JP7450941B2 - gaming machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine.

Conventionally, as an example of a gaming machine, a circulation-type pachinko gaming machine that circulates game balls inside the machine is known (for example, Patent Document 1). In the game machine disclosed in Patent Document 1, when a game ball is launched into a game area, it is stored in a storage device after flowing down the game area. Then, the game balls stored in the storage device flow down the game area again by being fired into the game area.

JP 2021-78753 Publication

In the above-mentioned circulation type gaming machine, when the game balls are discharged from inside the machine, predetermined maintenance becomes easier than when the game balls are not discharged from the inside of the machine. However, in conventional gaming machines, replenishing game balls is not considered. In other words, it is not easy to supply game balls.

A game machine that solves the above problems is a circulation type game machine that circulates game balls inside the machine, and includes a game board having a game area, a firing section that can fire game balls toward the game area, and a game machine that circulates game balls inside the machine. A circulation path that circulates game balls collected from the board to the firing section, a conveyance section that transports the game balls, a storage section for game balls, and a restriction on the distribution of game balls from the storage section to the circulation path. a retention switching mechanism that can be switched to a restricted state and a permissible state that allows distribution of game balls from the retention section to the circulation path; a discharge mechanism that can discharge game balls from the circulation path; a control section; an error detection unit that detects an error, the specific error is set when a specific error detection condition is met, and the specific error detection condition is that the number of game balls in the machine is not a specified number. A predetermined number of game balls can be retained in the retention section, and the predetermined number is set to a number that does not satisfy the specific error detection condition. The ejection mechanism includes a first ejection section capable of ejecting game balls from the circulation path, the transport section is operable to transport the game balls in the circulation path, and the ejection mechanism includes: , the circulation path includes a second discharge section that is capable of discharging game balls from the circulation path on the downstream side of the first discharge section in the distribution direction of the game balls, and the control section includes a second discharge section that is capable of discharging game balls from the circulation path; Based on the establishment of a specific condition including the operation of The gist is that game balls can be ejected from the second ejecting section .

The game machine may include a supply section that supplies the game balls conveyed by the conveyance section to the launch section .
Regarding the above gaming machine, there is a storage section for game balls, a regulation state that restricts the distribution of game balls from the storage section to the storage section, and a permission state that allows the distribution of game balls from the storage section to the storage section. It is preferable to include a storage switching mechanism that can switch the state.

According to the present invention, it becomes easy to supply game balls.

It is a diagram when a pachinko game machine and a card unit are seen from the front. 2 is a diagram showing a game board included in the pachinko game machine of FIG. 1. FIG. FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of a counting operation section, a counting notification section, and a second ball count display section included in the pachinko gaming machine of FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically showing a replenishment mechanism and a circulation mechanism formed in the pachinko game machine of FIG. 1. FIG. 5 is a diagram schematically showing the circulation mechanism shown in FIG. 4. FIG. FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically showing a supply unit included in the pachinko game machine of FIG. 1. FIG. FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically showing a supply unit included in the pachinko game machine of FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically showing a firing section included in the pachinko game machine of FIG. 1. FIG. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the electrical configuration of the pachinko gaming machine shown in FIG. 1. FIG. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the electrical configuration of the pachinko gaming machine shown in FIG. 1. FIG. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a control flow for detecting completion of ball extraction in the pachinko game machine of FIG. 1. FIG. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing errors that can be detected by the pachinko gaming machine of FIG. 1; 5 is a diagram showing a procedure for replenishing game balls using the replenishment mechanism shown in FIG. 4. FIG.

An embodiment of a pachinko gaming machine will be described below.
As shown in FIG. 1, in the island facility SS, a pachinko game machine 10, which is an example of a game machine, and a management unit 100, which is an example of a management device, are installed so as to be alternately lined up along the horizontal direction. . The management unit 100 is installed alongside the pachinko gaming machine 10. The management unit 100 is communicably connected to the pachinko gaming machine 10.

The management unit 100 will be explained.
The management unit 100 includes a medium insertion section 101 into which a management medium can be inserted. As an example, the management medium is a data storage medium such as an IC card or an IC coin. The management medium can store the remaining amount of the deposit and the number of game balls owned by the player (hereinafter referred to as the first number of managed balls PA). The first managed pitch count PA is data managed by the management unit 100. The management medium may be capable of storing the player's personal information or the balance of the payment (prepaid balance). The management unit 100 includes a cash input unit 102 into which cash can be input. The amount inserted into the cash input unit 102 is added to the remaining amount stored in the management medium. Cash may be either banknotes or coins.

Management unit 100 includes an operation panel 110. The operation panel 110 includes a ball lending operation section 111, a payout operation section 112, a return operation section 113, a first ball number display section 114, and a remaining amount display section 115. The ball lending operation unit 111 is operated when increasing the number of game balls owned by the player (hereinafter referred to as the second number of managed balls PB) based on the remaining amount stored in the management medium. The second managed ball count PB is data managed by the pachinko gaming machine 10. The payout operation unit 112 is operated when increasing the second number of managed balls PB based on the first number of managed balls PA. The managed pitch numbers PA and PB are examples of the number of pitches held.

The return operation unit 113 is operated when receiving the return of the management medium inserted into the management unit 100. The first pitch count display section 114 displays information (for example, Arabic numerals) that allows identification of the first managed pitch count PA. The remaining amount display section 115 displays information (for example, Arabic numerals) that can specify the remaining amount of the payment.

The management unit 100 includes a management unit control board 120 (hereinafter referred to as a CU control board). The CU control board 120 includes a CPU 120a, a ROM 120b, and a RAM 120c. The CPU 120a performs predetermined processing by executing a management unit control program. The ROM 120b stores a management unit control program. The RAM 120c stores various information that is rewritten during the operation of the management unit 100. For example, the information stored in the RAM 120c includes flags, counters, timers, and the like. The management unit 100 includes a communication terminal 120d that is connected to the pachinko gaming machine 10 so as to be able to communicate in both directions.

The CU control board 120 is connected to the medium insertion section 101. The CPU 120a is configured to be able to rewrite the storage contents of the management medium inserted into the medium insertion section 101. The CU control board 120 is connected to the cash input unit 102. The CPU 120a is configured to be able to input an input signal that is output when cash is input into the cash input unit 102. The input signal is a signal that can specify the amount of money input into the cash input unit 102.

CU control board 120 is connected to operation panel 110. The CPU 120a is configured to be able to input a ball lending signal output when the ball lending operation section 111 is operated. The CU control board 120 is configured to be able to input a payout signal that is output when the payout operation unit 112 is operated. The CPU 120a is configured to be able to input a return signal that is output when the return operation unit 113 is operated. The CPU 120a is configured to be able to control the display content of the first pitch count display section 114. The CPU 120a is configured to be able to control the display content of the remaining amount display section 115.

The CU control board 120 is connected to the pachinko gaming machine 10 via a communication terminal 120d. The CPU 120a is configured to be able to input various control signals (control information) output from the pachinko gaming machine 10. The CPU 120a is configured to be able to output various control signals (control information) to the pachinko gaming machine 10. The management unit 100 outputs a connection signal to the pachinko gaming machine 10 from the communication terminal 120d. Note that the connection signal may be a command or a message generated by the CU control board 120 (CPU 120a), or may be a signal generated by an output circuit (for example, a power supply circuit) different from the CPU 120a.

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

The processing performed by the management unit 100 will be explained.
When the management medium is inserted into the medium insertion unit 101, the CPU 120a reads the remaining amount and the first number of managed pitches PA stored in the management medium, and stores them in the RAM 120c. Then, when the management medium is inserted, the CPU 120a performs the processing described below.

When the CPU 120a receives the input signal from the cash input unit 102, the CPU 120a adds the input amount that can be specified from the input signal to the remaining amount. When the remaining amount is not 0, when a ball lending signal is input from the ball lending operation section 111, the CPU 120a subtracts the remaining amount by a specified amount, and also generates provision information that allows specifying the provision of the number of game balls corresponding to the specified amount. is output to the pachinko game machine 10. Note that when the remaining amount is 0, the CPU 120a does not transmit grant information even if a ball lending signal is input.

When the first managed ball number PA is 1 or more, when a payout signal is input from the payout operation unit 112, the CPU 120a subtracts the first managed ball number PA by a predetermined number, and specifies provision of the predetermined number of game balls. Possible grant information is output to the pachinko game machine 10. Note that when the first number of managed balls PA is 0, the CPU 120a does not transmit the grant information even if the payout signal is input. The provision information can specify the number of balls provided. Upon receiving the counting information from the pachinko gaming machine 10, the CPU 120a adds the number of game balls that can be specified from the counting information to the first managed ball number PA. 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 management unit 100. be.

The CPU 120a controls the first pitch count display section 114 to display information that can identify the first managed pitch count PA at any given time. The first managed pitch count PA is displayed in real time on the first pitch count display section 114. The CPU 120a controls the remaining amount display section 115 to display information that allows identification of the remaining amount at any given time. The remaining amount is displayed in real time on the remaining amount display section 115. When a return signal is input from the return operation unit 113, the CPU 120a causes the remaining amount and the first number of managed balls PA stored in the RAM 120c to be stored in the management medium, and also stores the remaining amount and the first number of managed balls PA stored in the RAM 120c. Initialize. The CPU 120a controls the medium insertion section 101 so that the managed medium is ejected from the medium insertion section 101.

The pachinko gaming machine 10 will be explained.
As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the pachinko game machine 10 is an enclosed type game machine in which game balls with a prescribed circulation number N are sealed inside the machine. The prescribed circulation number N is an example of a predetermined number. The prescribed circulation number N includes a plurality of different numbers of game balls, such as a prescribed range of not less than the first prescribed number N1 and not more than the second prescribed number N2 (however, N1 < N2). The regulation is not limited to this, and the prescribed circulation number N may be a single number of game balls like the prescribed number N3. In this case, the specified number N3 is preferably the number of game balls selected from the specified range, and more preferably the number of game balls that is the median value or approximately the median value of the specified range. The pachinko game machine 10 is an example of a circulation type game machine that circulates game balls inside the machine. The game ball may be made of either magnetic or non-magnetic material. The pachinko game machine 10 has a structure in which, in principle, players cannot touch the game balls.

The pachinko gaming machine 10 electromagnetically manages the second managed ball number PB based on the number of rented balls Pb, the number of acquired balls Pc, and the number of fired balls Pd. The number of rental balls Pb is the number of game balls lent to the player. The number of acquired balls Pc is the number of game balls acquired by the player. The number of shot balls Pd is the number of game balls shot by the player. The number of fired balls Pd can also be said to be the number of game balls supplied from the supply section 61 to the firing section 65, which will be described later.

The pachinko game machine 10 includes a frame 11. The frame 11 includes an outer frame 11a for fixing the machine to the island equipment SS, a mounting frame 11b for mounting various game parts, and a protection frame 11c. The mounting frame 11b is supported so as to be openable and closable with respect to the outer frame 11a. The protection frame 11c is supported so as to be openable and closable with respect 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 pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a locking device 11d that locks the frames 11b and 11c. The pachinko gaming machine 10 is configured such that the frames 11b and 11c cannot be opened with respect to the outer frame 11a unless unlocked using a key compatible with the locking device 11d.

The pachinko game machine 10 includes an effect audio section 12, an example of which is a speaker. The performance audio section 12 is arranged on the front side of the mounting frame 11b. The performance audio unit 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 sound may be a song, a sound effect, a person's voice reading out a predetermined character string, or the like. The pachinko game machine 10 includes a notification audio section 13, an example of which is a speaker. The notification audio unit 13 can perform audio notification. As an example, the production audio section 12 and the notification audio section 13 are arranged in the mounting frame 11b.

The pachinko game machine 10 includes an effect light emitting section 14. The effect light emitting unit 14 can perform effects (hereinafter referred to as light emission effect) by lighting, blinking, and extinguishing a light emitting body (not shown) such as an LED. The effect light emitting unit 14 can perform notification (hereinafter referred to as notification light emission) by lighting up, blinking, and turning off a light emitting body (not shown). As an example, the effect light emitting section 14 is arranged on the mounting frame 11b. The effect light emitting section 14 may be provided on a game board 20, which will be described later.

The pachinko game machine 10 includes a firing operation section 15 that can be operated to fire a game ball. The firing operation section 15 is arranged on the front side of the mounting frame 11b. The pachinko game machine 10 is configured to shoot out game balls with a shooting intensity that corresponds to the operation of the shooting operation section 15. As an example, the firing operation unit 15 includes a handle lever 15a that can be rotated, a touch sensor D01, a firing stop switch D02, and a handle volume D03 (see FIG. 9).

The touch sensor D01 is connected to a current-carrying ring 15b arranged so as to surround the side surface of the firing operation section 15. The touch sensor D01 outputs a touch signal when the player grasps the firing operation section 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 operation section 15.

The firing stop switch D02 outputs a stop signal when the firing stop button 15c protruding from the side of the firing operation section 15 is pressed. The stop signal is turned on when the firing stop button 15c is operated, and turned off when it is not operated. The firing stop button 15c is an example of a 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 section 16. The performance operation unit 16 is an example of a means that can be operated by a player. The production operation unit 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.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a second ball number display section 17 that displays information that allows the second managed ball number PB to be specified. In an example of the present embodiment, the second pitch count display section 17 has a configuration in which a plurality (for example, six) of 7 segments are arranged, and can display a plurality of (for example, six digits) numbers. The second pitch count display section 17 is capable of notifying predetermined information by displaying predetermined characters.

The pachinko game machine 10 includes a counting operation section 18. The counting operation section 18 is operated by the player when finishing the game on the pachinko gaming machine 10. The counting operation unit 18 is allowed to perform a counting operation using the counting operation unit 18 when it is in a predetermined counting enabled state. The counting operation section 18 outputs a counting signal when a push-in operation is performed. The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a count notification section 18a. The counting notification unit 18a is an example of a means for notifying whether or not counting is possible. As an example, the production operation section 16, the second ball count display section 17, the counting operation section 18, and the count notification section 18a are arranged on the front side of the mounting frame 11b.

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. That is, the game board 20 has a game area 20a. 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 a game ball fired by operating the firing operation section 15 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 an information display device 21 that displays various information. The information display device 21 includes a first special symbol display section 21a, a second special symbol display section 21b, a first reservation display section 21c, a second reservation display section 21d, a normal symbol display section 21e, and a normal reservation display section 21f. . As an example, the plurality of display sections 21a to 21f are arranged together in a part that is visible to the player, but the present invention is not limited to this, and some or all of them may be arranged in different parts.

The first special symbol display section 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 section 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 a jackpot symbol and a losing symbol. The special symbols may include small winning symbols. 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 ends, a jackpot game is awarded. The jackpot game will be described later.

The first suspension display section 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 met but the start condition has not yet been met. Display identifiable information. The second suspension display section 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 section 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 normal winning symbols and normal losing symbols. In the pachinko game machine 10, when a normal winning symbol is won in a winning lottery of normal symbols, the normal winning symbol is stopped and displayed in the normal game, and after the normal game ends, a normal winning game is awarded.

The normal suspension display section 21f displays information that allows specifying the number of times the execution of the normal game is suspended because the suspension condition has been satisfied but the start condition has not yet been satisfied. The information display device 21 may include a right-handed display section that displays information instructing right-handed play, and a round display section that notifies the upper limit number of round games.

The pachinko game machine 10 includes an effect display section 19. The effect display section 19 has an image display area 19a that can display images. The effect display section 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 section 19 is a liquid crystal device. The effect display section 19 is capable of executing 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 section 19 is capable of executing a predetermined notification in a manner of displaying a predetermined image.

Here, the effect audio section 12, the effect light emitting section 14, and the effect display section 19 are all effect sections capable of executing a predetermined effect, and constitute a presentation device ES consisting of a plurality of effect sections. As described above, the effect audio section 12, the effect light emitting section 14, and the effect display section 19 are all notification sections that can execute predetermined notifications. The production device ES can also be understood as a notification device. The production section and notification section included in the production device ES are not limited to the production sound section 12, the production light emitting section 14, and the production display section 19, but may have a configuration in which some of these production sections are omitted. Good too. The performance device ES may include a performance movable unit that performs a movable performance in addition to the performance unit and the notification unit, or in place of one or more that can be arbitrarily selected, and a performance vibration that performs a vibration performance. It may also include a section.

