liquid crystal module 31b as a whole Color display according to the second method can be performed without problems.
Note that the retardation film does not need to be attached to the movable accessory, and may be attached to the front side of the output side polarizing filter 109a of the first liquid crystal module 31a, or the retardation film may be attached to the front side of the output side polarizing filter 109a of the first liquid crystal module 31a. It may be attached to the rear surface side of the incident side polarizing filter 101b.

Note that in the configurations shown in FIGS. 42 and 43, a light guide plate such as an acrylic plate engraved with a predetermined pattern is arranged between the first liquid crystal module 31a and the second liquid crystal module 31b instead of the light emitting accessory 500. It's okay.
By causing the light guide plate to emit light from the red LED 116R, green LED 116G, and blue LED 116, an image according to the pattern can be displayed.
By displaying using the light guide plate, it is possible to highlight and reinforce the effect patterns 35 and the like displayed on the first liquid crystal module 31a and the second liquid crystal module 31b.
Note that the red LED 116R, the green LED 116G, and the blue LED 116 allow light to enter the light guide plate from the side, not from the back, so that the visibility of the display in the first liquid crystal module 31a is not impaired.
Then, the LED driver 37 controls the red LED 116R, green LED 116G, and blue LED 116 as in the case of FIG. 43, and directs R (red) light, G (green) light, Emit B (blue) light.
The light emission timing of the red LED 116R, green LED 116G, and blue LED 116 is completely synchronized with the light emission timing of the red LED 115R, green LED 115G, and blue LED 115B, which are the light sources of the backlight 100.
Therefore, while displaying an image on the light guide plate, it is possible to perform color display according to the second method by using the light from the light guide plate as a light source for the second liquid crystal module 31b.

Note that if the frame start timings (vertical synchronization timing, VSYNC) of the first liquid crystal module 31a and the second liquid crystal module 31b are different, color misalignment will occur in either the first liquid crystal module 31a or the second liquid crystal module 31b. There are cases.
The light emission timings of the red LED 115R, green LED 115G, and blue LED 115B are synchronized with the drive signals of the first liquid crystal module 31a and the second liquid crystal module 31b, but if the vertical synchronization timing of both liquid crystal modules is different, for example, 2. In the liquid crystal module 31b, a problem arises in that the backlight 100 does not emit light in R (red) when the liquid crystal molecules should be driven by the liquid crystal drive signal for the R component (pixels should be displayed in red). There is a risk.
Therefore, it is necessary to synchronize the first liquid crystal module 31a and the second liquid crystal module 31b with the vertical synchronization signal (VSYNC).
Below, a method for synchronizing the vertical synchronization signals of the first liquid crystal module 31a and the second liquid crystal module 31b in the image display unit 31 of this embodiment will be described.

FIG. 44 is a diagram illustrating the basic configuration of a liquid crystal screen.
A liquid crystal screen is composed of a large number of pixels arranged in a matrix, and one scanning line (horizontal line) is composed of pixels arranged in the horizontal direction.
Then, according to the (VGA) input signal, the image is displayed by scanning (driving pixels) the scanning lines (horizontal lines) line by line (for example, from left to right) in the vertical direction (vertical direction). be done.
Further, on the liquid crystal screen, non-display areas (=blank areas) in the horizontal and vertical directions may be set around a display area (effective pixel area) 50 consisting of effective pixels where an image is actually displayed.

In the example shown in FIG. 44A, blank areas set in the horizontal and vertical directions of the effective pixel area 50 include a horizontal front porch 51, a horizontal back porch 52, a vertical front porch 53, and a vertical back porch 54.
By adjusting the sizes of these back and front porches, it is possible to change the position of the display area (effective pixel area) 50 within the liquid crystal screen.
A blank area set above the effective pixel area 50 is a vertical front porch 53, and a blank area set below the effective pixel area 50 is a vertical back porch 54.
Further, in the horizontal line including the effective pixel area 50, the blank area set on the left side (scanning start side) is the horizontal front porch 51, and the blank area on the right side (scanning end side) is the horizontal back porch 52.
Note that the blank areas do not necessarily have to be set separately above and below or before and after the effective pixel area 50; as shown in FIG. Alternatively, they may be set together as a vertical blank area 56 on the upper or lower side.

