JP7421228B2 - gaming machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine.

A pachinko game machine, which is a type of game machine, is equipped with a firing mechanism for firing game balls toward a game area of a game board (for example, see Patent Document 1). A player who plays a game with a pachinko game machine can win prize balls by inserting game balls into various ball entry ports arranged on the game board.

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-57751

In a pachinko game machine, firing game balls can be a basic action in playing the game. For this reason, troubles related to the firing of game balls can become a factor that impairs the interests of the players. For this reason, in the pachinko game machine, it is desirable to take measures to solve the problem even if a problem occurs regarding the firing of game balls.

A game machine that solves the above problems includes a game board, a plurality of ball entry ports arranged in a game area of the game board, a firing operation means that can be operated to fire a game ball, and a firing device that can fire the game ball. a mechanism, a first sensor that detects game balls supplied to a game ball launcher, a second sensor that detects game balls that were fired by the launcher but did not reach the game area; a third sensor that detects game balls used in the game area; and a third sensor that detects game balls used in the game area; and a third sensor that detects game balls used in the game area; a counting means for counting the difference between the number of game balls launched and the number of game balls detected by the third sensor as a predetermined number ; and a notification for executing error notification when a predetermined error notification condition is satisfied. Execution means , the notification execution means is also used as a means capable of reporting a base value indicating the ratio of the total number of prize balls in the normal game to the total number of valid balls in the normal game, and the error notification The conditions include that the predetermined number is counted in a manner that satisfies the error notification condition, and the detection result of the first sensor is executed by counting the predetermined number in a manner that satisfies the error notification condition. It is also used to detect the occurrence of a first error, which is a different error from the error notification, and the detection result of the third sensor is executed by counting the predetermined number in a manner that satisfies the error notification condition. It is also used when detecting the occurrence of a second error that is a different error from the error notification that is performed, and the notification execution means that executes the error notification performs notification of the base value and satisfies the error notification condition. The notification of the error code that makes it possible to identify the error state is switched alternately at predetermined time intervals, and when multiple error notification conditions are met, the error code with the highest priority is displayed. The gist is that the code is announced .

According to the present invention, it is possible to contribute to solving problems related to shooting game balls.

A front view of a pachinko gaming machine and a card unit. A front view of a game board of a pachinko game machine. An enlarged view of a counting switch, a counting lamp, and a game ball count display device of a pachinko game machine. A schematic diagram showing a circulation path of game balls in a pachinko game machine. A schematic diagram showing a supply device of a pachinko game machine. A schematic diagram showing a supply device of a pachinko game machine. A schematic diagram showing a firing device of a pachinko game machine. A block diagram of a pachinko game machine. A block diagram of a pachinko game machine. An explanatory diagram showing errors that can be detected in a pachinko gaming machine.

An embodiment embodied in a pachinko game machine will be described below with reference to FIGS. 1 to 10.
As shown in FIG. 1, in the island facility (gaming island), pachinko gaming machines 10, which are an example of gaming machines, and card units 100, which are an example of a management device, are installed so as to be alternately lined up. That is, the pachinko gaming machine 10 is also provided with the card unit 100. In an example of this embodiment, one card unit 100 is connected to one pachinko game machine 10, but the invention is not limited to this, and a plurality of card units 100 are connected to one pachinko game machine 10. Alternatively, one card unit 100 may be connected to a plurality of pachinko gaming machines 10.

The card unit 100 will be explained.
As shown in FIG. 1, the card unit 100 includes a card insertion section 101 into which a management card, which is an example of a storage medium, is inserted. The management card can at least store as data the remaining amount of cash and the number of game balls owned by the player (hereinafter referred to as the number of balls held) as an example of the value that enables the game. The management card may be capable of storing personal information of the player as data. The management card may be configured to store a prepaid balance (prepaid balance) instead of the cash balance.

The card unit 100 includes a bill insertion section 102 into which bills as an example of cash can be inserted. In the card unit 100, when a banknote is inserted into the banknote insertion section 102, the banknote is added to the remaining amount stored in the inserted management card or the initialized management card. The card unit 100 may be configured to allow coins to be inserted as an example of cash.

Card unit 100 includes an operation panel 104. The operation panel 104 includes a ball lending button 104a, a payout button 104b, a return button 104c, a ball count display section 104d, and a remaining amount display section 104e. The ball lending button 104a is operated to increase the number of game balls managed by the pachinko gaming machine 10 based on the remaining amount stored in the management card. The payout button 104b is operated to increase the number of game balls managed by the pachinko gaming machine 10 based on the number of balls held in the management card. The return button 104c is operated when the management card inserted into the card unit 100 is returned. The ball count display section 104d displays information (for example, Arabic numerals) that can specify the number of balls stored in the management card. Information (for example, Arabic numerals) that can identify the remaining amount stored in the management card is displayed on the remaining amount display section 104e.

The card unit 100 includes a card unit control board 105 (hereinafter referred to as a CU control board). The CU control board 105 includes a CPU 105a, a ROM 105b, and a RAM 105c. The CPU 105a performs predetermined processing by executing a card unit control program. The ROM 105b stores a card unit control program. The RAM 105c stores various information that is rewritten during the operation of the card unit 100. For example, the information stored in the RAM 105c includes flags, counters, timers, and the like. The card unit 100 includes a communication terminal 105d that is connected to the pachinko gaming machine 10 so as to be able to communicate in both directions.

The CU control board 105 is connected to the card insertion section 101. The CPU 105a is configured to be able to rewrite the storage contents of the management card inserted into the card insertion section 101. The CU control board 105 is connected to the banknote insertion section 102. The CPU 105a is configured to be able to input a banknote signal that is output when a banknote is inserted into the banknote insertion section 102. The banknote signal is a signal that can specify the amount of banknotes inserted into the banknote insertion section 102 (hereinafter referred to as the cash input amount).

The CU control board 105 is connected to the operation panel 104. The CPU 105a is configured to be able to input a ball lending signal that is output when the ball lending button 104a is operated. The CU control board 105 is configured to be able to input a payout signal that is output when the payout button 104b is operated. The CPU 105a is configured to be able to input a return signal that is output when the return button 104c is operated. The CPU 105a is configured to be able to control the display content of the ball count display section 104d. The CPU 105a is configured to be able to control the display content of the remaining amount display section 104e.

The CU control board 105 is connected to the pachinko gaming machine 10 via a communication terminal 105d. The CPU 105a is configured to be able to input various control signals (control information) output from the pachinko gaming machine 10. The CPU 105a is configured to be able to output various control signals (control information) to the pachinko gaming machine 10. The card unit 100 outputs a connection signal to the pachinko game machine 10 from the communication terminal 105d. Note that the connection signal may be a command or a message generated by the CU control board 105 (CPU 105a), or may be a signal generated by an output circuit (for example, a power supply circuit) different from the CPU 105a.

Card unit 100 includes an external communication terminal (not shown) for connection to external equipment. As an example, the external device is a hall computer installed in a game hall. The external device is a management computer that can communicate via a network with server equipment installed in a data center outside the gaming hall. In this case, it is preferable that the management computer and card unit 100 are connected so that they can communicate with each other.

The processing performed by the card unit 100 will be explained.
When the management card is inserted into the card insertion section 101, the CPU 105a reads out the remaining amount and the number of balls stored in the management card and stores them in the RAM 105c. Then, when the management card is inserted, the CPU 105a performs the processing described below.

When the CPU 105a receives a banknote signal from the banknote insertion section 102, the CPU 105a adds the input cash amount, which can be determined from the banknote signal, to the remaining amount. When the remaining amount is not 0 and a ball lending signal is input from the ball lending button 104a, the CPU 105a subtracts the remaining amount by a specified amount, and also generates provision information that can specify the provision of the number of game balls corresponding to the specified amount. Output to the pachinko game machine 10. Note that when the remaining amount is 0, the CPU 105a does not transmit grant information even if a ball lending signal is input.

If the CPU 105a inputs a payout signal from the payout button 104b when the number of balls held is 0 or more, the CPU 105a subtracts the number of balls held by a specified number, and uses the provision information that can specify the provision of the specified number of game balls to play the pachinko game. Output to machine 10. Note that when the number of balls held is 0, the CPU 105a does not transmit award information even if a payout signal is input. In this way, the provision information can specify the number of balls provided. When receiving the counting information from the pachinko gaming machine 10, the CPU 105a adds the number of game balls that can be specified from the counting information to the number of balls held. As will be described in detail later, the count information is control information that is output when the player finishes playing the pachinko game machine 10, and is capable of specifying the number of game balls whose management is to be transferred to the card unit 100. .

The CPU 105a controls the ball count display section 104d, and updates the display content to display information that allows identification of the number of balls held at any given time. That is, the CPU 105a displays the number of balls held in real time on the number of balls display section 104d. The CPU 105a controls the remaining amount display section 104e and updates the display contents so as to display information that allows the current remaining amount to be specified. That is, the CPU 105a displays the remaining amount in real time on the remaining amount display section 104e.

When the CPU 105a inputs a return signal from the return button 104c, the CPU 105a stores the remaining amount and the number of balls stored in the RAM 105c in the management card, and initializes the remaining amount and the number of balls stored in the RAM 105c. The CPU 105a controls the card insertion section 101 so that the management card is ejected from the card insertion section 101.

The pachinko gaming machine 10 will be explained.
As shown in FIG. 1, a pachinko game machine 10, which is an example of a game machine, has a specified number of game balls sealed inside the machine as game media, and is an enclosed type in which the specified number of game balls are circulated inside the machine. It is configured as a gaming machine (so-called managed gaming machine). The game balls used in the pachinko game machine 10 are made of a non-magnetic material such as stainless steel. The pachinko game machine 10 does not include a portion (an upper tray and a lower tray) for storing game balls. In other words, the pachinko game machine 10 has a structure in which the player cannot touch the game balls.

The pachinko gaming machine 10 determines the number of game balls lent to the player (hereinafter referred to as the number of rented balls), the number of game balls acquired by the player (hereinafter referred to as the number of acquired balls), and the number of game balls fired by the player. The number of game balls held by the player (hereinafter referred to as the number of game balls) is electromagnetically managed based on the number of game balls fired (hereinafter referred to as the number of fired balls). Note that the aforementioned number of balls held is the number of game balls managed by the card unit 100, and is different data from the number of game balls managed by the pachinko gaming machine 10. In this way, the pachinko game machine 10 as a managed game machine is configured to be able to store the number of game balls as data and to play games based on the data.

The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a frame 11. The frame 11 includes an outer frame 11a for fixing the machine to the island equipment, a mounting frame 11b for mounting various game components, and a protection frame 11c. The mounting frame 11b is supported so as to be openable and closable relative to the outer frame 11a. The protection frame 11c is supported so as to be openable and closable relative to the mounting frame 11b. The protection frame 11c has a protection glass (not shown) that protects the game components mounted on the mounting frame 11b. The protective frame 11c is a so-called front frame or a glass frame. The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a locking device (not shown) that locks the frames 11b and 11c. The pachinko game machine 10 is configured such that the frames 11b and 11c cannot be opened with respect to the outer frame 11a unless the lock is unlocked using a key compatible with the locking device.

The pachinko game machine 10 includes an effect sound device 12, an example of which is a speaker. The performance audio device 12 is arranged on the front side of the mounting frame 11b. The performance audio device 12 is capable of performing a performance that outputs a predetermined sound (hereinafter referred to as audio performance) and a notification that outputs a predetermined sound (hereinafter referred to as audio notification). For example, the predetermined sounds include music, sound effects, and the like. The pachinko game machine 10 includes a notification audio device 13, an example of which is a speaker. The notification audio device 13 can perform audio notification. In an example of the present embodiment, each of the production sound device 12 and the notification sound device 13 is arranged in the mounting frame 11b.

The pachinko game machine 10 includes an effect light emitting device 14. The effect light emitting device 14 is capable of performing an effect (hereinafter referred to as a light emitting effect) by lighting, blinking, and extinguishing a light emitting body (not shown) such as an LED. The effect light emitting device 14 can perform notification (hereinafter referred to as notification light emission) by lighting up, blinking, and turning off a light emitting body (not shown). In an example of this embodiment, the effect light emitting device 14 is arranged on the mounting frame 11b. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the effect light emitting device 14 may be provided on a game board 20, which will be described later.

The pachinko game machine 10 includes a firing handle 15, which is an example of a firing operation means that can be operated to fire a game ball. The firing handle 15 is arranged on the front side of the mounting frame 11b. As will be described in detail later, the pachinko game machine 10 is configured to drive the firing device 50 so as to launch the game ball with a firing intensity that corresponds to the operation of the firing handle 15. The firing device 50 constitutes an example of a firing mechanism that fires game balls. The firing handle 15 includes a handle lever 15a supported so as to be rotatable, a touch sensor D01, a firing stop switch D02, and a handle volume D03.

The touch sensor D01 is connected to a current-carrying ring 15b arranged to surround the side surface of the firing handle 15. The touch sensor D01 outputs a touch signal when the player grasps the firing handle 15 and the player's fingers touch the energizing ring 15b. The touch signal is in an on state when the player's finger is touching the energizing ring 15b, and is in an off state when the player's finger is not touching it. The touch sensor D01 is an example of means for detecting that the player is touching the firing handle 15.

The firing stop switch D02 outputs a stop signal when the firing stop button 15c protruding toward the side of the firing handle 15 is pressed. The stop signal is in an on state when the firing stop button 15c is operated, and is in an off state when it is not operated. The firing stop button 15c is an example of a stop operation means that can be operated to stop the firing of game balls. When the handle lever 15a is rotated, the handle volume D03 outputs a volume signal with a voltage corresponding to the amount of rotation operation. The pachinko game machine 10 includes a production operation device 16 as an example of means that a player can operate for production. The production operation device 16 may be a button type that can be pressed, a touch sensor type that also serves as a display device, or a lever type.

The pachinko game machine 10 includes a game ball number display device 17 that displays information that allows identification of the number of game balls managed internally. In an example of this embodiment, the game ball number display device 17 has a configuration in which a plurality (for example, six) of 7 segments are arranged, and is capable of displaying a plurality of (for example, six digits) numbers. The game ball count display device 17 can notify predetermined information (hereinafter referred to as notification display) by displaying predetermined characters. The game ball number display device 17 is an example of a number notification means, a number display means, and a notification means that notify the number of game balls stored as data.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a counting switch 18. The counting switch 18 is operated by the player when finishing the game on the pachinko gaming machine 10. As will be described in detail later, when the counting switch 18 is in a predetermined counting allowing state, counting operations using the counting switch 18 are allowed. The counting switch 18 outputs a counting signal when pressed. The pachinko game machine 10 includes a counting lamp 18a, which is an example of means for notifying whether or not counting is allowed. In an example of this embodiment, the production operation device 16, the game ball number display device 17, the counting switch 18, and the counting lamp 18a are arranged in a group on the front side of the mounting frame 11b at a position where the player can operate them. There is.

As shown in FIG. 2, the pachinko game machine 10 includes a game board 20. The game board 20 is assembled to the mounting frame 11b. On the front surface of the game board 20, a generally circular game area 20a is defined when viewed from the front. A display window 20b is formed approximately in the center of the gaming area 20a. A launch passage 20c is formed on the left side of the game area 20a to guide the game ball fired by the firing device 50 to the game area 20a. The game area 20a and the ejection passage 20c are covered by a protective glass (not shown) of a protective frame 11c.

The game board 20 includes a main display device group 21 that constitutes an example of means for displaying various information. Although details will be described later, the main display device group 21 is a display device controlled by the main control board 60. The main display device group 21 includes a first special symbol display device 21a, a second special symbol display device 21b, a first reservation display device 21c, a second reservation display device 21d, a normal symbol display device 21e, and a normal reservation display device 21f. is included at least. In one example of the present embodiment, the plurality of display devices constituting the main display device group 21 are arranged together in a part that is visible to the player, but the present invention is not limited to this, and part or all of them are different parts. It may be placed in

The first special symbol display device 21a is capable of executing a first special symbol variation game (hereinafter referred to as the first special game) in which a predetermined symbol is displayed in a variable manner and finally the special symbol is stopped and displayed. The second special symbol display device 21b is capable of executing a second special symbol variation game (hereinafter referred to as the second special game) in which a predetermined symbol is displayed in a variable manner and finally the special symbol is stopped and displayed. The special symbol is a symbol for announcing the result of an internal lottery (special symbol winning lottery). Hereinafter, the first special game and the second special game will be collectively referred to as the "special game." The special symbols include at least a jackpot symbol as a jackpot display result and a losing symbol as a loss display result. In the pachinko game machine 10, when a jackpot is won in a special symbol winning lottery, the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed in a special game, and after the special game of the jackpot is finished, a jackpot game is awarded. The jackpot game will be described later.

The first suspension display device 21c indicates the number of times the execution of the first special game is suspended (hereinafter referred to as the first suspension number) because the suspension condition has been satisfied but the start condition has not yet been satisfied. Display identifiable information. The second suspension display device 21d indicates the number of times the execution of the second special game is suspended (hereinafter referred to as the second suspension number) because the suspension condition has been met but the start condition has not yet been met. Display identifiable information.