For example, the display performance in the performance display section 19 includes a performance symbol variation game (hereinafter referred to as a performance game) using a plurality of rows of performance symbols (decoration patterns). 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. As an example, the production game is played by displaying the production 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 production 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 23 into which game balls can enter are formed on the game board 20. These plurality of winning holes 23 open to the gaming area 20a. The plurality of winning holes 23 include a first starting hole 23A, a second starting hole 23B, a large winning hole 23C, and a normal winning hole 23D. The plurality of winning holes may include a winning hole different from these winning holes 23.

The first starting opening 23A is a winning opening into which a game ball is inserted in order to satisfy the awarding conditions for the prize ball and the suspension conditions for the first special game. As an example, the first starting port 23A is located below the effect display section 19. The first starting port 23A is always opened so that game balls can enter the ball. The game board 20 includes a first starting sensor D11 that detects a game ball that enters the first starting port 23A (see FIG. 9).

The second starting opening 23B is a winning opening into which a game ball is inserted in order to satisfy the awarding conditions for the prize ball and the hold conditions for the second special game. As an example, the second starting port 23B is located to the lower right of the first starting port 23A. The second starting port 23B includes a normal opening/closing piece 23Ba having a door shape, for example. The second starting port 23B is closed so that a game ball cannot enter the ball or it is difficult to enter the ball when a normal winning game is not provided. When a normal winning game is awarded, the second starting port 23B 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 driving means for opening the second starting port 23B (see FIG. 9). Furthermore, the game board 20 includes a second starting sensor D12 that detects a game ball that enters the second starting port 23B (see FIG. 9). The normal opening/closing piece 23Ba is a so-called "normal electric accessory".

The big winning hole 23C is a winning hole into which a game ball is inserted in order to satisfy the conditions for awarding the prize ball. As an example, the big prize opening 23C is located at the lower right of the performance display section 19. The big prize opening 23C includes a special opening/closing piece 23Ca having a door shape, for example. The big prize opening 23C is closed so that a game ball cannot enter the ball or it is difficult to enter the ball when a jackpot game is not awarded. When a jackpot game is awarded, the big prize opening 23C 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 driving means for opening the big prize opening 23C (see FIG. 9). Furthermore, the game board 20 includes a count sensor D13 that detects game balls that have entered the big prize opening 23C (see FIG. 9).

The normal winning hole 23D is a winning hole into which a game ball is inserted in order to satisfy the conditions for awarding a prize ball. As an example, the normal winning openings 23D are located at the lower left of the performance display section 19 and at the lower right of the performance display section 19, respectively. The normal winning hole 23D is always opened so that game balls can be entered. The game board 20 includes a normal sensor D14 that detects a game ball that enters the normal winning hole 23D (see FIG. 9).

The game board 20 includes a gate 24. As an example, the gate 24 is located in the right area of the gaming area 20a, above the second starting opening 23B and the big winning opening 23C. A gate opening 24a is formed in the gate 24. The gate 24a is always open so that game balls can enter. The gate 24 has a gate sensor D15 that detects a game ball that has entered the gate opening 24a (see FIG. 9). The gate 24 is a ball entrance into which a game ball enters in order to satisfy the starting conditions for a normal game. Even if a game ball enters the gate 24, the conditions for awarding a prize ball are not satisfied.

The game board 20 has an outlet 25 formed therein. As an example, the outlet 25 opens at the lowest part of the gaming area 20a. The game ball enters the out port 25 when the ball does not enter any of the first starting port 23A, second starting port 23B, large winning port 23C, and normal winning port 23D. The plurality of winning ports 23 and the out ports 25 can be understood as discharge ports for discharging game balls from the gaming area 20a, or return ports for returning gaming balls from the gaming area 20a. When a game ball enters a plurality of winning holes 23 or an out hole 25, it is ejected from the game board 20. Hereinafter, game balls discharged from the game board 20 through the plurality of winning holes 23 or out holes 25 may be referred to as out balls.

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. 9). 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. The pachinko game machine 10 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. 9). 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 opened to the outer frame 11a (see FIG. 9). The second door open switch D18 outputs a second door open signal when detecting the opening of the mounting frame 11b.

The player can adjust the firing strength of the game ball by operating the firing operation section 15. In other words, the player can separately hit the game ball into a left region to the left of the display window 20b and a right region to the right of the display window 20b. When the game ball flows down the right area, there is a possibility that the ball enters the second starting opening 23B, the big winning opening 23C, the normal winning opening 23D, or the gate 24. When the game ball flows down the left area, there is a possibility that the ball enters the first starting port 23A or the normal winning port 23D.

As shown in FIG. 4, the frame 11 (mounting frame 11b) includes a game ball distribution mechanism 29 and a game ball supply mechanism 40. Note that FIG. 4 shows the state when the pachinko gaming machine 10 is viewed from the back side.

As shown in FIG. 5, the circulation mechanism 29 includes a collection mechanism 30, a circulation mechanism 50, a firing mechanism 60, and a ball extraction mechanism 70. The collection mechanism 30 is formed on the mounting frame 11b. The collection mechanism 30 guides the game balls discharged from the game board 20 (game area 20a) to the circulation mechanism 50. The recovery mechanism 30 is configured by combining a passage that extends downward or a passage that slopes downward. When the game balls are received by the collection mechanism 30 from the game board 20, they can reach the circulation mechanism 50 by flowing down the passage that constitutes the collection mechanism 30.

The circulation mechanism 50 is formed in the mounting frame 11b. The circulation mechanism 50 transports the game balls received from the collection mechanism 30 in a predetermined direction. As an example, the circulation mechanism 50 lifts the game ball. The firing mechanism 60 is formed on the mounting frame 11b. When the game balls are transported by the circulation mechanism 50, they are received by the firing mechanism 60. The firing mechanism 60 can fire the game balls conveyed by the circulation mechanism 50 toward the game area 20a. The ball extraction mechanism 70 is formed on the mounting frame 11b. The ball extraction mechanism 70 is a mechanism for extracting game balls from the recovery mechanism 30, circulation mechanism 50, and firing mechanism 60.

The flow of game balls in the distribution mechanism 29 will be explained. Assume that the game ball is fired by the firing mechanism 60. The game ball can reach the game area 20a. When the game ball reaches the game area 20a, it enters the plurality of winning holes 23 or out holes 25. The game balls are discharged to the collection mechanism 30 from a discharge port (not shown) formed in the game board 20. The game ball passes through the collection mechanism 30 and reaches the circulation mechanism 50. The game balls are transported by the circulation mechanism 50. The game ball returns to the firing mechanism 60. Each mechanism will be explained in detail below.

The recovery mechanism 30 will be explained in detail.
The mounting frame 11b is formed with one or more prize receiving ports 30a, one or more non-winning receiving ports 30b, and one or more foul receiving ports 30c. The prize receiving port 30a is formed below the discharge port (not shown) formed at the lower end of the game board 20 through which game balls that have entered the plurality of prize winning ports 23 are discharged. The prize receiving port 30a receives game balls discharged from the game board 20 via the plurality of prize winning ports 23. The non-winning receiving port 30b is formed below the discharge port (not shown) formed at the lower end of the game board 20 for discharging game balls that have entered the out port 25. The non-winning receiving port 30b receives game balls discharged from the game board 20 via the out port 25. The foul reception port 30c is formed below the ejection passage 20c. The foul receiving port 30c receives a game ball (hereinafter referred to as a foul ball) falling from the launch passage 20c. A foul ball is a game ball that was fired by the firing mechanism 60 but did not reach the game area 20a.

The mounting frame 11b is formed with a winning passage 31 that connects to the winning entrance 30a, a non-winning passage 32 that connects to the non-winning entrance 30b, and a foul passage 33 that connects to the foul entrance 30c. The winning passage 31 and the non-winning passage 32 merge at a first merging section 34. A merging passage 35 connected to the first merging portion 34 is formed in the mounting frame 11b. The merging passage 35 and the foul passage 33 merge at a second merging portion 36 . A supply passage 37 connecting the second merging section 36 and the circulation mechanism 50 is formed in the mounting frame 11b.

The mounting frame 11b includes a foul sensor D21 that detects a game ball (foul ball) passing through the foul passage 33. The foul sensor D21 is provided in the foul passage 33 or a portion adjacent to the foul passage 33. The foul sensor D21 outputs a foul signal when detecting a game ball. The foul 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 mounting frame 11b 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 at the winning passage 31 or a portion adjacent to the winning passage 31. The winning path count sensor D25 outputs a winning path signal when detecting a game ball. The winning path 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 mounting frame 11b includes a non-winning path count sensor D26 that detects game balls passing through the non-winning path 32. The non-winning passage count sensor D26 is provided at the non-winning passage 32 or a portion adjacent to the non-winning passage 32. The non-winning path count sensor D26 outputs a non-winning path signal when detecting a game ball. The non-winning path 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 mounting frame 11b includes an out sensor D30 that detects game balls passing through the merging path 35. The out sensor D30 is provided at the merging passage 35 or a portion adjacent to the merging passage 35. The out sensor D30 outputs an out signal when detecting a game ball. The out 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 out sensor D30 detects an out ball.

The mounting frame 11b includes a ball clogging monitoring sensor D27 that detects game balls passing through the supply passage 37. The ball clogging monitoring sensor D27 is provided in the supply passage 37 or a portion adjacent to the supply passage 37. When the ball clogging monitoring sensor D27 detects a game ball, it outputs a ball clogging detection signal. The ball jam detection 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 circulation mechanism 50 will be explained in detail.
The circulation mechanism 50 includes a transport section 52 that transports game balls received from the collection mechanism 30. As an example, the conveyance unit 52 includes a conveyance path extending along a predetermined direction, a screw accommodated in the conveyance path, and a conveyance motor 52a that rotates the screw. The game ball is transported in a predetermined direction in the transport path by rotating a screw by the transport motor 52a. The transport motor 52a transports the game balls collected from the game area 20a. The conveyance unit 52 is not limited to this, and may be a belt extending along a predetermined direction, or may be a pressure-feeding motor that force-feeds in a predetermined direction. The predetermined direction may be an upward direction, or may be an upwardly inclined direction.

The circulation mechanism 50 includes a conveyance entrance sensor D28 that detects game balls received from the supply passage 37 at the entrance of the conveyance section 52. The conveyance entrance sensor D28 is provided at the entrance of the conveyance section 52 or at a portion adjacent to the entrance. The conveyance entrance sensor D28 outputs a conveyance entrance signal when detecting a game ball. The conveyance 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. The conveyance entrance sensor D28 is an example of one or more detection units that detect game balls.

The circulation mechanism 50 includes a conveyance exit sensor D29 at the exit of the conveyance section 52, which detects the game balls conveyed by the conveyance section 52. The transport exit sensor D29 is provided at the exit of the transport section 52 or at a portion adjacent to the exit. The conveyance exit sensor D29 outputs a conveyance exit signal when detecting a game ball. The conveyance 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 firing mechanism 60 will be explained in detail.
The firing mechanism 60 includes a supply section 61 and a firing section 65. The supply section 61 cuts out the game balls conveyed by the conveyance section 52 one by one and supplies them to the firing section 65 . The firing section 65 fires the supplied game balls toward the game area 20a. The firing section 65 is configured to be able to fire a game ball toward the game area 20a.

As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the supply section 61 is formed with an inlet side passage 62a, a cutting mechanism 63, and an outlet side passage 62b. The entrance side passage 62a receives the game balls K conveyed by the conveyance section 52. The entrance side passage 62a arranges the received game balls K in a line. The entrance side passage 62a is a passage that extends downward toward a portion where the cutting mechanism 63 is located. As an example, the collection mechanism 30 (passages 31, 32, 33, 35, 37), the circulation mechanism 50, and the entrance side passage 62a have a circulation path 29a that circulates game balls collected from the game board 20 to the firing section 65. Configure.

The cutout mechanism 63 includes a movable piece 63a configured to be able to supply game balls K, and a supply solenoid 63b that drives the movable piece 63a. When the movable piece 63a is not performing the supply operation, the movable piece 63a blocks the game ball K so that it does not flow out from the entrance side passage 62a to the exit side passage 62b. As shown in the flow from FIG. 6 to FIG. 7, when the movable piece 63a performs one feeding operation, only the leading game ball K among the game balls K lined up in a row in the entrance side passage 62a is placed in the exit side passage. 62b. The exit side passage 62b is a passage extending downward toward the firing section 65.

The supply section 61 includes, on the entrance side of the supply section 61, a supply entrance sensor D22 that detects the game ball K received into the entrance side passage 62a. The supply inlet sensor D22 is provided in the inlet passage 62a or a portion adjacent to the inlet passage 62a. The supply entrance sensor D22 outputs a supply entrance signal when the game ball K is detected. The supply entrance signal is in an on state when a game ball K is detected, and is in an off state when it is not detected.

The supply section 61 includes a supply outlet sensor D23 on the exit side of the supply section 61, which detects the game ball K released into the exit side passage 62b. The supply outlet sensor D23 is provided in the outlet side passage 62b or a portion adjacent to the outlet side passage 62b. The supply outlet sensor D23 outputs a supply outlet signal when the game ball K is detected. The supply exit signal is in an on state when a game ball K is detected, and is in an off state when it is not detected.

As shown in FIG. 8, the firing section 65 includes a firing hammer 66 configured to be capable of firing game balls, and a firing solenoid 66a that drives the firing hammer 66. Firing solenoid 66a may be a motor. The game ball K flowing down the exit side passage 62b of the supply section 61 reaches the striking position 67 of the firing section 65. As an example, the firing action of the firing hammer 66 is an action of hitting the game ball at the hitting position 67 to launch the game ball toward the hitting path 20c. As shown by the solid line and the two-dot chain line in the figure, when the firing hammer 66 performs one firing operation, one game ball located at the hitting position 67 is fired into the hitting path 20c. As shown by arrow Y1, the game ball can fly through the launch path 20c and reach the game area 20a if there is sufficient launch strength. As shown by arrows Y2 and Y3, when the firing strength is insufficient, the game ball stalls in the launch path 20c and falls. In this case, the game ball becomes a foul ball and flows into the foul passage 33 from the foul receiving port 30c.

As shown in FIG. 5, the distribution mechanism 29 includes a maintenance section 55.
As an example, the maintenance section 55 is formed in the mounting frame 11b. As an example, the maintenance section 55 is provided in the circulation mechanism 50. As an example of maintenance, the maintenance section 55 is configured to be able to polish the game ball by bringing the polishing member into contact with the game ball. The polishing member may be an annular belt or a winding belt. After the game ball is detected by the conveyance entrance sensor D28, a predetermined maintenance is performed by the maintenance section 55. After maintenance is performed, the game balls are transported by the transport section 52. As an example, the maintenance section 55 may be configured as a unit in which a polishing member and a mechanism for driving the polishing member are integrated. In this case, the maintenance section 55 is preferably assembled to the mounting frame 11b so that it can be replaced as a unit.

The circulation mechanism 29 includes a ball extraction mechanism 70.
The ball extraction mechanism 70 is an example of a discharge mechanism that can discharge game balls from the circulation path 29a. As an example, the ball extraction mechanism 70 is formed in the mounting frame 11b. The ball extraction mechanism 70 includes a first ball extraction part 71, a second ball extraction part 72, and a ball extraction passage 73.

The first ball extraction section 71 is a section (hereinafter referred to as a first 71a). A ball hole 71b is formed in the first connecting portion 71a, passing through the wall or bottom thereof in a predetermined direction. The ball removal hole 71b may be a portion where a discharge passage for game balls opens into the first connecting portion 71a. As an example, the predetermined direction is backward, but is not limited to this, and may be forward or downward.

The first ball removal part 71 has an opening/closing piece 71c that can be displaced between a sealing position for sealing the ball removal hole 71b and an open position for opening the ball removal hole 71b. The opening/closing piece 71c is located at the sealing position due to the urging force of an urging mechanism (not shown). When the opening/closing piece 71c is displaced to the open position by an external force, such as when an operating section (not shown) such as a lever is operated, the ball removal hole 71b is opened. As an example, the ball passage following the supply passage 37 is inclined downward toward the first connecting portion 71a. Therefore, the game balls present in the supply passage 37 can be discharged from the ball extraction hole 71b to the outside of the machine when the ball extraction hole 71b is opened.

