JP7368039B1 - gaming machine - Google Patents

Abstract

[Problem] To provide a gaming machine with improved convenience of character information and keyholes. SOLUTION: When a keyhole protection cover 1002 is in a protection position and a keyhole 1009 is in a second position 1013 that does not allow setting values to be changed even when the power is turned on, a character information section 1017: When the keyhole 1009 is viewed from the front, at least a portion thereof is located at a position overlapping with the keyhole 1009. [Selection diagram] Figure 13

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine that allows players to play games.

Conventionally, some gaming machines have been equipped with a cover for a setting change key switch.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2009-56187 (for example, FIG. 8)

However, in the configuration disclosed in Patent Document 1, the text information regarding the setting change key etc. is formed on the board, and when the text information is formed on the cover, the position of the text information and the keyhole of the setting change key switch is Relationships have not been taken into account and there is still room for improvement.

The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that includes a cover for a setting change key switch and improves the convenience of text information and keyholes. .

The present invention provides a gaming machine capable of playing games, wherein the gaming machine includes a setting control means for setting one setting value from a plurality of different setting values, and the gaming machine has a setting change key switch inside. The setting change key switch is provided with a keyhole and can be rotated from a first position to a second position by inserting a key into the keyhole and operating it, and the setting control means includes: When the power is turned on with the setting change key switch in the first position, the settings of the set values can be changed, and even when the power is turned on with the setting change key switch in the second position, The game machine is made of a transparent thermoplastic resin, and has an exposed position where the keyhole is exposed so that the key can be inserted, and a position where the keyhole is exposed so that the key can be inserted. The keyhole protection cover is provided with a keyhole protection cover that is movable to a protection position that covers the keyhole in a manner that is impossible to cover, and the keyhole protection cover is configured such that information regarding the setting change key switch or information regarding the keyhole protection cover is directly transmitted through a concave portion or a convex portion. and a character information section formed in the keyhole, when the keyhole protection cover is in the protection position and the setting change key switch is in the second position, the character information section is configured such that when the keyhole protection cover is in the protection position and the setting change key switch is in the second position, The game machine is characterized in that at least a portion thereof is located at a position overlapping with the keyhole.

In such a configuration, since the keyhole protection cover is provided with a character information section that is information about the setting change key switch or information about the keyhole protection cover, when the operator changes settings, the keyhole protection cover is It becomes easier to check information regarding the key switch or information regarding the keyhole protection cover at the same time, improving convenience. That is, when the text information section is information regarding a setting change key switch, it becomes easier to intuitively recognize that the cover is operated when changing settings. Further, when the text information section is information regarding the keyhole protection cover, it becomes easy to confirm whether the keyhole protection cover is a genuine product at the same time as changing settings. In addition, since the character information is directly formed by concave or convex parts, the keyhole protection cover can be placed in two positions: an exposed position where the keyhole of the setting change key switch is exposed, and a protective position where the keyhole of the setting change key switch is covered. Even if the worker's fingers repeatedly touch the cover when displacing the keyhole, it is difficult to peel off compared to silk printing made of materials other than the keyhole protection cover, and the text information is It is possible to prevent a decrease in visibility.

Further, when the keyhole protection cover is in the protection position and the setting change key switch is in the second position, the text information section is at least partially overlapped with the keyhole when viewed from the front. Therefore, even if a person other than the operator visually observes the keyhole during maintenance during the hall operation, the shape of the entire keyhole is difficult to recognize, and unauthorized duplication of the key can be prevented.

The present invention also provides a gaming machine capable of playing games, wherein the gaming machine includes a setting control means for setting one setting value from a plurality of different setting values, and the gaming machine has an internal setting changer. The setting change key switch has a keyhole and can be rotated from a first position to a second position by inserting a key into the keyhole and operating the setting change key switch. The means makes the settings of the set values changeable when the power is turned on with the setting change key switch in the first position, and the means makes the settings of the set values changeable even when the power is turned on with the setting change key switch in the second position. , the game machine is made of a transparent thermoplastic resin, and has an exposed position where the keyhole is exposed so that the key can be inserted; A keyhole protection cover is provided which is movable to a protective position covering the keyhole so that a key cannot be inserted, and the keyhole protection cover has information about the setting change key switch or information about the keyhole protection cover in a recess or a text information section directly formed by a convex portion, and when the keyhole protection cover is in the protection position and the setting change key switch is in the second position, the text information section is located in front of the keyhole. This gaming machine is characterized in that all parts are located at positions that do not overlap with the keyhole when viewed from above.

In such a configuration, since the keyhole protection cover is provided with a character information section that is information about the setting change key switch or information about the keyhole protection cover, when the operator changes settings, the keyhole protection cover is It becomes easier to check information regarding the key switch or information regarding the keyhole protection cover at the same time, improving convenience. That is, when the text information section is information regarding a setting change key switch, it becomes easier to intuitively recognize that the cover is operated when changing settings. Further, when the text information section is information regarding the keyhole protection cover, it becomes easy to confirm whether the keyhole protection cover is a genuine product at the same time as changing settings. In addition, since the character information is directly formed by concave or convex parts, the keyhole protection cover can be placed in two positions: an exposed position where the keyhole of the setting change key switch is exposed, and a protective position where the keyhole of the setting change key switch is covered. Even if the worker's fingers repeatedly touch the cover when displacing the keyhole, it is difficult to peel off compared to silk printing made of materials other than the keyhole protection cover, and the text information is It is possible to prevent a decrease in visibility.

Furthermore, when the keyhole protection cover is in the protection position and the setting change key switch is in the second position, all parts of the text information section are in positions that do not overlap with the keyhole when viewed from the front. Therefore, when changing settings, the operator can easily recognize the keyhole, improving convenience.

FIG. 1 is a front view of a slot machine and a card unit that are an example of a gaming machine according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a communication system of a slot machine. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the device configuration of a card unit and the functions of a unit control board. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of a slot machine. 3 is a functional block diagram showing the functions of a main control board, a sub-control board, and a medal number control board in FIG. 2. FIG. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the slot machine with its front panel open. Some corrections planned It is a diagram showing the symbol arrangement of the reels. It is a diagram for explaining the transition of gaming states. It is a diagram showing the relationship between the winning combination group, the presence or absence of objects that can be moved to an advantageous section, and the number of coins paid out depending on the stop mode. It is a diagram showing the relationship between the winning combination group of the lower number that triggered the shift to the advantageous section and the lottery mode determination table selected based on the state of the first game. It is a front view of a control unit. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a state in which a board case protective cover is removed from the control unit. 12 is an enlarged view of the peripheral portion of the protective cover in FIG. 11. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing the setting change key switch unit of FIG. 13. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a first modification example of FIG. 13. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a second modification example of FIG. 13. FIG.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 6. In this specification, for ease of description, data corresponding to gaming value used in games instead of gaming medals will be appropriately referred to as "pseudo medals."

(slot machine system)
First, a slot machine system will be explained with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 1 is a front view of a slot machine SM and a card unit CU according to a first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the slot machine system.

As shown in FIG. 2, the slot machine system includes a slot machine SM for playing games based on gaming value, a hall computer, a management computer, and a slot machine SM installed adjacent to the slot machine SM and connected to the slot machine SM. The card unit CU is configured to rent out and return gaming value in data format, and is configured to be able to transmit various information to a hall computer and a management computer, and a center. In this embodiment, information that can specify the number of bonus wins, the number of games between bonuses, etc. is transmitted from the card unit CU to the hall computer. Further, information related to the performance of the slot machine SM, such as the ratio of accessories, etc., is transmitted from the card unit CU to the management computer. In the slot machine SM, the number of pseudo medals is sent from the card unit CU in the form of number data to the medal number control board 300, and the game is executed by the number data management by the medal number control board 300.

In addition, in the present embodiment, in the slot machine system, balance data regarding the balance of cash input by the player and the number of pseudo medals owned by the player that can be lent to the slot machine SM (hereinafter, appropriately referred to as "Number of medals held") are provided. '') is stored in the storage means 502a (see FIG. 3) of the unit control board 500 of the card unit CU. In addition, number data (hereinafter referred to as "gaming medal number data" as appropriate) indicating the number of pseudo medals owned by a player that can be used for games on the slot machine SM (hereinafter referred to as "gaming medal number") is also provided. ) is stored in the storage means 302a (see FIG. 5) of the medal number control board 300 of the slot machine SM. Note that the storage means 502a is formed in the RAM section (volatile memory) of the memory 502, the storage means 302a is formed in the RAM section (volatile memory) of the memory 302, and the storage means 502a and the storage means 302a are connected to the power supply. It is possible to retain the stored contents only when the power is being supplied, and the stored contents are erased when power is no longer supplied.

Then, by operating the lending switch 503a of the card unit CU, a predetermined number of pseudo medals are lent from the card unit CU to the slot machine SM. In this lending, the balance data or the loanable number data stored in the storage means 502a of the card unit CU is subtracted by an amount corresponding to a predetermined number of cards to be lent, or the loanable card is subtracted by a predetermined number of cards to be lent. Can be rewritten to sheet count data. Further, the game medal number data stored in the storage means 302a of the slot machine SM is rewritten to game medal number data increased by a predetermined number of loaned medals.

Further, by operating the bet switch 7 or the maximum bet switch 8 of the slot machine SM, a bet (insertion) of pseudo medals for a predetermined number of bets (number of inserted medals) is made. In this bet, the game medal number data stored in the storage means 302a of the slot machine SM is rewritten to game medal number data obtained by subtracting a predetermined bet number.

Furthermore, by winning a winning combination that pays out pseudo medals, the slot machine SM pays out a predetermined number of pseudo medals to the player. In this payout, the game medal number data stored in the storage means 302a of the slot machine SM is rewritten to game medal number data increased by a predetermined payout number. In this embodiment, the insertion of pseudo medals, the payout of pseudo medals, and the rewriting of the game medal number data are performed by exchanging signals between the main control CPU 101 and the medal number control CPU 301, which will be described in detail later.

Further, information is exchanged bidirectionally between the medal number control board 300 and the card unit CU via the I/F boards 90 and 550. Further, power (voltage) based on the internal power supply (internal power supply of the card unit CU) is supplied from the card unit CU to the slot machine SM via the I/F boards 90 and 550.

Below, first, the functions of the slot machine SM and the card unit CU will be explained in detail, and then the power supply for the slot machine SM and the card unit CU and the connection relationship between the slot machine SM and the card unit CU will be explained in detail.

(card unit)
As shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the card unit CU includes a unit information display device 505, a cash insertion device 506, a card insertion/ejection device 504, a lending switch 503a, a unit control board 500, and an I/F board 550. . The card unit CU also includes a power supply board (not shown), an auxiliary power supply (not shown), and a return switch (not shown).

The unit information display device 505 displays the player's cash balance (frequency) and the number of pseudo medals owned by the player based on the balance data and the number of medals data stored in the storage means 502a of the unit control board 500. It is something. The unit information display device 505 is, for example, composed of a plurality of 7-segment LEDs, a liquid crystal display, or the like.

The cash input device 506 is used to input cash such as banknotes in order to borrow pseudo medals from the card unit CU, and detects the cash input by the player.

When a medal card is inserted from the insertion/ejection port, the card insertion/ejection device 504 stores the medal card, and when the return switch is operated, the card insertion/ejection device 504 stores the stored medal card from the insertion/ejection port. It is something that is discharged.

As shown in FIG. 3, the unit control board 500 is equipped with a unit CPU 501 that controls the entire card unit CU. 2 functions as a counting processing means 501c, a return processing means 501d, and a transmitting/receiving means 501e.

(1) Storage means 502a
The memory 502 includes a RAM section that temporarily stores various data, and a ROM section that stores various programs and the like, and a storage means 502a is formed in the RAM section (volatile memory). The storage means 502a holds balance data, data on the number of medals held, data on the number of gaming medals stored in the storage means 302a received from the number of medals control board 300, ID information written on the medal card, and the like.

(2) Reception processing means 501a
When the medal card is inserted into the insertion/ejection port of the card insertion/ejection device 504, the reception processing means 501a converts the balance data and the number of medals stored in the storage means 502a into the amount of money stored in the medal card. (The amount may be "0") or the number of pseudo medals (the number may be "0") is rewritten and stored in the medal card. This is to set the amount of money or the number of pseudo medals to "0". Further, when cash is inserted into the cash input device 506, the reception processing means 501a rewrites the balance data stored in the storage means 502a with balance data increased by the amount of money inserted.

(3) Lending processing means 501b
When the lending switch 503a is operated, the transmitting/receiving means 501e transmits a signal based on the number data of a predetermined number of lending cards to the slot machine SM. Based on the transmission of this signal, the lending processing means 501b subtracts the balance data or the number of medals stored in the storage means 502a by an amount corresponding to a predetermined number of lending medals or the predetermined number of lending medals. This is to rewrite the data on the number of medals that have been subtracted. Note that the lending processing means 501b updates the storage contents of the storage means 502a when a signal based on the number data for a predetermined number of lending coins is sent to the slot machine SM, for example, the lending processing means 501b updates the number of coins for a predetermined number of lending coins. When a signal based on the data is transmitted to the slot machine SM and a response signal thereto is received from the slot machine SM, the storage contents of the storage means 502a may be updated.

In addition, in this embodiment, when lending pseudo medals based on the loanable number data stored in the storage means 502a, a predetermined number of pseudo medals are lent out each time the lending switch 503a is operated. For example, when the lending switch 503a is operated, all of the pseudo medals stored in the storage means 502a may be lent out at once.

(4) Second counting processing means 501c
The second counting processing means 501c cooperates with the first counting processing means 301b2 of the medal number control CPU 301 to transfer part or all of the usable number data stored in the storage means 302a to the storage means 502a of the card unit CU. This is used to perform counting processing to move the data to the next step.

Specifically, when the counting switch 31 of the slot machine SM is operated, a signal based on the number data for a predetermined count is transmitted from the slot machine SM to the card unit CU via the inter-unit transmitting/receiving means 301e. When the transmitting/receiving means 501e receives this signal, the second counting processing means 501c rewrites the data on the number of medals stored in the storage means 502a into data on the number of medals on hand by adding a predetermined count. In addition, in this embodiment, when the count switch 31 is pressed for a normal press for less than a predetermined time, data on the number of one pseudo medal is transmitted to the card unit CU side. On the other hand, if the counting switch 31 is pressed for a predetermined time or longer, data on the number of 50 pseudo medals is transmitted to the card unit CU at predetermined intervals (for example, 300 ms).

(5) Return processing means 501d
When the return switch is operated, the return processing means 501d stores the balance data and the number of medals data stored in the storage means 502a in the medal card stored in the card insertion/ejection device 504, and then The medal card is returned to the player.