As described above, the image display device (liquid crystal screen) includes an LCD driver that drives pixels (liquid crystal) based on signals input from the VDP 200.
The first liquid crystal module 31a includes an LCD driver 36a, and the second liquid crystal module 31b includes an LCD driver 36b.
The liquid crystal screen has different operating modes (driving modes) depending on the form of the signal input from the above-mentioned VDP 200 to the LCD driver, and these are roughly divided into DE mode and fixed mode.
In FIG. 4, it has been explained that a video signal and a synchronization signal are output from the display circuit 208, but these are signals in a fixed mode, which will be described later, and a data enable signal (DE signal) is used in the DE mode. The fixed mode will be explained below.

In the fixed mode, the input signals input from the VDP200 are mainly the drive clock, the luminance signal and color signal (video signal) based on the video, and the synchronization signal (H-SYNC signal, V-SYNC signal, blank signal). including.
FIG. 45 is a diagram showing synchronization signals of the liquid crystal module.
When the V-SYNC signal is input from the VDP 200, the driver scans (drives) the liquid crystal screen line by line starting from the first dot according to the state of the V-BLANK signal.
After the V-SYNC signal is input, the period during which the V-BLANK signal is invalid corresponds to the vertical blank area 56 (vertical front porch 53 + vertical back porch 54).
During the valid period of the V-BLANK signal, drawing is performed on the valid pixel area 50.
The invalid period of the H-BLANK signal (not shown) in the valid period of the V-BLANK signal corresponds to the horizontal blank area 55 (horizontal front porch 51 + horizontal back porch 52). When the H-BLANK signal is valid, actual drawing (pixel driving) is performed using valid pixels.
When the H-SYNC signal is input during scanning for one line, scanning for the next line is performed.
When the V-SYNC signal is input after the vertical back porch period, it is time to refresh the screen and start scanning the next screen.
Further, the vertical blanking period (vertical front porch period + vertical back porch period) is defined by the V-BLANK signal.
As shown in FIG. 44(b), if the blank area is set either before or after the effective pixel area, at the end of the blanking period that is the sum of the vertical front porch 53 + vertical back porch 54. The V-SYNC signal is input and the process returns to the first pixel of the next screen. This timing is the screen refresh timing.

In the image display unit 31 of this embodiment, control as described below is performed in order to match the vertical synchronization timing of the first liquid crystal module 31a and the second liquid crystal module 31b.
Basically, the control is to match the vertical synchronization timing of one liquid crystal module to the vertical synchronization timing of another liquid crystal module.
In the following, a case will be described in which the vertical synchronization timing of the first liquid crystal module 31a is later than that of the second liquid crystal module 31b. Of course, this is just an example, and the opposite may be possible.
The LCD driver 36a forces the first liquid crystal module 31a, which is still driving intermediate pixels, to return to the first pixel at the timing when the second liquid crystal module 31b finishes scanning the last pixel and returns to the first pixel. As a result, the vertical synchronization timings of the first liquid crystal module 31a and the second liquid crystal module 31b are aligned. This can be achieved by using the following configuration.

FIG. 46 is a diagram (part 1) illustrating a synchronization signal for synchronizing the vertical synchronization timing of two plurality of liquid crystal screens included in the image display unit of this embodiment.
(i) shows a synchronization signal input to the second liquid crystal module 31b, and (ii) shows a synchronization signal input to the first liquid crystal module 31a.
In the gaming machine of this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 35(b), for the first liquid crystal module 31a with a small refresh rate value, the timing of the V-SYNC signal is advanced (shortened the vertical back porch period) compared to the actual timing. ), the timing is the same as that of the V-SYNC signal of the second liquid crystal module 31b shown in FIG. 35(a).
The VDP 200 outputs a V-SYNC signal whose timing is matched to that of the second liquid crystal module 31b to the LCD driver 36a of the first liquid crystal module 31a.

Further, the difference in refresh rate between the first liquid crystal module 31a and the second liquid crystal module 31b is very small, and at the timing when the vertical back porch period ends for the second liquid crystal module 31b, the effective pixel area of the first liquid crystal module 31a also decreases. There is a high possibility that the vertical back porch period has started after the driving of 50a has ended.
When the vertical back porch period for the second liquid crystal module 31b ends and the vertical front porch period starts, the first liquid crystal module 31a is also forced to enter the vertical front porch period, and the image display of the first liquid crystal module 31a is changed. No problems will occur.