As shown in FIGS. 4 to 7, the second ball extraction portion 72 is formed in the firing mechanism 60.
As described above, when the movable piece 63a is not performing the feeding operation, the game ball is blocked in the entrance side passage 62a by the movable piece 63a. A ball removal passage 73 is connected to a portion of the entrance side passage 62a where the first game ball K among the blocked game balls is located (hereinafter referred to as a second connecting portion 72a). In other words, the ball removal passage 73 opens in the second connection portion 72a as a ball removal hole 72b. The ball removal hole 72b is a hole that penetrates the wall or bottom of the second connecting portion 72a in a predetermined direction. As an example, the predetermined direction is downward, but is not limited thereto, and may be forward or backward.

The second ball removal part 72 has an opening/closing piece 72c that can be displaced between a sealing position for sealing the ball removal hole 72b and an open position for opening the ball removal hole 72b. The opening/closing piece 72c is located at the sealing position due to the urging force of an urging mechanism (not shown). When the opening/closing piece 72c is displaced to the open position by an external force, such as when an operating section (not shown) such as a lever is operated, the ball removal hole 72b is opened. As an example, the entrance side passage 62a is inclined downward toward the cutting mechanism 63 (movable piece 63a). Therefore, the game balls existing in the entrance side passage 62a flow into the ball extraction passage 73 from the ball extraction hole 72b.

The ball removal passage 73 is connected to the first connecting portion 71a. The ball removal passage 73 is configured by combining a passage that extends downward or a passage that slopes downward. Therefore, the game balls that have flowed into the ball removal passage 73 flow into the first connecting portion 71a. The game balls can be ejected from the ball extraction hole 71b to the outside of the machine when the ball extraction hole 71b is opened. The present invention is not limited to this, and the ball extraction mechanism 70 may have a configuration that does not include the ball extraction passage 73. In this case, the ball removal hole 72b is preferably formed to penetrate the wall or bottom of the second connecting portion 72a in a predetermined direction. As an example, the predetermined direction is backward, but is not limited to this, and may be forward or downward.

Next, the replenishment mechanism 40 will be explained.
As shown in FIG. 4, the supply mechanism 40 includes a ball storage section 41 configured to store game balls. As an example, the ball storage section 41 is located behind the game board 20 in the mounting frame 11b. As an example, the ball storage section 41 is a square box-shaped member that extends in the left-right direction along the upper edge of the mounting frame 11b. The ball storage section 41 forms a storage space 41a in which game balls can be stored. As an example, the bottom surface of the storage space 41a slopes downward toward the left. The ball storage section 41 receives game balls supplied from the island equipment SS. The ball storage section 41 may be able to be manually loaded with game balls by an administrator of the pachinko game machine 10 or the like. In the storage space 41a, the game balls roll toward the left and can be stored in a stacked manner. The ball storage section 41 can store P1 game balls. The ball storage section 41 is an example of a storage section for game balls. The ball storage section 41 is configured to be able to receive game balls from outside the machine.

The replenishment mechanism 40 includes a replenishment passage section 42 . As an example, the supply passage section 42 is located at the rear of the game board 20 in the mounting frame 11b. As an example, the supply passage section 42 is a cylindrical member that extends in the vertical direction along the left edge of the mounting frame 11b. The internal space of the supply passage section 42 becomes a supply passage 42a extending in the vertical direction.

As an example, assuming that the replenishment passage 42a is cut along a plane perpendicular to the direction in which the replenishment passage 42a extends, the cross section has a shape and area that allows game balls to flow downward in a line. As an example, the cross section of the supply passage 42a may be a circle slightly larger than the diameter of the game ball, or may be a rectangle with a side length slightly longer than the diameter of the game ball.

The upper end (entrance) of the supply passage 42a opens at the left end of the storage space 41a of the ball storage section 41. Therefore, the game balls in the ball storage section 41 can flow from the ball storage section 41 into the supply passage 42a. The lower end (exit) of the supply passage 42a opens toward the prize receiving opening 30a. Therefore, the game balls in the supply path 42a can flow into the distribution mechanism 29 (circulation path 29a) from the prize receiving opening 30a. The supply passage 42a is an example of a storage part for game balls.

The supply mechanism 40 includes an upper ball stopper mechanism 43 and a lower ball stopper mechanism 44. As an example, the upper ball stopper mechanism 43 is provided at the upper end of the supply passage 42a. The upper ball stopper mechanism 43 has an upper stopper 43a. The upper stopper 43a has two states: a state in which it protrudes into the supply passage 42a to restrict the passage of game balls (hereinafter referred to as an on state), and a state in which it does not protrude into the supply passage 42a and allows the passage of game balls ( (hereinafter referred to as an OFF state). The upper ball stopper mechanism 43 includes an upper stopper motor 43b as a driving means for displacing the upper stopper 43a. The upper ball stopper mechanism 43 includes an upper regulating portion (not shown) as a means for regulating the displacement of the upper stopper 43a from the on state. The upper stopper 43a can be manually displaced to the OFF state by operating the upper regulating portion to release the displacement regulation.

As an example, the lower ball stopper mechanism 44 is provided at the lower end of the supply passage 42a. The lower ball stopper mechanism 44 is located below the upper ball stopper mechanism 43. The lower ball stopper mechanism 44 has a lower stopper 44a. The lower stopper 44a has two states: one in which it protrudes into the replenishment passage 42a to restrict the passage of game balls (hereinafter referred to as an on state), and the other in which it does not protrude into the replenishment passage 42a and allows the passage of game balls ( (hereinafter referred to as an OFF state). The lower ball stopper mechanism 44 includes a lower stopper motor 44b as a driving means for displacing the lower stopper 44a. The lower ball stopper mechanism 44 includes a lower regulating portion (not shown) as a means for regulating the displacement of the lower stopper 44a from the on state. The lower stopper 44a can be manually displaced to the OFF state by operating the lower regulating portion to release the displacement regulation.

The lower ball stopper mechanism 44 is an example of a retention switching mechanism that can be switched between an on state, which is an example of a restricted state, and an off state, which is an example of a permissible state. The restricted state is a state in which the distribution of game balls from the supply path 42a to the circulation path 29a is restricted. The permissible state is a state in which the game balls are allowed to flow from the supply path 42a to the circulation path 29a. The upper ball stopper mechanism 43 is an example of a storage switching mechanism that can be switched between an on state, which is an example of a restricted state, and an off state, which is an example of a permissible state. The restricted state is a state in which the distribution of game balls from the ball storage section 41 to the supply passage 42a is restricted. The permissible state is a state in which the game balls are allowed to flow from the ball storage section 41 to the supply passage 42a.

The replenishment mechanism 40 includes an upper replenishment sensor D48 and a lower replenishment sensor D49. The upper replenishment sensor D48 and the lower replenishment sensor D49 are examples of ball detection units that can detect game balls in the replenishment path 42a. A first detection part p1 in the supply passage 42a where the upper supply sensor D48 can detect a game ball is located above a second detection part p2 in which the lower supply sensor D49 can detect a game ball in the supply passage 42a. The upper replenishment sensor D48 can detect game balls located at the upper end portion of the replenishment path 42a. The upper replenishment sensor D48 detects a game ball located in a portion of the replenishment path 42a below the protruding position of the upper stopper 43a. The lower replenishment sensor D49 detects game balls located at the lower end portion of the replenishment path 42a. The lower replenishment sensor D49 detects game balls located in the replenishment passage 42a above the protruding position of the lower stopper 44a.

In the following description, a state in which the lower stopper 44a is turned off and game balls are piled up in the supply passage 42a and reach the first detection portion p1 will be referred to as a "loading completed state". In the fully loaded state, there are P2 game balls in the supply path 42a. When the lower supply sensor D49 no longer detects game balls, the number of game balls in the supply passage 42a is an example of the first number of balls. As an example, the first number of balls is 0, but is not limited to this and may be 1 or more. When the upper supply sensor D48 detects game balls, the number of game balls in the supply path 42a is an example of the second number of balls. As an example, the second number of balls is P2, but is not limited to this, and may be the number of game balls exceeding P2. As an example, the difference between the second number of balls and the first number of balls may be the same or approximately the same as the prescribed circulation number N, which is an example of a predetermined number. As described above, the prescribed circulation number N is, for example, the number of game balls within a prescribed range. As described above, a predetermined number of game balls can stay in the supply passage 42a.

An example of the relationship between the number of game balls will be explained.
As an example, in the fully loaded state, the number P2 of game balls in the supply passage 42a is equal to the prescribed circulation number N, which is the number of game balls to be enclosed in the pachinko game machine 10. As a more specific example, the number of game balls P2 is within a specified range (a first specified number N1 or more and a second specified number N2 or less). Therefore, when there are no game balls in the distribution mechanism 29 (circulation path 29a) and game balls with the number of game balls P2 flow in, it is assumed that the pachinko gaming machine 10 has been replenished with game balls with the prescribed circulation number N. I can say that. Further, the number P1 of game balls that can be stored in the ball storage section 41 is greater than or equal to the number P2 of game balls. Therefore, if the ball storage section 41 is full, even if there are no game balls in the supply passage 42a, game balls can be allowed to flow in at least to the fully loaded state.

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 23C 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 23C 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 (hereinafter referred to as jackpot probability) in the special symbol winning lottery. In other words, 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 entry assist function is a function for varying the ball entry rate into the second starting port 23B. In other words, the pachinko gaming machine 10 has two states in which the rate of balls entering the second starting port 23B 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 enters the second starting port 23B 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 23B increases, and it becomes easier for the game ball to enter the second starting port 23B, 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 23B in one normal winning game longer than in the low ball entry rate state. The opening time extension control is a control that increases the number of times the second starting port 23B is opened in one normal winning game than in a low ball entry rate state, and one opening of the second starting port 23B 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). ).

The gaming state is defined by a combination of whether or not the probability change function is activated and whether or not the ball entering assist 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 low ball entry rate state". "Bitch rate status". In addition, a gaming 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 gaming state where a high probability state and a high ball entry rate state is a state is referred to as a "high probability high ball entry rate state". ”.

The electrical configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be explained.
As shown in FIG. 9, the pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a plurality of control boards. The plurality of control boards include a game control board (main control board) 80, an effect control board (sub-control board) 81, a frame control board 82, and a firing control board 83. The frame control board 82 is an example of a control section. The plurality of control boards may be provided at positions that cannot be accessed unless a locking device (not shown) is unlocked to open the mounting frame 11b.

The game control board 80 and the production control board 81 are connected so that control information (such as control commands) can be outputted in one direction from the game control board 80 to the production control board 81. The game control board 80 executes predetermined processing and outputs control information to the production control board 81. The performance control board 81 executes predetermined processing based on the control information input from the game control board 80. The game control board 80 and the frame control board 82 are connected so that they can output control information (telegrams, etc.) in both directions. The frame control board 82 and the launch control board 83 are connected so that they can output control information in both directions. The frame control board 82 of the pachinko game machine 10 and the CU control board 120 of the management 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 outside the machine, converts the input voltage into a predetermined voltage, and supplies the voltage to the production control board 81 and the frame control board 82. The power supplied to the frame control board 82 is further supplied to the game control board 80 and the launch control board 83. The power supply unit 99 supplies power to the supply solenoid 63b, firing solenoid 66a, 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 game control board 80 will be explained in detail.
As shown in FIG. 10, the game control board 80 includes a CPU 80a, a ROM 80b, a RAM 80c, and a random number generation circuit 80d. The CPU 80a executes processing related to the progress of the game by executing the main control program. The ROM 80b stores a main control program, determination values used for various determinations and lottery selections, tables, and the like. The ROM 80b stores multiple 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 80c stores various information that is rewritten according to the processing results of the CPU 80a. For example, the information stored in the RAM 80c includes flags, counters, timers, and the like. The random number generation circuit 80d generates hardware random numbers. The game control board 80 may be configured to be able to generate software random numbers through random number generation processing by the CPU 80a.

The game control board 80 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 80a can input detection signals output by each of the sensors D11 to D15 when they detect a game ball. The game control board 80 is connected to each display section 21a to 21f. The CPU 80a can control the display contents of each of the display sections 21a to 21f. The game control board 80 is connected to each solenoid SL1, SL2. The CPU 80a can control the opening mode of the second starting port 23B and the big winning port 23C by controlling the operation of each solenoid SL1, SL2.

The production control board 81 will be explained in detail.
The production control board 81 includes a CPU 81a, a ROM 81b, and a RAM 81c. The CPU 81a performs processing related to presentation by executing a sub-control program. The ROM 81b stores a sub-control program, determination values used in a predetermined lottery, and the like. The ROM 81b 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 81c stores various information that is rewritten during the operation of the pachinko gaming machine 10. For example, the information stored in the RAM 81c includes flags, counters, timers, and the like. The production control board 81 is configured to be able to generate software random numbers through random number generation processing by the CPU 81a. The production control board 81 may include a random number generation circuit and be capable of generating hardware random numbers.

The effect control board 81 is connected to the effect display section 19. The CPU 81a can control the display content of the effect display section 19. The performance control board 81 is connected to the performance audio section 12. The CPU 81a can control the output content of the performance audio section 12. The effect control board 81 is connected to the effect light emitting section 14. The CPU 81a can control the light emission mode of the effect light emitting section 14.

The frame control board 82 will be explained in detail.
As shown in FIG. 9, the frame control board 82 includes a CPU 82a, a ROM 82b, a RAM 82c, a performance display monitor 82d, a ball removal switch 82e, an error release switch 82f, a game ball clear switch 82g, a RAM clear switch 82h, a backup power supply 82j, and a backup It includes a circuit 82k and a launch permission circuit 82m. The CPU 82a performs processing related to the operation of the components mounted on the mounting frame 11b by executing the frame control program. The ROM 82b stores frame control programs and the like. The RAM 82c stores various information that is rewritten during the operation of the pachinko gaming machine 10. For example, the information stored in the RAM 82c includes flags, counters, timers, and the like.

The performance display monitor 82d 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 section 65. The base value is determined by the calculation formula: "Total number of prize balls acquired during normal games ÷ Total number of effective balls during normal games x 100." The performance display monitor 82d is an example of a means capable of displaying information regarding the performance (base as an example) of the game ball.

The ball removal switch 82e is an example of a means that is operated to bring about a state (hereinafter referred to as a ball removal state) in which game balls inside the pachinko game machine 10 can be ejected to the outside of the machine. The ball removal state is a state in which game balls can be ejected from the distribution mechanism 29. The ball removal switch 82e outputs a ball removal signal when pressed. The ball removal signal is turned on when the ball removal switch 82e is pressed, and turned off when the ball removal switch 82e is not pressed. The ball removal signal is output to the CPU 82a.

The error release switch 82f is an example of a means that is operated when a predetermined error is set to release the error setting after the cause of the error is removed. Error setting is performed when the error is detected. The error release switch 82f outputs an error release signal when pressed. The error release signal is turned on when the error release switch 82f is pressed, and turned off when the error release switch 82f is not pressed. The error release signal is output to the CPU 82a.

The game ball clear switch 82g is an example of a means operated to initialize the second management ball number PB (hereinafter referred to as second management ball number information) stored as data in the RAM 82c to zero. The game ball clear switch 82g outputs a game ball clear signal when pressed. The game ball clear signal is turned on when the game ball clear switch 82g is pressed, and turned off when the game ball clear switch 82g is not pressed. The game ball clear signal is output to the CPU 82a.

The RAM clear switch 82h is a switch operated when initializing the information stored in the RAM 80c and the information stored in the RAM 82c (hereinafter referred to as RAM clear). The RAM clear switch 82h outputs a RAM clear signal when pressed. The RAM clear signal is turned on when the RAM clear switch 82h is pressed, and turned off when the RAM clear switch 82h is not pressed. The RAM clear signal is output to the CPU 82a and also to the game control board 80 (CPU 80a).

The backup power supply 82j supplies backup power to the game control board 80 (RAM80c) in addition to the RAM82c even if the power supply from the outside is cut off. In the following description, cutting off the power supply from the outside may be referred to as power off. As an example, the backup power source 82j is a power storage device that stores power using external power supply. By receiving backup power from the backup power source 82j, the RAMs 80c and 82c can retain the stored contents of the RAMs 80c and 82c even after the power is turned off. In other words, the pachinko gaming machine 10 is equipped with a backup function. The present invention is not limited to this, but one or both of the RAMs 80c and 82c is a non-volatile memory that can retain stored contents even when the power supply is stopped, so that information can be retained even after the power is turned off. Good too.