Specifically, the information regarding the number of game medals (the number of pseudo medals indicated by the game medal number data stored in the storage means 302a) transmitted from the medal number control board 300, and the information regarding the number of game medals transmitted from the medal number control board 300 and the number of medals controlled by the main control board 100. When the return switch is operated in a state where the information regarding the number of pseudo medals that have been inputted with the board 300 both indicate "0", the return processing means 501d returns the balance stored in the storage means 502a. The data and the data on the number of medals held are stored in the medal card stored in the card insertion/ejection device 504, and the medal card is ejected from the insertion/ejection port of the card insertion/ejection device 504, and is also stored in the storage means 502a. The balance data and the number of medals data are rewritten into balance data indicating the balance "0" and number data indicating the number of medals "0". Note that if the return switch is operated when both the information regarding the number of pseudo medals that have been inserted and the information regarding the number of gaming medals transmitted from the medal number control board 300 are not "0", the LCD display The device 14, the speakers 15, 16, and the like provide notifications to prompt counting (counting switch 31) and settlement (accounting switch 33).

Note that the transmitting/receiving means 501e receives data regarding the number of game medals (the number of pseudo medals indicated by the game medal number data stored in the storage means 302a) at a predetermined period (for example, 300 ms).

(6) Transmitting/receiving means 501e
The transmitting/receiving means 501e receives signals based on various information from the medal number control board 300 and transmits signals based on various information to the medal number control board 300. The information received from the medal number control board 300 includes the number of returned pseudo medals (counted number data), the usable number (the number of pseudo medals indicated by the game medal number data stored in the storage means 302a), These include the total number of pseudo medals put in, the total number of paid out medals, various ratios displayed on the winning ratio monitor 47 such as the winning ratio, and error related information. Further, the information transmitted to the medal number control board 300 includes information regarding the number of loaned pseudo medals. Note that game medal number data indicating the number of game medals received from the transmitting/receiving means 501e (game medal number data stored in the storage means 302a) is stored in the storage means 502a, and thereby the card unit CU and the medal number control board 300, and by using both, it becomes possible to respond to fraudulent acts.

Note that various game information is transmitted from the card unit CU to the hall computer. Various game information includes, for example, the open state of the front panel 2, information regarding the number of pseudo medals inserted, information regarding the number of pseudo medals paid out, error occurrence information, information that settings are being changed, and information that settings are being confirmed. information, information that the player is in a bonus state, information that a prize has been won, a replay winning combination, or a bonus winning combination, information that the rotating reels 6L, 6M, and 6R have stopped, and the like.

(slot machine)
Next, the outline of the configuration of the slot machine SM will be explained with reference to FIGS. 1 to 6.

In the slot machine SM of this embodiment, pseudo medals are inserted by operating the bet switch 7 or the maximum bet switch 8 in order to satisfy a predetermined condition for starting a game. In addition, when the start switch 9 is operated by the player on the condition that the number of bets for a predetermined number of coins is set by inserting pseudo medals and a predetermined condition is satisfied, a plurality of symbols each having a plurality of symbols arranged thereon are displayed. The rotating reels 6L, 6M, and 6R start rotating. Further, each rotating reel 6L, 6M, 6R is stopped by operating each stop switch 10L, 10M, 10R. If the stop symbol display result at this time is in a predetermined winning mode, one game is completed by paying out a predetermined payout number of pseudo medals. Here, inserting pseudo medals means rewriting the game medal number data stored in the storage means 302a of the medal number control board 300 to game medal number data in which the number of medals corresponding to the number of bets for the game is subtracted. Say something. Also, paying out pseudo medals means that when a prize is won in the game, the number of medals set according to the winning combination is added to the game medal number data stored in the storage means 302a of the medal number control board 300. This means rewriting the game medal count data.

Furthermore, even if pseudo medals are inserted and the game medal number data is reduced, the set number of bets can be changed until the start switch 9 is operated. The number of bets is updated as appropriate, and when the start switch 9 is operated, the amount set as the number of bets is played. For example, when setting the number of bets in a gaming state where the specified number is set to "3" or "1", by operating the maximum bet switch 8, the number of bets is set to "3" and the game medal "3" is subtracted from the number data. After that, when changing the bet number to "1", by operating the bet switch 7, "1" is set as the bet number, and "2" is returned (added) to the game medal number data. becomes.

The slot machine SM is configured as shown in FIG. 1, for example. That is, in this slot machine SM, the front of a box-shaped housing KY with an open front is closed by a front panel 2 so as to be openable and closable, and the operation panel 3 is disposed at a position approximately at the center height of this front panel 2. At the same time, a front plate 4 is disposed above the operation plate 3. This front plate 4 is provided with a horizontally long rectangular display window 5. Further, inside the display window 5, left, middle, and right rotating reels 6L, 6M, and 6R are arranged to variably display a plurality of types of symbols in a predetermined order.

In the slot machine SM, which is an example of a gaming machine according to the present embodiment, a prescribed number of gaming media (for example, 3 media) are inserted in one of a plurality of preset gaming states, as will be described later. One game is started on the condition that the start switch 9 is operated, and is configured as shown in FIG.

The front surface of the casing KY is openably and closably closed by a front panel 2, and an operation plate 3 is disposed at a position approximately at the center height of the front panel 2. A front plate 4 is arranged above the operation plate 3. A horizontally long rectangular display window 5 is provided on the front panel 4. Further, inside the display window 5, left, middle, and right rotating reels 6L, 6M, and 6R are arranged to variably display a plurality of types of symbols in a predetermined order. As shown in FIG. 7, the left, middle, and right rotating reels 6L, 6M, and 6R have multiple types of symbols (in this embodiment, "R7 (red 7)," "B7 (blue 7)," and "BR (bar). ),” “T1 (Tomato 1),” “T2 (Tomato 2),” “AP (Apple),” “C1 (Cherry 1),” “C2 (Cherry 2),” “LM (Bell),” “RP (Replay)”). A total of 20 pieces are provided in a predetermined arrangement.

Each symbol is sequentially numbered from 0 to 19. In this case, for example, a reel tape on which symbols of frame numbers 0 to 19 are printed is attached to the circumferential surface of each rotating reel 6L, 6M, and 6R. Then, as each reel 6L, 6M, 6R rotates, a plurality of symbols are variably displayed on the display window 5 in a predetermined order of frame numbers 19, 18, . . . , 0, 19, . The display window 5 is set so that when the rotation of each reel 6L, 6M, and 6R stops, three symbols in total, one each in the upper, middle, and lower rows, are visible. That is, when all three reels 6L, 6M, and 6R stop, a total of nine symbols arranged in three columns and three rows are stopped and displayed on the display window 5. In this embodiment, the winning line in the display window 5 used for winning determination is comprised of the upper row of the left reel 6L, the upper row of the middle reel 6M, and the middle row of the right reel 6R.

In the advantageous section, it was allowed to notify the pressing order (pressing order of correct answers) that will give an advantageous payout when winning the winning combination groups "ATA_CL1" (lower number 04) to "ATB_RC2" (lower number 19), which will be described later. It is an interval. In this embodiment, advantageous section lamps corresponding to advantageous sections are not provided, but they may be provided.

In addition, each rotary reel 6L, 6M, 6R is equipped with a left, middle, right reel motor 27L, 27M, which is constituted by a stepping motor, respectively, so that each rotary reel 6L, 6M, 6R can be rotated independently. 27R (see FIG. 4) are connected. Further, a support frame supporting each rotating reel 6L, 6M, 6R is fixed to the rear wall inside the housing KY, and each rotating reel 6L, 6M, 6R is supported by the supporting frame and attached to the housing. It is arranged within the body KY.

Further, the operation panel 3 is provided with a bet switch 7, a maximum bet switch 8, a lever-shaped start switch 9, left/middle/right stop switches 10L, 10M, 10R, a counting switch 31, and a settlement switch 33. The bet switch 7 is used by the player to perform an operation to instruct the insertion of pseudo medals one by one from the usable number data stored in the storage means 302a of the medal number control board 300, which will be described later. The maximum bet switch 8 allows the player to input the maximum number of medals per game (set to 3) from the game medal number data stored in the storage means 302a of the medal number control board 300. This is for performing an operation to instruct the insertion of pseudo medals. Note that the bet switch 7 and the maximum bet switch 8 are set to be activated when the number of medals indicated by the game medal number data stored in the storage means 302a of the medal number control board 300 is one or more. has been done. Further, when the maximum bet switch 8 is operated, if the number of game medals indicated by the game medal number data stored in the storage means 302a of the medal number control board 300 is less than the specified number (for example, three), , a notification may be made to encourage the player to lend out the pseudo medals, or the player may be allowed to play with a predetermined number less than the specified number (for example, three). Furthermore, in such a case, the operation of the maximum bet switch 8 may not be accepted.

The counting switch 31 functions as an instruction button when transmitting the game medal number data stored in the storage means 302a to the card unit CU side. In this embodiment, a normal press is an instruction to send the number data for one sheet, and a long press is an instruction to periodically send the number data for 50 sheets. In the case of a long press, data on the number of 50 cards is sent to the card unit CU at predetermined time intervals while the button is pressed. Note that if the transmission instruction (transmission instruction based on a long press) is issued when the game medal number data stored in the storage means 302a is less than 50, all the remaining number data will be stored in the card unit. Sent to CU. The settlement switch 33 is for resetting the number of bets to 0 when the number of bets for pseudo medals has been set.

The start switch 9 is used by the player to rotate the rotating reels 6L, 6M, and 6R to start variable display of each symbol. The left, middle, and right stop switches 10L, 10M, and 10R are used by the player to stop the rotation of the left, middle, and right rotating reels 6L, 6M, and 6R, respectively, and stop the variable display of each symbol. It is. Note that the start switch 9 is used to rewrite the game medal number data stored in the storage means 302a of the medal number control board 300 by subtracting a predetermined number from the game medal number data (insertion of a predetermined number of pseudo medals). It is set to be activated after it is done. In addition, the left, middle, and right stop switches 10L, 10M, and 10R allow the rotating reels 6L, 6M, and 6R, which have started rotating by operating the start switch 9, to rotate at a constant speed after a predetermined acceleration period has elapsed. It is set to be activated later.

In this embodiment, the number of bets (predetermined number) required for one game (one game) is set to three types: 1, 2, and 3 bets. In addition, a variable display row that variably displays multiple types of symbols is formed by each of the rotating reels 6L, 6M, and 6R, and each stop switch 10L, 10M, and 10R is connected to each of the rotating reels 6L, 6M, and 6R. It is set up accordingly.

In addition, approximately in the upper center of the front panel 4, a video or the like is displayed to notify the player of winnings, prizes, etc., and to notify the operating mode of each stop switch 10L, 10M, 10R. A liquid crystal display 14 is provided for this purpose.

Furthermore, upper speakers 15 are provided on the upper left and right sides of the front panel 4 for producing effects such as music and audio. Further, a lower panel 18 on which decorative pictures and the like are displayed is provided below the operation panel 3, and lower speakers 16 are provided on the left and right sides of the lower panel 18 for producing effects such as music and audio. There is.

Further, an upper lamp section 21 is provided on the upper peripheral edge of the front panel 2, and lower lamp sections 22 are provided on the left and right sides of the lower panel 18 of the front panel 2. Each of the lamp sections 21 and 22 is equipped with a light emitting means such as a light emitting element such as a light emitting diode or an organic EL, or a general light bulb, and performs effects such as notifying the player of winning or winning a prize.

Further, at the lower right side of the display window 5, a game medal number display 26 is arranged to display the number of pseudo medals owned by the player. This game medal number display 26 is composed of, for example, five 7-segment LEDs, and is capable of displaying the five-digit number of pseudo medals possessed.

Further, a bet lamp section 30 for indicating the number of medals inserted is arranged next to the game medal number display 26, and the bet lamp section 30 is composed of three bet lamps.

Furthermore, a payout display 46 is provided at the lower left of the display window 5 to display the number of pseudo medals to be paid out. This payout display 46 is composed of, for example, two 7-segment LEDs, and is capable of displaying a two-digit number of pseudo medals to be paid out.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the slot machine SM with the front panel 2 open. Note that since the main control board 100 of the control unit 150 is housed in a transparent board case, the component mounting surface of the main control board 100 is visible when viewed from the front. As shown in FIG. 6, the control unit 150, in which the main control board 100 is housed in a transparent board case, is mounted with components of the main control board 100 at the rear of the housing KY of the slot machine SM using screws and mounting brackets (not shown). The I/F board 90 is fixed so that its surface faces toward the front side, and the I/F board 90 is fixed to the side surface of the casing KY of the slot machine SM by screws, mounting fittings, etc. (not shown). Note that, hereinafter, the front side in FIG. 6 is the front side of the main control board 100 and the control unit 150, and the back side is the back side of the main control board 100 and the control unit 150. The top, bottom, left and right in FIG. 6 will be described as the top, bottom, left and right of the main control board 100 and the control unit 150. Control unit 150 will be detailed later.

(Outline of electrical configuration of slot machine)
An outline of the electrical configuration of the slot machine SM will be described with reference to FIG. 4 while also referring to FIG. 1. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the slot machine.

The left, middle, and right reel sensors 55L, 55M, and 55R are for detecting the rotational positions of the left, middle, and right rotating reels 6L, 6M, and 6R, respectively; for example, the left, middle, and right rotating reels 6L, 6M, It consists of a photo interrupter that detects the protrusions provided on each reel 6R, and when the left, middle, and right rotating reels 6L, 6M, and 6R rotate, it detects the protrusions every round and sends the detection signal to the main control board 100. Output. In this slot machine SM, for example, when the left, middle, and right reel sensors 55L, 55M, and 55R detect the above-mentioned protrusion, the symbols numbered 0 to 20 set on each rotating reel 6L, 6M, and 6R are displayed. Among the numbers, the pattern with the frame number 20 is located in the middle of the display window 5.

The setting change key switch 56 is provided on the main control board 100 and can be turned on or off. The reset switch 52 is provided on the operation switch board 600, and each time the reset switch 52 is pressed once during a setting change, the reset switch 52 is temporarily set to a higher setting value. Note that the reset switch 52 is also used as a switch for canceling an error when it occurs. The setting change key switch 56 will be explained in detail later.