The normal symbol display device 21e is capable of executing a normal game in which predetermined symbols are displayed variably and finally the normal symbols are stopped and displayed. The normal symbol is a symbol for informing the result of the internal lottery (normal symbol winning lottery). The normal symbols include at least a normal winning pattern and a normal losing pattern. In this embodiment, when a winning lottery of a normal symbol is won, the normal winning symbol is stopped and displayed in the normal game, and after the end of the normal game, a normal winning game is awarded. The normal hold display device 21f displays information that allows specifying the number of times the normal game is held on hold because the hold condition has been met but the start condition has not yet been met. The main display device group 21 may include a right-handed display device that displays information instructing right-handed batting, and a round display device that notifies the upper limit number of round games.

The pachinko game machine 10 includes an effect display device 19 having an image display area capable of displaying images. The effect display device 19 is assembled to the game board 20 so that the image display area 19a can be viewed through the display window 20b. For example, the effect display device 19 is a liquid crystal device. The effect display device 19 is capable of performing an effect (hereinafter referred to as display effect) that displays a predetermined image. For example, the predetermined images are images of performance designs, characters, scenery, characters (character strings), numbers, symbols, and the like. In the following description, when these characters, etc. are simply referred to as "displayed", it means that these characters, etc. are displayed as an image. The effect display device 19 can perform notification display in a manner of displaying a predetermined image.

The effect audio device 12, the effect light emitting device 14, and the effect display device 19 are all effect devices capable of executing a predetermined effect, and constitute a group ES of effect devices including a plurality of effect devices. As described above, the effect sound device 12, the effect light emitting device 14, and the effect display device 19 are all capable of executing predetermined notifications, so the effect device group ES can also be understood as a group of notification devices. be. The production devices (notification devices) included in the production device group ES are not limited to the production audio device 12, the production light emitting device 14, and the production display device 19, and may have a configuration in which some of these production devices are omitted. You can. In addition to these performance devices, or in place of one or more that can be arbitrarily selected, the performance device group ES may include a performance movable device that performs a movable performance, and a performance vibration device that performs a vibration performance. You may prepare.

For example, the display performance on the performance display device 19 includes a performance symbol variation game (hereinafter referred to as a performance game) using a plurality of rows of performance symbols (decorative symbols). In the production game, a plurality of rows of production symbols are variably displayed, and finally a combination of production symbols (hereinafter referred to as a symbol combination) is displayed in a static manner. The effect pattern (ornamental pattern) is a pattern decorated with characters, patterns, etc., and is a pattern for diversifying display effects. For example, the performance game of this embodiment is performed by displaying the performance symbols of the left symbol column, middle symbol column, and right symbol column in a variable manner (scroll display) in a predetermined direction, respectively. The performance game may include a reach performance performed by forming a reach.

The performance game is started with the special game and ended with the special game. In the production game, symbol combinations corresponding to the special symbols that are stopped and displayed in the special game are stopped and displayed. When jackpot symbols are stopped and displayed in the special game, jackpot symbol combinations are stopped and displayed in the performance game. When the winning symbols are stopped and displayed in the special game, the winning symbol combinations are stopped and displayed in the performance game. In the following description, the special game and the performance game executed together with the special game are collectively referred to as a "variable game."

A plurality of winning holes (ball entry holes) into which game balls can enter are formed in the gaming area 20a. The winning openings include at least a first starting opening 23, a second starting opening 24, a large winning opening 25, and a normal winning opening 27. The first starting hole 23 is a winning hole into which a game ball is inserted when the conditions for awarding the prize ball and the suspension conditions for the first special game are satisfied. The first starting port 23 is located below the effect display device 19, and is always open so that a game ball can enter the ball. The game board 20 includes a first starting sensor D11 that detects a game ball that has entered the first starting port 23 (see FIG. 9).

The second starting opening 24 is a prize opening into which a game ball is inserted when the conditions for awarding the prize ball and the suspension conditions for the second special game are satisfied. The second starting port 24 is located to the right of the first starting port 23. The second starting port 24 is equipped with a normal opening/closing piece 24a, which is in the shape of a door, and when a normal winning game is not given, it is impossible or difficult for the game ball to enter the ball. Like it's closed. When a normal winning game is awarded, the second starting port 24 is opened so that a game ball can enter the ball or can easily enter the ball. The game board 20 includes a normal solenoid SL1 as a means for opening the second starting port 24 (see FIG. 9). Furthermore, the game board 20 includes a second starting sensor D12 that detects a game ball that has entered the second starting port 24 (see FIG. 9). The normal opening/closing piece 24a is a so-called "normal electric accessory".

The big winning hole 25 is a winning hole into which a game ball is inserted when the conditions for awarding the prize ball are satisfied. The big prize opening 25 is located on the lower right side of the performance display device 19. The big prize opening 25 is equipped with a special opening/closing piece 25a having a door shape, for example, so that when a jackpot game is not given, the game ball cannot enter the ball or it is difficult to enter the ball. Closed. When a jackpot game is awarded, the big prize opening 25 is opened so that a game ball can be entered or it can be easily entered. The game board 20 includes a special solenoid SL2 as a means for opening the big prize opening 25 (see FIG. 9). Furthermore, the game board 20 includes a count sensor D13 that detects game balls that have entered the big prize opening 25 (see FIG. 9).

The normal winning hole 27 is a winning hole into which a game ball is inserted when the conditions for awarding the prize ball are satisfied. The normal winning openings 27 are located at the lower left of the effect display device 19 and at the lower right of the effect display device 19, respectively. The normal prize opening 27 is always open so that a game ball can be entered. The game board 20 includes a normal sensor D14 that detects a game ball that has entered the normal winning hole 27 (see FIG. 9).

A gate 28 is provided in the gaming area 20a. The gate 28 is located in the right area of the gaming area 20a, above the second starting opening 24 and the big winning opening 25. The gate 28 has a gate opening 28a that is always open so that game balls can enter the ball. A gate sensor D15 is provided at the gate 28a to detect game balls entering and passing through (see FIG. 9). The gate 28 is a ball entrance into which a game ball enters when the starting conditions for the normal game are satisfied. Even if a game ball enters the gate 28, the conditions for awarding a prize ball are not satisfied. At the bottom of the gaming area 20a, there is a slot for discharging game balls that have not entered any of the first starting port 23, second starting port 24, big winning opening 25, and normal winning opening 27 from the gaming area 20a. An outlet 29 is formed. The out port 29 can also be understood as a discharge port or a return port from the gaming area 20a.

The mounting frame 11b also includes a radio wave sensor D16 that detects radio waves exceeding a predetermined intensity as abnormal radio waves (see FIG. 8). The radio wave sensor D16 outputs a radio wave detection signal when detecting an abnormal radio wave. The game board 20 may be configured to include a radio wave sensor in addition to the radio wave sensor D16 on the mounting frame 11b, so that the game board 20 can detect abnormal radio waves. As described above, the pachinko game machine 10 does not use magnetic game balls, but uses non-magnetic game balls. Therefore, the mounting frame 11b does not include a magnetic sensor that detects magnetism exceeding a predetermined strength as abnormal magnetism. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the pachinko game machine 10 may have a configuration in which one or both of the mounting frame 11b and the game board 20 are provided with a magnetic sensor to detect the approach of a magnet.

The mounting frame 11b includes a first door opening switch D17 that detects that the protection frame 11c is opened to the mounting frame 11b (see FIG. 8). The first door open switch D17 outputs a first door open signal when detecting the opening of the protection frame 11c. The mounting frame 11b includes a second door opening switch D18 that detects that the mounting frame 11b is open to the outer frame 11a (see FIG. 8). The second door open switch D18 outputs a second door open signal when detecting the opening of the mounting frame 11b.

The player adjusts the firing strength of the game ball by operating the firing handle 15, and shoots the game ball into a left area to the left of the display window 20b and a right area to the right of the display window 20b. . For example, when a game ball is fired by adjusting the firing strength to be strong (hereinafter referred to as right-handed hitting), the game ball is likely to be guided down to the right area, and the second starting opening 24, the big prize opening 25, and the normal There is a possibility that the ball will enter the winning hole 27 or the gate 28. In right-handed hitting, since it is necessary to fire the game ball vigorously in order to reach the right area, the firing strength is adjusted to the maximum strength or slightly weaker than the maximum strength. On the other hand, when the game ball is fired by adjusting the firing strength to be weak (hereinafter referred to as left-handed hitting), the game ball is likely to be guided downward to the left area, and the game ball is easily guided down to the first starting port 23 or the normal winning port 27. There is a possibility that the ball will land. When hitting to the left, it is not necessary to fire the game ball as vigorously as when hitting to the right, so the intensity is adjusted to such an extent that the fired game ball does not reach the right area. In this embodiment, a flow path for the game ball is formed by a game component such as a game nail so that the game ball cannot enter the first starting port 23 when the game ball is hit to the right. The game component may be arranged so as to restrict the ball from entering the first starting port 23 when the ball is hit to the right, or it may be difficult for the ball to enter the first starting port 23 when the ball is hit to the left. It may be arranged as follows.

The left area in this embodiment is an area located to the left of the center line CL that bisects the game area 20a into left and right halves when the game board 20 is viewed from the front. The right area in this embodiment is an area located on the right side of the center line CL when the game board 20 is viewed from the front. A game ball fired by operating the firing handle 15 is guided to a launch passage 20c on the left side of the game area 20a, and reaches the game area 20a. Therefore, the left region is also a region closer to the punching passage 20c, and the right region is also a region away from the punching passage 20c. The game ball guided down the left area passes to the left of the effect display device 19 located at the center of the game area 20a in front view, and heads toward the out port 29 located at the lowest part of the game area 20a. On the other hand, the game ball guided down the right area passes to the right of the performance display device 19 located in the center of the game area 20a in front view and heads toward the out port 29.

As shown in FIG. 4, the pachinko game machine 10 includes a recovery path 30 for recovering game balls that are ejected from the game board 20 after being launched into a game area 20a and used for games, and a lifting machine 35 that includes a maintenance device 35. It has a mechanism 36. The pachinko game machine 10 also includes a supply device 40 that feeds the game balls that have undergone maintenance so as to cut them out one by one, and a firing device 50 that fires the game balls supplied from the supply device 40. The lifting mechanism 36 transfers the game balls collected through the recovery passage 30 to the supply device 40 located downstream and above the lifting mechanism 36. The maintenance device 35 constitutes a part of the lifting mechanism 36. The supply device 40 constitutes an example of a supply mechanism that supplies game balls to a launch device 50, which is an example of a launch mechanism. The pachinko game machine 10 has the above-mentioned launch passage 20c and a foul passage 20f for collecting foul balls (return balls). A foul ball is a game ball that was fired by the firing device 50 but did not reach the game area 20a. In an example of this embodiment, the supply device 40, the firing device 50, and the lifting mechanism 36 are arranged below the game area 20a. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the supply device 40 and the firing device 50 may be arranged in the upper left part of the game area 20a.

The collection passage 30 includes a winning passage 31 where game balls that have won into the first starting opening 23, the second starting opening 24, the big winning opening 25, and the normal winning opening 27 are merged and collected, and the game balls that have passed through the out opening 29 are collected. It has a non-winning passage 32 for collecting balls. The collection path 30 has a first merging section 33a where the winning path 31 and the non-winning path 32 merge. The recovery path 30 has a second merging section 33b where the winning path 31, the non-winning path 32, and the foul path 20f merge. The recovery passage 30 has a supply passage 34 that connects the second merging section 33b and a lifting mechanism 36 having a maintenance device 35. The game ball that has reached the game area 20a flows down the game area 20a. When a game ball enters any of the first starting port 23, second starting port 24, big winning port 25, normal winning port 27, and out port 29, it circulates through the winning path 31 or the non-winning path 32. After merging at the first merging portion 33a, they pass through the supply passage 34 and reach the maintenance device 35. The outlet area of the supply passage 34 is large enough to allow one game ball to pass through. Therefore, the game balls are aligned in a line by passing through the supply passage 34.

The maintenance device 35 is a device that performs polishing as an example of predetermined maintenance. The maintenance device 35 includes an abrasive belt (not shown) arranged to come into contact with the game balls. When the game balls pass through the maintenance device 35, they come into contact with the polishing belt and are polished. In an example of this embodiment, the maintenance device 35 is configured as a unit in which an abrasive belt and a mechanism for driving the abrasive belt are integrated. The maintenance device 35 is assembled to the mounting frame 11b so that it can be replaced as a unit when it is time to replace the abrasive belt after its use is completed. As an example, the maintenance device 35 is disposed at a position that can be accessed from the back side of the mounting frame 11b when the mounting frame 11b is opened. The game balls that have been maintained in the maintenance device 35 are supplied to the supply device 40 while being lined up in a line.

The pachinko game machine 10 includes an iron ball detection mechanism 37 in the middle of the supply path 34 and upstream of the lifting mechanism 36 having the maintenance device 35. The iron ball detection mechanism 37 includes a magnet (not shown). The magnet of the iron ball detection mechanism 37 is arranged close to the supply passage 34. A release lever (not shown) is connected to the magnet, and by displacing the release lever to the close position, the magnet approaches the supply passage 34, and by displacing the release lever to the release position, the magnet approaches the supply passage 34. distance from. When the release lever is in the close position and the magnet is close to the supply passage 34, if a game ball made of a magnetic material (such as an iron ball) is present in the supply passage 34, the game ball can be captured by the magnetic force. . In this case, the game balls following the captured game balls are prevented from advancing by the captured game balls, and the supply of the game balls to the lifting mechanism 36 is blocked. In other words, the game ball made of magnetic material is captured by the iron ball detection mechanism 37 before being supplied to the lifting mechanism 36, thereby preventing the game ball from being supplied to the supply device 40. Then, when the release lever is moved to the release position, the magnet separates from the supply path 34, and the capture of the game balls is released.

The pachinko game machine 10 includes a ball path ball clogging monitoring sensor D27 that detects game balls passing through the supply path 34 on the upstream side of the iron ball detection mechanism 37 (magnet) in the traveling direction of the game balls. When the ball path ball clogging monitoring sensor D27 detects a game ball passing through the supply path 34, it outputs a ball clogging detection signal. The ball jam detection signal is in an ON state when a game ball passing through the ball path is detected, and is in an OFF state when a game ball is not detected. When the ball jam detection signal continues to be on, there is a high possibility that a game ball (such as an iron ball) made of a magnetic material is captured by the magnet of the iron ball detection mechanism 37.

The supply device 40 and the firing device 50 are adjacent to each other so as to be lined up in a predetermined direction (for example, the front-back direction). Details of the supply device 40 and the firing device 50 will be described later. The game balls supplied one by one from the supply device 40 flow into the firing device 50. The launching passage 20c connects the firing device 50 and the gaming area 20a. The launch passage 20c is formed on the front side of the game board 20 so as to extend in the vertical direction along the left edge of the game area 20a. The game ball fired by the firing device 50 passes through the launch passage 20c and is guided to the game area 20a.

The foul passage 20f is a passage that connects an intermediate part of the ejection passage 20c and any part of the recovery passage 30. The game balls flowing into the foul passage 20f from the launch passage 20c are returned to the recovery passage 30, and are again supplied to the supply device 40 from the supply passage 34. The game ball fired by the firing device 50 flows into the launch passage 20c and is guided to reach the game area 20a. Here, due to insufficient firing strength by the firing device 50, the ball may stall and flow backward (fall) through the launching path 20c without reaching the game area 20a.

The pachinko game machine 10 includes a foul sensor D21 that detects a game ball (foul ball) passing through the foul passage 20f. The foul sensor D21 is provided upstream of the second merging section 33b of the collection passage 30 and adjacent to the foul passage 20f. The foul sensor D21 outputs a foul signal when detecting a game ball passing through the foul passage 20f. The foul signal is turned on when a game ball passing through the foul passage 20f is detected, and turned off when it is not detected.

The pachinko game machine 10 includes a winning path count sensor D25 that detects game balls passing through the winning path 31. The winning passage count sensor D25 is provided upstream of the first merging section 33a of the collection passage 30 and adjacent to the winning passage 31. When the winning path count sensor D25 detects a game ball passing through the winning path 31, it outputs a winning path signal. The winning path signal is in an on state when a game ball passing through the winning path 31 is detected, and is in an off state when it is not detected.

The pachinko game machine 10 includes a non-winning path count sensor D26 that detects game balls passing through the non-winning path 32. The non-winning path count sensor D26 is provided upstream of the first merging portion 33a of the collection path 30 and adjacent to the non-winning path 32. When the non-winning path count sensor D26 detects a game ball passing through the non-winning path 32, it outputs a non-winning path signal. The non-winning path signal is turned on when a game ball passing through the non-winning path 32 is detected, and turned off when it is not detected.

The pachinko game machine 10 includes an out sensor D30 that detects game balls passing through the first merging section 33a of the collection path 30. The out sensor D30 is provided adjacent to the recovery passage 30 between the first merging part 33a and the second merging part 33b of the recovery passage 30. When the out sensor D30 detects a game ball passing through the collection path 30, it outputs an out signal. The out signal is in an on state when a game ball passing through the collection path 30 is detected, and is in an off state when it is not detected. The game ball detected by the out sensor D30 is a game ball that has passed through either the winning path 31 or the non-winning path 32. Hereinafter, the game ball detected by the out sensor D30 may be referred to as an out ball.