Information that can be stored in the RAM 80c 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 errors.

Information that can be stored in the RAM 82c and that can be backed up includes second management ball count information, gaming information, and performance information. The second number of managed pitches information is information that can specify the second number of managed pitches PB. The game information is information notified from the game control board 80 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.

When the power supply voltage supplied from the power supply unit 99 falls below the specified voltage, the backup circuit 82k outputs a power-off detection signal to the CPU 82a and also outputs it to the CPU 80a of the game control board 80. The launch permission circuit 82m outputs to the launch control board 83 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 82 is connected to the counting operation section 18 . The CPU 82a is configured to be able to input the count signal output from the count operation section 18. The frame control board 82 includes a radio wave sensor D16, a first door opening switch D17, a second door opening 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 the ball clogging monitoring sensor D27. Further, the frame control board 82 is connected to a conveyance entrance sensor D28, a conveyance exit sensor D29, and an out sensor D30. The CPU 82a 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 conveyance entrance signal, a conveyance exit signal, and an out signal can be input. The frame control board 82 outputs a first door open signal and a second door open signal to the game control board 80.

The frame control board 82 is connected to the upper stopper motor 43b. The CPU 82a can turn on the upper stopper 43a by controlling the upper stopper motor 43b. The frame control board 82 is connected to the lower stopper motor 44b. The CPU 82a can turn on the lower stopper 44a by controlling the lower stopper motor 44b. The frame control board 82 is connected to an upper replenishment sensor D48 and a lower replenishment sensor D49. The CPU 82a can input detection signals output by each replenishment sensor D48, D49 when detecting a game ball.

The frame control board 82 is connected to the notification audio section 13. The CPU 82a can control the output content of the notification audio section 13. The frame control board 82 is connected to the second pitch count display section 17. The CPU 82a is configured to be able to control the display content of the second pitch count display section 17. The frame control board 82 is connected to the maintenance section 55. The CPU 82a is configured to be able to control maintenance operations of the maintenance section 55. The frame control board 82 is connected to the transport section 52 (transport motor 52a). The CPU 82a is configured to be able to control the transport operation of the transport unit 52. Frame control board 82 is connected to supply solenoid 63b. The CPU 82a can displace the movable piece 63a by controlling the supply of electricity to the supply solenoid 63b. That is, the CPU 82a is configured to be able to control the operation of supplying game balls by the supply unit 61.

The frame control board 82 is connected to the management unit 100. The CPU 82a is configured to be able to receive various messages transmitted by the CU control board 120. Note that the connection signal output by the management unit 100 is input from the connection terminal board 98 to the firing permission circuit 82m without passing through the CPU 82a. A firing stop signal output from the game control board 80 and an error signal output from the CPU 82a are also input to the firing permission circuit 82m.

The launch control board 83 includes a launch control circuit 83a for controlling the operation of the launch unit 65. The firing control circuit 83a outputs a drive signal to the firing solenoid 66a based on control signals input from the frame control board 82 and signals input from sensors and switches.

The firing control board 83 is connected to the touch sensor D01, the firing stop switch D02, and the handle volume D03. The firing control circuit 83a is configured to be able to input touch signals, stop signals, and volume signals output from these switches and sensors. The firing control board 83 is connected to the firing solenoid 66a. When the firing control circuit 83a outputs a drive signal to the firing solenoid 66a, the firing solenoid 66a is driven, and the firing hammer 66 hits the game ball. That is, the firing control board 83 is configured to be able to control the firing operation of the game ball by the firing section 65.

The firing control circuit 83a 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 82 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 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 82 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 66a 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. Thereby, the firing solenoid 66a 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 83a outputs the subtraction reference signal to the frame control board 82 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 processing executed by the frame control board 82 (CPU 82a) will be explained.
The frame side power-off processing will be explained.
When the CPU 82a receives the power-off detection signal output from the backup circuit 82k, the CPU 82a executes the power-off process. In the power-off process, the CPU 82a calculates the checksum value of the RAM 82c and stores the calculated checksum value in the RAM 82c. Further, the CPU 82a causes the RAM 82c to store information (hereinafter referred to as a backup flag) that can specify that the power-off process has been executed normally. After that, the CPU 82a waits until the power is completely turned off. Various information stored in the RAM 82c 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 CPU 82a is activated when the power is turned on and the voltage supplied to the frame control board 82 reaches the voltage necessary for the operation of the CPU 82a, the CPU 82a executes the frame side ball extraction process. In the frame side ball removal process, the CPU 82a determines whether conditions for transitioning to the ball removal state (hereinafter referred to as ball removal transition conditions) are satisfied.

As an example, the CPU 82a specifies whether the second number of managed pitches PB shown in the second number of managed pitches information is 0 or not. As an example, the CPU 82a specifies whether or not the ball removal switch 82e is operated, based on whether or not the ball removal signal is in an on state, until the operation effective period has elapsed. When the CPU 82a is activated upon power-on, the CPU 82a sets an operation validity period over a predetermined period. In other words, the operation validity period can be set for a predetermined period of time after power is turned on. The valid operation period may be a length such as 0.04 seconds that substantially requires turning on the power while operating the bulb removal switch 82e. The valid operation period is not limited to this, and may be a length such as 5 seconds that allows the administrator or the like to operate the bulb removal switch 82e after the power is turned on. The valid operation period is not limited to being set as a period measured by timer processing or the like, but may be simply set as a period from power-on to a predetermined determination timing.

The CPU 82a determines that the ball removal transition condition is satisfied when the second managed pitch count PB is 0 and the ball removal switch 82e is operated. The ball removal transition condition does not include the number of game balls inside the pachinko game machine 10. In other words, the state without balls can be shifted even if the number of game balls inside the machine is zero or less than a predetermined number. The CPU 82a determines that the ball removal transition condition is not satisfied when the second managed pitch count PB is not 0 or when the ball removal switch 82e is not operated. If the ball removal transition condition is not satisfied, the CPU 82a does not set the ball removal state and ends the frame side ball removal processing.

On the other hand, when the ball removal transition condition is satisfied, the CPU 82a causes the RAM 82c to store information that allows identification of the ball removal state. In other words, the CPU 82a sets the ball out state. In this way, the ball removal state can be shifted to when the ball removal switch 82e, which is an example of a ball removal operation section, is operated during a predetermined operational validity period. The details of the control in the ball-extracted state will be described later. Note that the bulb removal state cannot be canceled unless the power supply is cut off. When transitioning to the ball extraction state, the CPU 82a outputs control information (hereinafter referred to as a ball extraction start command) indicating the transition to the ball extraction state to the game control board 80. Note that the game control board 80 (CPU 80a) outputs a ball extraction start command to the production control board 81.

As shown in FIG. 11, in the bulb removal state, the CPU 82a monitors the state of the transport entrance signal that can be output from the transport entrance sensor D28 and the state of the transport exit signal that can be output from the transport exit sensor D29. The CPU 82a controls the operation of the transport motor 52a included in the transport unit 52 according to the state of the transport entrance signal and the state of the transport exit signal.

As an example, the CPU 82a operates the transport motor 52a in a situation where both the transport entrance signal and the transport exit signal are in an OFF state, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, assume that at time T1, the situation changes from a situation in which both the transport entrance signal and the transport exit signal are in an OFF state to a situation in which the transport entrance signal is in an ON state and the transport exit signal is in an OFF state. In this case, the CPU 82a may operate the transport motor 52a without providing a standby time. For convenience of explanation, the time from when this change in situation occurs until the transport motor 52a is activated may be referred to as a standby time t0. As an example, the waiting time t0 is 0, but a time exceeding 0 may be set.

At time T2, the transport motor 52a is in operation, the transport entrance signal is on, and the transport exit signal is off. Assume that the situation changes to an on state. At time T3, the CPU 82a stops the transport motor 52a when the ON state of the transport exit signal is maintained for a waiting time t1 (120 ms as an example). At time T4, the situation changes from the situation where the transport motor 52a is stopped and both the transport entrance signal and the transport exit signal are on, to the situation where the transport entrance signal is off and the transport exit signal is on. Suppose it has changed. In this case, the CPU 82a keeps the transport motor 52a stopped. At time T5, the transport motor 52a is stopped, the transport entrance signal is off, and the transport exit signal is on, and the transport entrance signal and the transport exit signal are both on. Suppose it has changed. In this case, the CPU 82a keeps the transport motor 52a stopped.

At time point T6, the transport motor 52a is stopped and the transport entrance signal and the transport exit signal are both in the on state, but the transport entrance signal is in the on state and the transport exit signal is in the off state. Suppose it has changed. At time T7, the CPU 82a operates the transport motor 52a when the OFF state of the transport exit signal is maintained for a waiting time t2 (30 ms as an example). Note that if the waiting time t3 (for example, 200 ms) has not elapsed since the conveyance entrance signal turned on before the waiting time t2 has elapsed since the conveyance exit signal turned off, the CPU 82a After the standby time t3 has elapsed, the transport motor 52a is activated.

At time T8, the transport motor 52a is in operation, the transport entrance signal is on, and the transport exit signal is off, to the situation where both the transport entrance signal and the transport exit signal are off. Suppose it has changed. At time T9, the CPU 82a stops the transport motor 52a when the OFF state of the transport entrance signal and the transport exit signal is maintained for a waiting time t4 (3000 ms as an example). In other words, it can be said that the CPU 82a stops the transport motor 52a when the specified time has elapsed without the transport entrance sensor D28 detecting the game ball collected from the game area 20a. At time T9, the CPU 82a outputs control information indicating completion of ball removal (hereinafter referred to as ball removal completion command) to the game control board 80. In addition, the game control board 80 (CPU80a) outputs a ball removal completion command to the performance control board 81. The CPU 82a specifies that the ball removal has been completed based on the fact that the conveyance entrance sensor D28 no longer detects the game balls collected from the game area 20a or the conveyance motor 52a has stopped.

As an example, the waiting times t0 to t4 are longer in the order of t0<t2<t1<t3<t4. The present invention is not limited to this, and the waiting times t0 to t4 may be set to different times from those in the above-described specific example, and their lengths may be changed. In the ball extraction state, the CPU 82a does not execute processing for detecting some of the various errors described below. In other words, in the state where the ball is removed, various sensors are disabled. Further, the CPU 82a does not communicate with the management unit 100 when the bulb is not in the state. That is, in the ball-less state, communication between the pachinko gaming machine 10 and the management unit 100 is disabled.

When the CPU 82a is activated upon power-on, it executes a communication check process. The communication check process is executed in parallel with the frame side ball extraction process.
In the communication check process, the CPU 82a determines whether startup information has been received from the game control board 80. As an example, 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 80a, the manufacturer of the CPU 80a, and the like. When the CPU 82a receives the startup information normally, it transmits the response information to the game control board 80. Thereafter, the CPU 82a ends the communication check process.

If the CPU 82a does not receive startup information within a predetermined period of time (for example, 3 minutes) after the power is turned on, the CPU 82a stores in the RAM 82c a flag that can identify the occurrence of an abnormal communication error within the gaming machine. In other words, the CPU 82a sets an abnormal communication error within the gaming machine. After that, the CPU 82a waits until it receives the startup information. When the CPU 82a normally receives startup information from the gaming control board 80 while setting the gaming machine internal communication abnormality error, the CPU 82a cancels the setting of the gaming machine internal communication abnormality error and ends the communication check process. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the CPU 82a may set an intra-gaming machine communication abnormality error when the reception of the startup information and the transmission of the 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 CPU 82a determines whether the backed up information is normal or not when the frame side ball extraction process is completed without setting the ball extraction state and the communication check process is terminated. Specifically, the CPU 82a determines whether a backup flag is stored in the RAM 82c. Further, the CPU 82a calculates the checksum value of the RAM 82c, and determines whether or not the calculated checksum value matches the checksum value calculated in the frame side power-off processing. The CPU 82a 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 82a initializes the second management ball count information and game information stored in the RAM 82c. At this time, the CPU 82a does not initialize the performance information. Thereafter, the CPU 82a returns based on the initialized or backed-up second management ball count information, game information, and performance information, and executes frame-side normal processing to be described later.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the backed up information is normal, the CPU 82a determines whether the game ball clear switch 82g is operated based on whether the game ball clear signal is in the on state. The CPU 82a initializes the second management ball number information stored in the RAM 82c when the game ball clear switch 82g is operated. At this time, the CPU 82a does not initialize the game information and performance information. The CPU 82a does not initialize the second management ball number information when the game ball clear switch 82g is not operated.

The CPU 82a determines whether the RAM clear switch 82h has been operated based on whether the RAM clear signal is in the on state. The CPU 82a initializes the game information stored in the RAM 82c when the RAM clear switch 82h is operated. At this time, the CPU 82a does not initialize the second management ball count information and performance information. The CPU 82a does not initialize the game information when the RAM clear switch 82h is not operated. In other words, the performance information is determined in either of the situations in which the second management ball number information is initialized in response to the operation of the game ball clear switch 82g, and in the situation in which the game information is initialized in response to the operation of the RAM clear switch 82h. Even if it exists, it will not be initialized. Thereafter, the CPU 82a returns based on the initialized or backed-up second management ball count information, game information, and performance information, and executes the frame side normal processing described later.

The frame side normal processing of the frame control board 82 will be explained.
Of the frame-side normal processing, the game information storage processing will be explained.
The game information generation process is a process for storing game information input from the game control board 80 in the RAM 82c. When the CPU 82a receives gaming information that allows the gaming state to be specified, the CPU 82a stores the gaming information in the RAM 82c. By referring to the game information stored in the RAM 82c, the CPU 82a can specify 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 82a generates information that allows identification of the input game information and stores it in the RAM 82c. Further, upon receiving the game information, the CPU 82a 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 82a 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 82a generates game information that can identify the occurrence of a starting opening winning (hereinafter referred to as starting opening winning information) or gaming information that can identify the occurrence of a normal 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 82c as one piece of performance information. When the CPU 82a 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 82c as one piece of performance information. The CPU 82a 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 82a may count the total number of prize balls obtained and the total number of valid balls in one minute intervals, and calculate the base value every minute. The CPU 82a may count the total number of prize balls obtained every time the total number of valid balls reaches a predetermined number, and calculate the base value every time the total number of valid balls reaches a predetermined number. As an example, the predetermined number may be 60,000 balls, or may be the maximum number (for example, 100 balls) that can be fired by the firing unit 65 per minute. The CPU 82a controls the performance display monitor 82d to display information that allows identification of the calculated base value.

The CPU 82a may be configured to calculate the accessory ratio and the continuous accessory ratio as performance information and display them on the performance display monitor 82d. 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 23B in normal winning games (normal electric accessory activation), and the total number of prize balls acquired through jackpot games (special electric accessory activation). This is the sum of the total number of prize balls won by winning into the prize opening 23C. 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 23C in the jackpot game.

The second management ball count information generation process of the frame side normal process will be explained.
The second managed pitch number information generation process is a process for generating (managing) the second managed pitch number PB. When the CPU 82a receives the number of award balls information from the game control board 80, the CPU 82a adds the number of award balls that can be specified from the number of award balls information to the second management ball number PB. Acquired prize ball number information is control information that is output by the game control board 80 when the conditions for awarding the 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 as possible. Upon receiving the grant information from the management unit 100, the CPU 82a adds the number of balls to be awarded indicated in the grant information to the second number of managed pitches PB. When the CPU 82a detects that one game ball has been supplied to the firing section 65 based on the supply entrance signal output by the supply entrance sensor D22, it subtracts the second managed ball number PB. As an example, the CPU 82a 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. As a result, the electromagnetically managed game balls (second number of managed balls PB) are converted into real balls.

However, the CPU 82a is not limited to this, and may subtract the second managed ball number PB by driving the firing solenoid 66a. The configuration may be such that the second number of managed pitches PB is sometimes subtracted. In this way, the second managed ball number PB is subtracted in relation to at least one of the firing operation by the firing section 65 and the supplying operation by the supplying section 61. The second managed ball number information generation process is an example of ball management control that manages the second managed ball number PB, which is an example of the number of balls held by the player. When the second management ball count information generation process is executed, even if the ball removal switch 82e is operated, the operation does not proceed to the ball removal state because the operation is not valid.