In addition, this slot machine SM has a main control board 100 mounted with a main control CPU 101 that controls the progress of the game, and controls effects according to the progress of the game based on information transmitted from the main control board 100. A sub-control board 200 on which a sub-control CPU 201 is mounted, a medal number control board 300 on which a medal number control CPU 301 that performs control related to management of the number of pseudo medals owned by a player, and a As illustrated in FIG. An I/F board 90 for communicating with devices is provided separately. Here, various game information is unidirectionally transmitted from the main control board 100 to the sub control board 200. Furthermore, various types of information are transmitted bidirectionally between the main control board 100 and the medal count control board 300. Furthermore, predetermined information is unidirectionally transmitted from the medal number control board 300 to the sub-control board 200 via the main control board 100. The predetermined information here includes, for example, information regarding the number of game medals data stored in the storage means 302a, information to notify when the counting switch 31 or lending switch 503a is pressed, and the like. As a result, the sub control board 200 displays the number of pseudo medals owned by the player on the liquid crystal display 14 based on the information (predetermined information) received from the medal number control board 300 via the main control board 100. Control is also performed such that when the counting switch 31 or the lending switch 503a is pressed, the speakers 15 and 16 make a pressing notification sound.

Further, the main control board 100 and the medal number control board 300 may be connected BtoB (Board to Board). Further, the display board 700 and the operation switch board 600, the operation switch board 600 and the medal count control board 300, and the main control board 100 and the sub-control board 200 are all connected via harnesses.

Signals from the start switch 9, bet switch 7, maximum bet switch 8, stop switches 10L, 10M, 10R, as well as signals from the settlement switch 33 and reset switch 52, which are operation means necessary for the progression of the game, are first sent to the operation switch board. 600 and is input to the medal number control board 300 via the harness. Then, it is input to the main control board 100 via the wiring within the medal number control board 300 and the connector connection (BtoB connection). The signal from the counting switch 31 is input to the operation switch board 600, inputted to the medal number control board 300 via the harness, and further inputted to the medal number control CPU 301.
Note that the signals from the start switch 9 and the stop switches 10L, 10M, and 10R may be input directly to the main control board 100 without going through the medal number control board 300. Furthermore, signals from the operating means (start switch 9, bet switch 7, maximum bet switch 8, stop switches 10L, 10M, 10R), settlement switch 33, reset switch 52, and counting switch 31 are transmitted via the harness to the main control board. 100 and may be input to the medal number control board 300 via wiring within the main control board 100 and a connector-to-connector connection (Board to Board connection).

Control signals (including display data) used for displaying the payout display 46 are transmitted from the main control board 100. At this time, the transmission path is main control board 100 → medal number control board 300 → operation switch board 600 → display board 700. A control signal (including display data) used to display the number of game medals display 26 is transmitted from the number of medals control board 300. At this time, the transmission path is from the medal number control board 300 to the operation switch board 600 to the display board 700.

The role ratio monitor 47 displays various ratios and is provided on the main control board 100. In this embodiment, the role ratio monitor 47 is composed of four 7-segment LEDs. Various ratios include a role model ratio, a continuous role model ratio, and an advantageous section ratio. The accessory ratio is the ratio of the total number of payouts due to accessory items (for example, big bonus (BB), chance bonus (CB), single bonus (SB), etc.) to the total number of pseudo medals paid out. The continuous accessory ratio is the ratio of the total number of payouts due to continuous accessories (for example, big bonus (BB), etc.) to the total number of pseudo medals paid out. The advantageous section ratio is when there is an advantageous section in which notification of an advantageous press order is allowed when winning a winning combination (AT combination) in which the number of pseudo medals paid out differs depending on the pressing order, and the ratio of the advantageous section to the total number of games played is This is the proportion of Note that the role ratio monitor 47 may be provided on the medal number control board 300. Alternatively, information that allows identification of various ratios may be transmitted to the card unit CU side without providing the role ratio monitor 47. Further, the winning ratio monitor 47 may display the designated winning ratio. The instruction-included accessory ratio is the ratio of the total number of payouts by adding the number of payouts by the accessory and the number of payouts in games in which an advantageous push order has been announced to the total number of payouts.

The setting display 48 is provided on the main control board 100 to display setting values set by a setting value setting means 101b, which will be described later. In this embodiment, the settings display 48 is comprised of one 7-segment LED.

As shown in FIG. 5, the memory 102 of the main control board 100 includes a RAM 65 that temporarily stores various data, and a ROM 67 that stores data, programs, etc. necessary for playing the game. The RAM 65 of the main control board 100 stores various flags, lottery results, etc., for example. Further, the ROM 67 of the main control board 100 stores preset data (such as the lottery table 102a in FIG. 5) and gaming machine programs (programs for the slot machine SM).

Further, the main control CPU 101 of the main control board 100 has an interrupt function such as a timer interrupt, and performs processing related to the progress of the game by executing a gaming machine program stored in the ROM 67. In addition, the main control CPU 101 includes information regarding the winning lottery result by the winning lottery means 103 (see FIG. 5), information regarding the operation of operating instruments operated by the player such as each stop switch 10L, 10M, 10R, and the start switch 9. various game information in the form of commands to the sub-control board 200 (sub-control CPU 201).

Furthermore, the memory 202 of the sub-control board 200 includes a RAM section that temporarily stores various data, and a ROM section that stores various programs for effects. Further, the sub-control CPU 201 of the sub-control board 200 has an interrupt function such as a timer interrupt, and the sub-control CPU 201 stores information in the memory 202 based on various game information related to the slot machine SM transmitted from the main control CPU 101. By executing the stored program, the content of the performance related to the game for the player is determined. In addition, the sub-control CPU 201 of the sub-control board 200 controls performance equipment such as the liquid crystal display 14 and the speakers 15 and 16 via the I/O port of the sub-control board 200 based on the content of the determined performance. Take control.

Furthermore, the memory 302 of the medal number control board 300 includes a RAM section that temporarily stores various data, and a ROM section that stores various programs and the like. In addition, the medal number control CPU 301 of the medal number control board 300 has an interrupt function such as a timer interrupt, and stores the number of pseudo medals owned by the player in the RAM section (volatile memory) of the memory 302. The number of pseudo medals is managed using the game medal number data stored in the storage means 302a, and the number of pseudo medals is displayed on the game medal number display 26 according to the game medal number data stored in the storage means 302a. Performs various controls such as

The main control board 100, the sub-control board 200, and the medal count control board 300 are each sealed in a separate board case with a crimping mechanism so that they cannot be easily accessed from the outside. To prevent unauthorized acts, the connection methods for each board include direct board-to-board connection (BtoB connection) using connectors mounted on each board, and in addition to physical access, wire covers are used to suppress the effects of electromagnetic noise. A method of connecting using a coated signal line, a method of routing the signal line from a place where it is difficult for players to see, a method of encrypting communication signals between boards, a method of connecting the ID information provided on each board periodically or with an error. There are ways to communicate when it occurs. When connecting both boards using connectors mounted on each board, connect them side by side, rather than using a stacked connection that reduces the visibility of the boards, and cover the connection points as a board unit to make access difficult. It is better to make it . Further, the main control board 100 and the medal number control board 300 may not be housed in individual board cases, but may be housed together in one board case and sealed.

(Main control board)
The functions of the main control board 100 will be explained with reference to FIG.

(1) Game control means 101a
The game control means 101a is for controlling games executed in the medalless slot machine SM.

In the game of this slot machine SM, when the bet switch 7 or the maximum bet switch 8 is operated and there is an instruction to insert pseudo medals, a signal based on information that can specify this is sent by the medal management transmitting/receiving means 101n to control the number of medals. It is transmitted to the board 300. In the medal number control board 300 that receives this signal, the game medal number data stored in the storage means 302a is rewritten to game medal number data obtained by subtracting the number of inserted pseudo medals. At this time, a signal based on information that can identify the rewriting is transmitted from the medal number control board 300 to the main control board 100, and the number of bets is set by receiving this signal by the medal management transmitting/receiving means 101n. . Further, the number of bets can be changed until the start switch 9 is operated, and the game medal number data stored in the storage means 302a is updated accordingly. When the start switch 9 is operated after the predetermined number of bets has been set, a random number lottery is first performed by the winning combination lottery means 103 to determine whether or not the winning number is won, and almost simultaneously, all three rotating reels 6L are drawn. , 6M, and 6R start rotating.

After that, when one of the three stop switches 10L, 10M, 10R is operated, the operated stop switch 10L, 10M, 10R of the left, middle, and right rotating reels 6L, 6M, 6R The rotation of the corresponding rotating reel stops. When all three stop switches 10L, 10M, and 10R are operated, all three rotating reels 6L, 6M, and 6R stop rotating. At this time, when a predetermined symbol stops at a predetermined position, a prize is won, and the next game can be played without paying out a predetermined number of pseudo medals or subtracting the game medal number data stored in the storage means 302a. A predetermined benefit such as replay is given to the player.

Further, the game control means 101a controls the game of the slot machine SM in any one of a plurality of preset game states. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 8, the game control means 101a operates in an initial state (hereinafter also referred to as RT0) which is a bonus lottery state, a bonus internal medium state (hereinafter also referred to as RBBF) which is a bonus carryover state, It consists of a bonus state (hereinafter also referred to as RBB) which is a bonus state. In this embodiment, the general gaming state is configured to stay in RBBF as described later, except when initial conditions such as setting changes are satisfied and RT0 is reached. Furthermore, when the bonus is carried over, no new bonus combination will be won.

In addition, the lottery results of the prize lottery means 103, which will be described later, are specific prizes with different advantages that are given to the player depending on the operation procedure of each stop switch 10L, 10M, 10R (winning prize group "ATA_CL1 to ATB_RC2", see FIG. 9). There is an AT game (special game) in which, when a specific winning result is obtained, the operating procedures of the advantageous stop switches 10L, 10M, and 10R corresponding to the specific winning combination are specified in a specifiable manner.

As shown in FIG. 5, the game control means 101a includes an operation mode determination means 100a and a game state setting means 100b.

(1-1) Operation mode determining means 100a
The operation mode determining means 100a is for determining the operation mode of the player with respect to the slot machine SM. Specifically, the manner in which a player operates various switches provided in the slot machine SM, such as the bet switches 7 and 8, the start switch 9, and the stop switches 10L, 10M, and 10R, and the insertion and movement of medals by the player. Various operation modes on the slot machine SM by the player are determined.

(1-2) Game state setting means 100b
The gaming state setting means 100b determines the result of the winning lottery process by the winning winning lottery means 103 and the symbol combinations on the upper row of the left reel 6L, the upper row of the middle reel 6M, and the upper row of the right reel 6R, which are the winning lines determined by the symbol determining means 112. Based on the determination result, etc., the gaming state of the slot machine SM is set to any one of a plurality of preset gaming states.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 8, this embodiment includes RT0, RBBF, and RBB as gaming states. Here, RT0 transitions when initial conditions such as setting changes are satisfied. Here, if the bonus is won but the bonus is not won, the bonus is carried over and becomes RBBF. In this embodiment, in most cases where a bonus is won at RT0, the player wins at the same time as "BE2" (lower number 21 in FIG. 9), and in this case, regardless of the operation mode of each stop switch 10L, 10M, 10R, Since the winning of "BE2" is prioritized, the bonus is not won and the winning is transferred to RBBF. In addition, in RBBF, bonuses are given in all winning groups except for the winning combination group "ALL1" (lower number 25 in Figure 9), which has a very low probability of winning, regardless of the operation mode of each stop switch 10L, 10M, 10R. Since there is no winning, the general gaming state is a state in which the player always stays in the RBBF. Note that a winning combination group such as "ALL1" may not be provided, and the configuration may be such that once the game has moved to RBBF, it cannot be moved to RT0 through normal game progress.

Further, as shown in FIG. 8, the game shifts to RBB upon winning a bonus. If a payout exceeding a predetermined number of coins is made during RBB, the bonus ends and the process moves to RT0. As mentioned above, there is no transition to RBB except for a very few patterns.

(1-3) Outline of the Game Next, an outline of the game executed in the slot machine SM will be explained.

The slot machine SM is configured such that one game is played by inserting three medals, and when three medals are inserted into the slot machine SM by the bet switch 7 or the maximum bet switch 8, The winning line on the display window 5 becomes valid. When the start switch 9 is operated here, one of the preset winning combination lottery results is selected by the lottery processing using the winning combination lottery means 103 through a lottery process using random numbers. Furthermore, when all the reels 6L, 6M, and 6R begin to rotate, discrimination of the symbols of each reel 6L, 6M, and 6R displayed on the display window 5 starts based on the rotation angle of each reel 6L, 6M, and 6R. Ru.

After that, the left, middle, and right reels 6L, 6M, and 6R accelerate, and the operations of all stop switches 10L, 10M, and 10R become effective, and after the operations of all stop switches 10L, 10M, and 10R become effective, , when the operation of the left stop switch 10L is detected, the left reel 6L is stopped, when the operation of the middle stop switch 10M is detected, the middle reel 6M is stopped, and when the operation of the right stop switch 10R is detected, the right reel 6L is stopped. 6R is stopped. In this way, by operating each stop switch 10L, 10M, 10R, the rotation of the left, middle, and right reel 6L, 6M, 6R corresponding to each stop switch 10L, 10M, 10R is stopped.

When all three left, middle, and right stop switches 10L, 10M, and 10R are operated, the rotation of the left, middle, and right reels 6L, 6M, and 6R is stopped. At this time, when the predetermined symbol stops at a predetermined position on the winning line of the display window 5 where it becomes valid, that is, the symbols of each reel 6L, 6M, 6R are displayed on the display window 5 in a symbol combination related to winning a winning combination. If it is displayed, you have won a prize, and the number of medals will be paid out according to the winning mode. Note that in place of or in addition to the payout of medals, a predetermined profit (privilege) may be given to the player. This predetermined profit includes, for example, automatic transfer to RBB due to a bonus win, or automatic play in order to play the next game with the same number of bets as the winning game without inserting new medals due to a win in a re-playing combination described below. Examples include the number of bets to be set.
As the types of roles, a bonus role and a general role (replay role, small role) are set in advance. The bonus role is a transition role to RBB. A replay winning combination (hereinafter also referred to as a replay) is a winning combination that allows you to play the next game with the same number of bets as the winning game without inserting new medals. A small win is a win that, if won, will give you a predetermined payout (number of payouts). In FIG. 6, a list of winning lottery groups is shown. In addition, in the winning combination lottery group, the types of bonus winnings are assigned to the higher numbers, and the types of replay winnings and small winnings, which will be described later, are assigned to the lower numbers.

・Bonus role As a bonus role, "BNS" which is the top number 01 in the role lottery group is set up, and when any of the predetermined symbol combinations as "BNS" stops on the winning line, it will shift to RBB. It is configured.

・Re-gaming combinations In the winning combination lottery group, there are multiple types of re-gaming combinations: "RP1", "RP2", and "CH", which are lower numbers 01 to 03. It is configured so that when any of the symbol combinations included in these winning combination lottery groups stops on the winning line, the next game can be played again under the same conditions (number of bets) as the winning game.