The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a lifting entrance sensor D28 that detects game balls that have passed through the supply passage 34 and reached the lifting mechanism 36, and a lifting entrance sensor D28 that detects the game balls that have passed through the lifting mechanism 36 and is transferred. An exit sensor D29 is provided. The lifting entrance sensor D28 is provided in the lifting mechanism 36 adjacent to a passage connected to an entrance that receives game balls before maintenance by the maintenance device 35. The lifting exit sensor D29 is provided in the lifting mechanism 36 adjacent to a passage connected to an exit for discharging game balls after maintenance by the maintenance device 35. When the lifting entrance sensor D28 detects a game ball, it outputs a lifting entrance signal. The lifting entrance signal is in an on state when a game ball is detected, and is in an off state when a game ball is not detected. When the lifting exit sensor D29 detects a game ball, it outputs a lifting exit signal. The lifting exit signal is in an on state when a game ball is detected, and is in an off state when a game ball is not detected.

The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a discharge port (not shown) for discharging game balls from the supply passageway 34 to the outside of the machine, an opening/closing piece (not shown) for opening and closing the discharge port, and an opening/closing piece (not shown) for opening and closing the opening/closing piece. An opening/closing lever (not shown) that is operated by the user. In this embodiment, the discharge port can be opened by operating the opening/closing lever and displacing the opening/closing piece, and the game ball can be discharged from the opening to the outside of the machine. Note that when the opening/closing lever is not operated, the discharge port is closed by the opening/closing piece.

The supply device 40 will be explained.
As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the supply device 40 includes a receiving section 41 that receives game balls from the maintenance device 35, and a movable piece 42 that operates to cut out the game balls received in the receiving section 41 one by one. , a supply solenoid 43 that drives the movable piece 42, and a supply section 44 that guides the cut out game ball to the firing device 50. The supply device 40 includes a supply inlet sensor D22 and a supply outlet sensor D23.

The receiving portion 41 is formed with a receiving passage 41a through which game balls flowing out from the maintenance device 35 can proceed in a line. The supply section 44 is formed with a supply passage 44a through which game balls cut out from the row of game balls K are advanced to the firing device 50 by the movable piece 42. The movable piece 42 is arranged at the boundary between the receiving passage 41a and the supply passage 44a.

The movable piece 42 has a holding portion 42a that can hold (accommodate) one game ball K, and a rotation shaft 42b. The movable piece 42 is an example of a locking portion that can lock a game ball. The movable piece 42 is supported so as to be movable about a rotation axis 42b between a stop position 42P1 and a supply position 42P2 rotated downward from the stop position 42P1. The stop position 42P1 is a position that allows the game balls K to flow into the holding part 42a from the receiving passage 41a and restricts the outflow of the game balls K from the holding part 42a to the supply passage 44a. The supply position 42P2 is a position that restricts the inflow of game balls K from the receiving passage 41a to the holding part 42a and allows the outflow of the game balls K from the holding part 42a to the supply passage 44a.

When the movable piece 42 is displaced from the stop position 42P1 to the supply position 42P2, the game ball K in the receiving passage 41a is stopped by the movable piece 42, while the game ball K held in the holding part 42a is released into the supply passage 44a. . When the movable piece 42 is displaced from the supply position 42P2 to the stop position 42P1, the game balls K in the receiving passage 41a flow into the holding part 42a, but the game balls K do not flow out from the holding part 42a to the supply passage 44a. The supply solenoid 43 is turned on by being energized, and the movable piece 42 is displaced to the stop position 42P1. The movable piece 42 is held at the stop position 42P1 because the supply solenoid 43 is in the on state. On the other hand, the supply solenoid 43 is turned off by de-energization, and the movable piece 42 is displaced by gravity to the supply position 42P2. The movable piece 42 is held at the supply position 42P2 because the supply solenoid 43 is in the OFF state. The supply solenoid 43 is an example of a supply actuator that is driven to release the locking by the movable piece 42 and supply the game ball to the firing device 50.

The supply entrance sensor D22 is provided adjacent to the receiving passage 41a, and outputs a supply entrance signal when it detects a game ball K passing through the receiving passage 41a. The supply entrance signal is in an on state when a game ball K passing through the receiving passage 41a is detected, and is in an off state when it is not detected. The supply outlet sensor D23 is provided adjacent to the supply passage 44a, and outputs a supply outlet signal when it detects the game ball K passing through the supply passage 44a. The supply exit signal is in an on state when a game ball K passing through the supply passage 44a is detected, and is in an off state when it is not detected.

The launcher 50 will be explained.
As shown in FIG. 7, the firing device 50 is disposed below the game board 20 when viewed from the front. The firing device 50 includes a firing section 51 that receives the game ball K supplied from the supply device 40, a firing hammer 52 that shoots out the game ball K in the firing section 51, and drives the firing hammer 52 to hit the game ball. It has a firing solenoid 53. The firing device 50 includes a receiving section 55 that receives foul balls (game balls K) flowing backward (falling) from the launch passage 20c, and a foul passage section 56 that forms a foul passage 20f.

A firing position 51a for holding a game ball K is formed in the firing section 51. The game ball K flows down the supply passage 44a and is held at the firing position 51a. The firing hammer 52 has a rotation shaft 52a at its base end and a ball-striking portion 52b at its distal end. The firing hammer 52 is movable around the rotation axis 52a between a ball hitting position 52P1 where the game ball K is hit by the ball hitting portion 52b and a retracted position 52P2 rotated downward from the ball hitting position 52P1. Supported. The firing hammer 52 is an example of a hitting section that hits the game ball.

The firing solenoid 53 is turned on by being energized, and the firing hammer 52 is displaced to the ball hitting position 52P1. As shown by arrow Y1, when the firing hammer 52 is displaced to the ball hitting position 52P1, the ball hitting portion 52b hits the game ball K at the firing position, and the game ball K is fired toward the hitting path 20c. The game ball K fired with sufficient strength passes through the launch passage 20c and reaches the game area 20a. When the firing solenoid 53 is de-energized, the firing hammer 52 is displaced to the retracted position 52P2 due to gravity. The firing hammer 52 is held at the retracted position 52P2 by the firing solenoid 53 being in the OFF state. The firing solenoid 53 is an example of a firing actuator that drives the firing hammer 52 to hit the game ball. The firing actuator may be a motor.

The receiving portion 55 forms a receiving space 55a that opens below the punching passage 20c. A lower end portion of the receiving portion 55 is connected to a passage member forming the foul passage 20f. That is, the lower end of the receiving space 55a is connected to the foul passage 20f. As shown by arrows Y2 and Y3, the foul ball flows from the launch passage 20c into the receiving space 55a, passes through the foul passage 20f, and is returned to the supply device 40. Further, as described above, the foul sensor D21 is provided adjacent to the foul passage 20f.

Next, the jackpot game will be explained.
In the jackpot game, first, a predetermined performance is performed over a predetermined time (hereinafter referred to as opening time). For example, the predetermined performance is an opening performance that allows the start of a jackpot game to be recognized. In the jackpot game, after the opening time has elapsed, a round game in which the jackpot 25 is opened is performed up to a predetermined upper limit number of times. One round game ends when a number condition in which a predetermined upper limit number of game balls enter the ball or a time condition in which a predetermined upper limit time elapses is satisfied. In the round game, the big prize opening 25 is opened in a predetermined opening manner (opening pattern). In each round game, a round performance is performed. In the jackpot game, when the final round game ends, a predetermined performance is performed for a predetermined time (hereinafter referred to as ending time). For example, the predetermined performance is an ending performance that makes it possible to recognize the end of the jackpot game. The jackpot game is ended as the ending time elapses.

The pachinko game machine 10 is equipped with a probability variation function (hereinafter referred to as probability variation function).
The probability variation function is a function for varying the probability of winning a jackpot in the jackpot lottery (hereinafter referred to as jackpot probability). That is, the pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a low probability state in which the variable probability function does not operate, and a high probability state in which the variable probability function operates, as states in which the jackpot probability may differ. A high probability state has a higher jackpot probability than a low probability state. In a high probability state, the probability of winning a jackpot is higher than in a low probability state, which is an extremely advantageous state for the player. The high probability state is a so-called "probability variable state (probability variable state)."

The pachinko game machine 10 is equipped with a ball entry assist function.
The ball entering assist function is a function for varying the rate of balls entering the second starting port 24 by assisting the ball entering the second starting port 24. That is, the pachinko game machine 10 has two states in which the rate of balls entering the second starting port 24 may be different: a low ball entry rate state in which the ball entry assist function does not operate, and a high ball entry rate state in which the ball entry assist function operates. and. In the high ball entry rate state, the probability that the game ball will enter the second starting port 24 is higher than in the low ball entry rate state. In the high ball entry rate state, the probability that the game ball enters the second starting port 24 increases, and it becomes easier for the game ball to enter the second starting port 24, which is an advantageous state for the player. (easy ball state). The high ball entry rate state is a so-called "electric support state", and the low ball entry rate state is a so-called "non-electric support state".

For example, the high ball entry rate state can be achieved by performing one control arbitrarily selected from among the three controls described below, or by performing a combination of a plurality of controls. The first control is normal symbol fluctuation time shortening control that shortens the fluctuation time of the normal game compared to the low ball entry rate state. The second control is normal symbol probability variation control that changes the probability of winning a normal winning lottery (normal winning probability) to a higher probability than when the ball entry rate is low. The third control is an open time extension control that makes the total open time of the second starting port 24 in one normal winning game longer than in the low ball entry rate state. The opening time extension control is a control for increasing the number of openings of the second starting port 24 in one normal winning game than in a low ball entry rate state, and a control for opening the second starting port 24 once in a normal winning game. It is preferable that at least one of the controls is such that the time is made longer than in the low ball entry rate state. The high ball entry rate state may be realized by combining the fourth control described below. The fourth control is a special symbol fluctuation time shortening control that makes the special game fluctuation time (for example, average fluctuation time) shorter than that in the low ball entry rate state. When performing special symbol fluctuation time shortening control, a high ball entry rate state becomes a special symbol fluctuation time shortening state (time saving state), and a low ball entry rate state becomes a special symbol non fluctuating time shortening state (non time saving state). ).

In the pachinko game machine 10, a gaming state is created by a combination of whether or not the probability change function is activated and whether or not the ball entry assisting function is activated. In the following explanation, a game state that is a low probability state and a low ball entry rate state will be referred to as a "low probability low ball entry rate state", and a gaming state that is a high probability state and a low ball entry rate state will be referred to as a "high probability state". "Low entry rate state." In addition, a game state with a low probability state and a high ball entry rate state is referred to as a "low probability high ball entry rate state", and a game state where a high probability state and a high ball entry rate state is a "high probability high ball entry rate state". "rate status".

The electrical configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be explained.
As shown in FIG. 8, the pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a main control board 60 and an effect control board (sub-control board) 70 on the back side of the machine. The main control board 60 is an example of a main control section. The main control board 60 and the production control board 70 are connected so that control information (control commands, etc.) can be outputted in one direction from the main control board 60 to the production control board 70. The main control board 60 executes predetermined processing and outputs control information to the production control board 70. The production control board 70 executes predetermined processing based on control information input from the main control board 60.

The pachinko game machine 10 includes a frame control board 80 and a launch control board 90 on the back side of the machine. The frame control board 80 and the launch control board 90 constitute an example of a control means that performs predetermined control. The frame control board 80 is an example of a supply control section and a frame control section that control at least the supply device 40, and the launch control board 90 is an example of a launch control section that controls the launch device 50. The main control board 60 and the frame control board 80 are connected so that they can output control information (telegrams, etc.) in both directions. The frame control board 80 and the launch control board 90 are connected so that control information can be output in both directions. The frame control board 80 of the pachinko game machine 10 and the CU control board 105 of the card unit 100 can bidirectionally output control information (telegrams, etc.) via the connection terminal board 98 provided in the pachinko game machine 10. are connected so that

The pachinko game machine 10 includes a power supply unit 99 on the back side of the machine. The power supply unit 99 receives power from the outside, converts the input voltage into a predetermined voltage, and supplies the voltage to the production control board 70 and the frame control board 80. The power supplied to the frame control board 80 is further supplied to the main control board 60 and the launch control board 90. The power supply unit 99 supplies power to the supply solenoid 43, firing solenoid 53, various sensors, and switches. The power supply unit 99 includes a main switch 99a. The pachinko game machine 10 can be powered on by starting power supply to the power supply unit 99 with the main switch 99a turned on, or by turning the main switch 99a on while power is being supplied. It is composed of

The main control board 60 will be explained.
As shown in FIG. 9, the main control board 60 includes a CPU 61, a ROM 62, a RAM 63, and a random number generation circuit 64. The CPU 61 executes processing related to the progress of the game by executing the main control program. The ROM 62 stores a main control program, determination values used for various determinations and lottery selections, tables, and the like. The ROM 62 stores a plurality of types of variation patterns. The fluctuation pattern is information that can specify the fluctuation time from the start to the end of the special game. The fluctuation pattern is information that can specify the fluctuation content (performance content) of the performance game performed during the execution of the special game. The fluctuation patterns include a jackpot fluctuation pattern and a loss fluctuation pattern. The presentation game based on the jackpot variation pattern has a variable content in which the jackpot symbol combination is finally stopped and displayed after reaching the reach presentation. A presentation game based on a losing variation pattern has a variable content in which a winning symbol combination is finally stopped and displayed after a reach effect or without a reach effect.

The RAM 63 stores various information that is rewritten according to the processing results of the CPU 61. For example, the information stored in the RAM 63 includes flags, counters, timers, and the like. The RAM 63 is an example of a storage means that can store information. The random number generation circuit 64 generates hardware random numbers. The main control board 60 may be configured to be able to generate software random numbers through random number generation processing by the CPU 61.

The main control board 60 is connected to a first starting sensor D11, a second starting sensor D12, a count sensor D13, a normal sensor D14, and a gate sensor D15. The CPU 61 can input detection signals output by each of the sensors D11 to D15 when detecting a game ball. The main control board 60 is connected to each display device 21a to 21f. The CPU 61 can control the display contents of each of the display devices 21a to 21f. The main control board 60 is connected to each solenoid SL1, SL2. The CPU 61 can control the opening mode of the second starting port 24 and the big winning port 25 by controlling the operation of each solenoid SL1, SL2.

The production control board 70 will be explained.
The production control board 70 includes a CPU 71, a ROM 72, and a RAM 73. The CPU 71 performs processing related to presentation by executing a sub-control program. The ROM 72 stores a sub-control program, determination values used in a predetermined lottery, and the like. The ROM 72 stores display performance data used for display performance, light emission performance data used for light emission performance, and audio performance data used for audio performance. The RAM 73 stores various information that is rewritten during the operation of the pachinko gaming machine 10. For example, the information stored in the RAM 73 includes flags, counters, timers, and the like. The performance control board 70 is configured to be able to generate software random numbers through random number generation processing by the CPU 71. The production control board 70 may include a random number generation circuit and be capable of generating hardware random numbers.

The effect control board 70 is connected to the effect display device 19. The CPU 71 can control the display content in the image display area 19a of the effect display device 19. The performance control board 70 is connected to the performance audio device 12. The CPU 71 can control the output content of the performance audio device 12. The effect control board 70 is connected to the effect light emitting device 14. The CPU 71 can control the light emission mode of the effect light emitting device 14.

The frame control board 80 will be explained.
As shown in FIG. 8, the frame control board 80 includes a CPU 81, ROM 82, RAM 83, performance display monitor 84, ball removal switch 85, error release switch 86, game ball clear switch 87, RAM clear switch 88, backup power supply 89, backup It includes a circuit 89a and a launch permission circuit 89b. The CPU 81 performs processing related to the operation of the components mounted on the mounting frame 11b by executing the frame control program. The ROM 82 stores frame control programs and the like. The RAM 83 stores various information that is rewritten during the operation of the pachinko gaming machine 10. For example, the information stored in the RAM 83 includes flags, counters, timers, and the like.

The performance display monitor 84 displays the base value. The base value is a value indicating the ratio (ratio) of the total number of prize balls during the normal game to the total number of valid balls during the normal game. A normal game is a game in which the probability of entering a ball is low and a jackpot game is not being played. The effective ball is a game ball that has reached the game area 20a among the game balls fired from the firing device 50. The base value is calculated based on the calculation formula: "Total number of prize balls acquired during normal gaming ÷ Total number of valid balls during normal gaming x 100" on the premise that a jackpot game is not in progress. The performance display monitor 84 is an example of a base display means that can display information regarding the base of the game ball.

The ball removal switch 85 is a switch that is operated to create a ball removal state that allows game balls sealed inside the pachinko game machine 10 to be ejected to the outside of the machine. The ball removal switch 85 outputs a ball removal signal when a push-in operation is performed. The ball removal signal is turned on when the ball removal switch 85 is pressed, and turned off when the ball removal switch 85 is not pressed. The ball removal signal is output to the CPU 81.

The error release switch 86 is a switch that is operated when a predetermined error occurs and the error state is released after the cause of the error is removed. The error release switch 86 outputs an error release signal when pressed. The error release signal is turned on when the error release switch 86 is pressed, and turned off when the error release switch 86 is not pressed. The error release signal is output to the CPU 81.