The second managed pitch count information generation process is executed as a frame-side normal process, but cannot be executed in a state where no balls are taken. When the player is out of balls, ball management control is disabled. Even if a game ball enters a predetermined winning hole when the ball is out, the prize balls that should be added unless the ball is out are not added to the second management ball number PB. Furthermore, as will be described later, when the ball is out, it may become possible to shoot the game ball. However, when the ball is out, the second managed ball number PB is not subtracted even if a game ball is fired. That is, in the ball extraction state, the game ball firing operation can be grasped as part of the ball extraction work.

When the CPU 82a is in a counting enabled state, when a counting signal is input from the counting operation section 18, the CPU 82a transmits counting information that can specify the number of balls to be counted to the management unit 100. The CPU 82a subtracts the number of counted pitches that can be specified from the counting information from the second number of managed pitches PB. The CPU 82a may output the count information after subtracting the second number of managed pitches PB, or may output the count information and then subtract the second number of managed pitches PB. As an example, the countable state is a state in which necessary power is supplied and the second managed ball number PB is not zero. When the CPU 82a is in the counting enabled state, the CPU 82a controls the light emitter built in the counting notification section 18a so that the counting notification section 18a lights up. Management of the second management ball count PB is transferred from the pachinko gaming machine 10 to the management unit 100 by transmitting counting information to the management unit 100. As described above, while the second managed pitch count information generation process is executed as a frame-side normal process, it cannot be executed in a state where a ball is removed. In other words, when the ball is out, the operation of the counting operation section 18, which is an example of an operation related to the ball held, is invalid.

The CPU 82a controls the second pitch number display section 17 to display information that can specify the updated second management pitch number PB that has been added or subtracted. The second pitch count display section 17 also serves as a device capable of displaying information that can identify errors set (detected) on the frame control board 82.

The error setting process and error notification process of the frame side normal process will be explained.
As shown in FIG. 12, the error setting process is a process for detecting the occurrence of an error. As an example, in the error setting process, the errors that can be detected by the frame control board 82 (CPU 82a) include an unauthorized radio wave detection error, a supply inlet sensor abnormality error, an ejection ball passage abnormality error, an insufficient number of circulating balls error, and an excessive number of circulating balls error. , including abnormal number of winnings errors, and door opening errors. Further, the error notification process is a process for notifying the error in a predetermined notification mode when an error 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 game control board 80 (CPU 80a) will be explained.
The panel side power-off processing will be explained.
When the CPU 80a receives a power-off detection signal from the frame control board 82 (backup circuit 82k), it executes a power-off process. In the board-side power-off process, the CPU 80a outputs a firing stop signal to the frame control board 82. The CPU 80a calculates the checksum value of the RAM 80c and stores the calculated checksum value in the RAM 80c. Further, the CPU 80a causes the RAM 80c to store information (hereinafter referred to as a backup flag) that can specify that the power-off process has been executed normally. After that, the CPU 80a waits until the power is completely turned off. Various information stored in the RAM 80c when the power is turned off is retained even after the power is turned off by the backup function described above.

The panel side power-on process will be explained.
The CPU 80a prohibits timer interrupt processing when the supply voltage to the game control board 80 reaches the voltage necessary for the operation of the CPU 80a and starts with power-on. Subsequently, the CPU 80a executes communication confirmation processing.

In the communication confirmation process, the CPU 80a transmits startup information to the frame control board 82. The CPU 80a transmits the startup information to the frame control board 82 when a predetermined time (108 ms as an example) has elapsed without receiving response information after transmitting the startup information. Thereafter, if the CPU 80a does not receive response information from the frame control board 82, the CPU 80a transmits startup information to the frame control board 82 every predetermined period of time. 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 80a detects an abnormal communication error within the game machine when the number of times the start-up information is transmitted reaches a specified number (10 times as an example), and stores information that can identify the occurrence of the abnormal communication error within the game machine in the RAM 80c. In other words, the CPU 80a sets an error related to the communication abnormality within the gaming machine. When the CPU 80a sets the gaming machine communication abnormality error, it outputs control information (hereinafter referred to as gaming machine communication abnormality command) that can identify the occurrence of the gaming machine communication abnormality error to the production control board 81. After that, the CPU 80a waits until the power is turned off. In this embodiment, the time required for the frame control board 82 to detect an abnormal communication error within the gaming machine (for example, 3 minutes) is the time required for the gaming control board 80 to detect an abnormal communication error within the gaming machine (for example, 3 minutes). (1080ms). Upon receiving the response information to the startup information, the CPU 80a determines that the communication line is normal. In this case, the CPU 80a ends the communication confirmation process.

Moreover, when the CPU 80a is activated upon power-on, the CPU 80a executes a board-side ball extraction process. The board side ball removal process is executed in parallel with the communication confirmation process.
In the board-side ball extraction process, the CPU 80a determines whether or not a ball extraction start command has been input from the frame control board 82. If the ball extraction start command has not been input, the CPU 80a ends the board side ball extraction process without setting the ball extraction state. When the ball removal start command is input, the CPU 80a detects the ball removal state and stores information that can identify the occurrence of the ball removal state in the RAM 80c. In other words, the CPU 80a sets the ball removal state. When the CPU 80a sets the ball extraction state, it outputs a ball extraction start command to the production control board 81 as control information that allows the transition to the ball extraction state to be specified. After that, the CPU 80a waits until the power is turned off. During standby, when the CPU 80a inputs a ball extraction completion command, it outputs control information (hereinafter referred to as a ball extraction completion command) that can specify the completion of ball extraction to the production control board 81. In this way, an abnormal communication error within the gaming machine can be detected using both the period in which the ball is not drawn and the period in which the ball is not drawn as a confirmation period.

The CPU 80a determines whether the backed up information is normal or not when the board side ball extraction process is completed without setting the ball extraction state and the communication confirmation process is terminated. The CPU 80a determines whether a backup flag is stored in the RAM 80c. The CPU 80a calculates the checksum value of the RAM 80c, and determines whether the calculated checksum value matches the checksum value calculated in the power-off process. The CPU 80a 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 the backed up information is determined to be abnormal, the CPU 80a initializes the main information stored in the RAM 80c. The CPU 80a outputs to the production control board 81 a control command (hereinafter referred to as an initialization command) that can specify that various types of information have been initialized. Thereafter, the CPU 80a ends the panel side power-on process.

When determining that the backed up information is normal, the CPU 80a determines whether a RAM clear signal is input from the frame control board 82 (RAM clear switch 87). When the RAM clear signal is input, the CPU 80a initializes the main information stored in the RAM 80c. In this case, the CPU 80a outputs an initialization command to the production control board 81. On the other hand, if the RAM clear signal is not input, the CPU 80a outputs to the effect control board 81 a control command (hereinafter referred to as a power restoration command) that can specify that the power will be restored based on the backed up main information. Thereafter, the CPU 80a ends the panel side power-on process.

When the CPU 80a completes the board-side power-on processing, the CPU 80a permits timer interrupt processing. In other words, the CPU 80a can execute processing for advancing the game (hereinafter referred to as board-side normal processing). If the main information has been initialized, the board-side normal processing is executed based on the initialized main information. In other words, the CPU 80a is based on the state that both the first special pending number and the second special pending number are zero, the first special game and the second special game are not being executed, and no jackpot game has been awarded. Then, various processes included in the normal processing on the board side are executed. If the main information has not been initialized, the board side normal processing is executed based on the backed up main information. In other words, 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 CPU 80a causes the special game to be 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 80a 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 among the board side normal processes will be explained.

The CPU 80a determines whether the game ball has entered the first starting port 23A 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 23A, the CPU 80a determines whether the first pending number stored in the RAM 80c is less than the upper limit number (4 in this embodiment). If the first number of reservations is less than the upper limit number, the CPU 80a updates the first number of reservations by adding one. Subsequently, the CPU 80a controls the first reservation display section 21c to display information that allows identification of the updated first reservation number. 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 80a obtains a random number generated by the random number generation circuit 80d, and stores random number information based on the obtained random number in the RAM 80c. 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 80a stores the random number information so that it is possible to specify that the random number information is for the first special game and to specify the storage order of the random number information. 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.

When the random number information for the first special game is stored in the RAM 80c, when the game ball has not entered the first starting port 23A, and when the first reserved number is not less than the upper limit number, the CPU 80a stores the second special game random number information in the RAM 80c. 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 23B. When the game ball has entered the second starting port 23B, the CPU 80a determines whether the second pending number stored in the RAM 80c is less than the upper limit number (4 in this embodiment). When the second pending number is less than the upper limit number, the CPU 80a updates the second pending number by adding one. The CPU 80a controls the second suspension display section 21d to display information that allows identification of the second suspension number after addition. 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 80a acquires a random number generated within the game control board 80, and stores random number information based on the acquired random number in the RAM 80c. The CPU 80a 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 random number information used for a special game in the RAM 80c, the pachinko gaming machine 10 can suspend execution of the special game until the start conditions for the special game are satisfied. When the random number information for the second special game is stored in the RAM 80c, when the game ball has not entered the second starting port 23B, and when the second pending number is not less than the upper limit number, the CPU 80a stores the special symbol Finish input processing.

The special symbol start process among the board side normal processes will be explained.
First, the CPU 80a determines whether the special game starting conditions are met. The CPU 80a makes an affirmative determination when the jackpot game is not in progress and a special game is not in progress, while making a negative determination when the jackpot game or special game is in progress. If the special game start conditions are not met, the CPU 80a ends the special symbol start process. If the special game start condition is satisfied, the CPU 80a determines whether the second pending number is greater than zero. If the second number of reservations is zero, the CPU 80a determines whether the first number of reservations is greater than zero. When the first pending number is zero, the CPU 80a ends the special symbol start process.

If the first pending number is greater than zero, the CPU 80a performs processing to execute the first special game. Specifically, the CPU 80a subtracts 1 from the first pending number and updates it. The CPU 80a controls the first suspension display section 21c to display information that allows identification of the first suspension number after subtraction. The CPU 80a acquires the first stored random number information from the RAM 80c among the random number information for the first special game. The CPU 80a 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 80a 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 80a performs jackpot fluctuation processing. In the jackpot variation process, the CPU 80a performs a jackpot symbol lottery using the winning symbol random numbers that can be specified from the random number information, and determines the jackpot symbol to be stopped and displayed in the first special game. The CPU 80a 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 80a ends the special symbol start process.

If the jackpot is not won, the CPU 80a performs a loss variation process. In the losing variation process, the CPU 80a determines losing symbols to be stopped and displayed in the first special game. The CPU 80a 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 80a ends the special symbol start process.

If the second pending number is greater than zero, the CPU 80a 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 80a completes the special symbol start process after performing any of the fluctuation processes based on the result of the subtraction of the second pending number, the jackpot lottery, and the jackpot lottery.

The CPU 80a outputs a fluctuation start command and a special symbol command to the production control board 81 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 determined in each variation process. 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 80a causes the first special game or the second special game to be executed by a process different from the special symbol start process. As an example, when executing the first special game, the CPU 80a controls the first special symbol display section 21a to start variable display of predetermined symbols. The CPU 80a measures the variation time defined in the variation pattern. The CPU 80a controls the first special symbol display section 21a to stop displaying the special symbol determined in the special symbol start process when the variation time defined in the variation pattern has elapsed. Further, when the variation time set in the variation pattern has elapsed, the CPU 80a 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 81. The control details when executing the second special game are as follows: "First special game" is changed to "Second special game" and "First special symbol display section 21a" is changed to "Second special symbol display section". 21b". In the pachinko gaming machine 10, the CPU 80a executes special symbol input processing and special symbol start processing to perform a winning lottery when a game ball enters the starting hole, and to play a symbol variation game based on the result of the winning lottery. is configured to be executable.

The jackpot game process among the board side normal processes will be explained.
The jackpot game process is a process for awarding a jackpot game. When the CPU 80a stops displaying the jackpot symbols in the special game, the CPU 80a executes the jackpot game process after the special jackpot game ends. The CPU 80a specifies the type of jackpot game based on the jackpot symbol (type of jackpot) determined in the special symbol start process. The CPU 80a is configured to award a specified type of jackpot game.

First, the CPU 80a outputs to the effect control board 81 a control command (hereinafter referred to as an opening command) that can specify the start of the opening time. When the opening time has elapsed, the CPU 80a performs processing for executing the round game. As an example, the CPU 80a controls the special solenoid SL2 using the specified opening control data for the jackpot game, and opens the jackpot opening 23C. The CPU 80a controls the special solenoid SL2 to close the big prize opening 23C 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 80a 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 80a 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 81. When the final round game ends, the CPU 80a 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 81. When the ending time elapses, the CPU 80a ends the jackpot game. The CPU 80a may output 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 81.

Among the board-side normal processing, the state transition processing will be explained.
When the CPU 80a finishes the jackpot game based on the first jackpot symbol among the jackpot symbols, the CPU 80a sets a high certainty flag in the RAM 80c. In other words, the CPU 80a controls to a high probability state. After the jackpot game based on the first jackpot symbol ends, the CPU 80a does not erase the probability change flag until the next jackpot game is awarded. On the other hand, when the CPU 80a finishes the jackpot game based on the second jackpot symbol different from the first jackpot symbol, the CPU 80a does not set the high certainty flag in the RAM 80c. In other words, the CPU 80a controls to a low probability state. When starting a jackpot game and the high probability flag is set, the CPU 80a erases the high probability flag. That is, the CPU 80a controls the game to a low probability state during the jackpot game.

When the jackpot game based on the first jackpot symbol or the second jackpot symbol ends, the CPU 80a sets an activation flag in the RAM 80c. In other words, the CPU 80a controls the ball to a high ball entry rate state. After the end of the jackpot game based on the second jackpot symbol, the CPU 80a updates the value of the execution counter stored in the RAM 80c every time the special game is started, thereby increasing the number of executions of the special game after the end of the jackpot game. Count. When the special game in which the number of executions of the special game after the end of the jackpot game reaches the number of activations is completed, the CPU 80a erases the activation flag stored in the RAM 80c. That is, after the end of the jackpot game based on the second jackpot symbol, the CPU 80a controls to a low ball entry rate state when the special game for the number of times of activation ends. Note that the CPU 80a 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 80a erases the activation flag. That is, the CPU 80a controls the ball into a low ball entry rate state during the jackpot game.

Various processes executed by the production control board 81 (CPU 81a) will be explained.
The performance power restoration process will be explained.
When the initialization command is input, the CPU 81a controls a part or all of the production section constituting the production device ES, and causes RAM clear notification (initialization notification) to be executed. As an example, the RAM clear notification is executed in such a manner that the performance audio unit 12 outputs a sound that can identify the execution of RAM clear, such as a person's voice reading out the character string "RAM clear". As an example, the RAM clear notification is executed in such a manner that the effect light emitting unit 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 identify execution of RAM clearing, such as a character string "RAM clear", is displayed on the effect display section 19. The CPU 81a controls the production device ES to end the RAM clear notification when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the RAM clear notification. Moreover, when the initialization command is input, the CPU 81a controls the effect display section 19 to display a combination of a predetermined background image and a predetermined effect pattern.

When the CPU 81a inputs the power restoration command, it controls part or all of the production section constituting the performance device ES, and causes the power restoration notification to be executed. As an example, the restoration notification is executed in such a manner that a voice that can identify the execution of RAM clearing is output from the performance audio section 12, such as a person's voice reading out the character string "The power is being restored." As an example, the return notification is executed in such a manner that the effect light emitting unit 14 emits 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, such as a character string "The power is being restored", is displayed on the effect display section 19. The CPU 81a controls the production device 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 81a may have a configuration in which the return notification is not executed. Moreover, when the CPU 81a inputs the power restoration command, it controls the performance display unit 19 to display a predetermined background image and a combination of performance symbols different from the above-described combination of predetermined performance 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 81a controls the production device ES to execute the opening production. Upon receiving the round command, the CPU 81a controls the production device ES to execute the round production. Upon receiving the ending start command, the CPU 81a controls the effect device ES to execute the ending effect. Upon receiving the ending end command, the CPU 81a controls the effect device 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 81a controls the production device ES including the production display section 19 to execute the production game. Specifically, upon receiving the variation start command, the CPU 81a 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 81a determines a symbol combination to be stopped and displayed in the performance 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 81a determines the jackpot symbol combination. When the CPU 81a can specify the missing symbol from the special symbol command, the CPU 81a determines the missing symbol combination. In addition, when the CPU 81a executes the ready-to-win effect, the CPU 81a determines the winning symbol combination including the ready-to-win effect.