・Small roles The minor roles are the lower numbers 04 to 30 "ATA_CL1" to "ATB_RC2", "BE1", "BE2", "PZ", "SCH", "SSP", "TMT", "ALL1", Multiple types of "ALL2" and "ALL3" are provided. It is configured such that when any of the symbol combinations included in these winning combination lottery groups stops on the winning line, a payout corresponding to the winning symbol combination is obtained. In addition, the symbol combinations included in the role lottery group that is a small role are one payout, three payouts, or eight payouts, among which the lower numbers 04 to 19 "ATA_CL1" to "ATA_CL1" to "ATB_RC2'' is a win that includes symbol combinations that pay out at least 1 piece and 8 pieces in every winning lottery group, and depending on the operation mode, it corresponds to a symbol combination that corresponds to a payout of 8 pieces or a payout of 1 piece. This symbol combination is configured as a so-called AT combination that stops on the winning line.

The lower numbers 20 and 21 "BE1" and "BE2" are winning symbols that include a symbol combination that pays out at least 3 pieces, and regardless of the operation mode, the symbol combination that corresponds to the payout of 3 pieces is on the winning line. The stop mode in which a total of nine symbols arranged in three vertical columns and three horizontal rows are stopped and displayed on the display window 5 is a stop mode called bell alignment. Since the stop shapes are the same, the player cannot tell from the stop shapes whether "BE1" or "BE2" has been won. Furthermore, "BE2" is always won together with the bonus combination "BNS", and cannot be won alone. In Figure 6, the bonus role "BNS" has not been won and "BE2" has been won only when the RBBF state is already in place (that is, since the bonus is already in the carryover state, a new bonus role can be won as described above). (only if there is no chance of winning). Therefore, in the column of objects that can be transferred to an advantageous section in Figure 6, the winning combination group of upper number 00 and lower number 21, which indicates that they are not won at the same time as "BNS", does not occur in RT0, so it is displayed as "-". The winning combination group of higher number 01 and lower number 21, which indicates winning at the same time as "BNS", does not occur in RBBF, so it is displayed as "-".

The lower number 22 "PZ" is a winning symbol combination with at least 1 payout and 8 payouts, and the lower numbers 23 to 27 "SCH", "SSP", "APL1", "APL2" ”, “TMT” is a winning pattern that includes a symbol combination that pays out at least 3 pieces, and regardless of the operation mode, the symbol combination that corresponds to the payout of 3 pieces stops on the winning line, and the lower numbers 28 to 30 ``ALL1'' and ``ALL2'' include a symbol combination that is at least one payout, and are winning, and ``ALL3'', the lower number 30, is a winning symbol that includes a symbol combination that is at least 8 pieces. ``SCH'', ``SSP'', ``APL1'', ``APL2'', ``TMT'', etc. constitute so-called rare hands and chance hands, and when they are won, pseudo-bonus drawings, CZ drawings, etc. are performed. Note that during the pseudo bonus, it corresponds to the AT state. Furthermore, "ALL1" is a winning combination in which there is a possibility of winning a bonus prize depending on the operation mode if won during RBBF, but the probability of winning is extremely low. Further, "ALL2" and "ALL3" can only be won if they are RBB, and are not eligible for transfer to advantageous sections. Note that "HZ" indicates a loss, and both the higher number and lower number are 00.

(2) Setting control means 101b
The setting control means 101b in FIG. 4 sets one setting value from a plurality of setting values (settings 1 to 6) having different ball output rates (payout rates). This setting value is for selecting the winning combination lottery table 102a selected by the table selection means 101c described later, and one of the setting values corresponds to each of the plurality of winning combination lottery tables 102a stored in the ROM 67. It is attached. The setting control means 101b determines whether the setting change key switch 56 is ON or OFF when the power is turned on, and when the power is turned on with the setting change key switch 56 in the ON state, a predetermined setting change process is performed. Start. The payout rate can be calculated as: total number of coins to be paid out ÷ total number of coins inserted x 100 [%].

Here, the winning probability in the lottery in general games is set in multiple stages distinguished by multiple types of setting values (six types here), and each of the multiple stages of setting values is set in the winning lottery table 102a (general A gaming lottery table) is associated with the game. When the setting change process is started, the manager of the pachinko hall where the slot machine SM is installed can change the setting values.

(3) Table selection means 101c
The table selection means 101c in FIG. 5 selects the type of game controlled by the game control means 101a (for example, general game state, bonus game state) and the setting values (setting 1 to setting 6) set by the setting control means 101b. ), one lottery table is selected from a plurality of winning combination lottery tables 102a. For example, in a game in the normal game state, the table selection means 101c selects the winning combination lottery table 102a (general game lottery table) as the lottery table according to the winning probability setting value (setting 1 to setting 6).

(4) First input processing means 101d
When the bet switch 7 or the maximum bet switch 8 is operated, the first insertion processing means 101d cooperates with the second insertion processing means 301b3 of the medal number control CPU 301, which will be described later, to input pseudo medals. The number of bets is set to satisfy a predetermined condition for starting a game. Further, when the settlement switch 33 is operated, the second insertion processing means 301b3 cooperates with the second insertion processing means 301b3 of the medal number control CPU 301 to cancel the once set bet number.

When the bet switch 7 or the maximum bet switch 8 is operated, the first insertion processing means 101d adds 1 to the value of the storage area for the provisional number of inputs provided in the memory 102, and sends the input processing request signal to the medal management. It is transmitted to the medal number control board 300 by the transmitting/receiving means 101n. Upon receiving the input process request signal, the medal number control board 300 performs a process of subtracting 1 from the number of game medals stored in the storage means 302a, and then transmits a completion signal of the process to the main control board 100. This completes the loading process for one sheet. If the maximum bet switch 8 is operated, the process is repeated three times. Then, the first insertion processing means 101d activates the operation of the start switch 9 when the provisional number of inputs reaches a value necessary for one game (for example, three coins) as a result of the insertion process.

In this embodiment, even if the maximum bet switch 8 instructs to insert, for example, three pseudo medals, the first inserting processing means 101d and the second inserting processing means 301b3 perform the inserting process one by one. will be held.

Further, when the payment switch 33 is operated, a signal based on information that can specify this fact is transmitted to the medal number control board 300 by the medal management transmitting/receiving means 101n. The medal number control board 300 that has received the signal based on the information rewrites the game medal number data stored in the storage means 302a into game medal number data obtained by adding the number of medals according to the number of bets, and can specify that fact. A signal based on the information is transmitted to the main control board 100.

(4) Role lottery means 103
The role lottery means 103 in FIG. 4 selects a plurality of roles (winning role group: A winning lottery is performed in which which winning combination among the winning combinations (see FIG. 10) is determined based on a lottery value generated based on the start of the game. The winning combination lottery means 103 includes a lottery value generation means 103a and a lottery value determination determining means 103b.

(4-1) Lottery value generation means 103a
The lottery value generation means 103a has a random number generation means constituted by an oscillation circuit and a counter circuit that counts the clock signal generated by the oscillation circuit. By extracting the generated random numbers for lottery at the timing when the start switch 9 is operated, a lottery value used for a prize lottery or the like is generated. Note that since the random number generation means is constituted by a counter circuit or the like, the numerical values generated by the random number generation means are not strictly random numbers. However, since the timing at which the start switch 9 is operated is considered to be random, the lottery value generated by the lottery value generating means 103a can essentially be treated as a random number. Note that the lottery value generation means 103a may generate the lottery value using random numbers generated by a random number generator, or may generate the lottery value using software random numbers. Further, the lottery value generation means 103a may generate a lottery value by performing a predetermined calculation on the extracted random number value or the generated random number value.

(4-2) Lottery value determination determining means 103b
The lottery value determination determining means 103b determines which of the plurality of winning combinations (winning combination group) has been won by determining the lottery value generated by the lottery value generation means 103a.

Specifically, the winning combination lottery table 102a includes information for determining which of a plurality of winning combination groups wins or loses for each lottery value within the range generated by the random number generating means. The correspondence between lottery values and winning combination groups is set in advance. The lottery value judgment determining means 103b refers to the winning combination lottery table 102a selected by the table selection means 102, and determines which winning combination group the lottery value generated by the lottery value generating means 103a is set to win, or whether it is a losing combination. By determining whether the winning combination is set to , it is determined which of the plurality of winning combination groups has been won.

In addition, in the role lottery table 102a, for some lottery values, it is set so that multiple roles are won overlappingly, and for those consisting of multiple roles, when internally won, the corresponding winning role group A state is reached in which symbol combinations related to all the winning combinations forming the winning line are allowed to line up on the winning line.

In addition, the lottery value determination determining means 103b stores information that can specify whether or not the bonus prize has been won as a prize lottery result in the first data area of the prize lottery result storage area 102c, and stores information that can identify whether or not the bonus prize has been won as a prize lottery result, and stores information that can specify whether or not the bonus prize has been won in the first data area of the prize lottery result storage area 102c. Information that can specify whether or not the winner has been won is stored in the second data area of the lottery result storage area 102c so that the type of winning can also be specified. A state in which a state in which a bonus has been won is stored in the first data area is a bonus carryover state.

(5) Reel detection means 104
The reel detection means 104 in FIG. 4 sends detection signals from the left, middle, and right reel sensors 55L, 55M, and 55R to the respective reel motors 27L, 27M, and 27R that drive the left, middle, and right reels 6L, 6M, and 6R. The rotational positions of the left, middle, and right reels 6L, 6M, and 6R are detected based on the number of supplied pulses. In this case, the reel detection means 104 detects a symbol located at a predetermined reference position (for example, in the middle of the display window 5 in this embodiment) while the left, middle, and right reels 6L, 6M, and 6R are rotating and when they are stopped. Detect each corresponding frame number.

(6) Stop control means 105
The stop control means 105 controls the stop of each reel 6L, 6M, 6R using the stop table 102b based on the operation mode of each stop switch 10L, 10M, 10R by the player and the winning lottery result of the winning lottery means 103. It is something to do. In order to win a winning combination belonging to the winning combination group determined by the winning combination lottery means 103, the stop control means 105 basically selects winning symbols within the retractable range on all reels 6L, 6M, and 6R (see (see) is stopped at the winning line. In addition, each reel 6L, 6M, and 6R has a set number of allowed sliding pieces (retractable range: usually a maximum of 4 pieces), so if the timing of the operation is not correct, the symbols that correspond to the winning combination will appear on the winning line. In some cases, it may not be possible to match all the winnings, and in such cases, a missed prize (non-winning) will occur. Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 9, the combination of symbols that are stopped preferentially with respect to the stopping manner of each reel 6L, 6M, and 6R at the time of winning will be explained together with the winning combination of the winning combination group.

Regarding the winning combination groups "RP1", "RP2", and "CH", the stop control means 105 gives priority to stopping the symbol combinations that correspond to replay, and especially for "CH", the stop control means 105 stops the symbol combinations corresponding to the replay. Among the displayed stop types, priority is given to stop types in which "C1 (Cherry 1)" and "C2 (Cherry 2)" are stopped on the left reel 6L. Note that "RP2" is not a lottery target in RT0, but is a lottery target only in RBBF.

Regarding the winning combination groups "ATA_CL1" to "ATB_RC2", as shown in FIG. 9, the stop control means 105 changes the symbol combinations to be stopped preferentially depending on the operation mode of each stop switch 10L, 10M, 10R by the player. do. As for the operation mode in FIG. 9, whether the symbol combination that is preferentially stopped is one payout or eight payouts changes depending on the order of operation of each stop switch 10L, 10M, 10R. Here, L, M, and R described as operation modes correspond to stop switch 10L, stop switch 10M, and stop switch 10R, and operation mode "MLR" indicates that the first stop is the stop switch. 10M (middle reel), the second stop was operated with stop switch 10L (left reel), and the final stop (third stop) was operated with stop switch 10R (right reel), corresponding to a total of 6 operation orders. The symbol combinations that will be stopped are listed.

For example, "ATA_CL1" will prioritize and stop the symbol combination that will result in a payout of 8 pieces when operated in the operation mode "M-LR-R", and will prioritize and stop the payout of 1 piece in other operation modes. Further, in some operation modes, a payout symbol combination may not stop depending on the operation timing.

In this embodiment, in the winning combination groups "ATA_CL1" to "ATB_RC2", it is better to operate the first stop with the stop switch 10L (left reel) than with the stop switch 10M (middle reel) or the stop switch. The symbol combination that results in a payout of 8 pieces is more difficult to stop than when operating on 10R (right reel). (In this embodiment, when the first stop is operated with the stop switch 10L (left reel), the symbol combinations that result in a payout of 8 pieces in winning combination groups "ATA_CL1" to "ATB_RC2" do not stop). , In a normal game state in which the operation mode when not in a pseudo-bonus state is not notified, at least in a game where winning combination groups "ATA_CL1" to "ATB_RC2" are won, the first stop is not operated by the stop switch 10L (left reel). If you do so, there will be a penalty structure that will put you at a disadvantage, such as a pseudo-bonus drawing and the number of ceiling games not being updated as described below, and the player may win, for example, "ATA_CL1" while in the pseudo-bonus state. In a game where the operation mode "MLR" is notified to the player after the start of the game, by performing an operation corresponding to the operation mode, a larger number of coins will be awarded.

The specifications of the penalty are not particularly limited, but for example, in a game in which at least the winning combination groups "ATA_CL1" to "ATB_RC2" that are subject to AT combinations are won in the normal game state described above, AT before the stop operation is performed. Regardless of the previous state, the lottery state is temporarily shifted to a low probability state that is disadvantageous to the player, and by operating the stop switch 10L (left reel) to make the first stop, the low probability state is canceled, and the low probability state is eliminated. An example is a specific state that is more disadvantageous to the player than the current state, while the low probability state is continued without being canceled by operating the first stop other than the stop switch 10L (left reel). It is mentioned as. In this case, the low probability state can be resolved by operating the stop switch 10L (left reel) to make the first stop again in the game in which the winning combination group "ATA_CL1" to "ATB_RC2" wins in the above-mentioned normal gaming state. becomes.

Regarding the winning combination groups "BE1" and "BE2", the stop control means 105 is a symbol combination that is a payout of 3 pieces regardless of the operation mode, and a total of 9 pieces are arranged in 3 columns and 3 rows as described above. The symbols are stopped and displayed on the display window 5 in a stop shape called bell matching. As a result, the stop shapes of "BE1" and "BE2" are the same, so the player cannot tell from the stop shapes whether "BE1" or "BE2" has been won. As mentioned above, "BE2" is always won together with the bonus combination "BNS", and cannot be won alone. Therefore, in the column of objects that can be transferred to an advantageous section, which will be described later, the winning combination group of upper number 00 and lower number 21, which indicates that they have not been won at the same time as "BNS", will not occur in RT0, so it will be displayed as "-". The winning combination group of higher number 01 and lower number 21, which indicates winning at the same time as "BNS", does not occur in RBBF, so it is displayed as "-".