The game ball clear switch 87 is a switch operated when initializing the number of game balls (hereinafter referred to as game ball number information) stored as data in the RAM 83 to zero. The game ball clear switch 87 outputs a game ball clear signal when pressed. The game ball clear signal is turned on when the game ball clear switch 87 is pressed, and turned off when the game ball clear switch 87 is not pressed. The game ball clear signal is output to the CPU 81.

The RAM clear switch 88 is a switch operated to initialize the main information stored in the RAM 63 and the information stored in the RAM 83 (hereinafter referred to as RAM clear). The RAM clear switch 88 outputs a RAM clear signal when pressed. The RAM clear signal is turned on when the RAM clear switch 88 is pressed, and turned off when the RAM clear switch 88 is not pressed. The RAM clear signal is output to the CPU 81 and also to the main control board 60 (CPU 61).

The backup power supply 89 supplies backup power to the main control board 60 (RAM 63) in addition to the RAM 83 even when the external power supply is cut off. By receiving backup power from the backup power source 89, the RAMs 63 and 83 can retain the stored contents of the RAMs 63 and 83 even after the power is turned off. That is, the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment is equipped with a backup function. However, one or both of the RAMs 63 and 83 are non-volatile memories that can retain their stored contents even when the power supply is stopped, so that they can be stored even after the power is turned off. It may also be possible to hold information about the

For example, the backup power source 89 may be a power storage device that stores power when power is supplied from the outside. Even when the external power supply is cut off, the backup power supply 89 maintains at least a predetermined time (hereinafter referred to as , supply time) elapses, backup power is supplied to these devices. Note that the supply time is related to the power capacity stored for supplying to the launch control board 90 and the launch solenoid 53, and may be the time required to release the power, or may be the time specified by a predetermined circuit. You can.

By receiving backup power from the backup power supply 89, the launch control board 90 (launch control circuit 91) and the launch solenoid 53 can perform predetermined operations even after the external power supply is cut off. As will be described in detail later, the firing device 50 is configured to have an external Even if the power supply from the outside is cut off, the firing operation can be performed at least once after the power supply from the outside is cut off.

Information that can be stored in the RAM 63 and that can be backed up includes main information. The main information is information regarding the progress of the game. As an example, the main information includes information regarding the jackpot status (including the number of round games), information regarding the gaming status, information regarding the number of reservations, information regarding normal symbols and special symbols, and information regarding error status.

Information that can be stored in the RAM 83 and that can be backed up includes information on the number of game balls, game information, and performance information. The game ball number information is information that allows the number of game balls to be specified. The game information is information notified from the main control board 60 according to the progress of the game. As an example, the game information includes the occurrence of a starting opening prize, the occurrence of a regular prize, the occurrence of a big winning opening prize in a jackpot game, gate passage, confirmation of a special symbol (end of a variable game), occurrence of a jackpot, and the current status. There is information that can identify the gaming status, etc. The performance information is information related to a base value and the calculation of the base value. The information related to the calculation of the base value includes the total number of prize balls acquired during the normal game and the total number of valid balls during the normal game.

The backup circuit 89a outputs a power-off detection signal to the CPU 81 and also to the CPU 61 of the main control board 60 when the power supply voltage supplied from the power supply unit 99 falls below a specified voltage. The launch permission circuit 89b is a circuit for outputting to the launch control board 90 a signal (hereinafter referred to as a launch permission signal) that can specify that the game ball is in a launch permission state that allows the launch of game balls. The conditions for outputting the launch permission signal will be described later.

The frame control board 80 is connected to the counting switch 18. The CPU 81 is configured to be able to input the counting signal output from the counting switch 18 . The frame control board 80 includes a radio wave sensor D16, a first door open switch D17, a second door open switch D18, a foul sensor D21, a supply entrance sensor D22, a supply exit sensor D23, a winning passage count sensor D25, and a non-winning passage counting sensor D26. , and a ball passage ball clogging monitoring sensor D27. Further, the frame control board 80 is connected to a lifting entrance sensor D28, a lifting exit sensor D29, and an out sensor D30. The CPU 81 receives radio signals output by these sensors and switches, a first door open signal, a second door open signal, a foul signal, a supply entrance signal, a supply exit signal, a winning passage signal, a non-winning passage signal, and a ball jamming detection signal. , a lifting entrance signal, a lifting exit signal, and an out signal can be input. Of these signals, the frame control board 80 outputs a first door open signal and a second door open signal to the main control board 60.

The frame control board 80 is connected to the notification audio device 13. The CPU 81 can control the output content of the notification audio device 13. The frame control board 80 is connected to the game ball count display device 17. The CPU 81 is configured to be able to control the display content of the game pitch count display device 17.

The frame control board 80 is connected to the maintenance device 35. The CPU 81 is configured to be able to control maintenance operations of the maintenance device 35. The frame control board 80 is connected to the lifting mechanism 36. The CPU 81 is configured to be able to control the lifting operation of the lifting mechanism 36. The frame control board 80 is connected to the supply solenoid 43. The CPU 81 can displace the movable piece 42 by controlling the supply of electricity to the supply solenoid 43 . That is, the CPU 81 is configured to be able to control the operation of supplying game balls by the supply device 40.

As described above, the frame control board 80 is connected to the card unit 100. The CPU 81 is configured to be able to receive various messages transmitted by the CU control board 105. Note that the connection signal output by the card unit 100 is input from the connection terminal board 98 to the firing permission circuit 89b without passing through the CPU 81. As will be described in detail later, a firing stop signal output from the main control board 60 and an error signal output from the CPU 81 are also input to the firing permission circuit 89b.

The launch control board 90 includes a launch control circuit 91 for controlling the operation of the launch device 50. The firing control circuit 91 outputs a drive signal to the firing solenoid 53 based on control signals input from the frame control board 80 and signals input from sensors and switches.

The firing control board 90 is connected to a touch sensor D01, a firing stop switch D02, and a handle volume D03. The firing control circuit 91 is configured to be able to input touch signals, stop signals, and volume signals output from these switches and sensors. The firing control board 90 is connected to the firing solenoid 53. When the firing control circuit 91 outputs a drive signal to the firing solenoid 53, the firing solenoid 53 is driven, and the firing hammer 52 is displaced to the ball hitting position 52P1. That is, the firing control board 90 is configured to be able to control the firing operation of the game ball by the firing device 50.

The firing control circuit 91 includes an operation determining section, a pulse clock generating section, a timing pulse generating section, a holding circuit, and a solenoid driving section. The operation determination unit operates when the firing permission signal from the frame control board 80 is in the on state, the stop signal from the firing stop switch D02 is in the off state, and the touch signal from the touch sensor D01 is in the on state. If the enabling condition is satisfied, an operation signal is output to the timing pulse generator. The operation determination unit determines that the firing permission signal from the frame control board 80 is on, the stop signal from the firing stop switch D02 is off, and the touch signal from the touch sensor D01 is on. If the operable condition is not satisfied because some or all of the above are not satisfied, the operation signal is not output to the timing pulse generator.

When the timing pulse generation section receives an operation signal, it synthesizes the operation signal and the pulse signal input from the pulse clock generation section, and outputs a firing timing pulse to the solenoid drive section. The solenoid drive unit supplies (outputs) to the firing solenoid 53 a drive current with a voltage corresponding to the volume signal (voltage) input from the handle volume D03 every time the firing timing pulse is input. As a result, the firing solenoid 53 is driven with an intensity corresponding to the amount of rotational operation of the handle lever 15a, and the game ball is fired. The firing control circuit 91 outputs the subtraction reference signal to the frame control board 80 at a predetermined timing. The holding circuit holds the voltage (voltage value) of the volume signal at that point in time when the drive current is output when the operable condition is satisfied. The firing control circuit 91 (solenoid drive section) supplies the firing solenoid 53 with a drive current of a voltage corresponding to the voltage value held (stored) in the holding circuit, rather than the voltage value of the volume signal, in a blank firing sequence to be described later. do.

Further, the holding circuit holds the voltage (voltage value) of the volume signal. The holding circuit constitutes an example of information holding means that holds information. The voltage value that can be held by the holding circuit is an example of operation amount information generated according to the operation amount of the firing handle 15 (handle lever 15a).

The processing executed by the frame control board 80 (CPU 81) will be described.
The frame side power-off processing will be explained.
When the CPU 81 receives a power-off detection signal output from the backup circuit 89a when the power supply voltage drops below a specified voltage, the CPU 81 executes a power-off process. In the power-off process, the CPU 81 calculates the checksum value of the RAM 83 and stores the calculated checksum value in the RAM 83. Further, the CPU 81 causes the RAM 83 to store information (hereinafter referred to as a backup flag) that can specify that the power-off processing has been executed normally. After that, the CPU 81 waits until the power is completely turned off. Various information stored in the RAM 83 when the power is turned off is retained even after the power is turned off by the backup function described above.

The frame side power-on process will be explained.
When the power is turned on and the voltage supplied to the frame control board 80 reaches a voltage necessary for the operation of the CPU 81 and the CPU 81 is activated, the CPU 81 determines whether or not the backed up information is normal. Specifically, the CPU 81 determines whether a backup flag is stored in the RAM 83. Further, the CPU 81 calculates the checksum value of the RAM 83 and determines whether or not the calculated checksum value matches the checksum value calculated in the power-off process. The CPU 81 determines that it is normal if the backup flag is stored and the checksum values match, and otherwise determines it to be abnormal. If it is determined that the backed up information is abnormal, the CPU 81 initializes the game ball number information and game information stored in the RAM 83. At this time, the CPU 81 does not initialize the performance information. After that, the CPU 81 shifts to communication check processing, which will be described later.

When determining that the backed up information is normal, the CPU 81 determines whether the game ball clear switch 87 is being operated based on whether the game ball clear signal is in the on state. The CPU 81 initializes the game ball number information stored in the RAM 83 when the game ball clear switch 87 is operated. At this time, the CPU 81 does not initialize the game information and performance information. The CPU 81 does not initialize the game ball number information when the game ball clear switch 87 is not operated.

The CPU 81 determines whether the RAM clear switch 88 is operated based on whether the RAM clear signal is in the on state. The CPU 81 initializes the game information stored in the RAM 83 when the RAM clear switch 88 is operated. At this time, the CPU 81 does not initialize the game ball number information and performance information. The CPU 81 does not initialize the game information when the RAM clear switch 88 is not operated. In this embodiment, the performance information is either a situation in which the game ball number information is initialized in response to the operation of the game ball clear switch 87, or a situation in which game information is initialized in response to the operation of the RAM clear switch 88. Even if it is, it is not initialized. After that, the CPU 81 shifts to communication check processing.

In the communication check process, the CPU 81 determines whether startup information has been received from the main control board 60. In an example of this embodiment, the startup information is gaming machine installation information. As an example, the gaming machine installation information is information that can specify the type of gaming machine, the ID number of the CPU 61, the manufacturer of the CPU 61, and the like. Upon successfully receiving the startup information, the CPU 81 transmits response information to the main control board 60 . Thereafter, the CPU 81 ends the communication check process, returns to normal processing based on the initialized or backed-up game ball number information, game information, and performance information, and executes the frame side normal process to be described later.

If the CPU 81 does not receive startup information within a predetermined period of time (for example, 3 minutes) after startup due to power-on, the CPU 81 stores in the RAM 83 a flag that can identify the occurrence of an abnormal communication error within the gaming machine. That is, the CPU 81 sets a communication abnormality within the gaming machine. After that, the CPU 81 waits until it receives the startup information. When the CPU 81 normally receives startup information from the main control board 60 while setting the communication abnormality within the gaming machine, the CPU 81 cancels the setting of the communication abnormality within the gaming machine. Thereafter, the CPU 81 ends the communication check process, returns to normal processing based on the initialized or backed-up game ball number information, game information, and performance information, and executes the frame side normal process to be described later. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the CPU 81 may set an intra-gaming machine communication abnormality when reception of startup information and transmission of response information are unsuccessful multiple times (for example, three times). In this case, the startup information received multiple times may be used as gaming machine installation information for the first time, and may be information different from the gaming machine installation information (as an example, gaming machine information) from the second time onward.

The frame side normal processing of the frame control board 80 will be explained.
Of the frame-side normal processing, the game information storage processing will be explained.
The gaming information generation process is a process of storing gaming information input from the main control board 60 in the RAM 83. When the CPU 81 receives gaming information that allows the gaming state to be specified, the CPU 81 stores the gaming information in the RAM 83. By referring to the game information stored in the RAM 83, the CPU 81 can identify whether or not a jackpot game is being played, whether or not the game is in a high probability state, and whether or not it is in a high ball entry rate state. . In addition, upon inputting various game information, the CPU 81 generates information that allows identification of the input game information and stores it in the RAM 83. Further, upon receiving the game information, the CPU 81 transmits part or all of the received game information to an external device (such as a hall computer).

The performance information generation process of the frame side normal process will be explained.
The performance information generation process is a process of calculating a base value as performance information. The CPU 81 refers to the gaming state flag and determines whether or not the jackpot game is not in progress and the current gaming state is a low-probability, low-ball entry rate state (that is, whether or not it is a normal game). In the case of normal gaming, the CPU 81 generates gaming information that can identify the occurrence of a starting opening winning prize (hereinafter referred to as starting opening winning information) or gaming information that can identify the occurrence of a regular winning (hereinafter referred to as ordinary winning information). ) is received, the total number of prize balls acquired during the normal game is added. The total number of prize balls acquired is stored in the RAM 83 as one piece of performance information. When the CPU 81 inputs the winning path signal or the non-winning path signal, it adds up the total number of valid balls during the normal game. The total number of effective balls is stored in the RAM 83 as one piece of performance information. The CPU 81 calculates the base value using the calculation formula: "Total number of prize balls acquired during the normal game ÷ Total number of effective balls during the normal game x 100". The CPU 81 may count the total number of prize balls acquired and the total number of valid balls in intervals of one minute, and calculate the base value every minute. The CPU 81 may divide and count the total number of prize balls obtained every time the total number of valid balls reaches a specified number, and calculate the base value every time the total number of valid balls reaches a specified number. As an example, the prescribed number may be 60,000 balls, or may be the maximum number (for example, 100 balls) that can be fired by the firing device 50 per minute. The CPU 81 controls the performance display monitor 84 to display information that allows identification of the calculated base value.

The CPU 81 may be configured to calculate the accessory ratio and the continuous accessory ratio as performance information and display them on the performance display monitor 84. The accessory ratio is the ratio of the total number of prize balls obtained through electric accessory operation to the total number of prize balls obtained through all game states. The total number of prize balls acquired through electric accessory actuation is the total number of prize balls acquired by entering the second starting port 24 in normal winning games (normal electric accessory activation), and the total number of prize balls acquired in jackpot games (special electric accessory activation). This is the sum of the total number of prize balls won by winning into the prize opening 25. The continuous role object ratio is the ratio of the total number of prize balls acquired through continuous role object operation to the total number of prize balls acquired through all game states. The total number of prize balls obtained by continuous role play is the total number of prize balls obtained by entering the jackpot 25 in the jackpot game.

Of the frame side normal processing, the game ball number information generation processing will be explained.
The game ball number information generation process is a process for generating (managing) the number of game balls. When the CPU 81 receives the number of award balls information from the main control board 60, it adds the number of award balls that can be specified from the number of award balls information to the number of game balls. Acquired prize ball number information is control information that is output by the main control board 60 when the conditions for awarding a prize ball are met due to winning in a predetermined winning hole, and specifies the number of prize balls set for the winning hole. configured to be possible. Upon receiving the grant information from the card unit 100, the CPU 81 adds the number of balls to be awarded indicated in the grant information to the number of game balls. When the CPU 81 detects that one game ball has been supplied to the firing device 50 based on the supply entrance signal output by the supply entrance sensor D22, it subtracts the number of game balls. As an example, the CPU 81 detects that one game ball has been supplied when the supply entrance signal transitions from the OFF state to the ON state to the OFF state and becomes the ON state. As a result, it can be said that the number of game balls managed electromagnetically is converted into actual game balls.

The CPU 81 is not limited to this, and may subtract the number of game balls by driving the firing solenoid 53. A sensor may be provided in the launch passage 20c, and when the sensor detects a game ball fired from the firing device 50, the CPU 81 may subtract the number of game balls by driving the firing solenoid 53. The configuration may be such that the number of pitches is subtracted. In this embodiment, the number of game balls is subtracted as an example of the number of game balls stored as data in relation to at least one of the firing operation by the firing device 50 and the supplying operation by the supply device 40. It can be said that When the number of game balls stored as data reaches "0", which is an example of a number less than a predetermined number, the CPU 81 outputs a zero number of game balls signal to the firing permission circuit 89b.

When the CPU 81 is in the counting enabled state, when a counting signal is input from the counting switch 18, the CPU 81 transmits counting information that can specify the number of balls to be counted to the card unit 100. The CPU 81 subtracts the number of counted balls that can be specified from the counting information from the number of game balls. The CPU 81 may output the count information after subtracting the number of game balls, or may output the count information and then subtract the number of game balls. As an example, the countable state is a state in which the necessary power is supplied and the number of game balls is not zero. The CPU 81 controls the light emitter built in the counting lamp 18a so that the counting lamp 18a lights up when the counting is possible. In an example of this embodiment, the management of the number of game balls is transferred to the card unit 100 by transmitting counting information to the card unit 100.