The CPU 81a controls the effect display unit 19 to start variable display of effect symbols in each symbol row in response to input of the variation start command. In other words, the CPU 81a starts the performance game. Further, when executing a predetermined effect in connection with the effect game, the CPU 81a controls the effect device ES including the effect display section 19 to execute the effect. The CPU 81a causes the symbol combination to be temporarily stopped and displayed when a predetermined timing arrives after starting the performance game, and also causes the symbol combination to be definitively stopped and displayed upon input of the variation end command. Note that the CPU 81a 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, various processes performed by the CPU 82a of the frame control board 82 by inputting signals from various sensors and switches will be described.
The circulating ball count monitoring process of the frame side normal process will be explained.

When the CPU 82a detects that one game ball has been supplied to the firing section 65 based on the supply entrance signal output by the supply entrance sensor D22, it subtracts the number of circulating balls. The number of circulating balls is stored in the RAM 82c. The number of circulating balls is set to the specified number of circulating balls N as the initial number of balls. As an example, the CPU 82a detects that one game ball has been supplied when the supply entrance signal changes from the off state to the on state to the off state.

The invention is not limited to this, and the CPU 82a may subtract the second managed ball number PB according to the drive of the firing solenoid 66a. The configuration may be such that the second number of managed pitches PB is subtracted when detected. The CPU 82a may be configured to subtract the number of circulating balls when it detects that one game ball has been supplied to the firing section 65 based on the supply exit signal output by the supply exit sensor D23. That is, the number of circulating balls is subtracted in relation to at least one of the firing operation by the firing section 65 and the supplying operation by the supplying section 61.

The CPU 82a determines whether one game ball returns to the distribution mechanism 29 (supply section 61) based on the winning path signal output by the winning path count sensor D25 and the non-winning path signal output by the non-winning path count sensor D26. When this is detected, the number of circulating balls is added. As an example, the CPU 82a detects that one game ball has returned when the winning path signal or the non-winning path signal transitions from the off state to the on state to the off state. When the CPU 82a detects that one game ball has returned to the distribution mechanism 29 (supply section 61) based on the foul signal output by the foul sensor D21, it adds up the number of circulating balls. As an example, when the foul signal transitions from off state to on state to off state, the CPU 82a detects that one game ball has returned.

The process for detecting errors will be explained.
As shown in FIG. 12, the frame control board 82 (CPU 82a) can perform detection control to detect a predetermined error based on the detection results of various sensors by executing an error setting process. Detection control is limited when the ball is out. The error setting process is one of the frame side normal processes. The frame control board 82 (CPU 82a) is an example of an error detection unit that detects errors.

The CPU 82a sets a corresponding error when the conditions shown in the "Detection Condition" column in the figure are satisfied. In the following description, when an error is referred to as "set", it means that information (for example, a flag) that can identify the error is stored in the RAM 82c. The CPU 82a cancels the setting of the corresponding error when the conditions shown in the "cancellation condition" column in the figure are satisfied. When an error is indicated as "cancelling the setting", it means that information (for example, a flag) that can identify the error is erased from the RAM 82c. The CPU 82a monitors the success or failure of the detection condition for the corresponding error in the section shown in the "confirmation section" column in the figure. Hereinafter, some errors among the plurality of types of errors shown in FIG. 12 will be explained in detail.

The detection condition for the abnormal communication error within the game machine is that the communication between the game control board 80 and the frame control board 82 is not performed normally. In addition to the communication confirmation process when the power is turned on, the CPU 80a also performs the process of detecting an abnormal communication error within the gaming machine as one of the board-side normal processes. In addition to the communication check process when the power is turned on, the CPU 82a performs a process of detecting a communication abnormality error within the gaming machine as one of the board-side normal processes. The CPU 80a and the CPU 82a set an unauthorized intra-gaming machine communication error when a detection condition for an abnormal communication error within the gaming machine is established. The cancellation condition for the abnormal communication error within the game machine is that the communication is performed normally. When the communication becomes normal, the CPU 80a and the CPU 82a cancel the setting of the abnormal communication error within the gaming machine. An abnormal communication error within the gaming machine is detected as a confirmation period both during the ball-pulling state and in a state other than the ball-pulling state. As an example, an abnormal communication error within a gaming machine is always detected from when the power is turned on until the power is turned off.

The discharge ball passage abnormality error occurs when a state in which only the out sensor D30 detects the on state among the out sensor D30, the ball clogging monitoring sensor D27, and the conveyance entrance sensor D28 is maintained for a predetermined period of time (5 seconds as an example). is the detection condition. In such a situation, there is a high possibility that ball clogging has occurred near the out sensor D30. When such a detection condition is satisfied, the CPU 82a sets an ejection ball passage abnormality error.

The release condition for the discharge ball passage abnormality error is that the error release switch 82f is operated. When the error release switch 82f is operated, the CPU 82a releases the setting of the ejection ball passage abnormality error. Even if the setting of the ejected ball path abnormality error is canceled, if the ball clogging in the collection mechanism 30 is not resolved, the ejected ball path abnormality error is reset after a predetermined time has elapsed. The ejection ball passage abnormality error is detected as a confirmation period other than during the ball removal state.

The detection condition for the error of insufficient number of circulating balls is that the state of detecting the off state of the out sensor D30 and the ball clogging monitoring sensor D27 is maintained for a predetermined period of time (30 seconds as an example) in a non-gaming state. In the pachinko game machine 10, a conveyance entrance sensor D28, a ball jam monitoring sensor D27, and an out sensor D30 are provided in order from the side closest to the conveyance section 52 in the ball passage constituting the collection mechanism 30. A situation in which no game balls are detected by the ball jam monitoring sensor D27 and the out sensor D30 is a situation where the number of game balls circulating in the pachinko game machine 10 is less than the first specified number N1. A state in which no game is being played can be detected by the touch signal from the touch sensor D01 being in an off state.

When the above-mentioned detection conditions are satisfied, the CPU 82a sets an error of insufficient number of circulating balls. An error in the number of circulating balls is caused when the gaming state is maintained for a predetermined period of time (for example, 20 seconds) or when one or both of the out sensor D30 and the ball clogging monitoring sensor D27 are in the on state for a predetermined period of time (for example, 20 seconds). The release condition is that it is maintained for a period of 2 seconds). In other words, the release condition includes that the number of game balls circulating in the pachinko gaming machine 10 becomes equal to or greater than the first specified number N1. When such a cancellation condition is satisfied, the CPU 82a cancels the setting of the circulating ball count insufficient error. The error in the number of circulating balls is detected as a confirmation period other than during the ball removal state.

The detection condition for the excessive number of circulating balls error is that a state in which all of the out sensor D30, the ball clogging monitoring sensor D27, and the conveyance entrance sensor D28 detect the on state is maintained for a predetermined period of time (for example, 30 seconds). . A situation in which game balls are detected by the ball jam monitoring sensor D27 and out sensor D30 is a situation in which the number of game balls circulating in the pachinko game machine 10 exceeds the second specified number N2.

When the above-mentioned detection conditions are satisfied, the CPU 82a sets an error of excessive number of circulating balls. The excessive number of circulating balls error occurs when the state in which the out sensor D30 is in the OFF state and the ball clogging monitoring sensor D27 and the conveyance entrance sensor D28 are in the ON state is maintained for a predetermined period of time (for example, 2 seconds). is the cancellation condition. In other words, the release condition includes that the number of game balls circulating in the pachinko gaming machine 10 becomes equal to or less than the second specified number N2. When such a cancellation condition is satisfied, the CPU 82a cancels the setting of the excessive number of circulating balls error. The excessive number of circulating balls error is detected as a confirmation period other than during the ball removal state.

The under-number of circulating balls error and the over-number of circulating balls error are errors related to the specified number of circulating balls N, and are examples of specific errors. That is, when the specific error detection condition is satisfied, the specific error is set. The specific error detection condition is established when the number of game balls inside the machine is not a specified number or is not within a specified range. The prescribed circulation number N, which is an example of a predetermined number, is set to a number at which the specific error detection condition is not satisfied when game balls of the prescribed circulation number N are inside the machine. As described above, the number P2 of game balls that can stay in the supply passage 42a is within the specified range (the first specified number N1 or more and the second specified number N2 or less).

The detection condition for the door open error is that the off state of either the first door open switch D17 or the second door open switch D18 is detected. When the detection condition is satisfied, the CPU 82a sets a door open error. The release condition for the door opening error is that the ON state of both the first door opening switch D17 and the second door opening switch D18 is detected. When the CPU 82a detects the ON state of both the first door opening switch D17 and the second door opening switch D18, the CPU 82a cancels the door opening error setting. Whether or not a door opening error has occurred is detected during a period other than the bulb removal state.

The error notification process of the frame side normal process will be explained.
As shown in FIG. 12, when an error is set, the CPU 82a controls the second pitch count display section 17 to display an error code, which is an example of information that can identify the error being set. Good to control. The error code is information specific to the error. As an example, as shown in the "Error code" column in the figure, [E13] is used for an abnormal communication error within the gaming machine, [E14] is used for an abnormal supply inlet sensor error, and [E17] is used for an abnormal error in the ejection ball path. [E22] is set for the error of too many circulating balls, and [E23] is set for the error of too many circulating balls. As an example, [E00] is set as an error code when the ball is removed. Strictly speaking, the ball-out state is not an error, but it is an event that the administrator of the pachinko game machine 10 should be made aware of, so it is regarded as one of the errors and is notified. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the error code that can be displayed on the second pitch count display section 17 may not include the error code that indicates the ball-out state.

The CPU 82a controls the second pitch count display section 17 to alternately display the error code and the second managed pitch count. When multiple types of errors are set, the CPU 82a alternately displays the error code with the highest priority and the second managed ball count PB. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and when a plurality of types of errors are set, the CPU 82a may alternately display the error code and the second managed ball count PB while switching the error codes in order. The CPU 82a may be configured to display an error code when an error is set, but not to display the second number of managed pitches PB. Further, the CPU 82a may be configured to display the error code, the second managed pitch count PB, and the base value on the second pitch count display section 17 while switching them. When the error setting is canceled, the CPU 82a controls the second pitch count display section 17 so as to end displaying the error code indicating the error for which the setting has been canceled.

When an error is set, the CPU 82a preferably controls the performance display monitor 82d to display an error code indicating the error being set. That is, the error code can be displayed on both the second pitch count display section 17 and the performance display monitor 82d. The CPU 82a controls the performance display monitor 82d to alternately display error codes and base values (performance information). Error codes that can be displayed on the performance display monitor 82d include an error code that indicates a ball-out state. The present invention is not limited to this, and the error code that can be displayed on the performance display monitor 82d may not include the error code that indicates the ball is removed.

When multiple types of errors are set, the CPU 82a alternately displays the error code with the highest priority and the base value. The present invention is not limited to this, and the CPU 82a may be configured to alternately display the error code and the base value while switching the error code in order when multiple types of errors are set. The CPU 82a displays an error code when an error is set, but may have a configuration in which the base value is not displayed. Further, the CPU 82a may be configured to display the error code, the base value, and the second number of managed pitches PB on the performance display monitor 82d while switching them. When the error setting is canceled, the CPU 82a controls the performance display monitor 82d to end displaying the error code indicating the error for which the setting has been canceled.

In this way, the second pitch count display section 17 is a means for displaying the second managed pitch count PB, and also serves as a means for displaying an error code. The performance display monitor 82d is a means for displaying a base value and is also used as a means for displaying an error code. The CPU 82a starts displaying the error code on the performance display monitor 82d and displaying the error code on the second pitch count display section 17 at the same or substantially the same timing.

When an error is set, the CPU 82a may control the notification audio section 13 to output an error sound as an example of information that can identify the error being set. That is, the CPU 82a causes an audio notification (hereinafter referred to as error audio notification) to notify of an error during setting to be performed. As an example, the CPU 82a uses the notification audio section 13 to detect an illegal radio wave detection error, a supply inlet sensor abnormality error, an ejection ball passage abnormality error, an insufficient number of circulating balls error, an excessive number of circulating balls error, and an abnormal number of winning balls error. Targeted for notification. As an example, the CPU 82a does not use the notification audio section 13 to notify an abnormal communication error within a gaming machine or a door opening error. The audio pattern of the error audio notification has different contents depending on the type of error, and it is preferable that the audio pattern is such that the outline of the error being set can be specified. As an example, if the error is an unauthorized radio wave detection error, the error voice is the voice of a person who reads out the character string "Error code E10 has occurred. Please call a staff member."

When multiple types of errors are set, the CPU 82a causes an error voice notification to notify the error with the highest priority. The present invention is not limited to this, and the CPU 82a may be configured to sequentially switch and execute the error voice notification when multiple types of errors are set. When the error setting is canceled, the CPU 82a controls the notification audio section 13 to end the error audio notification indicating the error for which the setting has been canceled.

As an example, the CPU 82a does not make the notification sound unit 13 report the ball-out state. However, the CPU 82a is not limited to this, and the CPU 82a may make the notification sound section 13 notify the state of the ball being removed. As an example, the error sound output by the notification audio unit 13 may include information that can specifically identify that the ball is being removed, such as the voice of a person reading out the string ``The ball is being removed.'' But that's fine. As an example, the error sound output by the notification audio unit 13 may not include information that can specifically identify that the ball is out, such as a predetermined song or sound effect.

The plurality of types of errors include a first type error that can be detected as a confirmation period other than during the ball removal state, and a second type error that can be detected as a confirmation period during the ball removal state or other than the ball removal state. As an example, type 1 errors include an unauthorized radio wave detection error, a supply inlet sensor abnormality error, an ejection ball path abnormality error, an insufficient number of circulating balls error, an excessive number of circulating balls error, an abnormal number of winning balls error, and a door opening error. . As an example, the type 2 error is an abnormal communication error within the gaming machine. A type 1 error is not detected when the ball is removed, but may be detected when the ball is not removed. A type 2 error can be detected in a state where the ball is not drawn, and can also be detected in a state other than the state where the ball is not drawn.

Next, the operation when firing the game ball will be explained.
The firing and supply of game balls are realized by a combination of control of the supply section 61 by the frame control board 82 (CPU 80a) and control of the firing section 65 by the firing control board 83 (launch control circuit 83a). Hereinafter, a series of operations (hereinafter referred to as a firing sequence) executed by the firing control circuit 83a to fire the game ball and the processing of the frame control board 82 will be described in detail.

The operation of the launch control board 83 (launch control circuit 83a) will be explained.
The firing control circuit 83a repeatedly executes the firing sequence when the game ball firing conditions are met. The game ball firing conditions are established when all of the first to fourth conditions are satisfied. The first condition is satisfied by being in a firing permission state in which firing of game balls is permitted. The second condition is satisfied by being in a contact detection state in which the touch signal is turned on and contact with the firing operation section 15 is detected. The third condition is an operation detection state in which it is detected that the amount of operation of the firing operation section 15 (handle lever 15a) exceeds a predetermined amount because the voltage of the volume signal exceeds a threshold value. It is filled. The fourth condition is satisfied because the stop signal is in the OFF state and the game ball is in a non-stop state where no operation to stop the shooting of the game ball is detected.

In the firing sequence, the firing control circuit 83a first waits for a prescribed time t1 (37.5 ms as an example). When the prescribed time t1 has elapsed, the firing control circuit 83a supplies a drive current to the firing solenoid 66a in accordance with the firing timing pulse. The firing control circuit 83a sets the firing intensity by referring to the voltage of the volume signal. The holding circuit of the firing control circuit 83a newly holds the voltage value of the volume signal at this time. The firing control circuit 83a outputs the subtraction reference signal to the frame control board 82 at the timing of outputting the drive current. The firing control circuit 83a waits until a predetermined time t2 (562.5 ms as an example) has elapsed after outputting the drive current to the firing solenoid 66a. With the above, one firing sequence is completed. The firing period of the game ball is equal to the sum of the specified time t1 and the specified time t2. As an example, the firing period is 600ms. If the firing conditions are not met, the firing control circuit 83a does not execute the firing sequence. That is, the firing control circuit 83a does not output the drive current to the firing solenoid 66a, and does not output the subtraction reference signal to the frame control board 82. The present invention is not limited to this, and the firing control circuit 83a may perform a so-called "dry firing" by outputting a drive current to the firing solenoid 66a.