Regarding the winning combination group "PZ", similarly to the aforementioned winning combination groups "ATA_CL1" to "ATB_RC2", the stop control means 105 changes the symbol combination to be stopped preferentially depending on the operation mode, and is stopped preferentially. The symbol combination results in a payout of 1 card or a payout of 3 cards.

Regarding the winning combination groups "SCH" to "TMT", the stop control means 105 prioritizes and stops the symbol combination that is a payout of 3 pieces regardless of the operation mode, but in some winning combination groups, the stop control means 105 mainly stops the symbol combination that is a payout of 3 pieces Depending on whether or not the stop switch 10L (left reel) is operated, a total of nine symbols arranged in three columns and three rows are stopped and displayed on the display window 5 in different ways. Mainly in the normal game mode, when the first stop is operated with the stop switch 10L (left reel), a total of 9 symbols arranged in 3 columns and 3 rows as a so-called rare combination appear on the display window 5. It is designed so that it is displayed in a stopped form.

Regarding the winning combination groups "ALL1" to "ALL3", the stop control means 105 gives priority to the corresponding symbol combinations regardless of the operation mode. In addition, "ALL2" and "ALL3" are not subject to lottery in "RT0 and RBBF, but are subject to lottery only in RBB. In this embodiment, in the game where "ALL1" in RBBF is won, some operations BNS is designed to win depending on the mode.

(7) Section transition control means 106
The section transition control means 106 includes a non-advantageous section in which the press order of the correct answer is not allowed to be announced when an AT combination (winning combination group "ATA_CL1" to "ATB_RC2") is won, and a non-advantageous section that does not allow notification of the press order of the correct answer. It controls the transition between the permitted advantageous sections and includes an advantageous section continuation game number counting means 106a and an increased number of coins counting means 106b. The transition from the non-advantageous section to the advantageous section is set by RT0 and RBBF.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 9, when RT0 and RBBF are non-advantageous sections, the section transition control means 106 indicates that the advantageous section can be transferred (in FIG. It is possible to move to the advantageous section if you win in the winning combination group (which is currently available).

The winning combination group that is ``○'' in the advantageous section transfer target includes some of the replayed roles and almost all of the minor roles. Therefore, even if the period is non-advantageous, the transition to the advantageous period can be executed in a relatively short number of games (several games at most). Here, among the small roles, the winning role groups that are subject to advantageous zone transition include (1) "ATA_CL1" to "ATB_RC2" that are eligible for AT roles, and (2) "SCH" that is eligible for rare roles. ” ~ “TMT”, (3) “BE2”, which always wins with the bonus role “BNS” and never wins alone, and (4) “BE1”, which is the same stop form as “BE2”, etc. It is included.

Among the above (1) to (4), for small roles other than (3), regardless of whether it is in the non-advantageous section of RT0 or RBBF, it will shift to the advantageous section, but (3) "BE2" Regarding RT0, which is always won at the same time as "BNS", it is possible to move to an advantageous section, but it is not eligible for RBBF. (See Figure 9. In RBBF, as mentioned above, the new bonus combination "BNS" cannot be won, so when "BE2" is won, the top number 00 "HZ" is selected, and the target that can be transferred to the advantageous section is " ×”)
In addition, as shown in Figure 9, "BE2" can only get a maximum of 3 payouts no matter what operation mode is performed, while "ATA_CL1", etc., which is the target of the AT combination included in the advantageous section transition target, is Depending on the mode, a payout of eight coins, which is more than three coins, may be obtained. Therefore, there is no possibility that the player may realize that he/she has won the advantageous section transition target due to the large number of paid out coins.

Furthermore, "BE1", which has the same stop type as "BE2", is also a target that can be transferred to an advantageous section, and these can also be transferred to an advantageous section with RBBF, so the player has to check whether or not the stop type has transferred to an advantageous section. cannot be immediately determined. Therefore, there is no loss of interest.

In addition, the section transition control means 106 controls when the increase in the number of medals in the advantageous section exceeds a specified value (for example, the difference in the number of medals from the shift to the advantageous section (number of paid out medals - number of inserted medals) is 2400 medals) after the shift to the advantageous section. Sometimes it is necessary to move from an advantageous section to a non-advantageous section. Furthermore, if a prescribed number of games (for example, 4000 games) are played without shifting to the non-advantageous section after shifting to the advantageous section, the period may be shifted to the non-advantageous section. In either case, the RBBF that remains in the general gaming state moves to the non-advantageous section while being maintained. When moving to a non-advantageous section, all information regarding AT including a pseudo bonus and a lottery mode to be described later is reset.

Furthermore, the initial conditions such as setting changes may also cause a transition to the non-advantageous section. In this case, as described above, the initial conditions result in RT0, so the transition to the non-advantageous section occurs at RT0.

a) Advantageous section continuous game number counting means 106a
The advantageous section continuous games counting means 106a counts the number of continuous games in the advantageous section, and counts the number of games played from when the advantageous section flag is set to ON until the flag is set to OFF. Specifically, the advantageous section continuous games counting means 106a adds +1 to the count value of the advantageous section games number counter 102e set in the RAM 65 every time one game is played after the advantageous section flag is set to ON. . Note that the advantageous section continuous game number counting means 106a clears the count value of the advantageous section game number counter 102e to 0 when the advantageous section flag is set from ON to OFF. Note that the advantageous section continuous game number counting means 106a may not be provided.

b) Increased number counting means 106b
The increased number of medals counting means 106b counts the increased number of medals held by the player since the transition to the advantageous section. The increased number counting means 106b adds the number of medals to the increased medal number counter 102f set in the RAM 65 when medals are paid out. Furthermore, when a medal is inserted, the increased number counting means 106b subtracts the count value of the increased medal number counter 102f by the number of medals inserted. Incidentally, when the count value of the increased medal number counter 102f reaches a count value exceeding the upper limit value (2400 medals) and the advantageous section flag is set from ON to OFF, the increased medal number counting means 106b starts counting the increased medal number counter 102f. Clear the count value of 102f to 0.

(8) CZ transition lottery means 107
In this embodiment, when shifting from a non-advantageous section to an advantageous section, a pseudo-bonus lottery, which is an AT state, is performed. The CZ transition lottery means 107 determines by lottery whether or not this pseudo-bonus lottery is to be transitioned to CZ, which is a state in which the lottery is held at a high probability for a certain period of time due to winning of a rare combination or the like. When winning the CZ transition lottery, the CZ transition lottery means 107 sets the CZ flag provided in the flag storage area 102d to ON. Note that the flag is set to OFF when CZ ends.

(9) Pseudo bonus lottery means 108
In this embodiment, for a predetermined number of games (for example, 30 games), a pseudo-bonus is provided in which an operation mode that will result in a large number of coins to be paid out when winning AT combinations "ATA_CL1" to "ATB_RC2" is provided. . The pseudo-bonus lottery means 108 determines by lottery (pseudo-bonus transition lottery) whether or not to transition to a pseudo bonus in the normal state of the advantageous section. In the pseudo bonus transfer lottery, for example, the probability of winning is set according to the winning combination lottery result. When the pseudo bonus transfer lottery is won, the pseudo bonus lottery means 108 sets the pseudo bonus flag provided in the flag storage area 102d to ON. The flag is set to OFF when the pseudo bonus ends.

(10) Pseudo bonus forced transition control means 109
In this embodiment, the routes to transfer to a pseudo bonus are the normal transfer route, which is triggered by winning the pseudo bonus transfer lottery in the normal state (advantageous section), and the normal transfer route, which is triggered by winning the pseudo bonus transfer lottery in the normal state (advantageous section). There is a forced transition route (so-called ceiling) in which a candidate transitions when the accumulation of a predetermined transition index reaches a specified value in a state where the candidate is not elected. The pseudo-bonus forced transition control means 109 controls the transition to a pseudo-bonus through the forced transition route.

In this embodiment, the number of games played since the end of the pseudo bonus (hereinafter also referred to as the number of ceiling games) is set as the predetermined transition index. The lottery mode is determined at the time of transition to the advantageous section or the end of the pseudo bonus, and the number of games played is determined by the lottery mode. The lottery modes include heaven mode where the number of ceiling games is 32 games, pull back mode where the number of ceiling games is 200 games, normal mode A where the number of ceiling games is 800 games, and heaven mode where the number of ceiling games is 800 games. There is a normal mode B that is easy to shift to.

(11) AT lottery means 110
The AT lottery means 110 determines whether a new pseudo bonus will be won among the pseudo bonuses. If a new pseudo bonus is won during a pseudo bonus, a so-called one-game series occurs in which a new pseudo bonus is generated immediately after the pseudo bonus ends. When a new pseudo bonus is won during the pseudo bonus, the AT flag provided in the flag storage area 102d is set to ON.

(12) Notification mode determining means 111
The notification mode determining means 111 determines the notification mode of the push order to be notified on the payout display 46. The payout display 46 is composed of two 7-segment displays arranged side by side, and the lighting manner of these segments is set to a unique manner according to the type of push order, so that the operation manner can be specified.

(13) Design determination means 112
The symbol determination means 112 in FIG. 5 determines in advance the display mode of the symbols on the reels 6L, 6M, and 6R that have been stopped under the stop control means 105 based on the respective rotational positions of the reels 6L, 6M, and 6R. It is determined whether the symbol combination on the winning line when the reels 6L, 6M, and 6R are stopped is in a predetermined winning pattern.

(8) First payout processing means 101h
The first payout processing means 101h cooperates with the second payout processing means 301b4 of the medal number control CPU 301, which will be described later, when the judgment result of the symbol judgment means 112 is a winning mode of any of the winning combinations in which pseudo medals are paid out. This system gives profits to the player by working and paying out pseudo medals according to the winning combination. If the determination result of the symbol determining means 112 is a display mode related to the payout of pseudo medals, the first payout processing means 101h stores the number of payouts according to the winning combination in the storage area for the remaining number of payouts provided in the memory 102. After storing, 1 is subtracted from the value of the remaining number of payouts, and a payout processing request signal is transmitted to the medal number control board 300 by the medal management transmitting/receiving means 101n. Upon receiving the payout process request signal, the medal number control board 300 performs a process of adding 1 to the number of game medals stored in the storage means 302a, and then transmits a completion signal of the process to the main control board 100. This completes the payout process for one coin. The payout process is repeated until the value of the remaining payout number becomes "0", and the payout process for the game is completed.

In this embodiment, even if the number of pseudo medals paid out for a winning combination is two or more, the first payout processing means 101h and the second payout processing means 301b4 perform the payout process one by one. A plurality of pseudo medals may be paid out in one payout process.

(9) Error detection means 101i
The error detection means 101i detects whether or not an abnormal state different from a normal state has occurred, that is, a so-called error has occurred.

(10) Payout display control means 101j
The payout display control means 101j controls the display on the payout display 46. Specifically, the payout display control means 101j controls the payout display 46 so that when a winning combination is won, the payout display 46 displays the number of pseudo medals set for the winning combination. . Further, the payout display control means 101j controls the payout display so that when the error detection means 101i detects the occurrence of an error, a predetermined identification number is displayed on the payout display 46 for the detected error. 46.

(11) Command creation means 101k
The command creation means 101k includes information regarding the winning lottery results of the winning lottery means 103, information regarding the types of gaming states such as the general gaming state and the bonus gaming state, the rotating/stopping states of each rotating reel 6L, 6M, and 6R, and the first payout. It generates commands for transmitting various information such as the payout status of pseudo medals by the processing means 101h to the sub-control board 200 (sub-control CPU 201). The command generated by the command generating means 101k is transmitted to the sub-control board 200 by the command transmitting means 101m, which will be described later. The sub-control board 200 selects the effect to be executed based on the command sent from the main control board 100. In other words, a command that instructs the content of the performance to be executed on the sub-control board 200 is created by the command creation means 101k.

(12) Command sending means 101m
The command transmission means 101m is for one-way transmission of commands containing various information created by the command creation means 101k from the main control board 100 to the sub-control board 200. Further, information indicating that the counting switch 31 has been pressed and information indicating that the lending switch 503a has been pressed, received from the medal number control board 300 by the medal management transmitting/receiving means 101n, which will be described later, is also transmitted to the sub-control board 200 by the command transmitting means 101m.

(13) Medal management transmitting/receiving means 101n
The medal management transmitting/receiving means 101n transmits signals based on various information to the medal number control board 300, and receives signals based on various information from the medal number control board 300. The information sent to the medal number control board 300 includes, for example, information regarding winning combinations, information regarding the operation of the bet switch 7 and maximum bet switch 8, information regarding the insertion of pseudo medals (insertion processing request signal), and information regarding the payout of pseudo medals. information (payout processing request signal), the ID number of the main control CPU 101, gaming machine information including various ratios such as accessory ratios, etc. Further, the information received from the medal number control board 300 includes, for example, information regarding the insertion of pseudo medals (insertion processing response signal), information regarding the payout of pseudo medals (payout processing response signal), and information indicating that the counting switch 31 is pressed. and information indicating that the lending switch 503a has been pressed.

(15) Game history information management means 101q
The game history information management means 101q in FIG. 5 is for compiling game history information according to the progress of the game. For example, the game history information includes the total number of inputs (the number of inputs accumulated since the power was turned on, not including replays), the total number of payouts (the number of payouts, accumulated since the power was turned on, not including replays), MY (the number of payouts accumulated since the power was turned on, not including replays), Maximum MY calculated), number of accessory payouts (number of payouts due to the operation of accessory items accumulated since the power was turned on), number of continuous accessory payouts (number of payouts due to the differential of the first class special accessory accumulated since the power was turned on) , accessory ratio (number of accessory items paid out ÷ total number of paid items × 100 [%]), continuous accessory ratio (number of consecutive accessory items paid out ÷ total number of paid items × 100 [%]), advantageous section ratio, ratio of designated accessory items , the condition ratio of accessories, etc.

(Sub control board)
Next, the functions of the sub-control board 200 will be explained with reference to FIG. 5.

(1) Command receiving means 201a
The command receiving means 201a receives commands containing various information transmitted by the command transmitting means 101m of the main control board 100. When the command receiving means 201a receives a command transmitted from the main control board 100, it notifies each function provided in the sub control board 200 according to the type of command.