Then, the CPU 81 controls the game ball number display device 17 to display information that can specify the updated number of game balls that has been added or subtracted. In an example of the present embodiment, the CPU 81 includes means for adding the number of game balls stored as data, means for subtracting the number of game balls stored as data, and displaying the number of game balls stored as data. It can be understood as a means to do so. Although details will be described later, the game ball count display device 17 also serves as a device capable of displaying information that can specify the error state set (detected) on the frame control board 80.

The error setting process and error notification process of the frame side normal process will be explained.
As shown in FIG. 10, the error setting process is a process for detecting the occurrence of an error state and setting the error state. In one example of the present embodiment, the error states that can be detected by the frame control board 80 (CPU 81) include, in addition to the above-mentioned communication abnormality within the gaming machine, unauthorized radio wave detection, supply entrance sensor abnormality, ejected ball passage abnormality, and number of circulating balls. There is at least an undercount, an excessive number of circulating balls, an abnormal number of winnings, iron ball detection, and door opening. Further, the error notification process is a process for notifying an error in a predetermined notification mode when an error state is detected in the error setting process. Note that the processing contents regarding error detection and error notification will be explained in detail later.

Next, various processes performed by the main control board 60 (CPU 61) will be explained.
The main power-off process will be explained.
When the CPU 61 receives a power-off detection signal from the frame control board 80 (backup circuit 89a), it executes a power-off process. In the power-off process, the CPU 61 outputs a firing stop signal to the frame control board 80. The CPU 61 calculates the checksum value of the RAM 63 and stores the calculated checksum value in the RAM 63. Further, the CPU 61 causes the RAM 63 to store information (hereinafter referred to as a backup flag) that can specify that the power-off processing has been executed normally. After that, the CPU 61 waits until the power is completely turned off. Various information stored in the RAM 63 when the power is turned off is retained even after the power is turned off by the backup function described above.

The main power-on process will be explained.
When the power is turned on and the voltage supplied to the main control board 60 reaches a voltage necessary for the operation of the CPU 61, the CPU 61 prohibits timer interrupt processing. Subsequently, the CPU 61 transmits startup information to the frame control board 80. The CPU 61 transmits the startup information to the frame control board 80 when a predetermined time (108 ms as an example) has elapsed without receiving response information after transmitting the startup information. Thereafter, if the CPU 61 does not receive response information from the frame control board 80, it transmits startup information to the frame control board 80 every predetermined time period. Note that the startup information when transmitting multiple times may be the same information, or may be different information so that the number of times of transmission can be specified. The CPU 61 detects a communication abnormality within the game machine when the number of times the startup information is transmitted reaches a specified number (10 times as an example), and stores information that can identify the occurrence of the communication abnormality within the game machine in the RAM 63. In other words, the CPU 61 sets an error related to a communication abnormality within the gaming machine. When setting the gaming machine communication abnormality, the CPU 61 outputs control information (hereinafter referred to as gaming machine communication abnormality command) that can identify the occurrence of an error related to the gaming machine communication abnormality to the production control board 70. After that, the CPU 61 waits until the power is turned off. In this embodiment, the time required for the frame control board 80 to detect a communication abnormality within the gaming machine (3 minutes as an example) is the time required for the main control board 60 to detect a communication abnormality within the gaming machine (1080 ms as an example). longer than .

Upon receiving the response information to the startup information, the CPU 61 determines that the communication line is normal. If the communication line is normal, the CPU 61 determines whether the backed up information is normal. Specifically, the CPU 61 determines whether a backup flag is stored in the RAM 63. Further, the CPU 61 calculates the checksum value of the RAM 63 and determines whether the calculated checksum value matches the checksum value calculated in the power-off process. The CPU 61 determines that it is normal if the backup flag is stored and the checksum values match, and determines that it is abnormal if they are not.

If it is determined that the backed up information is abnormal, the CPU 61 initializes the main information stored in the RAM 63. The CPU 61 outputs to the production control board 70 a control command (hereinafter referred to as an initialization command) that can specify that various types of information have been initialized. Thereafter, the CPU 61 ends the main power-on process.

When determining that the backed up information is normal, the CPU 61 determines whether a RAM clear signal is input from the frame control board 80 (RAM clear switch 87). When the RAM clear signal is input, the CPU 61 initializes the main information stored in the RAM 63. The CPU 61 outputs an initialization command to the production control board 70. On the other hand, if the RAM clear signal is not input, the CPU 61 outputs a control command (hereinafter referred to as a power recovery command) that can specify the return based on the backed up main information to the production control board 70.

After completing the main power-on processing, the CPU 61 permits timer interrupt processing. In other words, the CPU 61 can execute a process (hereinafter referred to as main normal process) for advancing the game. If the main information has been initialized, the main normal processing is executed based on the initialized main information. In other words, the CPU 61 is based on the state that both the first special reservation number and the second special reservation number are zero, the first special game and the second special game are not being executed, and no jackpot game has been awarded. and executes various processes included in the main normal process. The main normal processing is executed based on the backed up main information if the main information has not been initialized. In other words, the CPU 61 executes the special game if the first special pending number and the second special pending number are the pending numbers at the time of power-off, and either the first special game or the second special game is being executed. The process returns to the process, and if the jackpot game is being awarded, the process returns to the process of awarding the jackpot game.

The CPU 61 executes special symbol input processing, special symbol start processing, etc. as timer interrupt processing performed every predetermined control cycle (for example, 4 ms). The special symbol input process and the special symbol start process are both main normal processes.

The special symbol input process will be explained.
The CPU 61 determines whether the game ball has entered the first starting port 23 based on whether or not a detection signal has been input from the first starting sensor D11. When the game ball enters the first starting port 23, the CPU 61 determines whether the first pending number stored in the RAM 63 is less than the upper limit number (4 in this embodiment). When the first number of reservations is less than the upper limit number, the CPU 61 updates the first number of reservations by adding one. Subsequently, the CPU 61 controls the first reservation display device 21c to display information that allows identification of the updated first reservation number. In this embodiment, the suspension condition for the first special game is established when the game ball is detected by the first starting sensor D11 when the first suspension number is less than the upper limit number.

Next, the CPU 61 acquires a random number generated by the random number generation circuit 64, and causes the RAM 63 to store random number information based on the acquired random number. For example, the random numbers include a winning random number used for a special symbol winning lottery, a winning pattern random number used for determining a winning symbol, and a fluctuation pattern random number used for determining a fluctuation pattern. The CPU 61 stores the random number information so that it can be specified that the random number information is for the first special game, and the order in which the random number information is stored. The random number information may be the acquired random number itself, or may be information obtained by processing the random number using a predetermined method. By storing the random number information used for the first special game in the RAM 63, the pachinko gaming machine 10 can suspend the execution of the first special game until the start conditions for the first special game are satisfied.

When the random number information for the first special game is stored in the RAM 63, when the game ball has not entered the first starting port 23, and when the first reserved number is not less than the upper limit number, the CPU 61 stores the random number information for the first special game. Based on whether or not a detection signal is input from the starting sensor D12, it is determined whether the game ball has entered the second starting port 24 or not. When the game ball has entered the second starting port 24, the CPU 61 determines whether the second pending number stored in the RAM 63 is less than the upper limit number (4 in this embodiment). If the second pending number is less than the upper limit number, the CPU 61 updates the second pending number by adding one. The CPU 61 controls the second reservation display device 21d to display information that allows the second reservation number after addition to be specified. In this embodiment, the second special game suspension condition is established when the second suspension number is less than the upper limit number and the game ball is detected by the second starting sensor D12.

Next, the CPU 61 acquires a random number generated within the main control board 60 and causes the RAM 63 to store random number information based on the acquired random number. The CPU 61 stores the random number information so that the random number information is used for the second special game and the order in which the random number information is stored can be specified. By storing the random number information used for the second special game in the RAM 63, the pachinko gaming machine 10 can suspend the execution of the second special game until the start conditions for the second special game are satisfied. When the random number information for the second special game is stored in the RAM 63, when the game ball has not entered the second starting port 24, and when the second pending number is not less than the upper limit number, the CPU 61 stores the special symbol Finish input processing.

The special symbol start process will be explained.
First, the CPU 61 determines whether the special game starting conditions are satisfied. The CPU 61 makes an affirmative determination when the jackpot game is not in progress and a special game is not in progress, and makes a negative determination when the jackpot game or special game is in progress. If the special game start conditions are not satisfied, the CPU 61 ends the special symbol start process. If the special game start condition is satisfied, the CPU 61 determines whether the second pending number is greater than zero. If the second number of reservations is zero, the CPU 61 determines whether the first number of reservations is greater than zero. When the first reservation number is zero, the CPU 61 ends the special symbol start process.

If the first pending number is greater than zero, the CPU 61 performs processing to execute the first special game. Specifically, the CPU 61 subtracts 1 from the first pending number and updates it. The CPU 61 controls the first reservation display device 21c to display information that allows identification of the first reservation number after subtraction. Next, the CPU 61 acquires the first stored random number information from the RAM 63 among the random number information for the first special game. Subsequently, the CPU 61 uses the winning random number specified from the acquired random number information to perform a jackpot drawing (jackpot determination) as a special symbol winning drawing to determine whether or not the jackpot is won. The CPU 61 performs a jackpot lottery based on the jackpot probability according to the current probability state (whether or not the probability variable function is activated).

If the jackpot is won, the CPU 61 performs jackpot fluctuation processing. In the jackpot variation process, the CPU 61 performs a jackpot symbol lottery using a winning symbol random number that can be specified from the random number information, and determines a jackpot symbol to be stopped and displayed in the first special game. The CPU 61 performs a variation pattern determination lottery using variation pattern random numbers that can be specified from the random number information, and determines a variation pattern from among a plurality of jackpot variation patterns. After that, the CPU 61 ends the special symbol start process.

If the jackpot is not won, the CPU 61 performs a loss variation process. In the losing variation process, the CPU 61 determines losing symbols to be stopped and displayed in the first special game. The CPU 61 performs a variation pattern determination lottery using variation pattern random numbers that can be specified from the random number information, and determines a variation pattern from among a plurality of outlier variation patterns. After that, the CPU 61 ends the special symbol start process.

If the second pending number is greater than zero, the CPU 61 performs processing for executing the second special game. The process for executing the second special game includes changing the "first special game" to "second special game" and changing the "first pending number" to "second pending number". Since these processes have been changed to "number", detailed explanation thereof will be omitted. That is, the CPU 61 completes the special symbol start process after performing any of the fluctuation processes based on the results of the subtraction of the second pending number, the jackpot lottery, and the jackpot lottery.

The CPU 61 outputs a fluctuation start command and a special symbol command to the production control board 70 in the jackpot fluctuation processing and the loss fluctuation processing. The fluctuation start command is a control command that can specify the fluctuation pattern determined in each fluctuation process and the start of the fluctuation game. The special symbol command is a control command that can specify the special symbol (jackpot symbol or losing symbol) determined in each variation process. Note that the fluctuation start command and the special symbol command are different control commands when the fluctuation processing of the first special game is executed and when the fluctuation processing of the second special game is executed.

When the special symbol start process is finished, the CPU 61 causes the first special game or the second special game to be executed by a process different from the special symbol start process. Specifically, when executing the first special game, the CPU 61 controls the first special symbol display device 21a to start variable display of predetermined symbols. The CPU 61 measures the variation time defined in the variation pattern. When the variation time set in the variation pattern has elapsed, the CPU 61 controls the first special symbol display device 21a to stop displaying the special symbol determined in the special symbol start process. Further, when the variation time set in the variation pattern has elapsed, the CPU 61 outputs a control command (hereinafter referred to as a variation end command) that can specify the end of the variation game to the production control board 70.

On the other hand, when executing the second special game, the CPU 61 controls the second special symbol display device 21b to start variable display of predetermined symbols. The CPU 61 measures the variation time defined in the variation pattern. When the variation time set in the variation pattern has elapsed, the CPU 61 controls the second special symbol display device 21b to stop displaying the special symbol determined in the special symbol start process. Further, the CPU 61 outputs a variation end command to the production control board 70 when the variation time set in the variation pattern has elapsed. As described above, in the pachinko gaming machine 10, the CPU 61 executes the special symbol input process and the special symbol start process, thereby performing a winning lottery when a game ball enters the starting hole, and results of the winning lottery. The system is configured to be able to execute a symbol variation game based on the following.

The jackpot game process will be explained.
The jackpot game process is a process for awarding a jackpot game. When the CPU 61 stops displaying the jackpot symbols in the special game, the CPU 61 executes the jackpot game process after the special jackpot game ends. The CPU 61 specifies the type of jackpot game based on the jackpot symbol (namely, jackpot type) determined in the special symbol start process. The CPU 61 awards the specified type of jackpot game.

First, the CPU 61 outputs a control command (hereinafter referred to as an opening command) that can specify the start of the opening time to the production control board 70. When the opening time has elapsed, the CPU 61 performs processing for executing the round game. That is, the CPU 61 controls the special solenoid SL2 using the identified opening control data for the jackpot game, and opens the jackpot opening 25. The CPU 61 controls the special solenoid SL2 to close the grand prize opening 25 when the number of game balls detected by the count sensor D13 reaches the above-mentioned upper limit number or when the above-mentioned upper limit time has elapsed. End the round game. The CPU 61 repeatedly performs the process for executing such a round game until the upper limit number of round games determined for the jackpot game is completed. Each time the CPU 61 starts a round game, it outputs a control command (hereinafter referred to as a round command) that can specify the start of the round game to the production control board 70. When the final round game ends, the CPU 61 outputs a control command (hereinafter referred to as an ending start command) that can specify the start of the ending time to the production control board 70. When the ending time elapses, the CPU 61 ends the jackpot game. The CPU 61 outputs a control command (hereinafter referred to as an ending end command) that can specify the passage of the ending time to the production control board 70.

The state transition process will be explained.
When the CPU 61 finishes the jackpot game based on the first jackpot symbol among the jackpot symbols, the CPU 61 sets a high certainty flag in the RAM 63. That is, the CPU 61 controls to a high probability state. In addition, the CPU 61 does not erase the probability change flag after the end of the jackpot game based on the first jackpot symbol until the next jackpot game is awarded. On the other hand, when the CPU 61 finishes the jackpot game based on the second jackpot symbol different from the first jackpot symbol, the CPU 61 does not set the high certainty flag in the RAM 63. That is, the CPU 61 controls to a low probability state. When starting a jackpot game and the high probability flag is set, the CPU 61 erases the high probability flag. That is, the CPU 61 controls to a low probability state during the jackpot game.

When the jackpot game based on the first jackpot symbol or the second jackpot symbol is completed, the CPU 61 sets an activation flag in the RAM 63. That is, the CPU 61 controls the ball to a high ball entry rate state. Every time a special game is started after the end of the jackpot game based on the second jackpot symbol, the CPU 61 updates the value of the execution counter stored in the RAM 63, thereby updating the number of executions of the special game after the end of the jackpot game. Count. The CPU 61 erases the activation flag stored in the RAM 63 when the special game in which the number of executions of the special game after the end of the jackpot game reaches the activation number is completed. That is, after the end of the jackpot game based on the second jackpot symbol, the CPU 61 controls to a low ball entry rate state when the special game for the number of times of activation ends. Note that the CPU 61 does not erase the activation flag after the jackpot game based on the first jackpot symbol ends until the next jackpot game is awarded. When starting a jackpot game and the activation flag is set, the CPU 61 erases the activation flag. That is, the CPU 61 controls the ball into a low ball entry rate state during the jackpot game.

Various processes executed by the production control board 70 (CPU 71) will be explained.
The performance power restoration process will be explained.
When the initialization command is input, the CPU 71 controls some or all of the production devices constituting the production device group ES to execute RAM clear notification (initialization notification). As an example, the RAM clear notification is executed in such a manner that the performance audio device 12 outputs a sound that can identify the execution of RAM clear, such as a sound that reads out the character string "RAM clear". As an example, the RAM clear notification is executed in such a manner that the effect light emitting device 14 emits light in a light emission pattern exclusively for RAM clear. As an example, the RAM clear notification is executed in such a manner that an image that can specify execution of RAM clear, such as a character string "RAM clear", is displayed on the effect display device 19. The CPU 71 controls the production device group ES to end the RAM clear notification when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the RAM clear notification. Moreover, when the CPU 71 inputs the initialization command, it controls the effect display device 19 to display a combination of a predetermined background image and a predetermined effect pattern.

When the CPU 71 inputs the power restoration command, it controls some or all of the production devices constituting the production device group ES to execute the power restoration notification. As an example, the return notification is executed in such a manner that the performance audio device 12 outputs a sound that can identify the execution of RAM clearing, such as a sound that reads out the character string "The power is being restored." As an example, the return notification is executed by causing the effect light emitting device 14 to emit light in a light emission pattern exclusively for power recovery. As an example, the restoration notification is executed in such a manner that an image that can identify the execution of RAM clearing is displayed on the effect display device 19, such as a character string such as "The power is being restored." The CPU 71 controls the production device group ES to end the return notification when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the return notification. The present invention is not limited to this, and the CPU 71 may have a configuration in which the return notification is not executed. Moreover, when the CPU 71 inputs the power restoration command, it controls the production display device 19 to display a predetermined background image and a combination of production symbols different from the predetermined combination of production symbols.