Control of the frame control board 82 (CPU 82a) will be explained.
When the subtraction reference signal transitions to the on state, the CPU 82a waits for a prescribed time t2a. The specified time t2a is a time equal to the driving time of the firing solenoid 66a (16 ms as an example). Next, the CPU 82a supplies a drive current to the supply solenoid 63b to drive the supply solenoid 63b. That is, the movable piece 63a performs one supply operation. When the movable piece 63a performs one supply operation, the first game ball among the game balls K lined up in a row in the entrance side passage 62a is discharged to the exit side passage 62b.

The ball extraction work in the pachinko game machine 10 will be explained.
It is preferable to carry out the ball removal operation in a state where the ball is removed. In the ball-missing state, a type 1 error that would be detected when the ball is not in the ball-missing state is not detected, a type 1 error is not set, and a type 1 error is not notified. In other words, the ball removed state can be said to be a state in which various sensors used for error detection are disabled except during the ball removed state, or a state in which the detection results of the various sensors are not accepted.

As described above, the collection mechanism 30 is configured by combining a passage that extends downward or a passage that slopes downward. That is, the winning passage 31, the non-winning passage 32, the foul passage 33, the merging passage 35, and the supply passage 37 are all passages that extend downward or are inclined downward. Therefore, when a game ball is received from the game board 20 into any of the receiving ports 30a to 30c, it can flow down the passage due to the action of gravity and finally reach the conveyance section 52. Adjacent to the supply passage 37, a portion where game balls can be detected by the conveyance entrance sensor D28 and the first ball extraction section 71 are lined up in this order on the upstream side of the conveyance section 52. Therefore, the game ball passes through the portion that can be detected by the conveyance entrance sensor D28 and the first ball extraction portion 71 in this order.

Assume that in the ball extraction state, a lever (not shown) of the first ball extraction part 71 is operated, and the opening/closing piece 71c is displaced to the open position. In the first connecting portion 71a, the ball removal hole 71b is open. As a result, the game balls in the first connecting portion 71a are discharged to the outside of the machine from the ball removal hole 71b. In addition, in the first ball extraction section 71, as the game balls are sequentially discharged out of the machine from the ball extraction hole 71b, the game balls in the passages 31 to 33, 35, and 37 that constitute the collection mechanism 30 are It moves forward toward the transport section 52. Finally, all the game balls in the passages 31 to 33, 35, and 37 are discharged to the outside of the machine through the ball extraction hole 71b which is in an open state.

It is also assumed that the lever (not shown) of the second ball removal part 72 is operated and the opening/closing piece 72c is displaced to the open position. In the second connecting portion 72a, the ball removal hole 72b is open. As a result, the game ball in the second connection portion 72a is discharged from the ball removal hole 72b to the ball removal passage 73. In addition, in the second connecting part 72a, as the game balls are sequentially discharged from the ball removing hole 72b to the ball removing passage 73, the game balls in the entrance side passage 62a move forward toward the second connecting part 72a. do. Further, in the ball removal state, the conveying section 52 is driven. That is, the game balls inside the transport section 52 are discharged to the entrance side passage 62a, and further advance toward the second connecting section 72a. Then, the game ball that has reached the second connecting portion 72a flows into the ball removal passage 73 from the ball removal hole 72b.

The ball removal passage 73 is configured by combining a passage that extends downward or a passage that slopes downward. Therefore, when the game ball flows into the ball extraction passage 73, it passes through the ball extraction passage 73 and reaches the first ball extraction part 71. If the ball extraction hole 71b is in an open state, the game ball is discharged from the ball extraction hole 71b to the outside of the machine. Finally, the game balls in the circulation mechanism 50 and the firing mechanism 60 are discharged from the second connection part 72a, via the ball extraction passage 73 and the first ball extraction part 71, to the outside of the machine.

In the launch permission state, the management unit 100 and the pachinko game machine 10 are normally connected, no specific error has occurred in the game control board 80 (an example is a door opening error), and the frame control board 82 is a state in which a specific error (an example is a supply inlet sensor abnormality error) has not occurred. The firing prohibited state occurs when the management unit 100 and the pachinko gaming machine 10 are not properly connected, when a specific error has occurred on the game control board 80, or when a specific error has occurred on the frame control board 82. A state in which one or more of the following things are occurring. Note that even if the door opening error is the same, if the second door opening signal is input, it does not correspond to the above-mentioned specific error, and depending on its occurrence, the firing may not be prohibited.

The firing permission state can be generated even when the ball is out of the ball as long as the above-mentioned necessary conditions are met. In other words, even if the ball is not drawn, the game ball firing conditions can be met. Therefore, even if the game ball remains at the hitting position 67, it can be fired into the game area 20a by operating the firing operation section 15. The game balls launched into the game area 20a are discharged to the outside of the machine via the collection mechanism 30. It should be noted that if an abnormal communication error occurs within the gaming machine, the firing permission state may not be established, but the firing prohibition state may be configured. For example, when the game board 20 is not assembled to the frame 11, the configuration may be such that the firing is prohibited and the game balls cannot be fired.

The administrator of the pachinko game machine 10 can perform maintenance such as replacing the maintenance section 55 when the ball extraction is completed in the ball extraction state. As will be described later, after the maintenance work is completed, the administrator or the like may use the supply mechanism 40 to flow the game balls into the distribution mechanism 29. After replenishing the game balls, the administrator or the like can start the pachinko game machine 10 by turning off the power to the pachinko game machine 10 and then turning it on again.

The error detection process executed by the game control board 80 (CPU 80a) will be explained.
Errors that can be detected by the game control board 80 include at least a door opening error in addition to the above-mentioned communication abnormality error within the gaming machine. Note that the errors that can be detected by the CPU 80a may include an unauthorized radio wave detection error and a magnetic error. This error detection process is one of the board-side normal processes.

When the CPU 80a receives the first door opening signal and the second door opening signal from the frame control board 82, the CPU 80a stores in the RAM 80c a flag that can identify the occurrence of a door opening error. In other words, the CPU 80a sets a door open error when the mounting frame 11b or the protection frame 11c is in an open state. When the CPU 80a sets the door open error, it outputs control information (hereinafter referred to as a door open error generation command) that can specify the occurrence of the door open error to the production control board 81. When the first door open signal and the second door open signal are no longer input, the CPU 80a cancels the door open error setting. When the CPU 80a cancels the setting of the door opening error, it outputs control information (hereinafter referred to as a door opening error resolution command) that can specify the elimination of the door opening error to the production control board 81.

Further, the CPU 80a 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 has occurred, the CPU 80a outputs a firing stop signal to the frame control board 82 (launch permission circuit 82m). In other words, the firing stop signal is turned on. When the launch permission circuit 82m receives the launch stop signal, the launch permission signal to the launch control board 83 is turned off, and its output is stopped. As described above, the condition for outputting 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.

The error notification process executed by the production control board 81 (CPU81a) will be explained.
When the door opening error occurrence command is input, the CPU 81a controls a part or all of the production section constituting the production device 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 unit 12 outputs a sound that can identify the opening of the door, such as a person's voice reading 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 unit 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 section 19. When the CPU 81a specifies that all door open errors have been resolved (both the mounting frame 11b and the protection frame 11c are closed) by inputting the door open error resolution command, the CPU 81a terminates the door open error notification. Then, the production device ES is controlled.

When the CPU 81a inputs the gaming machine communication abnormality command, the CPU 81a controls part or all of the production section constituting the production device ES, and causes the gaming machine communication abnormality notification to be executed. As an example, the notification of an abnormal communication error within the gaming machine is a mode in which a sound that can identify the occurrence of an abnormal communication error within the gaming machine, such as a human voice reading out the character string "A communication abnormality has occurred," is output from the production audio unit 12. It will be executed at As an example, notification of an abnormal communication error within the gaming machine is executed in such a manner that the performance light emitting unit 14 emits light in a light emission pattern dedicated to an 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 section 19. Note that the setting of the gaming machine communication abnormality error in the game control board 80 is not canceled after the power is cut off until the power is restored. That is, once the CPU 81a starts notifying the abnormal communication error within the gaming machine, it controls the production device ES so as to continue the notification of the abnormal communication error within the gaming machine until the power is cut off.

When the CPU 81a inputs the ball extraction start command, it controls a part or all of the production section constituting the production device ES, and causes the ball extraction state notification to be executed. As an example, the ball removal state notification may be performed by producing a sound that can identify the transition to the ball removal state, such as a person's voice reading out the character string "Starting ball removal" or "Ball removal state". It is executed in such a manner that the output is output from. In response to the start of the ball removal state, the performance audio unit 12 notifies the player of the ball removal state for a predetermined period of time (30 seconds as an example) after the ball removal state is started. The present invention is not limited to this, and the notification of the ball-pulling state by the production audio unit 12 may be performed over a period from the start of the ball-pulling state to the end of the ball-pulling state, depending on the ball-pulling state.

As an example, the notification of the ball removed state is executed in such a manner that the effect light emitting unit 14 emits light in a light emission pattern exclusively for the ball removed state. The ball extraction state notification by the effect light emitting unit 14 may be executed over a period from when the ball extraction state is started to when the ball extraction state is ended, depending on the ball extraction state. The present invention is not limited to this, and the notification of the ball removal state by the production light emitting unit 14 may be executed for a predetermined period of time (30 seconds as an example) after the ball removal state is started, in response to the start of the ball removal state. .

As an example, the notification of the ball removal state may be configured such that an image that can identify the transition to the ball removal state is displayed on the effect display section 19, such as a character string such as "Starting ball removal" or "Ball removal state". is executed. The notification of the ball extraction state by the performance display unit 19 may be executed over a period from when the ball extraction state is started until it is ended, depending on the ball extraction state. The present invention is not limited to this, and the notification of the ball removal state by the effect display unit 19 may be executed for a predetermined period of time (30 seconds as an example) after the ball removal state is started, in response to the start of the ball removal state. . The ball removal state notification may be performed by using any one or a combination of the effect sound part 12, the effect light emitting part 14, and the effect display part 19, which can be selected arbitrarily.

When the CPU 81a inputs the ball removal completion command, it controls a part or all of the production section constituting the production device ES, and causes the ball removal completion notification to be executed. As an example, the notification of completion of ball removal is performed by outputting a sound that can identify the completion of ball removal from the performance audio unit 12, such as a person's voice reading out the string "Ball removal has been completed." be done. As an example, the ball removal completion notification is executed in such a manner that the effect light emitting unit 14 emits light in a light emission pattern dedicated to the ball removal completion notification. As an example, the notification of completion of ball removal is executed in such a manner that an image that can identify the completion of ball removal, such as a character string "Ball removal has been completed", is displayed on the effect display section 19. It can be said that the ball removal completion notification is executed in response to the ball removal state.

When a ball extraction completion command is input, the CPU 81a may cause the certain production section to give priority to the ball extraction completion notification when a ball extraction state notification is being executed in a certain production section. Status notification may be executed with priority. In addition, the setting of the ball extraction state in the game control board 80 is not canceled even if the ball extraction is completed. After the power is cut off, the setting of the bulb removed state is not canceled until the power is restored. The production device ES is an example of a notification unit that can execute a predetermined notification. The ball removal state notification and the ball removal completion notification are examples of situation notification regarding the ball removal state.

It should be noted that error notification is executed under the control of the CPU 81a for all or some of the error states illustrated in FIG. You may also do so. In other words, the CPU 82a of the frame control board 82 detects various error states such as an unauthorized radio wave detection error, an abnormality error in the supply inlet sensor, an abnormality error in the ejected ball passage, an error in the number of too few circulating balls, an error in the excessive number of circulating balls, and an abnormal number of winning balls. When set, a command that is control information that can specify these error states is output to the game control board 80. Further, the CPU 80a of the game control board 80 outputs a command that can specify the input error state to the production control board 81. Then, the CPU 81a of the production control board 81 controls a part or all of the production section constituting the production device ES in accordance with the input command that can specify the error state, and causes the error notification to be executed.

Next, control of the replenishment mechanism 40 will be explained.
The frame control board 82 (CPU 82a) executes a replenishment operation process for controlling the replenishment mechanism 40. After the power is turned on, the CPU 82a performs replenishment regardless of whether the frame side power-on process (bulb removal process and communication check process) is being executed or the frame side normal process is being executed. Execute motion processing.

When the CPU 82a receives a detection signal from the upper replenishment sensor D48, the CPU 82a drives the upper stopper motor 43b so that the upper stopper 43a is turned on. When the upper stopper 43a is turned on, the displacement of the upper stopper 43a is regulated by the operation of an upper regulating portion (not shown). In other words, the upper stopper 43a is maintained in the on state. After that, the CPU 82a stops driving the upper stopper motor 43b. As described above, the upper stopper 43a is configured so that it can be manually displaced to the OFF state by operating the upper regulating portion (not shown) to release the displacement regulation.

The CPU 82a drives the lower stopper motor 44b so that the lower stopper 44a is turned on when the detection signal is no longer input from the lower replenishment sensor D49. When the lower stopper 44a is turned on, the displacement of the lower stopper 44a is regulated by the operation of a lower regulating portion (not shown). In other words, the lower stopper 44a is maintained in the on state. After that, the CPU 82a stops driving the lower stopper motor 44b. As described above, the lower stopper 44a is configured so that it can be manually displaced to the OFF state by operating a lower regulating portion (not shown) to release displacement regulation.

Next, a procedure for replenishing game balls using the replenishment mechanism will be explained.
It is preferable that the ball replenishment work be performed with the ball removed. As described above, the ball removal state can be said to be a state in which various sensors used for detecting errors are disabled except during the ball removal state, or a state in which detection results of various sensors are not accepted.

As shown in FIG. 13, the administrator of the pachinko game machine 10 can replenish P2 game balls to the distribution mechanism 29 by operating the upper and lower stoppers 43a and 44a. In addition, in FIG. 13, it is assumed that all the game balls have been discharged from the distribution mechanism 29 by the above-mentioned ball extraction operation. Further, it is assumed that there are no game balls in the supply passage 42a, and that the upper and lower stoppers 43a and 44a are both turned off.

In step S100, game balls are replenished from the island equipment SS to the ball storage section 41, and further flow toward the replenishment path 42a. In step S102, the upper stopper 43a is maintained in the OFF state since the upper supply sensor D48 has not detected the game ball, and does not prevent the game ball from flowing down. That is, the game balls flowing in from the ball storage section 41 flow down to the portion where the lower stopper 44a is located. In addition, in step S102, when the upper stopper 43a is in the ON state, the administrator of the pachinko gaming machine 10 operates the upper regulating section (not shown) to release the displacement regulation of the upper stopper 43a, and also manually releases the displacement regulation of the upper stopper 43a. It is preferable to displace the upper stopper 43a to the OFF state.

In step S104, the lower stopper 44a is turned on since the lower replenishment sensor D49 has not detected any game balls, thereby preventing the game balls from flowing down. That is, the game balls flowing down the supply passage 42a stop and stay at the lower stopper 44a that projects into the supply passage 42a. Note that the lower stopper 44a is regulated from being displaced from the on state by a lower regulating portion (not shown).

In step S106, when the game balls piled up in the supply passage 42a reach the upper supply sensor D48, the upper stopper 43a is turned on. As a result, game balls no longer flow into the supply passage 42a. As a result, the supply passage 42a becomes fully loaded.

In step S108, the administrator or the like of the pachinko gaming machine 10 operates a lower regulating section (not shown) to release the regulating state of the lower stopper 44a, and also manually displaces the lower stopper 44a to the OFF state. As a result, P2 game balls that were in the supply path 42a flow into the distribution mechanism 29. In other words, game balls are supplied to the distribution mechanism 29.

In step S110, when all the game balls in the replenishment passage 42a flow into the distribution mechanism 29, the lower replenishment sensor D49 no longer detects the game balls, so the lower stopper 44a is turned on. Note that displacement of the lower stopper 44a from the on state is restricted by a lower restriction portion (not shown).