(2) Performance content determining means 201b
The performance content determining means 201b is for determining the content of the performance according to the command received by the command receiving means 201a. Specifically, the moving image to be displayed on the liquid crystal display 14 is determined from a preset performance pattern corresponding to the progress of the game, the winning lottery result of the winning lottery means 103, etc. The music and sounds to be played are determined, and the effects such as flashing the light sources of the upper lamp section 21 and the lower lamp section 22 all at once or individually are determined.

In addition, the performance content determining means 201b provides information that can specify the operation mode displayed on the payout display 46 if any of the AT winning combinations "ATA_CL1" to "ATB_RC2" is won during the pseudo bonus. The content of the performance is determined to be displayed on the liquid crystal display 14. Specifically, when the winning combination group won in the pseudo bonus is "ATA_CL1", for example, "213" is displayed on the screen of the liquid crystal display 14.

In addition, in the normal gaming state, if the first stop reel is the middle reel 6M or the right reel 6R, the performance content determining means 201b uses the liquid crystal display 14 to display a performance such as "Pushing left is recommended." conduct.

Then, the performance content determining means 201b transmits a signal including data regarding the determined performance content to the liquid crystal display control means 201c and the audio control means 201d.

(3) Liquid crystal display control means 201c
The liquid crystal display control means 201c displays a moving image (image) on the liquid crystal display 14 based on the data included in the signal transmitted from the performance content determining means 201b, and displays the upper lamp part 21, the lower lamp part 22, etc. It performs control such as blinking the light sources all at once or individually. For example, the liquid crystal display control means 201c flashes the light sources such as the upper lamp part 21 and the lower lamp part 22 all at once or individually based on the data transmitted from the performance content determining means 201b.

(4) Voice control means 201d
The audio control means 201d performs controls such as playing music and outputting sounds from the speakers 15 and 16 based on the data included in the signal transmitted from the performance content determining means 201b. For example, the audio control means 201d causes the speaker 15 to play a winning sound for a re-gaming combination, or the speaker 16 to play a medal insertion sound based on the data transmitted from the production content determining means 201b.

(Medal number control board)
Next, the functions of the medal number control board 300 will be explained with reference to FIG. 5.

(1) Storage means 302a
The storage means 302a is formed in the RAM section (volatile memory) of the memory 302, and stores data on the usable number of pseudo medals owned by the player.

(2) Flag storage means 302b
The flag storage means 302b is set to ON when the main board-to-board transmission/reception means 301a receives information that can specify that the start switch 9 has been operated and the game has started, and the flag storage means 302b is set to ON when the main board transmission/reception means 301a receives information that can specify that the start switch 9 has been operated and the game has started. It stores an insertion completion flag that is set to OFF when information indicating the number of inserted medals is transmitted to the card unit CU or when the time assumed to have been transmitted has elapsed.

(3) Main board-to-board transmitting/receiving means 301a
The main board-to-board transmitting/receiving means 301a transmits signals based on various information transmitted from the main control board 100, such as instructions for inserting pseudo medals and information regarding the number of paid out pseudo medals related to winning combinations, and the ID of the main control CPU 101. It receives game machine information including various ratios such as numbers and accessory ratios, and also transmits response signals to the main control board 100 in response to instructions for inserting pseudo medals and information regarding the number of coins to be paid out from the main control board 100. . Upon receiving a signal based on information transmitted from the main control board 100 or a signal based on information transmitted from the card unit CU, the main board-to-board transmitting/receiving means 301a is provided in the medal number control board 300 according to the type of information. Notify each function. In addition, regarding the main board-to-board transmitting/receiving means 301a, the means for receiving the signal from the main control board 100 and the receiving means for receiving the signal from the card unit CU may be separate means.

(4) Game medal number management means 301b
The game medal number management means 301b manages the usable number data stored in the storage means 302a, and includes a borrowing processing means 301b1, a first counting processing means 301b2, a second inputting processing means 301b3, A second payout processing means 301b4 is provided.

a) Borrowing processing means 301b1
The borrowing processing means 301b1 performs borrowing processing of pseudo medals with the card unit CU. Specifically, when the lending switch 503a of the card unit CU is operated, a signal based on number data for a predetermined number of lending cards is transmitted from the card unit CU to the slot machine SM, and this signal is sent to the inter-unit transmitting/receiving means described later. 301e. When this signal is received by the inter-unit transmitting/receiving means 301e, the borrowing processing means 301b1 rewrites the game medal number data stored in the storage means 302a with game medal number data increased by a predetermined loan number. Furthermore, when the borrowing processing means 301b1 has rewritten the data on the number of game medals increased by a predetermined number of borrowed medals, it transmits a lending reception result response signal to the card unit CU via the inter-unit transmitting/receiving means 301e.

b) First counting processing means 301b2
The first counting processing means 301b2 cooperates with the second counting processing means 501c of the card unit CU to carry out a counting process to transfer part or all of the usable number data stored in the storage means 302a to the card unit CU side. This is what we do. Specifically, when the counting switch 31 of the slot machine SM is operated, a signal based on the number data for a predetermined count is transmitted from the slot machine SM to the card unit CU via the inter-unit transmitting/receiving means 301e. When this signal is transmitted by the inter-unit transmitting/receiving means 301e, the first counting processing means 301b2 rewrites the game medal number data stored in the storage means 302a with game medal number data obtained by subtracting a predetermined count.

In this embodiment, the predetermined counting minutes include data on the number of one pseudo medal in the case of a normal press in which the count switch 31 is pressed for less than a predetermined time, and data on the number of one pseudo medal when the count switch 31 is pressed for a predetermined time or longer. In the case of , the number data is 50 pseudo medals. In addition, in the case of a long press, data on the number of 50 pseudo medals is transmitted to the card unit CU at predetermined intervals (for example, 300 ms) while the count switch 31 is being pressed. Along with this, the first counting processing means 301b2 converts the game medal number data stored in the storage means 302a at predetermined intervals (for example, 300 ms) into game medal number data obtained by subtracting 50 pseudo medals. rewrite.

c) Second input processing means 301b3
The second input processing means 301b3 cooperates with the first input processing means 101d of the main control CPU 101 to set the number of bets by inserting pseudo medals, thereby establishing a predetermined condition for starting the game. It is something.

When the bet switch 7 is operated, a signal based on information that can specify this fact is transmitted to the medal number control board 300 by the medal management transmitting/receiving means 101n. When the main board-to-board transmitting/receiving means 301a receives a signal based on the information, the second insertion processing means 301b3 subtracts the number of game medals stored in the storage means 302a by the number (1 medal) corresponding to the number of bets. The data on the number of game medals is rewritten, and a signal based on information specifying this fact is transmitted to the main control board 100 via the main board-to-board transmitting/receiving means 301a.

When the maximum bet switch 8 is operated, a signal based on information that can specify this fact is transmitted to the medal number control board 300 by the medal management transmitting/receiving means 101n. When the main board-to-board transmitting/receiving means 301a receives a signal based on the information, the second input processing means 301b3 converts the data on the number of game medals stored in the storage means 302a to the number of medals (3 medals) corresponding to the number of bets. It rewrites the subtracted game medal number data, and transmits a signal based on information specifying this to the main control board 100 via the main board-to-board transmitting/receiving means 301a.

d) Second payout processing means 301b4
The second payout processing means 301b4 cooperates with the first payout processing means 101h of the main control CPU 101 when the judgment result of the symbol judgment means 112 is one of the winning modes of the combination in which pseudo medals are paid out. , the player is given a profit by paying out pseudo medals according to the winning combination.

If the determination result of the symbol determining means 112 is a display mode that involves the payout of pseudo medals (a winning mode of a role that has a payout such as a small role), the first payout processing means 101h provides the player with pseudo medals that require payout. A signal based on the number data for the number of paid out medals is transmitted to the medal number control board 300 by the medal management transmitting/receiving means 101n. When the main board-to-board transmitting/receiving means 301a receives a signal based on the information, the second payout processing means 301b4 rewrites the game medal number data stored in the storage means 302a to game medal number data increased by the payout number. , and transmits a signal to the main control board 100 based on information that can specify that fact. However, in this embodiment, even if the number of pseudo medals paid out for a winning role is two or more, the payout process is performed one by one between the first payout processing means 101h and the second payout processing means 301b4. . On the other hand, the second payout processing means 301b4 does not rewrite the game medal number data stored in the storage means 302a even if a re-game combination is won. Although it has been explained that the payout process is performed one by one even when a plurality of medals are paid out, a plurality of pseudo medals may be paid out in one payout process.

(5) Game medal number display control means 301c
The game medal number display control means 301c controls the game medal number display 26 to display the number of pseudo medals indicated by the game medal number data based on the game medal number data stored in the storage means 302a. , controls the game medal number display 26.

(7) Inter-unit transmission/reception means 301e
The inter-unit transmitting/receiving means 301e is based on information regarding the number of inserted and paid out pseudo medals, information regarding errors occurring in the slot machine SM, information regarding various ratios displayed on the winning ratio monitor 47, and the operation of the counting switch 31. Various information such as information that can identify the number of cards counted and information specific to the slot machine SM is sent to the card unit CU, and the number of cards to be lent is sent from the card unit CU based on the operation of the lending switch 503a. This is to receive information that can specify the number of sheets.

(8) VL supply determination means 301f
The slot machine SM is supplied with voltage VL from the card unit CU via a connector. If the card unit CU is not powered on or if the slot machine SM and the card unit CU are not properly connected, the voltage VL supplied from the card unit CU will be interrupted. The VL supply determination means 301f determines whether the voltage VL is supplied from the card unit CU by detecting the voltage of the wiring line to which the voltage VL is supplied from the card unit CU in the medal number control board 300. It is.

(9) Transmission item control means 301g
The information transmitted to the card unit CU by the inter-unit transmitting/receiving means 301e includes gaming machine information, counting information, and information regarding lending reception result responses. The transmission item control means 301g controls the transmission contents or transmission items of these pieces of information.

Communication between the above-mentioned medal number control CPU 301 of the slot machine SM and the unit CPU 501 of the card unit CU is carried out by serial communication, and communication between the above-described main control CPU 101 of the slot machine SM and the medal number control CPU 301 of the slot machine SM is carried out in parallel. It is carried out by communication. Note that communication between the medal number control CPU 301 of the slot machine SM and the unit CPU 501 of the card unit CU is not limited to serial communication, and communication between the main control CPU 101 of the slot machine SM and the medal number control CPU 301 of the slot machine SM Communication is not limited to parallel communication.

Next, a lottery mode determination table for determining the lottery mode at the time of transition to an advantageous section in this embodiment will be explained based on FIG. 10.

In this embodiment, as described above, the lottery mode is determined at the time of transition to an advantageous section or at the end of a pseudo bonus. There is a pullback mode with 200 games, normal mode A with a ceiling of 800 games, and normal mode B which allows easy transition to heaven mode with a ceiling of 800 games.

When shifting to the heaven mode, the probability of winning a pseudo bonus increases in the heaven mode, and after 32 games have elapsed, the pseudo bonus is forcibly won, so winning is guaranteed with a substantially smaller number of games played.

Furthermore, after the pseudo bonus ends, the game is configured to switch back to heaven mode at a high rate (specifically, between 50% and 90%), and when heaven mode loops, pseudo bonuses are won continuously. Therefore, we can expect to win a medal.

Due to the heaven mode loop described above, the number of increased medals during the advantageous section reaches the specified value mentioned above, or reaches a certain number that is slightly less than the specified value (for example, the difference in number of medals is 2000) and a pseudo bonus is given. The advantageous section ends when the conditions for ending the advantageous section are satisfied.

The lottery mode is configured so that when the advantageous section ends, the lottery mode is cleared once as the transition to the non-advantageous section occurs. By making the rate at which this mode is selected higher than the rate at which Heaven mode is selected after the pseudo bonus won in normal mode A or pullback mode ends, players can expect to win more medals. It has become.

After moving to the non-advantageous section, it is possible to move to the advantageous section by winning the winning combination group with the lower number shown in FIG. 10 (or FIG. 9), and as shown in FIG. 10, the RT of the first game in the advantageous section The lottery mode determination table for determining the lottery mode is selected based on the combination of the state and the winning combination group of the lower number that triggered the transition to the advantageous section. Two patterns are provided as the lottery mode determination table: "reset" and "preferential treatment". The lottery mode determination table for determining the lottery mode after the pseudo bonus ends is ``for heaven mode'', ``for withdrawal mode'', and ``normal mode'' depending on the state of the lottery mode when the pseudo bonus is won. ``For mode A'' and ``For normal mode B''.

In the non-advantageous section, the pseudo bonus ends when the increase in the number of medals during the advantageous section reaches the specified value mentioned above, or reaches a certain number that is slightly less than the specified value (for example, the difference in number of medals is 2000). In addition to the satisfaction of the advantageous section end condition, the transition is also caused by initial conditions such as setting changes as described above. If we set the rate higher than the rate at which heaven mode is selected due to the shift to an advantageous section when the initial conditions make the mode non-advantageous, changes in settings, etc. will excessively increase the expectation of medal acquisition, which will reduce the gameplay. It will be a loss.

Therefore, it is preferable not to excessively increase the medal acquisition expectation in the non-advantageous section under the initial conditions.

However, since all information related to AT is reset regardless of the transition trigger of the non-advantageous section, it is only necessary to determine whether the non-advantageous section is due to the end conditions of the advantageous section or the initial conditions. Unable to determine.

Here, in this embodiment, it is determined whether this is due to the initial conditions such as reliably setting changes depending on the winning combination group of the lower number that triggered the shift to the advantageous section and whether the state of the first game in the advantageous section is RT0 or RBBF. It is determined whether this is due to the advantageous section end conditions.

In other words, as explained above, there is only a very low probability of transitioning to RBB, and in normal games, the player basically stays at RBBF, so if RT0 is the first game in the advantageous section, There is no problem in determining that this is a non-advantageous section due to the initial conditions being met. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 7, when RT0 is the first game in the advantageous section, "reset", which is the lottery mode determination table corresponding to the initial condition, is selected.

On the other hand, if the state of the first game in the advantageous section is RBBF, as mentioned above, the condition for ending the advantageous section is met, or the increase in the number of medals during the advantageous section exceeds the specified value. It is assumed that the game becomes a non-advantageous section due to normal game progress, such as playing the specified number of games without moving to a non-advantageous section after moving to an advantageous section. However, if you win a bonus in the first game that moves to a non-advantageous period under the initial conditions and the bonus is carried over, it will become an RBBF, and it is difficult to distinguish from the fact that it has become a non-advantageous period due to normal game progress. There is a risk that the image will disappear and an incorrect judgment will be made.