The jackpot production process will be explained.
The jackpot performance process is a process for executing a performance during a jackpot game (hereinafter referred to as jackpot performance). Upon receiving the opening command, the CPU 71 controls the presentation device group ES to execute the opening presentation. Upon receiving the round command, the CPU 71 controls the production device group ES to execute the round production. Upon receiving the ending start command, the CPU 71 controls the effect device group ES to execute the ending effect. Upon receiving the ending end command, the CPU 71 controls the effect device group ES to end the ending effect.

The production game processing will be explained.
The effect game process is a process for executing the effect game as one of the display effects related to the special game while the special game is being executed. Upon receiving the variation start command and the special symbol command, the CPU 71 controls the performance device group ES including the performance display device 19 to execute the performance game. Specifically, upon receiving the variation start command, the CPU 71 selects the performance pattern (performance content) of the performance game based on the fluctuation pattern that can be specified from the command. Further, upon receiving the special symbol command, the CPU 71 determines a symbol combination to be stopped and displayed in the production game based on the special symbol that can be specified from the command. If the jackpot symbol can be specified from the special symbol command, the CPU 71 determines the jackpot symbol combination. When the CPU 71 can specify the missing symbol from the special symbol command, the CPU 71 determines the missing symbol combination. In addition, when executing a ready-to-win effect, the CPU 71 determines a winning symbol combination including a ready-to-win effect.

Then, the CPU 71 controls the effect display device 19 to start variable display of the effect symbols in each symbol row in response to the input of the variation start command. That is, the CPU 71 starts the performance game. Further, when executing a predetermined effect in connection with the effect game, the CPU 71 controls the effect device group ES including the effect display device 19 to execute the effect. When a predetermined timing arrives after starting the production game, the CPU 71 temporarily stops and displays the symbol combination, and when the variation end command is input, it permanently stops and displays the symbol combination. Incidentally, the CPU 71 may finalize and stop displaying the symbol combination upon the elapse of the fluctuation time set in the fluctuation pattern, regardless of the fluctuation end command. In this case, the variation end command may be omitted.

Next, a description will be given of the processing that the CPU 81 of the frame control board 80 performs by inputting signals from various sensors and switches.
When the CPU 81 detects that one game ball has been supplied to the firing device 50 based on the supply entrance signal output by the supply entrance sensor D22, it subtracts the number of circulating balls stored in the RAM 83. The number of circulating balls is the specified number enclosed in the pachinko game machine 10 as the initial number of balls. As an example, the CPU 81 detects that one game ball has been supplied when the supply entrance signal changes from ON state to OFF state to ON state.

The CPU 81 is not limited to this, and may subtract the number of game balls by driving the firing solenoid 53. A sensor may be provided in the launch passage 20c, and when the sensor detects a game ball fired from the firing device 50, the CPU 81 may subtract the number of game balls by driving the firing solenoid 53. The configuration may be such that the number of pitches is subtracted. In this embodiment, the number of circulating balls is subtracted as an example of the number of game balls stored as data in relation to at least one of the firing operation by the firing device 50 and the supplying operation by the supplying device 40. It can be said that

When the CPU 81 detects that one game ball has returned to the supply device 40 based on the winning path signal outputted by the winning path count sensor D25 and the non-winning path signal outputted by the non-winning path count sensor D26, the CPU 81 reads the RAM 83. Add the number of circulating balls stored in . As an example, the CPU 81 detects that one game ball has returned when the winning path signal or the non-winning path signal changes from the on state to the off state to the on state. That is, the pachinko game machine 10 is configured such that when game balls used in a game are detected, the number of game balls stored as data is added.

When the CPU 81 detects that one game ball has returned to the supply device 40 based on the foul signal output by the foul sensor D21, it adds up the number of circulating balls stored in the RAM 83. As an example, when the foul signal transitions from ON state to OFF state to ON state, the CPU 81 detects that one game ball has returned. In other words, when the pachinko game machine 10 detects a game ball (foul ball) that has not reached the game area 20a even after the firing operation is performed by the firing device 50, the number of game balls stored as data is This is an additive configuration.

The error state shown in FIG. 10 will be explained below.
The error state of unauthorized radio wave detection uses the detection of abnormal radio waves as an error detection condition. When receiving the radio wave detection signal from the radio wave sensor D16, the CPU 81 causes the RAM 83 to store a flag that can identify the occurrence of an error state of illegal radio wave detection. The error state of fraudulent radio wave detection is a state in which there is a high possibility that fraud (rogue behavior) is being carried out using radio waves. Once the CPU 81 has set the error state for detecting unauthorized radio waves, it cancels the setting of the error state for detecting unauthorized radio waves, using power restoration as a release condition. Note that if the error state of unauthorized radio wave detection is detected again after the power is turned on, the error state of unauthorized radio wave detection is set even after the power is turned on. To determine whether an error state of illegal radio wave detection has occurred, check to see if the ball is not being removed in a state where game balls sealed inside the pachinko game machine 10 can be ejected from the machine by operating the ball removing switch 85. Detected as an interval.

The error state of communication abnormality within the game machine has an error detection condition that communication between the main control board 60 and the frame control board 80 is not performed normally. Once the CPU 61 and the CPU 81 have set the error state of communication abnormality within the game machine, they cancel the setting of the error state of communication abnormality within the game machine, with the release condition being that communication is performed normally. Whether or not an error state of communication abnormality within the game machine has occurred is constantly detected from the time when the power is turned on until the time when the power is turned off.

The error state of supply inlet sensor abnormality has an error detection condition that the next game ball is fired without any change in the supply inlet signal, which is the input signal of the sensor, since the previous firing. When the CPU 81 detects that the inlet of the supply device 40 (receiving passage 41a) is clogged with balls based on the supply inlet signal output by the supply inlet sensor D22, the CPU 81 detects the occurrence of an error state indicating an abnormality in the supply inlet sensor. An identifiable flag is stored in the RAM 83. For example, when the supply solenoid 43 is driven and a prescribed time elapses without the supply inlet signal turning on and turning off, the CPU 81 sets an error state indicating that the supply inlet sensor is abnormal. After setting the error state of supply inlet sensor abnormality, the CPU 81 cancels the setting of the error state of supply inlet sensor abnormality, using the operation of the error release switch 86 as a release condition. Note that even if the setting of the error state of supply inlet sensor abnormality is canceled, if the ball clogging in the receiving passage 41a is not resolved, the error state of supply inlet sensor abnormality is reset after a predetermined period of time has elapsed. Whether or not an error state of supply inlet sensor abnormality has occurred is detected as a confirmation period other than during the bulb removal state. Note that the CPU 81 can detect the firing of game balls by inputting the supply exit signal from the supply exit sensor D23.

An error state of an abnormality in the discharge ball passage is a state in which only the out sensor D30 of the out sensor D30, the ball passage clogging monitoring sensor D27, and the lifting entrance sensor D28 detects an on state for a predetermined period of time (for example, 5 seconds) or more. This is the error detection condition. If such error detection conditions are satisfied, it is assumed that there is a high possibility that ball clogging has occurred near the out sensor D20. The recovery passageway 30 corresponds to the discharged bulb passageway that is the target of the discharged bulb passageway abnormality. When the error detection condition is satisfied, the CPU 81 causes the RAM 83 to store a flag that can identify the occurrence of an error state such as an abnormality in the ejected ball passage. Once the CPU 81 sets the error state of the ejection ball path abnormality, the CPU 81 cancels the setting of the error state of the ejection ball path abnormality, using the operation of the error release switch 86 as a release condition. Note that even if the setting of the error state of ejected ball path abnormality is canceled, if the clogging of balls in the collection passage 30 is not resolved, the error state of ejected ball path abnormality is reset after a predetermined period of time has elapsed. Whether or not an error state of an abnormality in the ejected ball passage has occurred is detected as a confirmation period other than during the ball ejecting state.

The error state of an insufficient number of circulating balls is an error detection condition that the state in which the out state sensor D30 and the ball path clogging monitoring sensor D27 are detected as being off continues for a predetermined period of time (for example, 30 seconds) or more without playing the game. shall be. As shown in FIG. 4, the pachinko game machine 10 of this embodiment is located adjacent to a passageway (collection passageway 30 and supply passageway 34) for transferring game balls ejected from the game board 20 to the lifting mechanism 36, and A lifting inlet sensor D28, a ball passage ball clogging monitoring sensor D27, and an out sensor D30 are provided in this order from the side closest to the lifting mechanism 36. Further, the pachinko game machine 10 is pre-filled with game balls equal to the initial number of balls. Therefore, when no game is being played, the game balls are not ejected from the firing device 50, so the game balls also remain in the collection passage 30 and the supply passage 34. From this, when the error detection condition of the error state of too few circulating balls is satisfied, only the lifting entrance sensor D28 detects the game balls in the non-gaming state. In other words, it is assumed that there are fewer game balls staying in the path leading to the lifting mechanism 36. In this embodiment, the state in which no game is being played can be detected by the fact that no touch signal is output from the touch sensor D01.

When the error detection condition is satisfied, the CPU 81 causes the RAM 83 to store a flag that can identify the occurrence of an error state in which the number of circulating balls is too low. When the CPU 81 sets an error state in which the number of circulating balls is too low, the CPU 81 determines that the gaming state has continued for a predetermined period of time (for example, 20 seconds) or more, or that one or more of the out sensor D30 and the ball path clogging monitoring sensor D27 has been set. The setting of the error state of an insufficient number of circulating balls is canceled when the ON state continues for a predetermined period of time (for example, 2 seconds) or more. Whether or not an error state in which the number of circulating balls is too low is detected is detected during a confirmation period other than during the ball removal state.

In addition, it can be said that the error state of too few circulating balls is that the number of circulating balls becomes less than the first number of circulating balls, which is smaller than the initial number of balls. That is, the CPU 81 sets the error state of an insufficient number of circulating pitches by storing in the RAM 83 a flag that can specify the occurrence of the error state of an insufficient number of circulating pitches. Then, when the number of circulating balls becomes equal to or greater than the first number of circulating balls, the CPU 81 cancels the setting of the error state of an insufficient number of circulating balls.

The error state of too many circulating balls is when the out sensor D30, the ball passage ball clogging monitoring sensor D27, and the lifting entrance sensor D28 all detect an on state for a predetermined period of time (for example, 30 seconds) or more. This is the detection condition. In the error state of too many circulating balls, contrary to the error state of too few circulating balls, it is assumed that there are many game balls staying in the passage leading to the lifting mechanism 36.

When the error detection condition is satisfied, the CPU 81 causes the RAM 83 to store a flag that can identify the occurrence of the error state of excessive number of circulating balls. When the CPU 81 sets an error state indicating an excessive number of circulating balls, one or more of the out sensor D30, the ball passage ball clogging monitoring sensor D27, and the lifting entrance sensor D28 remains on for a predetermined period of time (for example, 2 seconds). ) The setting of the error state of excessive number of circulating balls is canceled as a cancellation condition. Whether or not an error state of an excessive number of balls in circulation has occurred is detected during a check period other than during the ball removal state.

It can also be said that the error state of excessive number of circulating balls is when the number of circulating balls becomes equal to or greater than the second number of circulating balls, which is greater than the initial number of balls. That is, the CPU 81 sets the error state of the excessive number of circulating balls by storing in the RAM 83 a flag that can specify the occurrence of the error state of the excessive number of circulating balls. Then, when the number of circulating balls becomes less than the second number of circulating balls, the CPU 81 cancels the setting of the error state of excessive number of circulating balls.

The error condition of an abnormal number of winning pitches is detected when the difference obtained by subtracting the number of foul balls and out balls from the number of fired pitches exceeds the number required to determine an error state (for example, ±100 balls). . When the error detection condition is satisfied, the CPU 81 causes the RAM 83 to store a flag that can identify the occurrence of an error state of an abnormal number of winning balls. Once the CPU 81 sets the error state of the abnormal number of winning balls, it cancels the setting of the error state of the abnormal number of winning balls, using power restoration as a release condition. Whether or not an error state of an abnormal number of winning balls has occurred is detected as a confirmation period other than during the ball extraction state.

When detecting whether an error state of an abnormal number of winning pitches has occurred, the CPU 81 uses the supply exit signal output by the supply exit sensor D23, the foul signal output by the foul sensor D21, and the output by the out sensor D30. OUT signal to be used. Specifically, when the CPU 81 detects that one game ball has been fired from the firing device 50 based on the supply exit signal output by the supply exit sensor D23, the CPU 81 calculates the number of fired balls stored in the RAM 83. Add 1. As an example, the CPU 81 detects that one game ball has been supplied when the supply exit signal transitions from the ON state to the OFF state to the ON state. Further, when the CPU 81 detects that one game ball has returned to the foul path 20f without being launched into the game area 20a based on the foul signal output by the foul sensor D21, the CPU 81 calculates the number of fired balls stored in the RAM 83. Subtract 1. Further, when the CPU 81 detects that one game ball has been ejected from the game board 20 after being ejected into the game area 20a based on the out signal output by the out sensor D30, the Subtract 1 from the number of pitches. As an example, the CPU 81 detects that one game ball has been ejected when the out signal changes from an on state to an off state to an on state. Among the game balls ejected from the game board 20, there are game balls that pass through the winning passage 31 and are detected by the out sensor D30, and game balls that pass through the non-winning passage 32 and are detected by the out sensor D30. . All of these game balls are game balls used for games. On the other hand, the game ball that passes through the foul passage 20f and is detected by the foul sensor D21 is a game ball that was not launched into the game area 20a, that is, a game ball that was not used for the game. Based on the above, in this embodiment, the CPU 81 adds the number of shot balls based on the supply exit signal, and subtracts the number of shot balls based on the foul signal, thereby increasing the number of game balls launched into the game area 20a. It functions as a first detection means for detecting. Further, in this embodiment, the CPU 81 functions as a second detection means for detecting game balls used in a game by subtracting the number of fired balls based on the out signal.

The CPU 81 determines that the number of differences between the results of adding and subtracting each signal output from the supply outlet sensor D23, the foul sensor D21, and the out sensor D30, that is, the number of fired balls stored in the RAM 83, exceeds the number for determining an error state. Then, it is detected that an error state of an abnormal number of winning pitches has occurred. That is, by functioning as the first detection means and second detection means described above, the CPU 81 also functions as a counting means that counts a predetermined number of differences using these detection results as counting conditions. In this embodiment, as will be described later, when an error state is detected, an error notification indicating the fact is executed. Therefore, regarding the abnormal number of winning balls, the number of fired balls exceeding the number for determining an error condition corresponds to satisfying the error notification condition, and the difference number satisfies the error notification condition. In other words, it includes being counted in a number that exceeds the number for determining an error state.

When the game ball fired from the firing device 50 is launched into the game area 20a, the ball enters either the winning hole or the out hole 29 while being guided down the game area 20a. After the ball enters, it passes through the winning path 31 or the non-winning path 32 and is detected by the out sensor D30. In other words, the game ball detected by the out sensor D30 is a game ball used in a game. Further, the game ball that is fired from the firing device 50 but is not launched into the game area 20a passes through the foul passage 20f and is detected by the foul sensor D21. The game ball ejected from the ejection device 50 in this manner is detected by either the out sensor D30 or the foul sensor D21 after a predetermined time has elapsed since the ejection. Therefore, if we consider the case where one game ball is fired, the number of fired balls is added by 1 to "1" based on the supply exit signal of the supply exit sensor D23, and then when the game ball returns, the out sensor Based on either the out signal of D30 or the foul signal of foul sensor D21, the number of fired balls is subtracted by 1 and becomes "0". In other words, the game balls fired from the firing device 50 will return after a predetermined period of time has elapsed since they were fired, although this is an undefined period of time.

However, if some kind of malfunction occurs in the path from when the game ball is launched until it returns, the game ball may not return even after the time assumed in the design stage of the pachinko game machine 10 has elapsed. For this reason, it can be said that the above-mentioned determination of whether there is an abnormality in the number of winning balls is a determination of whether or not the fired game balls are returning. In particular, the abnormality in the number of winning balls in this embodiment is determined by determining whether game balls are accumulated in the game area 20a. The phenomenon in which game balls accumulate in the game area 20a is a phenomenon in which the game balls flowing down the game area 20a get caught on game parts such as game nails or windmills arranged on the board due to some reason, and the game balls stop moving. be. This phenomenon may be resolved naturally due to the impact when another game ball flowing down the gaming area 20a collides with the game ball caught on the game component, but in many cases, it is resolved by the impact. This results in multiple game balls overlapping each other and being deposited on the board surface. This phenomenon is also called ``grapes'' because the appearance of multiple game balls stacked on top of each other resembles the fruit ``grapes.'' When the game balls accumulate in the game area 20a in this way, all or part of the game balls launched into the game area 20a will not return until the situation where the game balls overlap and become stuck is resolved. Then, the part where the game balls are accumulated, that is, the part where a plurality of game balls overlap and do not move, can become a factor that obstructs the downstream path of the game balls in the game area 20a. For this reason, depending on the position of the part where the game balls are deposited, it may take on an auxiliary function for entering the game balls into the winning hole, which is not preferable. For this reason, in the pachinko game machine 10, if game balls are piled up, it is preferable to discover and eliminate the situation. In this embodiment, the abnormal number of winning balls corresponds to a stacking error, which indicates that game balls may be stacked up in the gaming area 20a, among a plurality of errors in the pachinko gaming machine 10.