In step S112, the administrator or the like of the pachinko gaming machine 10 operates the upper restriction section (not shown) to release the restriction state of the upper stopper 43a, and manually displaces the upper stopper 43a to the OFF state. As a result, the supply passage 42a is replenished with game balls for the next supply from the ball storage section 41.

As described above, the CPU 82a of the frame control board 82 controls the lower ball stop mechanism 44 to be in the ON state when the number of game balls in the supply path 42a has decreased to the first number of balls. The CPU 82a of the frame control board 82 controls the upper ball stopping mechanism 43 to turn on when the number of game balls in the supply passage 42a increases to the second number of balls. The upper ball stopper mechanism 43 is configured to be switchable to the OFF state by external force. The lower ball stopper mechanism 44 is configured to be switchable to the OFF state by external force.

Therefore, according to this embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.
(1) The game balls flow from the supply path 42a into the circulation path 29a by switching the lower ball stopping mechanism 44 to the OFF state. In other words, it becomes easy to supply game balls to the circulation path 29a.

(2) The ball removal mechanism 70 facilitates ejection of game balls. Therefore, preparation for predetermined maintenance becomes easy. In addition, since it is easy to replenish game balls, it is also easy to return the machine to a playable state after predetermined maintenance is completed.

(3) The game balls flow from the ball storage section 41 into the supply passage 42a by switching the upper ball stopping mechanism 43 to the OFF state. That is, after the game balls in the supply passage 42a are replenished to the circulation route 29a, it becomes easy to supply the game balls to the supply passage 42a.

(4) The ball storage section 41 is configured to be able to receive game balls from outside the machine. Therefore, it becomes easy to replenish the ball storage section 41 with game balls.
(5) The upper ball stopper mechanism 43 and the lower ball stopper mechanism 44 are turned off by an external force such as an operation by an administrator of the pachinko game machine 10 or the like. That is, the start of replenishment from the ball storage section 41 to the replenishment path 42a and the start of replenishment from the replenishment path 42a to the circulation path 29a are left to the operations of an administrator or the like. Therefore, game balls can be replenished at desired timing according to the progress of maintenance by the administrator or the like.

(6) Further, the upper ball stopping mechanism 43 is turned on when the number of game balls increases to the second number of balls. On the other hand, the lower ball stopping mechanism 44 is turned on when the number of game balls decreases to the first number of balls. That is, each supply stop is executed under the control of the frame control board 82 (CPU 82a). Therefore, preparations for supplying game balls can be easily made.

(7) When the number of game balls in the supply passage 42a decreases to the first number of balls, the lower ball stopping mechanism 44 is turned on. In other words, game balls begin to accumulate in the supply passage 42a. On the other hand, when the number of game balls in the supply passage 42a increases to the second number of balls, the upper ball stopping mechanism 43 is turned on. In other words, the inflow of game balls is stopped. The difference between the second number of balls and the first number of balls is the same as or approximately the same as the prescribed circulation number N. Therefore, it is possible to easily replenish the supply passage 42a with the prescribed circulation number N of game balls.

(8) The supply passage 42a can store game balls with a prescribed circulating number N, which can prevent errors regarding the number of circulating balls. Therefore, it is easy to return the game to a playable state after predetermined maintenance is completed.

(9) The prescribed circulation number N is the number of game balls within the prescribed range. Therefore, the administrator or the like can manage the prescribed circulation number N with ample time.
(10) The ball removal state in which the game balls inside the machine can be ejected outside the machine cannot be changed unless the ball removal switch 82e is operated during a predetermined valid operation period. For this reason, compared to a configuration in which no restriction is placed on the period during which the ball removal switch 82e is operated, it becomes more difficult to remove the ball by illegal means. In conjunction with this, the performance device ES etc. executes status notification regarding the state of the ball being pulled out. For this reason, the administrator of the gaming machine easily notices that balls are being taken out. Therefore, security can be improved.

(11) The frame control board 82 (CPU 82a) completes ball removal based on the fact that the conveyance entrance sensor D28 no longer detects the game balls collected from the game area 20a or the conveyance motor 52a has stopped. Specify that Therefore, even though there are game balls remaining inside the machine, it is prevented from specifying that the ball removal has been completed.

(12) The frame control board 82 (CPU82a) stops the conveyance motor 52a when a specified time has elapsed without the conveyance entrance sensor D28 detecting a game ball. Therefore, it is possible to associate the fact that game balls are no longer collected from the game area, the stopping of the transport motor, and the identification of completion of ball removal.

(13) Error setting processing (detection control) is limited when the ball is removed. Erroneous detection of a predetermined error during ball extraction is suppressed. Therefore, the ball can be removed smoothly.

(14) When the ball is removed, communication between the frame control board 82 and the management unit 100 is restricted. As a result, it is possible to prevent communication from being erroneously performed when balls are being removed, that is, when there is a shortage of game balls. Therefore, the ball can be removed smoothly.

(15) By operating the firing section 65 in the ball extraction state, game balls can be easily ejected.
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.

- As described above, the frame control board 82 (CPU 82a) controls the operation of the lower stopper motor 44b according to the detection result by the lower replenishment sensor D49, so that the lower stopper 44a is displaced to the on state. . However, the lower ball stopper mechanism 44 may be configured such that the lower stopper 44a is turned on by mechanical operation when the lower replenishment sensor D49 detects a game ball. As an example, the lower stopper 44a is biased to be in the on state by a biasing means (not shown) such as a spring. The lower regulating portion (not shown) regulates displacement to the on state when the lower stopper 44a is in the off state. The lower replenishment sensor D49 is preferably configured to include a detection piece that protrudes into the replenishment passage 42a, and to release the displacement restriction of the lower stopper 44a by the lower regulation part when the detection piece is displaced by the game ball. . That is, the lower stopper 44a is displaced to the on state.

- As described above, the upper stopper 43a is configured to be displaced to the on state by the frame control board 82 (CPU82a) controlling the operation of the upper stopper motor 43b according to the detection result by the upper replenishment sensor D48. . However, the upper ball stopper mechanism 43 may be configured such that the upper stopper 43a is turned on by mechanical operation when the upper replenishment sensor D48 detects a game ball. As an example, the upper stopper 43a is biased to be in the on state by a biasing means (not shown) such as a spring. The upper restricting portion (not shown) restricts the upper stopper 43a from shifting to the on state when the upper stopper 43a is in the off state. The upper replenishment sensor D48 is preferably configured to include a detection piece that protrudes into the replenishment passage 42a, and to release the displacement restriction of the upper stopper 43a by the upper regulation part when the detection piece is displaced by the game ball. . In other words, the upper stopper 43a is displaced to the on state.

- As mentioned above, the upper stopper 43a and the lower stopper 44a are configured so that they can be manually displaced from the on state to the off state. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the upper stopper 43a and the lower stopper 44a may be configured to be electrically displaced to the OFF state by the driving force of a motor or the like. As an example, the frame control board 82 (CPU 82a) may control the upper stopper motor 43b so that the upper stopper 43a is turned off when an operation signal is input from an upper stopper off switch (not shown). As an example, the frame control board 82 (CPU 82a) may control the lower stopper motor 44b so that the lower stopper 44a is turned off when an operation signal is input from a lower stopper off switch (not shown).

- The pachinko gaming machine 10 may be configured without the ball storage section 41. In this case, it is preferable that game balls be supplied to the supply passage 42a by flowing in from the island facility SS or manually by an administrator or the like.

・Even if a certain error occurs, including an error with too few circulating balls, as long as the necessary power is supplied and the second managed ball number PB is not 0, counting is possible. good. As an example, in the case where ball removal is performed in the ball removal state, the power to the pachinko game machine 10 is cut off without replenishing game balls, and then the power is turned off without operating the ball removal switch 82e. Suppose that it is reintroduced. In this case, the pachinko game machine 10 does not shift to the ball removal state and an error with an insufficient number of circulating balls is detected, so that notification of an error with an insufficient number of circulating balls is executed. In this modified example, even in such a case, the counting operation is enabled, so counting operation using the counting operation section 18 is possible.

- In the production device ES, in response to the termination of the ball-pulling state, a status notification regarding the ball-pulling state may be executed. As an example, when the ball-pulling state is canceled by turning on the power again, the effect device ES may be configured to notify the end of the ball-pulling state. It is preferable that the notification of the end of the ball removal state is executed in such a manner that a sound that can specify the end of the ball removal state is outputted from the performance audio unit 12. As an example, the notification of the completion of the ball removal state may be executed in such a manner that the effect light emitting unit 14 emits light in a light emission pattern dedicated to the notification of the completion of the ball removal state. As an example, the notification of the end of the ball-pulling state may include displaying an image on the effect display section 19 that can identify the end of the ball-pulling state, such as a character string such as "Ball-pulling has ended" or "Ball-pulling state has ended." It is preferable that the process be executed in such a manner. In this manner, the production device ES provides status notification regarding the ball-pulling state in response to at least one of starting the ball-pulling state, being in the ball-pulling state, and ending the ball-pulling state. It would be good if it were executed.

- The error notification on the performance display monitor 82d and the error notification on the second pitch count display section 17 may have different start timings. For example, the second pitch count display section 17 may be configured to start error notification earlier than the performance display monitor 82d. 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 82d may be configured to start error notification earlier than the second pitch count display section 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.

- The timing to start displaying the error code on the second pitch count display section 17 and the performance display monitor 82d may be the same or approximately the same timing as the timing to start error notification in the production device ES. Further, the timing to start displaying the error code on the second pitch count display section 17 and the performance display monitor 82d may be earlier than the timing to start error notification in the production device ES.

- While the second pitch count display section 17 executes error notification, the performance display monitor 82d may not execute error notification. Moreover, instead of or in addition to the second pitch count display section 17 and the performance display monitor 82d, 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.

- An abnormal error in the number of winning pitches may be determined to have occurred when a state in which the number of differences exceeds the 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.

- The difference number for determining an abnormality in the number of winning pitches may be the number obtained by subtracting only out balls from the number of fired pitches Pd. In other words, the count may be made 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 is determined based on the number of fired balls Pd and out balls. Good too.

- The number of out balls may be the sum 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.

- The ejected game ball may be detected only by the out sensor D30 without providing the winning path count sensor D25 and the non-winning path count sensor D26.
- The out sensor D30 may be provided on the game board 20 or may be provided on the frame 11.

- The CPU 82a or the CPU 80a may determine whether an error state has occurred even during the ball extraction state, and may issue an error notification if an error state has occurred. 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.

- When multiple error states are set and error notification is executed according to priority, the error notification for the error status with the highest priority may be executed, and the error notification for other error conditions may not be executed. . This other example is a configuration in which error notification is executed only for any one of a plurality of error states.

- When multiple error states are set and error notification is executed according to priority, if the means for error notification is the same means, the error notification for the error state with the highest priority is executed by that means. , error notification of other error states may be performed by other means. Further, for example, if the means for error notification is a means such as the second pitch count display section 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.

- The pachinko gaming machine 10 has a specification that provides a high probability state until the next jackpot game, a specification that provides a high probability state until winning a falling lottery (so-called falling machine), or until a specified number of variable games are completed. A specification that provides a high probability state (so-called ST machine) can be adopted. The pachinko game machine 10 can adopt a specification (so-called V-probability changing 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 addition to the jackpot lottery, the special symbol winning lottery may be configured to perform a small winning lottery. 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, compared to a normal gaming state (for example, a low-probability, low-ball entry rate state), the number of times (frequency) that a small winning game is won per unit time, or the small winning game is given per unit time. It may be configured to be controllable to a state in which the number of times (frequency) of winning is increased (so-called small hit RUSH).

- The pachinko game machine 10 may adopt specifications classified into the second type, which is also called a "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.

- The CPU 80a, ROM 80b, RAM 80c, and random number generation circuit 80d may be configured on one chip.
- The specific configuration of the game board 20 may be changed arbitrarily.

- The production control board 81 is used as a sub-integration control board, and apart from the production control board 81, a display control board that exclusively controls the production display section 19, a light emission control board that exclusively controls the production light emitting section 14, and a production sound section 12 are installed. A sound control board for specialized control 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 80a and the CPU 81a 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.

・Although it is configured as a gaming machine that circulates a predetermined amount of gaming media (gaming balls as an example), this is not the only option, and some or all of the gaming media can be exchanged with gaming media located outside the gaming machine. It may be a configuration.

- The determination of the non-gaming state, which is included in the detection conditions for the error of insufficient number of circulating balls, may be determined based on another criterion. For example, the CPU 80a of the game control board 80 outputs a command to the performance control board 81 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 82, the CPU 82a of the frame control board 82 will control the state in which no game is being played based on the command and the supply entrance signal from the supply entrance sensor D22. 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 game media 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 passage 37 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 unit 65, 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.

- Although the entirety of the distribution mechanism 29 is formed on the mounting frame 11b, a portion thereof may be formed on the game board 20. In other words, the game board 20 may constitute a part of the distribution mechanism 29.
Next, technical ideas that can be understood from the above embodiment and other examples will be added below.

(1) The storage section may be configured to be able to receive game balls from outside the machine.
(2) A ball detection section capable of detecting game balls in the retention section; and a control section, and the control section is configured to be triggered when the number of game balls in the retention section decreases to a first number of balls. The retention switching mechanism is controlled to the regulation state, and when the number of game balls in the retention section increases to a second number of balls, the retention switching mechanism is controlled to the regulation state, and the retention switching mechanism is controlled to the regulation state. The mechanism may be configured to be switchable to the permissible state by external force, and the retention switching mechanism may be configured to be switchable to the permissible state by external force.

(3) A predetermined number of game balls are circulated inside the machine, and the difference between the second number of balls and the first number of balls is preferably the same as or approximately the same as the predetermined number.
(4) an error detection unit that detects an error, and when a specific error detection condition is met, the specific error is set, and the specific error detection condition is defined by the number of game balls in the machine. A predetermined number of game balls can be retained in the retention section, and the predetermined number is determined when the predetermined number of game balls is inside the machine. In some cases, the number may be set to a value that does not satisfy the specific error detection condition.

(5) The predetermined number is a number of game balls that is greater than or equal to the first specified number and less than or equal to the second specified number.

10...Pachinko game machine 12...Production sound part 14...Production light emitting part 19...Production display part 20...Game board 20a...Game area 29...Distribution mechanism 29a...Circulation route 42a...Supply passage 43...Upper ball stop mechanism 43a...Upper stopper 43b...Upper stopper motor 44...Lower ball stopper mechanism 44a...Lower stopper 44b...Lower stopper motor 65...Emission unit 70...Ball removal mechanism 82...Frame control board 82a...CPU 82e...Ball removal switch D48...Upper supply sensor D49...Lower Replenishment sensor ES…Production device

Claims (3)

In a circulating game machine that circulates game balls inside the machine,
a game board having a game area;
a firing section capable of firing a game ball toward the game area;
a circulation path for circulating game balls collected from the game board to the firing section;
A transport unit that transports game balls;
A game ball retention section;
a retention switching mechanism capable of switching between a restriction state that restricts the distribution of game balls from the retention section to the circulation route, and a permissible state that allows the distribution of game balls from the retention section to the circulation route;
a discharge mechanism capable of discharging game balls from the circulation path;
a control unit;
Equipped with an error detection section that detects an error,
When the specific error detection condition is met, the specific error is set, and the specific error detection condition is met when the number of game balls inside the machine is not the specified number or is not within the specified range. death,
A predetermined number of game balls can be retained in the retention section,
The predetermined number is set to a number that does not satisfy the specific error detection condition,
The ejection mechanism includes a first ejection part capable of ejecting game balls from the circulation path,
The transport unit is operable to transport the game balls in the circulation path,
The ejection mechanism includes a second ejection part that is capable of ejecting game balls from the circulation path on the downstream side of the first ejection part in the distribution direction of the game balls in the circulation path,
The control unit causes a specific state in which game balls inside the machine can be ejected to the outside of the machine based on the establishment of a specific condition including an operation of a predetermined operation unit, and in the specific state, the transport unit operates. A game machine in which game balls can be discharged from the first discharge section and the second discharge section . The game machine according to claim 1 , further comprising a supply section that supplies the game balls transported by the transport section to the firing section . A storage section for game balls;
A storage switching mechanism capable of switching to a regulation state that restricts the distribution of game balls from the storage section to the storage section, and a permissible state that allows the distribution of game balls from the storage section to the storage section. A gaming machine according to claim 1 or claim 2.

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