Therefore, as mentioned above, the winning combination group "BE2" with the lower number 21 is configured so that it will always win together with the bonus combination "BNS" and will never win alone, and furthermore, "BE2" '' is configured so that if you win in RT0, you are eligible to move to an advantageous section, but in RBBF you are not eligible to transfer to an advantageous section (see Figure 6), so that the state of the first game in the advantageous section is RBBF. However, in the case of "BE2", which is the winning combination group with the lower number 21, it is determined that the initial condition is met, and "reset", which is the lottery mode determination table corresponding to the initial condition, is selected (see FIG. 10). In other words, it is reliably determined that the RBBF is the case where the player wins the bonus in the first game after moving to the non-advantageous period under the initial conditions and the bonus is carried over, and the lottery mode determination table corresponding to the initial conditions is "Reset". ” can be selected.

If the state of the first game in the advantageous section is RBBF and the winning combination group of the lower number is other than "BE2", it is determined that the condition has shifted to the non-advantageous section according to the advantageous section end condition, and the condition for the end of the advantageous section is met. "Preferential treatment" is selected from the corresponding lottery mode determination table.

Regarding "reset" and "preferential treatment" in the lottery mode determination table, the lottery mode is configured such that "preferential treatment" makes it easier for the player to select a lottery mode that is more advantageous to the player.

For example, if it is "reset", the ratio of normal mode A: normal mode B: pullback mode: heaven mode = 30:30:40:0 will be selected, while if it is "preferential treatment", normal mode will be selected. A: normal mode B: pullback mode: heaven mode = selected at a ratio of 0:20:10:70. "Preferential Treatment" has a higher percentage of heaven mode selection than "Reset".

As a result, even if the advantageous section ends according to the condition for ending the advantageous section by acquiring a certain number of medals and once the information regarding AT is reset, you can expect a loop due to the shift to heaven mode again by moving to the advantageous section, improving interest. can be achieved.

As described above, the state can be appropriately set by using the result of the winning combination lottery used in the normal game without the need to newly create a special game state. In other words, in a gaming state in which bonus winning combinations that may be in the initial state due to setting changes, etc. are not carried over, the winning combination lottery is conducted to avoid giving an excessively advantageous state when transitioning from a non-advantageous section to an advantageous section. By devising the following, we have made it easy to judge.

(Controller unit)
Next, the configuration of the control unit 150 will be explained with reference to FIG. 6 and FIGS. 11 to 14.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the slot machine SM with the front panel 2 open, and FIG. 11 is a front view of the control unit 150 installed inside the slot machine SM. FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing a state in which the board case protective cover 1001 is removed from the control unit 150. 13 is an enlarged view of the vicinity of the keyhole protection cover 1002 in FIG. 11, and FIG. 14 is a view showing the setting change key switch unit 1006 of FIG. 13.

As shown in FIG. 6, the control unit 150 is fixed to the rear of the casing KY of the slot machine SM by screws, mounting brackets, etc. (not shown) so that the component mounting surface of the main control board 100 faces the front side. The I/F board 90 is fixed to the side surface of the casing KY of the slot machine SM with screws, mounting hardware, etc. (not shown). Note that, hereinafter, the front side in FIG. 6 will be referred to as the front side of the control unit 150, and the back side will be referred to as the back side of the control unit 150. The upper and lower sides and the left and right sides in FIG. 6 will be described as the upper and lower sides and left and right sides of the control unit 150.

As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the control unit 150 includes a board holder 1003, a sub board case 1004, a main board case 1005, a setting change key switch unit 1006, and a board case protective cover 1001.

The board holder 1003 is made of transparent thermoplastic resin and is formed into a box shape with an open front side. Inside thereof, there are a main board case 1005, a sub board case 1004, and a setting change key switch unit 1006. is arranged, and the opening can be closed by the board case protective cover 1001.

The main board case 1005 is formed into a box shape using transparent thermoplastic resin as a raw material, and houses the main control board 100 therein. Further, the main board case 1005 is provided with a caulking part 1007, and when the main control board 100 is exposed from the main board case 1005, at least a part of the caulking part 1007 is destroyed, leaving no trace of the destruction. is visually visible.

The sub-board case 1004 is made of transparent thermoplastic resin and has a box shape, and accommodates the sub-control board 200 therein.

The setting change key switch unit 1006 is disposed adjacent to the caulking portion 1007, and includes a setting change key switch 56 and a bracket 1008 for attaching the setting change key switch 56 to the board holder 1003, as shown in FIG.

The setting change key switch 56 is a so-called pin cylinder lock, and includes an inner cylinder 1010 in which a keyhole 1009 is formed and an outer cylinder 1011 that accommodates the inner cylinder 1010, and is secured by a bracket 1008 so that the keyhole 1009 faces the front side. It is attached to the substrate holder 1003.

Further, in the setting change key switch 56, when a key (not shown) is inserted into the keyhole 1009, a pin 1020 housed in the inner cylinder 1010 is displaced, and the inner cylinder 1010 can be rotated in the circumferential direction. In this embodiment, the inner cylinder 1010 has a keyhole 1009 rotated approximately 90 degrees counterclockwise from a first position 1012 indicated by a dotted line to a second position 1013, or approximately clockwise from the second position 1013. It is configured to be able to move to a first position 1012 rotated by 90 degrees.

Further, the setting change key switch 56 is turned off when the keyhole 1009 is in the second position 1013, and the setting control means 101b can change the setting value even if the power is turned on in the second position 1013. Do not put it in a bad state.

On the other hand, the setting change key switch 56 is turned on when the keyhole 1009 is in the first position 1012, and the setting control means 101b changes the setting value when the power is turned on in the first position 1012. make it modifiable.

In the present embodiment, the slot machine SM has an exposed position 1014 (see FIG. 11) in which the keyhole 1009 is exposed so that a key not shown can be inserted therein, and a key hole 1009 that is rotated approximately 180 degrees from the exposed position 1014, A keyhole protection cover 1002 is provided which is movable to a protection position 1015 that covers the keyhole so that a key cannot be inserted. In FIG. 11, the exposed position 1014 is indicated by a dotted line.

The keyhole protection cover 1002 is formed into a square plate shape using transparent thermoplastic resin as a raw material, and at the protection position 1015, the left side is connected to the board case protection cover 1001 via a spring 1016. 1015 is always energized. In this embodiment, as described above, the setting change key switch 56 is arranged separately from the main control board 100, and the keyhole protection cover 1002 is connected to the board case protection cover 1001. The switch 56 may be directly mounted on the main control board 100, and the keyhole protection cover 1002 may be connected to the main board case 1005.

Further, as shown in FIG. 13, the keyhole protection cover 1002 includes information regarding the setting change key switch 56, specifically, a keyhole 1009 in which a key not shown is inserted when the setting change key switch 56 is operated. A character information section 1017 is provided in which the characters "setting key" are formed to indicate that the device is located at the ``setting key''.

The character information part 1017 is formed by forming convex characters "setting key" on a mold (not shown) used when the keyhole protection cover 1002 is formed by injection molding, so that the keyhole protection cover 1002 can be poured into the mold. In the keyhole protection cover 1002 made of resin, the words "setting key" are formed as a recessed part that is one step lower than the surrounding surface.

Note that the character information section 1017 is formed by forming concave characters "setting key" on a mold (not shown) used when the keyhole protection cover 1002 is formed by injection molding. In the keyhole protection cover 1002 made of resin, the characters "setting key" may be formed as a convex part higher than the surrounding surface.

The positional relationship between the character information section 1017 and the keyhole 1009 will be explained with reference to FIGS. 11 and 13.

When the keyhole protection cover 1002 is in the protection position 1015 and the keyhole 1009 of the setting change key switch 56 is in the second position 1013, the character information section 1017 is at least partially hidden when the keyhole 1009 is viewed from the front. It is arranged at a position overlapping with the keyhole 1009.

Specifically, in the case where the keyhole 1009 of the setting change key switch 56 is in the second position 1013, the character information section 1017 contains one character among the plurality (four) characters "setting key" that constitutes the keyhole 1009 of the setting change key switch 56. Only a certain character "Tei" overlaps with the keyhole 1009, and other characters are arranged at positions that do not overlap with the keyhole 1009.

In this case, the text information section 1017 has a part of the keyhole 1009 (approximately the lower half area) that overlaps with the character "Tei" which is part of the text information section 1017, and another part of the keyhole 1009 (approximately the lower half area). (upper half area) is placed in a position that does not overlap with the character ``Tei''.

Furthermore, when the keyhole 1009 of the setting change key switch 56 is in the first position 1012, the character information section 1017 contains three characters "setting key" among the plurality (four) characters "setting key" that constitute the keyhole 1009 of the setting change key switch 56. The characters ``SETTING KEY'' are arranged at a position that overlaps with the keyhole 1009.

Here, when changing the settings of the slot machine SM, follow the steps below. First, the keyhole 1009 is exposed by moving the keyhole protection cover 1002 from the protection position 1015 to the exposure position 1014 against the urging force of the spring 1016. By inserting a key (not shown) into the exposed keyhole 1009, rotating the keyhole 1009 from the second position 1013 to the first position 1012, and turning on the power in this state, settings can be changed. Subsequently, each time the reset switch 52 (see FIG. 6) is pressed once, the setting value is temporarily set to one higher setting value. The settings are confirmed by operating the start switch 9 (see Figure 1) in the temporary setting state, and then normal gaming can be performed by rotating the key to the second position 1013, removing the key, and closing the front panel 2. state.

In this embodiment, the game cannot be played when the keyhole 1009, which is in a state where the settings can be changed, is in the first position 1012, and the keyhole 1009 is formed so that a key (not shown) cannot be removed from the keyhole 1009.

The slot machine SM configured as described above provides the following effects.

Since the keyhole protection cover 1002 is provided with a character information section 1017 consisting of the characters "setting key" which is information regarding the setting change key switch 56, the keyhole protection cover 1002 is provided in order for the operator to change settings. When moving the keyhole from the protected position 1015 to the exposed position 1014, it becomes easier to check the information regarding the setting change key switch 56 at the same time as the keyhole 1009, and the keyhole protection cover 1002 is intuitively recognized to be operated when changing settings. As it becomes easier, convenience improves.

Furthermore, since the character information section 1017 is formed directly on the keyhole protection cover 1002 by a concave or convex portion, the keyhole protection cover 1002 is placed at the exposure position 1014 that exposes the keyhole 1009 of the setting change key switch 56, and the setting Even if the operator's finger repeatedly touches the character information section 1017 when moving between the keyhole protection cover 1002 and the protection position 1015 that covers the keyhole 1009 of the change key switch 56, the keyhole protection cover 1002 is removed like silk printing. Compared to cases where it is formed of other materials, it is possible to prevent deterioration in the visibility of character information without peeling.

Further, when the keyhole protection cover 1002 is in the protection position 1015 and the setting change key switch 56 is in the second position 1013, the character information section 1017 is a plurality of (4) configured when the keyhole 1009 is viewed from the front. Of the characters "SETTING KEY", only one character, "SET", is located in a position that overlaps with the keyhole 1009. Therefore, when maintenance is performed during the hall operation, a person other than the operator cannot access the keyhole 1009. Even when the keyhole 1009 is visually observed, the overall shape of the keyhole 1009 is difficult to recognize due to changes in the refractive index of light due to the concave or convex portions, and unauthorized duplication of a key (not shown) corresponding to the keyhole 1009 can be prevented.

Further, when the keyhole protection cover 1002 is in the protection position 1015 and the setting change key switch 56 is in the second position 1013, the character information section 1017 is a part of the keyhole 1009 when the keyhole 1009 is viewed from the front. does not overlap with the text information section 1017, so compared to the case where the entire keyhole 1009 overlaps with the text information section 1017, the text information section 1017 prevents the keyhole 1009 from becoming too difficult for the operator to see, and the setting When the change key switch 56 is operated, it can be shown that the keyhole 1009 into which a key not shown is inserted is nearby, which prevents unauthorized duplication of the key (not shown) corresponding to the keyhole 1009. It is compatible with ensuring workability. Regarding the range in which the keyhole 1009 overlaps with the text information section 1017, it is sufficient if only a part thereof overlaps with the text information section 1017, but as in this embodiment, approximately half the area may overlap, or a portion may overlap with the text information section 1017. It is also possible to make sure that only the two do not overlap.

Further, when the keyhole protection cover 1002 is in the protection position 1015 and the setting change key switch 56 is in the first position 1012, the text information section 1017 is a part of the keyhole 1009 when viewed from the front. , the characters "SETTING KEY", which have more characters than when the setting change key switch 56 is in the second position 1013, are arranged so as to overlap with the keyhole 1009.

In other words, the way the character information section 1017 overlaps the keyhole 1009 changes depending on whether the setting change key switch 56 is in the first position 1012 or the second position 1013. This change results in an increase or decrease in the number of overlapping characters.

Therefore, even if a fraudster uses an unauthorized instrument such as a wire to move the setting change key switch 56 to the first position 1012 and fraudulently changes the settings, the character information section 1017 will not be able to access the keyhole 1009. Traces of fraud can be detected early by changes in the way they overlap, specifically, changes in the number of overlapping characters.

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a first modification of the above-described embodiment, and differs from FIG. 13 in that the text information section 1018 is information regarding the keyhole protection cover 1002, and other configurations are different from the above-described embodiment. are the same. Therefore, in FIG. 15, components other than the character information section 1018 are designated by the same reference numerals as in FIG. 13, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

In FIG. 15, in the character information section 1018, characters "YMB0011" are formed directly on the keyhole protection cover 1002 as information for identifying the keyhole protection cover 1002.

Specifically, in this embodiment, among "YMB0011", "YM" indicates the manufacturer name, "B" indicates the model name, and "0011" indicates the part number. Therefore, "YMB0011" exists only in a specific model of the manufacturer of the slot machine SM, and serves as information for identifying the keyhole protection cover 1002 among them. Note that the type of information to be identified is not limited to the above-mentioned information, and may be only the manufacturer name, only the model name, only the part name, or any combination of these. It is not necessary to directly correspond to the manufacturer name, model name, or part name as long as it has the ability to identify it.

In addition, the character information section 1018 is formed by forming convex characters "YMB0011" on a mold (not shown) used when the keyhole protection cover 1002 is formed by injection molding. In the keyhole protection cover 1002 made of resin, the characters "YMB0011" are formed as a recessed part that is one step lower than the surrounding surface.

The character information section 1018 is formed by forming the characters "YMB0011" in a concave shape in a mold (not shown) used when the keyhole protection cover 1002 is formed by injection molding. In the keyhole protection cover 1002 made of resin, the characters "YMB0011" may be formed as a convex part higher than the surrounding surface.

The positional relationship between the character information section 1018 and the keyhole 1009 will be explained.