The iron ball detection error state indicates that of the ball path clogging monitoring sensor D27 and the lifting entrance sensor D28, only the ball path clogging monitoring sensor D27 is detected as being on for a predetermined period of time (for example, 10 seconds). Set as error detection condition. The state in which the ball clogging detection signal from the ball path ball clogging monitoring sensor D27 continues to be on means that magnetic game balls such as iron balls are captured by the magnet of the iron ball detection mechanism 37 provided in the supply passage 34. There is a high possibility that there are. That is, when the iron ball is captured by the magnet, the game ball is no longer transferred to the lifting mechanism 36 located downstream of the iron ball detection mechanism 37 in the supply passage 34. As a result, the game ball is no longer detected by the lifting entrance sensor D28, and the game ball staying upstream of the supply path 34 rather than the iron ball detection mechanism 37 is detected by the ball path ball clogging monitoring sensor D27. When the error detection condition is satisfied, the CPU 81 causes the RAM 83 to store a flag that can identify the occurrence of an error state in iron ball detection. After setting the iron ball detection error state, the CPU 81 cancels the setting of the iron ball detection error state using power restoration as a release condition. Whether or not an iron ball detection error state has occurred is detected using a period other than the ball removal state as a confirmation period. As mentioned above, if magnetic game balls are trapped, the ball jam can be released by operating a release lever (not shown) to the release position. A magnetic game ball is an abnormal ball that does not correspond to a normal ball when a non-magnetic game ball is a normal ball to be used in the pachinko game machine 10. In other words, a magnetic game ball is an abnormal body that does not fall under a normal body when a non-magnetic game ball that should normally be used in the pachinko game machine 10 is a normal body. Further, in this embodiment, iron ball detection corresponds to an abnormal ball error indicating that an abnormal ball may be used. Furthermore, since the abnormal ball is an abnormal ball, the abnormal ball error is also an abnormal object error indicating that there is a possibility that an abnormal object is being used in the pachinko gaming machine 10. In this embodiment, the CPU 81 functions as a third detection means that detects the possibility that an abnormal body is being used. Note that if the CPU 81 specializes in detecting abnormal balls, it will detect that there is a possibility that an abnormal ball is being used.

The error state of door opening is determined by detecting an off state of either the first door opening switch D17 or the second door opening switch D18. When the error detection condition is satisfied, the CPU 81 causes the RAM 83 to store a flag that can identify the occurrence of the door opening error state. Once the CPU 81 sets the door opening error state, the CPU 81 cancels the setting of the door opening error state when the ON state of both the first door opening switch D17 and the second door opening switch D18 is detected as a release condition. . Whether or not an error state of opening the door has occurred is detected during a check period other than during the ball removal state.

As exemplified above, when detecting a plurality of error states, even if signals from the same sensor are used, it is possible to detect different error states depending on the combination of the signals, that is, the error detection conditions. For example, an error state of an abnormal number of winning pitches is detected using three pieces of information: a supply exit signal from the supply exit sensor D23, a foul signal from the foul sensor D21, and an out signal from the out sensor D30. Among these, the supply outlet signal of the supply outlet sensor D23 is also information used when detecting the occurrence of an error state such as supply inlet sensor abnormality, for example. The supply inlet sensor abnormality corresponds to a first error that is different from the abnormality in the number of winning balls. Further, the out signal from the out sensor D30 is also information used to detect the occurrence of error states such as an abnormality in the ejected bulb passage, an insufficient number of circulating bulbs, and an excessive number of circulating bulbs, for example. The discharged ball path abnormality, too few circulating balls, and too many circulating balls correspond to a second error that is different from the abnormal number of winning balls.

Next, a description will be given of error notification executed under the control of the CPU 81 of the frame control board 80 when an error state occurs.
While setting an error state, the CPU 81 of the frame control board 80 controls the display contents of the game ball count display device 17 so as to display an error code, which is an example of information that can identify the error state being set. . The error code is information unique to each error. For example, as shown in the "Error code" column in the diagram of FIG. Error codes are set for each path abnormality, such as [E17]. The CPU 81 alternately switches between displaying the error code and displaying the number of game balls at predetermined time intervals. Furthermore, when multiple types of errors are set, for example, as shown in the "priority" column in the diagram of FIG. The error code and the number of game balls are sequentially displayed for a predetermined period of time. For example, if an error state of iron ball detection occurs while an error state of an abnormal number of winning balls has occurred, the priority of error notification is such that error notification of an abnormal number of winning balls is executed. In addition, when a plurality of error states are set, the CPU 81 may be configured to sequentially display the plurality of error codes and the number of game balls for a predetermined period of time. Alternatively, the CPU 81 may be configured to display an error code and not display the number of game balls. When the error state being set is canceled, the CPU 81 controls the game ball count display device 17 so as to end displaying the error code corresponding to the canceled error. In an example of this embodiment, all error states that can be detected by the frame control board 80 are displayed as error codes in the game ball count display device 17. The game ball count display device 17 also serves as a notification execution means for notifying errors.

The CPU 81 controls the display contents of the performance display monitor 84 so as to display an error code that enables identification of the error state being set. That is, the error code is displayed on both the game ball count display device 17 and the performance display monitor 84. The CPU 81 alternately switches between displaying the error code and displaying the base value (performance information) at predetermined time intervals. In addition, when multiple error states are set, the CPU 81 selects the highest priority error among the multiple error states, as shown in the "priority" column in FIG. 10, for example. The error code and base value of the status are sequentially displayed for a predetermined period of time. The present invention is not limited to this, and if a plurality of error states are set, the CPU 81 may be configured to sequentially display a plurality of error codes and base values for a predetermined period of time. Alternatively, the CPU 81 may be configured to display an error code and not display the base value. Furthermore, the CPU 81 may be configured to display the number of game balls in addition to the base value and error code on the performance display monitor 84. In this case, the CPU 81 may display these three types of information in order while switching them at predetermined time intervals. The CPU 81 controls the performance display monitor 84 to end displaying the error code when the error state being set is canceled. In one example of this embodiment, all error states that can be detected by the frame control board 80 are displayed as error codes on the performance display monitor 84. The performance display monitor 84 of this embodiment is also used as means for notifying errors. The CPU 81 causes the display of the error code on the performance display monitor 84 and the display of the error code on the game pitch count display device 17 to start at the same or substantially the same timing. The performance display monitor 84 also serves as a notification execution means for notifying errors.

The CPU 81 controls the notification audio device 13 to output notification audio using an audio pattern that makes it possible to specify the error state being set. That is, the CPU 81 causes an audio notification (hereinafter referred to as error audio notification) to notify the error state that is being set. For example, in an example of the present embodiment, the CPU 81 targets detection of unauthorized radio waves, abnormality in the supply inlet sensor, abnormality in the discharge ball passage, insufficient number of circulating balls, excessive number of circulating balls, abnormal number of winning balls, and iron ball detection, An error voice notification is executed while these error states are being set. The CPU 81 does not target communication abnormalities within the game machine or door opening, and does not execute error voice notification for reporting these error states. The audio pattern of the error audio notification has different content depending on the type of error, and is content that allows the outline of the error state being set to be specified. For example, if an unauthorized radio wave is detected, a voice will read out the character string "Error code E10 has occurred. Please call an attendant." The notification audio device 13 also serves as notification execution means for notifying errors.

In the pachinko game machine 10 of this embodiment, error notification is performed in a predetermined notification mode corresponding to the error state, such as notification using an error code corresponding to each error. Further, the above-mentioned error notification ends when the end condition is satisfied based on the error release condition of each error state illustrated in FIG. 10 . For example, when operating the error release switch 86 is the error release condition, the error notification ends when the error release switch 86 is operated in a predetermined manner. In addition, when power restoration is set as an error cancellation condition, the process includes stopping the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 10, and ends when the power is restored. As shown in FIG. 10, the pachinko game machine 10 of this embodiment includes an error that is detected as a confirmation period other than during the ball extraction state. In the case of such an error, when the ball removal switch 85 as a ball removal operation section is operated, even if an error state is detected, an error notification corresponding to the error state is not executed. In other words, during the ball removal state, error notification in a predetermined notification mode corresponding to the error state is not performed.

In addition, in the error state illustrated in FIG. 10, the following error notification can be executed.
For example, if an error notification corresponding to an error state of an abnormal number of winning balls is being executed, if the power supply to the pachinko game machine 10 is stopped and then the power is restored while the error detection conditions are met, a prize will be won. The error notification corresponding to the ball abnormality error state ends. Then, when the power is restored, if the error detection condition for abnormal number of winning balls is not satisfied, that is, if the state where game balls are accumulated is to be resolved, error notification corresponding to other error states will be executed. It is possible. Specifically, if game balls are accumulated, there is a possibility that the number of balls circulating in the pachinko game machine 10 is insufficient, so the game balls will be accumulated when the power is restored as described above. If the situation is resolved, there is a possibility that the error detection condition for a decrease in the number of circulating pitches will be met. Therefore, if the error detection condition for a decrease in the number of circulating pitches is satisfied, an error notification corresponding to the error state for a decrease in the number of circulating pitches will be executed. In other words, an error notification corresponding to an error state of a decrease in the number of circulating balls, which is an error notification regarding the number of game balls, can be executed, which is different from an error notification corresponding to an error state of an abnormal number of winning balls.

Also, if iron balls (abnormal balls) are mixed in among the accumulated game balls, but the iron balls are not detected at that time, in other words, an iron ball detection error state is set. If not, first, an error notification is executed as a stacking error notification indicating that an abnormality in the number of winning balls has occurred on the premise that an error state of an abnormality in the number of winning balls has been detected. After that, when the error state of the abnormal number of winning balls is cleared, the error notification indicating the error state will end, but if the iron ball mixed in the accumulated game balls is detected, The ball detection error state is set and an error notification is executed as an abnormal object error notification indicating that an iron ball has been detected.

Next, a description will be given of error notification executed under the control of the CPU 61 of the main control board 60 when an error state occurs.
In one example of the present embodiment, the error state that can be detected by the CPU 61 of the main control board 60 includes at least the opening of a door, in addition to the communication abnormality within the game machine described above. Note that the error state that can be detected by the CPU 61 may include detection of unauthorized radio waves.

When the CPU 61 receives the first door opening signal and the second door opening signal from the frame control board 80, the CPU 61 stores in the RAM 63 a flag that can identify the occurrence of a door opening error state. In other words, the CPU 61 sets an error state for door opening when the mounting frame 11b and the protection frame 11c are in an open state. When the CPU 61 sets the door opening error state, it outputs a door opening error occurrence command, which is control information that can specify the occurrence of the door opening error state, to the production control board 70. When the first door opening signal and the second door opening signal are no longer input, the CPU 61 cancels the door opening error state setting. When the CPU 61 cancels the setting of the door opening error state, it outputs a door opening error cancellation command to the production control board 70, which is control information that can specify the cancellation of the door opening error state.

Further, the CPU 61 performs control to restrict the firing of game balls while setting a predetermined error (door opening as an example) among a plurality of errors. If a door opening error condition occurs, the CPU 61 outputs a firing stop signal to the frame control board 80 (launch permission circuit 89b). In other words, the firing stop signal is turned on. When the launch permission circuit 89b receives the launch stop signal, the launch permission signal to the launch control board 90 is turned off, and its output is stopped. As described above, the output condition for the firing permission signal is satisfied if the firing permission state is in which firing of the game ball is permitted. In other words, the conditions for outputting the firing permission signal do not hold if the firing is prohibited.

In the firing permission state, the card unit 100 and the pachinko gaming machine 10 are normally connected, no specific error has occurred on the main control board 60 (for example, the door is opened), and the frame control board 80 is in a firing permission state. This is a state in which no specific error (for example, an abnormality in the supply inlet sensor) has occurred. The firing prohibited state is caused by the card unit 100 and the pachinko gaming machine 10 not being connected properly, a specific error occurring in the main control board 60, or a specific error occurring in the frame control board 80. A state in which one or more of the following things are occurring. Note that even if the same door opening error state occurs, if the second door opening signal is input, the above specific error does not apply, and depending on the occurrence, the firing may not be prohibited.

Next, when an error state occurs, error notification executed under the control of the CPU 71 of the production control board 70 will be explained.
When the CPU 71 inputs the door opening error generation command, it controls some or all of the production devices constituting the production device group ES, and causes the door opening error notification to be executed. As an example, the door opening error notification is executed in such a manner that the performance audio device 12 outputs a sound that can identify the opening of the door, such as a sound that reads out the character string "The door is open." As an example, the door open error notification is executed in such a manner that the effect light emitting device 14 emits light in a light emission pattern dedicated to the door open error. As an example, the door opening error notification is executed in such a manner that an image that can identify the opening of the door, such as a character string "The door is open," is displayed on the effect display device 19. When the CPU 71 specifies that all door opening error states have been resolved (both the mounting frame 11b and the protection frame 11c are closed) by inputting a door opening error resolution command, the CPU 71 issues a door opening error notification. The effect device group ES is controlled so as to end the process.

When the CPU 71 inputs the gaming machine communication abnormality command, it controls some or all of the production devices constituting the production device group ES, and causes the gaming machine communication abnormality notification to be executed. As an example, the communication abnormality error notification within the gaming machine may be performed by outputting a sound from the production audio device 12 that can identify the occurrence of an abnormal communication error within the gaming machine, such as a voice that reads out the character string "A communication abnormality has occurred." executed. As an example, the abnormal communication error notification within the gaming machine is executed in such a manner that the effect light emitting device 14 emits light in a light emission pattern exclusively for the abnormal communication error within the gaming machine. As an example, the notification of an abnormal communication error within the gaming machine is executed in such a manner that an image that can identify the occurrence of an abnormal communication error within the gaming machine, such as a character string "Communication abnormality has occurred!", is displayed on the effect display device 19. Note that the setting of the error state of communication abnormality within the gaming machine on the main control board 60 is not canceled after the power is cut off until the power is restored. That is, once the CPU 71 starts notifying the abnormal communication error within the gaming machine, it controls the production device group ES to continue the notification of the abnormal communication error within the gaming machine until the power is cut off.

Furthermore, among the error states illustrated in FIG. 10, excluding the above-mentioned internal communication abnormality and door opening, error notification is executed under the control of the CPU 71. You can. In other words, the CPU 81 of the frame control board 80 sets error states such as illegal radio wave detection, supply inlet sensor abnormality, discharge ball passage abnormality, insufficient number of circulating balls, excessive number of circulating balls, abnormal number of winning balls, and iron ball detection. , outputs a command, which is control information that can specify these error states, to the main control board 60. Further, the CPU 61 of the main control board 60 outputs a command capable of specifying the input error state to the production control board 70. Then, the CPU 71 of the production control board 70 controls some or all of the production devices constituting the production device group ES in accordance with the input command that can specify the error state, and causes error notification to be executed. As an example, the abnormal number of winning pitches error notification may be performed by outputting a sound from the production audio device 12 that can identify the occurrence of the abnormal number of winning pitches, such as a voice that reads out a character string "An abnormality in the number of winning pitches has occurred." It will be executed at As an example, the abnormal number of winning balls error notification is executed in such a manner that the effect light emitting device 14 emits light in a light emission pattern exclusively for the abnormal number of winning balls. As an example, the abnormal number of winning pitches error notification is executed in such a manner that an image that can identify the occurrence of an abnormal number of winning pitches error, such as a character string "An abnormality in the number of winning pitches has occurred!" is displayed on the effect display device 19. .

Therefore, according to this embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.
(1) The occurrence of an error state is detected based on the detection results of game balls launched into the game area 20a and game balls used in the game. These detection results relate to firing a game ball, which is a basic action in playing the game in the pachinko game machine 10. Therefore, by detecting the occurrence of an error state based on these detection results, it is possible to issue an error notification regarding the firing of game balls. Therefore, it is possible to contribute to solving problems related to shooting game balls.

(2) The detection result of the game balls launched into the game area 20a is the result of subtracting the number of foul balls from the number of game balls fired by the firing device 50. Further, the detection result of the game balls used in the game is the number of game balls ejected from the game area 20a. From these detection results, it is possible to detect whether the game ball fired by the firing device 50 has been returned after being used for a game. If it is detected that the game balls fired by the firing device 50 have not returned, there is a possibility that the game balls have accumulated in the game area 20a and are obstructing the flow of the game balls in the game area 20a. be. According to this embodiment, as described above, it is possible to detect whether game balls are piled up and execute error notification. Therefore, it is possible to contribute to solving problems related to shooting game balls.

(3) In this embodiment, the information necessary to detect the accumulation of game balls described above is information that is also used for other purposes in the managed gaming machine. Therefore, the sensor can be used for other purposes without providing a dedicated sensor for detecting the accumulation of game balls. Therefore, while simplifying the configuration of the pachinko game machine 10, it is possible to contribute to solving problems related to shooting game balls.