In such a case, V-SYNC is input after the vertical blank area 56, but it is possible to input the V-SYNC signal to the first liquid crystal module 31a at the same time as inputting the V-SYNC input to the second liquid crystal module 31b. , it is possible to match the vertical synchronization timing of the first liquid crystal module 31a and the second liquid crystal module 31b.

As another method, after the scanning of the last pixel of the second liquid crystal module 31b is completed, the LCD driver 36b can scan the first pixel of the first liquid crystal module 31a, which is still driving pixels in the middle, after the scanning of the final pixel is completed and the first pixel is Wait until it returns to , then return to the first pixel. As a result, the vertical synchronization timings of the first liquid crystal module 31a and the second liquid crystal module 31b are aligned. This can be achieved by using the following configuration.

FIG. 47 is a diagram (part 2) illustrating a synchronization signal for synchronizing the vertical synchronization timing of two plurality of liquid crystal screens included in the image display unit of this embodiment.
(a) shows the vertical synchronization signal of the second liquid crystal module 31b, and (b) shows the vertical synchronization signal of the first liquid crystal module 31a.
In the gaming machine of this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 35(a), the second liquid crystal module 31b waits even after the specified period corresponding to the vertical back porch 54b has elapsed, and the original V-SYNC signal input timing is is set to be later than the actual timing and the same timing as the vertical synchronization signal of the first liquid crystal module 31a.
The VDP 200 transmits a vertical synchronization signal as shown in FIG. 38(a) in accordance with the vertical synchronization timing (input timing of the V-SYNC signal) of the first liquid crystal module 31a.
The V-SYNC signal is input after the vertical blank area 56, and at the same time the V-SYNC signal is input to the LCD driver 36a of the first liquid crystal module 31a, the V-SYNC signal is also input to the LCD driver 36b of the second liquid crystal module 31b. By inputting this, the vertical synchronization timing of the first liquid crystal module 31a and the second liquid crystal module 31b can be matched.
The same applies to the third liquid crystal module 31c, by inputting the V-SYNC signal to the LCD driver 36a of the first liquid crystal module 31a and simultaneously inputting the V-SYNC signal to the LCD driver of the third liquid crystal module 31b, The vertical synchronization timings of the first liquid crystal module 31a and the third liquid crystal module 31b can be matched.
As a result, the vertical synchronization timing can be matched in all of the first liquid crystal module 31a, second liquid crystal module 31b, and third liquid crystal module 31c.
In this embodiment, the red LED 115R, green LED 115G, and blue LED 115B each emit red light, green light, and It may be configured to emit blue light.

Note that as the image display device of the gaming machine 1, a liquid crystal display device, a rear projector, or any other display device can be adopted.
Further, the display mode of the image display device of the present invention can be applied not only to pachinko machines but also to slot machines, other gaming machines having a display device, and gaming machines in general.

1 Game machine, 10 Game board, 13 First starting port, 14 Second starting port, 31 Image display device, 35 Production pattern, 110 Main control board, 111 Main CPU, 112 Main ROM, 113 Main RAM, 120 Production control board , 121 sub CPU, 122 sub ROM, 123 sub RAM, 140 lamp control board, 150 image control board, 151 host CPU, 152 host RAM 152 host ROM

Claims (1)

Multiple light sources with different emission colors,
a first liquid crystal display means for displaying an image in color using light emitted from the plurality of light sources ;
a second liquid crystal display means provided before the first liquid crystal display means;
Light emission control means for controlling the plurality of light sources to sequentially switch and emit light within one display period,
The first liquid crystal display means:
a first liquid crystal means comprising a plurality of pixels having a plurality of color elements;
a first display control means for performing display using light emitted from each pixel by controlling each pixel included in the first liquid crystal means according to light emission from each light source for each display period;
Equipped with
The second liquid crystal display means displays a different display from the first liquid crystal display means using light emitted from the first liquid crystal display means within the same display period as the first liquid crystal display means. The image is displayed in color depending on the method,
The light emission control means performs control to switch the light emission of the plurality of light sources at a cycle shorter than a cycle for controlling each pixel of the first liquid crystal means.
A gaming machine characterized by:

Images