When the keyhole protection cover 1002 is in the protection position 1015 and the keyhole 1009 of the setting change key switch 56 is in the second position 1013, the text information section 1018 is at least partially hidden when the keyhole 1009 is viewed from the front. It is arranged at a position overlapping with the keyhole 1009.

Specifically, when the keyhole 1009 of the setting change key switch 56 is in the second position 1013, the character information section 1018 is one character among the plurality (seven) of characters "YMB0011" that constitutes the keyhole 1009 of the setting change key switch 56. Only the character "B" overlaps with the keyhole 1009, and the other characters are arranged at positions that do not overlap with the keyhole 1009.

In this case, the text information section 1018 is such that at least a portion of the pin 1020 exposed from the keyhole 1009 (in this embodiment, approximately the upper half of the portion exposed from the keyhole 1009) is in the text information section 1019. It is placed at a position that overlaps with a certain letter "B".

In addition, the character information section 1018 indicates that when the keyhole 1009 of the setting change key switch 56 is in the first position 1012, all the characters of the plurality (seven) of characters "YMB0011" that constitute the keyhole 1009 do not overlap with the keyhole 1009. placed in position.

Also in the first modification, when changing the settings of the slot machine SM, the following procedure is used. First, the keyhole 1009 is exposed by moving the keyhole protection cover 1002 from the protection position 1015 to the exposure position 1014 against the urging force of the spring 1016. By inserting a key (not shown) into the exposed keyhole 1009, rotating the keyhole 1009 from the second position 1013 to the first position 1012, and turning on the power in this state, settings can be changed. Subsequently, each time the reset switch 52 (see FIG. 6) is pressed once, the setting value is temporarily set to one higher setting value. The settings are confirmed by operating the start switch 9 (see Figure 1) in the temporary setting state, and then normal gaming can be performed by rotating the key to the second position 1013, removing the key, and closing the front panel 2. state.

Also in the first modification, the game cannot be played when the keyhole 1009, which allows settings to be changed, is in the first position 1012, and the keyhole 1009 is formed so that a key (not shown) cannot be removed from the keyhole 1009.

According to the first modification of the slot machine SM configured as described above, the following effects are achieved.

Since the keyhole protection cover 1002 is equipped with a character information section 1018 consisting of the characters "YMB0011" which is information for identifying the keyhole protection cover 1002, the keyhole protection cover 1002 can be used by the operator to change settings. When moving the keyhole protection cover 1002 from the protected position 1015 to the exposed position 1014, by visually checking the characters "YMB0011", the keyhole protection cover 1002 can be confirmed even if the control unit 150 is replaced with an unauthorized one. By doing so, the user can notice that the control unit 150 has been replaced with a non-regular one, and it becomes easier to confirm whether the keyhole protection cover 1002 is a genuine product at the same time as changing the settings.

Furthermore, since the character information section 1018 is formed directly on the keyhole protection cover 1002 by a concave or convex portion, the keyhole protection cover 1002 is positioned at the exposure position 1014 that exposes the keyhole 1009 of the setting change key switch 56, and the setting Even if the operator's finger repeatedly touches the character information section 1018 when moving between the change key switch and the protection position 1015 that covers the keyhole 1009, the keyhole protection cover 1002 may Compared to the case where the character information section 1018 is formed of the same material, deterioration in the visibility of the character information section 1018 can be prevented without peeling.

Furthermore, when the keyhole protection cover 1002 is in the protection position 1015 and the setting change key switch 56 is in the second position 1013, the character information section 1018 is a plurality of (7 Of the characters "YMB0011", only one character, "B", is located in a position that overlaps with the keyhole 1009, so when maintenance is performed during the hall operation, a person other than the operator may open the keyhole 1009. Even when visually observed, the overall shape of the keyhole 1009 is difficult to recognize due to the change in the refractive index of light due to the concave or convex portions, and unauthorized duplication of the key corresponding to the keyhole 1009 can be prevented.

Further, when the keyhole protection cover 1002 is in the protection position 1015 and the setting change key switch 56 is in the second position 1013, the character information section 1018 is a part of the keyhole 1009 when the keyhole 1009 is viewed from the front. Since the keyhole 1009 does not overlap with the text information section 1018, compared to the case where the entire keyhole 1009 overlaps with the text information section 1018, the text information section 1018 prevents the keyhole 1009 from becoming too difficult for the operator to see. This prevents unauthorized duplication of the key corresponding to 1009 (not shown) and ensures workability.

Regarding the range where the keyhole 1009 overlaps with the text information section 1018, it is sufficient if a part of it overlaps with the text information section 1018, but as in the first modification, when the keyhole 1009 overlaps with the pin 1020 located at the top of the keyhole 1009, By arranging the lower half area from the center of the keyhole 1009 so as not to overlap, it is possible to further prevent the above-mentioned unauthorized copying and ensure workability.

Further, when the keyhole protection cover 1002 is in the protection position 1015 and the setting change key switch 56 is in the first position 1012, the character information section 1018 shows that when the keyhole 1009 is viewed from the front, all the characters are It is arranged so as not to overlap with the keyhole 1009. In other words, the way the character information section 1018 overlaps the keyhole 1009 changes depending on whether the setting change key switch 56 is in the first position 1012 or the second position 1013. Then, the change is the presence or absence of the number of overlapping characters. Therefore, even if a fraudster uses an unauthorized instrument such as a wire to set the setting change key switch 56 to the first position 1012 and fraudulently changes the settings, the character information section 1018 will not be able to access the keyhole 1009. Traces of fraud can be detected early by changes in the way they overlap, specifically by the presence or absence of overlapping characters.

Here, as described above, the game cannot be played when the keyhole 1009 is in the first position 1012, and the keyhole 1009 is formed so that a key (not shown) cannot be removed from the keyhole 1009. In this case, if the keyhole protection cover 1002 is returned to the protection position 1015 with the key forgotten to be removed from the keyhole 1009, or if the keyhole 1009 and the character information section 1018 are placed overlapping each other, the key and the keyhole protection cover 1002 will come into contact with each other. In this case, the character information section 1018 may come into contact with the key, deforming the characters and making them difficult to recognize. Even if the key and the keyhole protection cover 1002 come into contact with each other, it is possible to prevent the characters from deforming and becoming difficult to recognize.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a second modified example of the above-described embodiment, in which when the setting change key switch 56 is in the second position 1013, the character information section 1019 when the keyhole 1009 is viewed from the front, It differs from FIG. 13 in that it is arranged so as not to overlap with the keyhole 1009, and the other configurations are the same as in the embodiment described above. Therefore, in FIG. 16, the same reference numerals as in FIG. 13 are used to omit detailed explanation.

In FIG. 16, the keyhole protection cover 1002 includes information regarding the setting change key switch 56, specifically, the word "SET" that prompts the user to operate the keyhole protection cover 1002 when operating the setting change key switch 56, and the keyhole 1009. A character information section 1019 consisting of the characters "ON" indicating the first position 1012 and the characters "OFF" indicating the second position 1013 of the keyhole 1009 is directly formed.

Specifically, the character information section 1019 includes the characters "SET", "ON", and "OFF" in the mold (not shown) used when the keyhole protection cover 1002 is formed by injection molding. ” is formed in a convex shape, so that the keyhole protection cover 1002 formed by the resin poured into the mold has the characters “SET”, “ON”, and “OFF”. is formed as a recess that is one step lower than the surrounding surface.

Note that the character information section 1019 includes the characters "SET", "ON", and "OFF" in the mold (not shown) used when the keyhole protective cover 1002 is formed by injection molding. In the keyhole protection cover 1002 formed by the resin poured into the mold, the characters "SET", "ON", and "OFF" are formed in a concave shape, so that the characters "SET", "ON", and "OFF" are formed on the surrounding surface. It may be formed as a convex portion that is one step higher.

The positional relationship between the character information section 1019 and the keyhole 1009 will be explained.

When the keyhole protection cover 1002 is in the protection position 1015 and the keyhole 1009 of the setting change key switch 56 is in the second position 1013, the character information section 1019 is configured to cover all parts of the keyhole 1009 when viewed from the front. is arranged at a position that does not overlap with the keyhole 1009.

Specifically, when the keyhole 1009 of the setting change key switch 56 is in the second position 1013, the character information section 1019 stores a plurality of characters (the characters "SET", the characters "ON", and All the characters (the characters "OFF") are arranged at positions that do not overlap with the keyhole 1009.

In addition, when the keyhole 1009 of the setting change key switch 56 is in the first position 1012, the character information section 1019 contains a plurality of characters (the characters "SET", "ON", and "OFF"). ” character), one character, the character “Tei”, is arranged at a position overlapping the keyhole 1009 .

Also in the second modification, when changing the settings of the slot machine SM, the following procedure is used. First, the keyhole 1009 is exposed by moving the keyhole protection cover 1002 from the protection position 1015 to the exposure position 1014 against the urging force of the spring 1016. By inserting a key (not shown) into the exposed keyhole 1009, rotating the keyhole 1009 from the second position 1013 to the first position 1012, and turning on the power in this state, settings can be changed. Subsequently, each time the reset switch 52 is pressed, the setting value is temporarily set to a higher value. The settings are confirmed by operating the start switch 9 in the temporary setting state, and then the player turns to the second position 1013, takes out the key, and closes the front panel 2, so that a normal game can be played.

In the second modification as well, the game cannot be played when the keyhole 1009, which is in a state where the settings can be changed, is in the first position 1012, and the keyhole 1009 is formed so that a key (not shown) cannot be removed from the keyhole 1009.

The slot machine SM configured as described above provides the following effects.

The keyhole protection cover 1002 is equipped with a text information section 1019 consisting of the text "SET" which is information regarding the setting change key switch 56, the text "ON", and the text "OFF". When a person moves the keyhole protection cover 1002 from the protected position 1015 to the exposed position 1014 in order to change the settings, it becomes easy to check the information regarding the setting change key switch 56 at the same time as the keyhole 1009. Convenience is improved because operating the protective cover 1002 becomes easier to intuitively recognize.

Furthermore, since the character information section 1019 is formed directly on the keyhole protection cover 1002 by a concave or convex portion, the keyhole protection cover 1002 is placed at the exposure position 1014 that exposes the keyhole 1009 of the setting change key switch 56, and the setting Even if an operator's finger repeatedly touches the character information section 1019 when moving between the keyhole protection cover 1002 and the protection position 1015 that covers the keyhole 1009 of the change key switch 56, the keyhole protection cover 1002 is printed like a silk screen. Compared to cases where it is formed of other materials, it is possible to prevent deterioration in the visibility of character information without peeling.

Further, when the keyhole protection cover 1002 is in the protection position 1015 and the setting change key switch 56 is in the second position 1013, the character information section 1019 displays a plurality of characters constituting the keyhole 1009 when viewed from the front. (The characters "SETTING", "ON", and "OFF") are all located in positions that do not overlap with the keyhole 1009, so when changing the settings, the operator should press the keyhole 1009. When visually inspected, the text information section 1019 does not obstruct the visibility of the keyhole 1009, and the direction of the key can be easily adjusted in advance according to the position of the keyhole 1009, improving convenience when changing settings. .

Further, when the keyhole protection cover 1002 is in the protection position 1015 and the setting change key switch 56 is in the first position 1012, the text information section 1019 is a part of the keyhole 1009 when viewed from the front. The character "Sei" is arranged so as to overlap the keyhole 1009.
In other words, the way the character information section 1019 overlaps the keyhole 1009 changes depending on whether the setting change key switch 56 is in the first position 1012 or the second position 1013. In this case, the change is the presence or absence of overlapping characters.

Therefore, even if a fraudster uses an unauthorized instrument such as a wire to set the setting change key switch 56 to the first position 1012 and fraudulently changes the settings, the character information section 1019 will not be able to access the keyhole 1009. Traces of fraud can be detected early by changes in the way they overlap, specifically by the presence or absence of overlapping characters.

In addition, also in the second modification, the character information section 1019 may be information for identifying the keyhole protection cover 1002, like "YMB0011" described in the first modification.

In that case, similar to the first modification, when the operator moves the keyhole protection cover 1002 from the protected position 1015 to the exposed position 1014 in order to change settings, information identifying the keyhole protection cover 1002 is provided. By visually checking the characters (for example, "YMB0011"), it is possible to easily check whether the keyhole protection cover 1002 is a genuine product at the same time as changing settings.

SM...Slot machine (game machine), 101b...Setting control means, 56...Setting change key switch, 1009...Keyhole, 1002...Keyhole protection cover, 1017...Text information section, 1018...Text information section, 1019...Text information section

Claims (2)

In a gaming machine that allows you to play games,
The gaming machine includes a setting control means for setting one setting value from a plurality of different setting values,
The gaming machine includes a setting change key switch inside,
The setting change key switch has a keyhole, and can be rotated from a first position to a second position by inserting a key into the keyhole and operating it,
The setting control means makes the settings of the set values changeable when the setting change key switch is in the first position and the power is turned on, and when the setting change key switch is in the second position and the power is turned on. Even if the setting value is changed, the setting value is not changed.
The gaming machine is made of transparent thermoplastic resin, and has an exposed position where the keyhole is exposed so that the key can be inserted, and a protected position where the keyhole is covered so that the key cannot be inserted. Equipped with a keyhole protection cover that can be displaced to
The keyhole protection cover includes a character information section in which information regarding the setting change key switch or information regarding the keyhole protection cover is directly formed by a concave portion or a convex portion,
When the keyhole protection cover is in the protection position and the setting change key switch is in the second position, at least a portion of the character information section is in contact with the keyhole when viewed from the front. A gaming machine characterized by being located in overlapping positions. In a gaming machine that allows you to play games,
The gaming machine includes a setting control means for setting one setting value from a plurality of different setting values,
The gaming machine includes a setting change key switch inside,
The setting change key switch has a keyhole, and can be rotated from a first position to a second position by inserting a key into the keyhole and operating it,
The setting control means makes the settings of the set values changeable when the setting change key switch is in the first position and the power is turned on, and when the setting change key switch is in the second position and the power is turned on. Even if the setting value is changed, the setting value is not changed.
The gaming machine is made of transparent thermoplastic resin, and has an exposed position that exposes the keyhole so that the key can be inserted, and a protection that covers the keyhole so that the key cannot be inserted. Equipped with a keyhole protection cover that can be moved to different positions.
The keyhole protection cover includes a character information section in which information regarding the setting change key switch or information regarding the keyhole protection cover is directly formed by a concave portion or a convex portion,
When the keyhole protection cover is in the protection position and the setting change key switch is in the second position, all parts of the character information section are aligned with the keyhole when viewed from the front. A gaming machine characterized by being located in non-overlapping positions.