(4) When the accumulation of game balls is to be resolved after the power is restored, an error notification regarding the number of game balls can be executed separately from the error state regarding the accumulation of game balls. For this reason, it is possible not only to solve problems related to the shooting of game balls, but also to strictly control the number of game balls, which is directly linked to the player's profits.

(5) If an operation related to removing balls is performed, error notification regarding accumulation of game balls is not executed. Therefore, it is possible to avoid making it difficult to understand that an operation related to removing a ball is in progress due to an error notification or the like.

(6) In addition to the error state regarding the accumulation of game balls, whether the game balls that should be used in the pachinko game machine 10 are being used, or whether there are abnormal balls (iron balls in the embodiment) that are not the game balls that should be used. It is possible to detect whether it is being used. Therefore, in addition to being able to contribute to solving problems related to shooting game balls, it is also possible to detect error conditions that lead to fraudulent acts such as accumulation of game balls or use of abnormal balls.

(7) In a situation where an abnormal ball is mixed into the piled up game balls, if it is detected that the abnormal ball is being used after the error condition regarding the pile of game balls is cleared, Error notification regarding abnormal balls can be executed. Therefore, it is possible to reliably detect error conditions that lead to fraudulent acts.

(8) If an error state related to abnormal balls is detected while the error state related to the accumulation of game balls has not been cleared, error notification is executed in accordance with the priority order. Therefore, when a plurality of error states occur, it is possible to avoid executing a plurality of error notifications and making it difficult to understand which error state is occurring.

(9) In particular, in this embodiment, error notification of an error state related to accumulation of game balls is given priority over error notification of an error state related to abnormal balls. Although the accumulation of game balls and the presence of abnormal balls can both lead to fraudulent activity, the accumulation of game balls is also a phenomenon that can occur naturally during normal gaming. . For this reason, although the phenomenon of abnormal balls being mixed in has a strong intentional element, when considering the interests of the players, it is preferable to eliminate the naturally occurring accumulation of game balls as soon as possible. Therefore, by quickly resolving error conditions that have a large impact on the player's profits, it is possible to contribute to early resolution of problems related to shooting game balls.

(10) According to this embodiment, error notification is performed on the performance display monitor 84. Therefore, there is no need to provide a dedicated means for notifying errors in addition to the performance display monitor 84, and the configuration of the pachinko game machine 10 can be simplified.

(11) According to the present embodiment, the error notification on the performance display monitor 84 on the back side of the machine and the error notification on the game ball count display device 17 on the front side of the machine have the same or substantially the same start timing. Therefore, whether the mounting frame 11b is in the open state or the closed state, the error notification can be recognized at the same timing.

(12) According to the present embodiment, the number of game balls stored as data ( (number of circulating balls) is added. Therefore, the reliability of data regarding the number of game balls can be further improved.

(13) Although it is possible to use magnets to influence the behavior of magnetic game balls, it cannot be said that they cannot be fired or fed. In this embodiment, although detecting a magnetic game ball is regarded as an error, it is possible to shoot the game ball, thereby achieving a balance between error detection and the player's interests.

(14) According to this embodiment, the number of game balls (number of game balls) can be notified by the game ball number display device 17, and this game ball number display device 17 can also be used as a means for notifying an error. It is also used. Therefore, the number of game balls and errors can be easily grasped by one means.

(15) According to the present embodiment, the timing at which the error code starts to be displayed on the game ball count display device 17 and the performance display monitor 84 is different from the timing at which the error notification starts in the production device group ES. . Therefore, as an error notification means, it is possible to start error notification at an appropriate timing depending on the respective installation positions and notification strengths. It should be noted that the notification by the performance device group ES has a high appeal to the senses, and can be said to have a lower notification intensity than a simple display of an error code.

The embodiment described above can be modified and implemented as follows. Note that the above-described embodiments and the following modified examples can be implemented in combination with each other within a technically consistent range.

- In the present embodiment, the error notification on the performance display monitor 84 and the error notification on the game ball count display device 17 have the same start timing, but the start timing is not limited to this and may be different. For example, the game ball count display device 17 may be configured to start error notification earlier than the performance display monitor 84. According to this configuration, it is possible to make the player or the like quickly understand the error state on the machine front side. For example, the performance display monitor 84 may be configured to start error notification earlier than the game ball count display device 17. According to this configuration, when the administrator opens the mounting frame 11b and performs maintenance, the administrator can be made aware of the error state before the player or the like who visually checks the front side of the machine.

- In this embodiment, the timing to start displaying the error code on the game pitch count display device 17 and the performance display monitor 84 was different from the timing to start error notification in the production device group ES, but this However, the timing may be the same or substantially the same. Furthermore, the timing at which the error code is started to be displayed on the game ball count display device 17 and the performance display monitor 84 may be earlier than the timing at which the error notification is started at the production device group ES.

- In this embodiment, while the game ball count display device 17 executes error notification, the performance display monitor 84 may not execute error notification. Further, instead of or in addition to the game ball count display device 17 and the performance display monitor 84, a dedicated means for executing error notification may be provided. The dedicated means can be used in any manner of notification, such as display, light emission, and sound.

- In this embodiment, the number of differences for detecting the occurrence of an abnormality in the number of winning balls can be set arbitrarily. The difference number is based on the assumption that there is a time difference between when the game ball is fired and when the game ball is ejected, and that the game ball is fired continuously, and that the predetermined game ball is launched into the game area 20a. In some cases, it is preferable to determine this by considering the fact that there is at least one game ball that has been hit earlier but has not yet been ejected. Note that the time from ejection to ejection is not uniquely determined even in the same pachinko gaming machine 10, and is uniquely determined even when compared to other pachinko gaming machines 10 with different board configurations, etc. It's not a thing. Therefore, the number of differences may be determined by taking into account various factors such as those described above.

- In the present embodiment, it may be determined that an abnormality in the number of winning balls occurs when a state in which the difference number exceeds a number for determining an error state is maintained for a predetermined elapsed time. Note that measuring the time is also included in counting the predetermined number.

- In this embodiment, the difference number for determining an abnormality in the number of winning balls may be a number obtained by subtracting only out balls from the number of fired balls. In other words, the count may be performed without including foul balls. In a situation where game balls are continuously fired, the possibility of foul balls occurring is extremely small, that is, it is difficult to imagine that a large number of foul balls will occur continuously in a short period of time. From this, it is not necessary to consider foul balls when determining the number of differences. Alternatively, if it is a pachinko game machine that structurally does not allow foul balls to occur (for example, a type that fires game balls from the upper left of the game board 20), the number of differences may be determined based on the number of fired balls and out balls. good.

- In this embodiment, the number of out balls may be the total number of the number detected by the winning path count sensor D25 and the number detected by the non-winning path count sensor D26. In this case, the out sensor D30 may or may not be provided.

- In this embodiment, the winning passage count sensor D25 and the non-winning passage counting sensor D26 may not be provided, and the ejected game ball may be detected only by the out sensor D30.
- In this embodiment, when the out sensor D30 is provided, the out sensor D30 may be provided on the game board 20 or may be provided on the frame.

- In this embodiment, it may be determined whether an error state has occurred even during the ball extraction state, and if an error state has occurred, an error notification may be executed. The error notification in this case may be performed in a manner different from that when it is detected that an error state has occurred in a state other than a state in which a ball is removed. For example, the error notification may be performed by a means different from the means for performing the error notification when an error state occurs in a state other than the ball-out state. In addition, multiple means are used to issue an error notification when an error state occurs in a state other than the state where the ball is removed, but when an error state occurs during the state where the ball is removed, the plurality of means are used. Error notification may be performed by some of these means. In any of the configurations described in this separate example, the error notification in the predetermined notification mode, which is the original error notification, is not performed during the ball removal state.

- In this embodiment, when multiple error states are set and error notification is executed according to priority, error notification for the error status with the highest priority is executed, and error notification for other error conditions is not executed. You can do it like this. This other example is a configuration in which error notification is executed only for any one of a plurality of error states.

- In this embodiment, when multiple error states are set and error notification is performed according to priority, if the error notification means are the same, the error notification of the error state with the highest priority is executed. It is also possible to perform this by this means, and to perform error notification of other error states by other means. Further, for example, if the means for error notification is a means such as the game ball count display device 17, error notification of a plurality of error states may be switched and executed in predetermined time units. In this case, the error notification time may be set to be longer for an error state with a higher priority.

- In this embodiment, the pachinko gaming machine 10 equipped with a variable probability function has a specification that provides a high probability state until the next jackpot game, a specification that provides a high probability state until winning the falling lottery (so-called falling machine), Alternatively, a specification (so-called ST machine) can be adopted in which a high probability state is given until a specified number of variable games are completed. Further, as the pachinko game machine 10 equipped with a probability variation function, it is possible to adopt a specification (so-called V probability variation machine) that provides a high probability state on the condition that the game ball passes through a specific area. The pachinko game machine 10 may have a specification that is a mixture of the specifications of a falling machine and the specifications of a V-probability changing machine.

- In this embodiment, as the special symbol winning lottery, in addition to the jackpot lottery, a small winning lottery may be performed. If a small win is won in the winning lottery, a small win game (win game) will be awarded after the special game ends. In this embodiment, the number of times (frequency) of winning small winnings per unit time, or the number of small winning games being awarded per unit time, compared to a normal gaming state (for example, a low probability low ball entry rate state) It may be configured to be controllable to a state in which the number of times (frequency) of winnings is increased (so-called small hit RUSH).

- In this embodiment, the pachinko game machine 10 may adopt a specification classified into the second type, also called "feather type" or "plane type." In this type of pachinko game machine, when a game ball enters the starting hole, the opening/closing blade (opening/closing member) of the ball entering device (big prize hole) opens, and the game ball that enters the ball entering device wins a special prize. A jackpot game occurs when the ball enters the mouth.

- In this embodiment, the CPU 61, ROM 62, RAM 63, and random number generation circuit 64 may be configured on one chip.
- In this embodiment, the specific configuration of the game board 20 may be changed arbitrarily.

- In this embodiment, the effect control board 70 is used as a sub-intensive control board, and a display control board that exclusively controls the effect display device 19 separately from the effect control board 70, a light emission control board that exclusively controls the effect light emitting device 14, A sound control board that specifically controls the performance audio device 12 may be provided. The sub-board may include such a sub-integration control board and a board for controlling other effects. Further, in the embodiment, the CPU 61 and the CPU 71 may be mounted on a single board. Further, the display control board, the light emission control board, and the sound control board may be arbitrarily combined to form a single board or a plurality of boards.

- In this embodiment, the game machine is configured to circulate all of a predetermined amount of game media (game balls as an example), but the present invention is not limited to this. The configuration may be such that it can be replaced with a medium.

- The determination of the non-gaming state, which is included in the error detection condition of the error state of an insufficient number of circulating balls, may be determined based on another criterion. For example, the CPU 61 of the main control board outputs a command to the performance control board 70 to instruct a demonstration performance. The command is output after the first special game or the second special game ends when both the first pending number and the second pending number are zero. For this reason, if a command instructing a demonstration performance is also output to the frame control board 80, the CPU 81 of the frame control board 80 will control the state in which no game is being played based on the command and the supply exit signal from the supply exit sensor D23. It is also possible to determine whether there is In other words, the non-gaming state may be determined based on a signal other than the touch signal from the touch sensor D01.

- The pachinko game machine 10 may include a magnetic sensor on one or both of the mounting frame 11b and the game board 20. According to this configuration, it is possible to detect a foreign object having magnetism that should not exist in the pachinko gaming machine 10. Further, it is possible to detect that there is a possibility that a goto device such as a magnet or a wire that does not correspond to the normal body normally used in the pachinko game machine 10 is used. It can also contribute to the discovery of actions that intentionally create a state in which game balls are piled up using magnetic game balls and magnets.

- The pachinko game machine 10 may be equipped with a configuration that detects game balls that have been deformed due to dents, scratches, or the like. For example, a sensor such as a camera may be installed in the supply path 34 to detect whether the ball is a normal game ball without dents or scratches from the acquired image. A game ball with such dents or scratches should not be used normally and falls under the category of an abnormal object. In addition, it is unclear whether a game ball with dents or scratches can be fired accurately by the firing device 50, and even if it is fired, it will move in the same way as a game ball without dents or scratches in the game area 20a. Since it is unknown whether this is the case, it is preferable not to use it.

Next, technical ideas that can be understood from the above embodiment and other examples will be added below.
(b) A game board, a plurality of ball entry ports disposed in the game area of the game board, a firing operation means that can be operated to fire a game ball, a firing mechanism that fires a game ball, and the game area a first detection means for detecting a game ball launched in a game, a second detection means for detecting a game ball used in a game, and each detection result of the first detection means and the second detection means as a counting condition. a counting means for counting a predetermined number; and a notification execution means for executing an error notification when a predetermined error notification condition is satisfied, the error notification condition being such that the predetermined number satisfies the error notification condition. A gaming machine that includes being counted.

(b) The error of the gaming machine includes a stacking error indicating that there is a possibility that game balls may be stacked up in the gaming area, and the predetermined number is counted in a manner that satisfies the error notification condition. There is a possibility that the accumulation error has occurred, and the conditions for terminating the error notification of the accumulation error include stopping the supply of power to the gaming machine, and the error notification of the accumulation error includes stopping the supply of power to the gaming machine. If the condition in which game balls are accumulated is to be resolved after the power is restored to the game machine while the conditions are met, an error notification regarding the number of game balls can be performed in addition to the accumulation error. A gaming machine according to the above-mentioned technical idea (a).

(c) When the predetermined number is counted in a manner that satisfies the error notification condition, the error notification in the predetermined notification mode is executed by the notification execution means, and the gaming machine removes the game ball inside the machine. a ball removal operation unit that is operated to cause a ball removal state in which the ball can be ejected; and when the ball removal operation unit is operated, the predetermined number is counted in a manner that satisfies the error notification condition. The gaming machine according to the technical concept (a) or (b), wherein the error notification in the predetermined notification mode is not performed when the error notification occurs.

(d) a game board, a plurality of ball entry ports arranged in the game area of the game board, a firing operation means that can be operated to fire a game ball, a firing mechanism that fires a game ball, and the game area A first detection means for detecting a game ball that has been launched into a game; a second detection means for detecting a game ball used for a game; A third detection means for detecting that an object that does not correspond to the above is an abnormal object and that the abnormal object may be being used, and a notification execution means for executing an error notification when a predetermined error notification condition is satisfied. and, the error notification condition includes that a predetermined number counted using each detection result of the first detection means and the second detection means as a counting condition is counted in a manner that satisfies the error notification condition. Game machine.

(e) Errors in the gaming machine include a deposition error indicating that game balls may have been accumulated in the gaming area, and an abnormal object indicating that the abnormal object may be being used. an error, the accumulation error occurs when the predetermined number is counted in a manner that satisfies the error notification condition, and the abnormal object error indicates that the abnormal object may be being used. is detected, and when the abnormal object is mixed in the accumulated game balls and it is not detected that the abnormal object is being used, the accumulation error is reported. According to the technical idea (d), an error notification is executed, and if it is detected that the abnormal body is being used after the accumulation error state is canceled, the abnormal body error notification is executed. The game machine described.

(F) When it is detected that the abnormal object is being used while the accumulation error state has not been cleared, at least one of the accumulation error notification and the abnormal object error notification is executed. The gaming machine according to the above technical idea (e).

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10...Pachinko game machine 13...Notification sound device 17...Game ball number display device 20...Game board 20a...Game area 40...Supply device 50...Emission device 60...Main control board 61...CPU 62...ROM 63...RAM 80...Frame Control board 81...CPU 82...ROM 83...RAM 84...Performance display monitor 85...Ball removal switch D21...Fall sensor D22...Supply inlet sensor D23...Supply outlet sensor D27...Ball passage ball clogging monitoring sensor D28...Lifting inlet sensor D29 …Lifting exit sensor D30…Out sensor

Claims (1)

A game board and
a plurality of ball entry holes arranged in the game area of the game board;
a firing operation means capable of firing a game ball;
a firing mechanism that fires a game ball;
a first sensor that detects a game ball supplied to a game ball launcher;
a second sensor that detects game balls that were fired by the firing device but did not reach the game area;
a third sensor that detects a game ball used in a game;
The number of game balls launched into the gaming area obtained by subtracting the number of game balls detected by the second sensor from the number of game balls detected by the first sensor and the number detected by the third sensor. counting means for counting the difference between the number of game balls and the number of game balls that have been played as a predetermined number;
and notification execution means for executing error notification when a predetermined error notification condition is met,
The notification executing means also serves as a means capable of notifying a base value indicating the ratio of the total number of prize balls during the normal game to the total number of valid balls during the normal game,
The error notification condition includes counting the predetermined number in a manner that satisfies the error notification condition,
The detection result of the first sensor is also used to detect the occurrence of a first error, which is a different error from the error notification performed by counting the predetermined number in a manner that satisfies the error notification condition. ,
The detection result of the third sensor is also used to detect the occurrence of a second error, which is a different error from the error notification performed by counting the predetermined number in a manner that satisfies the error notification condition. ,
In the notification execution means for executing the error notification, notification of the base value and notification of an error code that makes it possible to identify an error state that satisfies the error notification condition are alternately switched at predetermined time intervals. A gaming machine in which the error code of the error state with the highest priority is notified when a plurality of error notification conditions are satisfied .